Founders Day Report

Founders Day Report

By Isha Ganesan
IBDP II
HFS International
Head Girl

On Thursday, the 19th of September 2024, the halls of Hiranandani Foundation School International came alive with the joyful laughter of children, the warm smiles of teachers, and a buzz of excitement that flowed in every nook and cranny the school housed within itself. The occasion was Founder’s Day, a cherished annual celebration where the entire school community came together to honour the legacy of its beloved Founder, Dr. L. H. Hiranandani, on his birthday.

The day began with the much-anticipated arrival of Dr. Niranjan Hiranandani, Co-Founder and Managing Director of the Hiranandani Group of Companies and the son of Dr. L. H. Hiranandani. Tradition, as is set in stone, is what follows every year, unfolding as eager students lined the hallways, their faces lit up with excitement, while the faculty extended a warm and respectful welcome. As Dr. Hiranandani, accompanied by the Head of School, Mrs. Kalyani Patnaik, gracefully walked through the bustling corridors, the atmosphere buzzed with admiration and pride.

Escorted by the Head Boy and Head Girl, Dr. Hiranandani made a striking entrance into the foyer, where a special green initiative awaited him—a project led by the school, symbolising sustainability and new beginnings. This commemorative gesture, overseen by Dr. Hiranandani, marked a significant moment in the school's journey. It was a fitting tribute on Founder’s Day, celebrating both the institution’s legacy and its forward-thinking vision for the future.

The day was a joint celebration, bringing together students from both the International and ISC boards, who eagerly gathered in anticipation. The event officially began with a solemn lamp lighting ceremony, a symbolic gesture to honour the memory of Dr. L. H. Hiranandani, whose legacy was being celebrated on what would have been his birthday. Dr. Niranjan Hiranandani, his son, led the ceremony alongside Mrs Kalyani Patnaik, paying homage to his father's remarkable journey.

As the music flowed through the hall, the students of HFS International were taken on a little journey back in time, catching a glimpse of life before them. It wasn’t just a performance—it felt like a window into the past, where the legacy of Dr. L. H. Hiranandani truly came alive. The melodies that followed were more than just music; they were a tribute to the legacy that continues to inspire future generations.

As Dr. Niranjan Hiranandani took the stage, his words resonated like a cry, inspiring the students to reflect on their journeys. He shared the story of his father, who rose from humble beginnings to become a respected doctor, showcasing the power of perseverance and determination. With each anecdote, it felt as if the students and teachers alike were drawn into a narrative of hope and resilience, where the achievements of figures like Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam and Prime Minister Narendra Modi illuminated the path to greatness. His message was clear: the opportunities before them were not just dreams but attainable realities for those willing to work hard and believe in themselves.

The event was completed with a video tribute to Dr. L. H. Hiranandani, beautifully summarising his life and the values he championed. As the final images faded, the gathering felt a genuine commitment to honouring his memory in their daily lives, a reflection of the deep affection they held for him—one that echoed through the hallways, where he would forever be known as “Daddy.”

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