
Sri Vijaya Puram, Jan 15: The 83rd Shaheedi Diwas of Dr. Diwan Singh “Kalepani”, the legendary freedom fighter, was solemnly observed with great patriotic fervour at Khalsa Public Senior Secondary School (KPSSS) for which Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray, Member of Parliament, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, graced the occasion along with Chairperson Sardar Surinder Singh and members of the KPSSS Management Committee, Gurudwara President Sardar Swaran Singh, school Principal Dr. Sarabjeet Kaur Jagpal, staff members, students, parents, and members of the Sikh Sangat. All present paid rich tributes to the revered national hero. Padma Shri awardee Mr. Naresh Chandra Lal also joined in paying homage to Dr. Diwan Singh.
Dr. Diwan Singh, a humble doctor by profession, was a great patriot and a zealous poet who endured immense torture during his imprisonment at the Cellular Jail. Sivaranjini, a student of Class XI, enlightened the audience about the sacred life and supreme sacrifice of Dr. Diwan Singh. Aliya of Class VIII recited the poem “Himmat Bina”, written by Dr. Sahib during the freedom struggle. The soulful recitation of the Shabd “Aisi Marni Jo Marey” by the students deeply moved the gathering.
Various competitions such as Drawing, Essay Writing, and Speech on the life of Dr. Diwan Singh were organised for the students. Medals and certificates of merit were distributed to the winners. Addressing the gathering, Principal Dr. Sarabjeet Kaur Jagpal highlighted the enduring values and inspiration left by Dr. Diwan Singh for future generations. She expressed pride that the school continues to fulfil Dr. Diwan Singh’s vision of providing quality education to children from all sections of society.
Mr. Naresh Chandra Lal, Padma Mr. motivated the staff and students to uphold the legacy and ideals of Dr. Diwan Singh. MP Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray congratulated the school fraternity for upholding the motto of Dr. Diwan Singh’s life “Selfless Service to One and All”. He also highlighted various beneficial schemes available for students and spoke about upcoming developmental initiatives for the Islanders, encouraging students to adopt innovative start-up ideas and contribute to nation-building with zero tolerance towards corruption.
On the occasion, rich tributes were also paid to the former Education Director and Ex-Chief Patron of KPSSS, late Sardar Beant Singh, on his ninth death anniversary. The programme was coordinated by Mrs. Mitali Gharami and Mrs. Chamanpreet Kaur.