After lots of anticipation, preparations and planning, the day came when the sporting carnival of the year began on the 25th of December 2013. The mega event kicked off with a grand opening ceremony. Students and teachers alike were preparing for this showpiece event separately from the regular preparations.
The opening ceremony
The performances in opening ceremony included gymnastic activities, dumbbell drills, ‘
Suryanamaskar’ and ‘
aasans’. All of these activities underlined the importance of such physical work and the enthusiasm amongst students for these traditional methods to keep themselves fit and healthy. To add glamour and vibrancy to the ceremony, special dancing and singing performances were kept. The choir group of the students of class 6, 7 and 8 sung a melodious song ‘Ashaein’ under the able guidance of Himanshu Sir and Jaimin Sir. The song encouraged students to aspire and do everything they can to achieve those aspirations. A scintillating dance performance was presented by the dancing group on a very popular song ‘
Bhaag Milkha bhaag’, which encapsulated the spirit of the event. The dance was very creatively choreographed by Suhradam Sir.
For this very important event special guests were invited. P. Fuvaji and P. Suhrad Swamiji along with P. Ambrish Swamiji graced the event with their presence. Not only that, P. Fuvaji and P. Suhrad Swamiji addressed the students and encouraged students to perform up to their potential. They also applauded the efforts put in by the sports teachers. After the speeches from the guests, it was the turn of the Sports Captain Nirmalbhai to conduct the oath taking ceremony. The ceremony concluded with the principal Respected Vijay Sir officially declaring the 10th Annual Atmiya Athletic Meet open.
The entire event was divided into 6 sessions ending on 28th December with a prize distribution ceremony. Being the 10th Annual Athletic meet, the administration introduced new, sparkling and prestigious Runners Up and Winners trophies. The site of new trophies energized and motivated the students to do even more and make their house the first holders of these beautifully made trophies.
Track and Field events
From December 26th, all the events began as every single student from class 1 to 11 participated in one or the other event. In itself it was the biggest attraction as well as a matter of recognition for the sports team as all the students were presented with an opportunity to compete in front of the whole school. The motto of the event, ‘Winning is not everything but participation and the will to win is’, truly reflected in the attitude and enthusiasm of the students and teachers. All the students did their best to win some points and medals for their houses. Those who could not, certainly tried to encourage and cheer the participants from their houses. But the most satisfying thing was that all the students appreciated good performances from the students from all houses as they realized that at the end of it is a win for the school.
We aim above the mark to hit the mark
Considering this famous quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson, the sports teachers printed and posted the current school and CBSE records for individual events on the respective track and field arena. The idea behind this was to encourage students to aim higher and maximize their potential. Not only were students encouraged to win the medals but were also pushed to break the current records to improve their individual performances. So many broken records in the 10th Annual Atmiya Athletic Meet is a testimony to the drive of the students to achieve and perform to the best of their abilities.
Contribution from Volunteers and Academic teachers
Such a massive event couldn’t have been possible without the dedicated contributions from the student volunteers, academic teachers and admin staff. Kalpesh Sir put together a very devoted team of 25-30 student volunteers who were the engines of the routine tasks such as managing the sports equipment for respective events and becoming the bridge between the officials, scorers and participants. The academic teachers and admin staff were also very keen to contribute immensely in the event. A special credit goes also to Kshitij Sir and Pushpak Sir who were the anchors for the whole event. They did not let such a hectic schedule of a long event come in the way and kept encouraging the students through the microphone. The kitchen department also played a very significant role, as throughout the days of this event, the refreshments and snacks were provided to the students on the field. The sincerity, availability and willingness to contribute from all the members of Atmiya family throughout the meet made the event even bigger success.
The last hurrah
After the vigour of 4 sessions, it boiled down to the final session in which 10 final events were kept from the 5 student categories. The planning was done so carefully by the sports teachers so that in the ultimate session of the event, students, teachers and guests could witness the most exciting finals. 100 metres finals and 4×100 metres relays were a matter of great anticipation and excitement in this last session. A special relay event was organised for the class 12 students as they were busy in their studies for the upcoming Board exams. The performances from the young athletes in this final session, captured the imagination of the whole school as they stepped up their performances. Sheer determination and uplifted performances not only entertained everybody but they also broke some more records in the process.
And the winner is…..
After a very long fitness program, 2 week preparation camp for the students, planning and preparing the athletic arena from the teachers, competitive and enthusiastic participation and some record breaking performances later, we reached a moment where the recognition for all these efforts was due.
