D - Indian Reading Corner and the Book Donation Ceremony
courtesy of the High Commission of India to Malta
D - Indian Reading Corner and the Book Donation Ceremony
courtesy of the High Commission of India to Malta
Photo Credits : Mr Anthony Grech
Given the strong presence of Indian nationals in our community, our school organized a very special event titled India: A Celebration of Culture on Friday, 8th November. This event offered a wonderful opportunity to celebrate cultural diversity, promote inclusivity, and deepen our understanding of India’s rich heritage.
As part of the programme, the Indian High Commissioner engaged in an interactive session with Year 8 students, sharing stories and insights about India’s traditions, values, and achievements. She also donated books on various aspects of Indian culture to our School Library, where an "Indian Reading Corner" will be established.
We were also honoured to host members of the Roman Catholic Indian Community in Malta, including Father Fr. Damian Veliyil, OFM Conv, who gave a presentation on the diverse religions of India. Additionally, a group from St. Paul’s Latin Community, Malta, captivated us with a performance celebrating the cultural splendours of "Namaste Malta."
A replica of the 182-meter-tall Statue of Unity, the world’s tallest statue, was presented to Derek Attard, the school’s council representative. The statue honours Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who united nearly 565 princely states into the Union of India after independence, earning him the title “Iron Man of India” for his dedication to national integration.
As the celebration concluded, Fr. Damian Veliyil, OFM Conv. presented a remarkable painting titled ONAM to our Assistant Head, Fr Michael Said. The artwork, crafted with acrylic paint and gypsum plaster, was created by JOSEPH NIJO, a talented member of St. Paul’s Latin Community, Malta.
ONAM is a Harvest Hindu festival with origins in the state of Kerala in India.
Onam celebrations include Vallam Kali (boat races), Pulikali (tiger dances), Pookkalam (flower Rangoli), Onathappan (worship), Onam Kali (Tug of War), Thumbi Thullal (women’s dance), Kummattikali (mask dance), Onathallu (martial arts), Onavillu (music), Kazhchakkula (plantain offerings), Onapottan (costumes) and Atthachamayam (folk songs and dance).
This painting was then installed near the school library entrance.