Subhash Mahajan
Dalhousie
Dalhousie Public School celebrated its 55th Founders’ Day with grandeur and patriotic fervour through a two-day programme on October 17 and 18, attended by distinguished guests, dignitaries, and parents.
The function on October 18 was graced by Lieutenant General Rakesh Kapoor, AVSM, VSM, Deputy Chief of the Army Staff, , as the Chief Guest, accompanied by Mrs. Poonam Kapoor. The event was attended by several dignitaries, along with staff, students, and alumni of the institution.
In his address, Lt Gen Kapoor commended the school for maintaining high standards of discipline and education for over five decades. He encouraged students to uphold the values of integrity, courage, and national pride, and lauded the school’s efforts in nurturing young leaders who contribute positively to society.
A distinguished alumnus of St. Stephen’s College, Delhi University, Lt Gen Kapoor was commissioned into the 63 Cavalry in 1987 and is a decorated officer, awarded the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) and Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM) for his exemplary service.
The celebrations also reflected the renewed respect and admiration for the Armed Forces across the nation — a sentiment deeply echoed in the hearts of the young students, who look up to the men and women in uniform with a sense of pride and motivation.
The inaugural function on October 17 was presided over by Lt Col Rahul Slathia, Station Staff Officer, Dalhousie who presented prizes to students excelling in academics, sports, and co-curricular activities. The students showcased their talents through vibrant cultural performances, traditional dances, skits, and music, which were met with appreciation from the audience.
Reflecting its deep connection with the Indian Armed Forces, Dalhousie Public School has had the Chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force preside over Founders’ Day on four previous occasions, with every celebration led by an officer in uniform.
The school also boasts of a unique Beeji’s Park, which represents the Army, Navy, and Air Force, with beautiful and installation of a MIG21, T-55 Battle Tank, two 106mm RCL guns loaded on Willys Jeep, Light and Heavy Torpedoes, a model of a frigate presented by the Eastern Naval Command and an Appache Helicopter besides several other symbols that honour the valor and sacrifice of India’s armed forces.
The celebrations concluded with an eloquent vote of thanks by Dr. (Capt.) G.S. Dhillon, Chairman and Director of the school, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to the chief guest, dignitaries, parents, and staff for their presence and contribution. The event drew to a close with the singing of the National Anthem, filling the air with patriotic pride and marking a fitting conclusion to a memorable Founders’ Day that celebrated the school’s legacy, discipline, and enduring spirit of excellence.
The following dignitaries and officials were present at the event:
Former Minister Asha Kumari
Former MLA Renu Chaddha
Principal of Guru Nanak Public School, Navdeep Bhandari
President of Hilltop School, Poonam Dhawan
Principal of Sacred Heart School, Mouli Cherian
Chief Medical Officer of Chamba, Dr. Vipin Thakur
SDM Dalhousie, Anil Bhardwaj
DSP Dalhousie, Mayank Sharma
Tehsildar Dalhousie, Ramesh Chauhan
CEO of Dalhousie Municipal Council, Rakhi Kaushal
Former President of Dalhousie Municipal Council, Manoj Chaddha
Councillors Vandana Chaddha, Kiran Chaddha, Ashish Chaddha, Radhika Chaddha
Kamal Thakur and Paramjeet Singh