A special set up was prepared in the centre of the field for the prize distribution ceremony. The ceremony started as the medals and certificates to the winners were awarded by various teachers and guests. In such a massive event, few individuals always outshine the rest with their determination, persistent efforts and supreme performances. And it is only fair to recognize such individuals. To encourage such outliers, the Best Athlete trophy in each of the student category was presented to such students. The noise reached a new level as all of these students were equally appreciated by the students of all the houses.
Along with the winners, the efforts and sincerity of volunteers was also recognized. Special appreciation certificates were handed to these volunteers from respected Haresh Sir. Upon the request of Haresh Sir, a special photo was taken to commemorate the contribution of these young students who upheld a very core value of the school ‘seva’ (service).
All of these only added to the eagerness for the announcement of the winner house. Throughout the event it was very difficult to predict which house would win as athletes from all the houses had shown their worth in different categories as that kept their house in hunt to win the prestigious trophy. It was one of the closest fight in the recent years as only 6 points separated the houses occupying 2nd, 3rd and 4th positions. But reigning athletic meet champions Sundaram House won the competition second year in a row and Suhradam House finished second. Respected Govind Sir (Principal, Sarvanaman Vidya Mandir and Haresh Sir (Administrator, Atmiya Vidya Mandir) presented the trophies to the winner as the mega event came to an end. Vijay Sir then officially declared the 10th Annual Atmiya Athletic Meet closed as fireworks took the centre stage.
Although the event has ended but the echo and memories of this event will remain with everyone involved for a very long time. The administration of the school heartily congratulates all the students and the staff members for organizing such a fantastic and exhilarating event which can only enhance the experience at this wonderful institution.
Here are the highlights of the results:
Best Athletes
Name House Category Points Medals won
Hari Martin Satyam Group A 30 3 Golds
Mumukshu D Patel Satyam Group B 24 1 Gold, 1 Silver and 1 Bronze
Shrimed M Sangani Suhradam Group B 24 1 Gold, 1 Silver and 1 Bronze
Shubh J Patel Shivam Group C 30 3 Golds
Darshan J Patel Suhradam Group D 30 3 Golds
Mayank M Watwani Sundaram Group E 28 2 Golds and 1 Silver
(Note: The points from relay races are not considered for the adjudication of best athlete.)
House Gold Silver Bronze House Points
Winners Sundaram 14 11 16 324
Runners Up Suhradam 12 9 9 266
Mathematics: Gateway to all Sciences
/0 Comments/in AVM Updates, Thinking Skills /by AVM TeachersIt has played an important role in the advancement of any civilization. Sadly though, there is a common belief that Mathematics is a dry, boring and a difficult subject. On the contrary, if it is presented in an enjoyable manner, it is one of the easiest and most interesting subjects.
The exhibit also provides insight into the lives of great Mathematicians and in fact, it was inaugurated on 22nd December 2013, on the birth anniversary of the great Indian Mathematician, Srinivasa Ramanujan who has inspired millions so far. Interviews of many skilled people of different fields helped students to understand use of Mathematics in every day’s life.
When learning is fun, children become interested in the learning process and are motivated to learn even more. The ongoing Math Exhibition aims to further develop that interest and motivation in our wonderful children.
Inter House Basketball Competition 2013-14
/0 Comments/in AVM Updates, Sports /by AVM StudentsThe students were grouped in 3 categories for the competition:
After the first set of knockout matches, this is how the teams stacked up against each other for the finals and 3rd place match in respective categories.
Sub Junior category
Satyam House won this closely fought match with 6-4. In the finals,
Shivam House had a comprehensive win with a score of 24 – 8 against
Sundaram House with Shreemadbhai and Parambhai being the top performers.
Junior category
Suhradam House won the 3rd place match against Satyam House with a very
convincing score 38 – 10. After tasting a defeat against the same
opponent in the junior category, boys from the Sundaram House were
determined to turn the table. Nimitbhai from Sundaram House showed his
class and skills as his team demolished Shivam House with a staggering
score line of 38 – 5.
Senior category
category. Vishwajeetbhai and Harshilbhai led Sundaram House to a very
narrow win with the score of 29 – 26. In the very last match of the
competition Shivam House played against the Suhradam House. In the early
exchanges of the play there was nothing to choose between the team. But
the Suhradam House team stepped up their game in the second half.
Hardipbhai in particular was very sharp and scored quick points for his
team. Harshbhai also contributed with many rebounds as Suhradam House
sealed the match with 29 – 18 points.
After 4 days full of excitement, enthusiasm and matches, this is how the 4 houses stood on the points table:
Position House Sub Junior Junior Senior Total Points
1 Shivam 10 8 8 26
2 Sundaram 8 10 6 24
3 Suhradam 4 6 10 20
4 Satyam 6 4 4 14
In conclusion, on behalf of all the students, I would like to thank all the sports teachers for organizing such a fantastic Basketball competition. A special mention of the School Basketball Coach, respected Bankim Sir for his tireless contributions. His hard work throughout the year helped all the students to improve their skills which only improved the overall performance and level of the Inter House Basketball Competition.
સંગીત નાદબ્રહ્મ સાધના
/0 Comments/in AVM Updates, Creativity, Talent /by AVM Teachersवस त्वं मम जिह्वाग्रे सर्वविद्याप्रदा भव ।।
સામવેદ ગ્રંથની અંદર સંગીત કલાનો ઉલ્લેખ કરવામાં આવ્યો છે. તથા 64 કલામાંથી સંગીત કલાને સર્વશ્રેષ્ઠ કલા બતાવવામાં આવી છે. આપણી સંસ્કૃતી માં સંગીતના માધ્યમથી ભગવાનને પ્રાપ્ત કરનાર શ્રી નરસિંહ મહેતા, મીરાંબાઈ તથા ભક્ત જલારામ બાપા આવા મહાન સંતો ભક્તિ કરતાં કરતાં ભગવાનમય થઈ ગયા. અને આજે પોતે પણ ભગવાનના અંશ ગણાય છે.
સંગીત એ એક એવું માધ્યમ છે કે જેનાથી સીધી અને સરળતાથી ભગવાન પ્રાપ્તિ થાય છે. આપણે હ્લદયથી ભગવાનનું ભજન કરવા માટે સંગીતનું માધ્યમ લઈ ગાયન અને વાદન સાથે જો ભગવાનનું ભજન કરીએ તો ભગવાનના હ્લદય સુધી એ પહોંચે જ છે અને તેનું ઉચિત ફળ આપે જ છે.
આવી જ રીતે આપણા આત્મીય વિદ્યા મંદિર પરિવારમાં સૌ (વિદ્યાર્થી) સાધક ભૂલકુઓએ સંગીત તથા નાદબ્રહ્મની ઉપાસના (ગાયન અને વાદન) કરી પ્રભુને તથા ગુરૂમહારાજને હ્લદયથી રાજી કર્યા છે. તથા સંગીતના સ્વર અને નાદથી આત્મીય વાતાવરણમાં એક સુંદર સુગંધ વધુ પ્રસરાવી છે.
જેમાં,
કક્ષા 1 થી 3:
1 થી 3 ના ભૂલકુંઓ દ્વારા “Rhyme singing, Solo singing, Group singing” પ્રસ્તુત કરવામાં આવ્યું હતું. જેમાં નાના નાના ભૂલકુંઓએ ગાયનને સ્વર-લય-તાલ તથા હાવ-ભાવ સાથે સુંદર પ્રસ્તુતિ કરી હતી. જેમાં સુંદર તાલ અને લયના આધારે મનમોહક પ્રસ્તુતિ રહી હતી. આ પ્રસ્તુતિને આધારે સ્વરકારી, લયકારી તથા સંગીત શીખવા માટે ઉપયોગી થતી તમામ બાબત સાથે તેમનામાં રહેલી એક સુષુપ્ત કલા બહાર આવીને ઉત્તમ પ્રસ્તુતિ રહી હતી.
કક્ષા 4 થી 6:
4 થી 6 ના ભૂલકુઓને સંગીતની કૃતિ હતી “IDENTIFICATION OF AN INSTRUMENT” એટલે કે કોમ્પ્યુટર અને સાઉન્ડ સીસ્ટમના માધ્યમથી શાસ્ત્રીય વાધ્ય જેમ કે તબલા, હાર્મોનિયમ, જલતરંગ, મોહનવીણા, રબાબ, પખાવજ, સંતુર, વાંસળી, સારંગી, વીણા, શહનાઈ, રુદ્નવીણા, ગીટાર, ઢોલક, ડ્રમસેટ આવા વાધ્યની સંગતી તથા એકાંકી વાદન વગાડવામાં આવ્યું હતું અને તે સાંભળી ભૂલકુઓએ કયું વાધ્યવાદન થાય છે તથા તે વાધ્યને કયા કલાકાર તેની સુંદર પ્રસ્તુતિ કરે છે તે સાંભળીને બતાવવાનું હતું. તેનાથી ભૂલકુનું શાસ્ત્રીય સંગીત પ્રત્યે રુચિ જાગે તથા આવા વાધ્યને સાંભળીને તેમને શીખવાની પ્રેરણા પ્રાપ્ત થાય.
કક્ષા ૭ થી ૮:
૭ થી ૮ ના ભૂલકુને સંગીતની કૃતિમાં સુંદર ચાર લાઈનના આધ્યાત્મિક શબ્દો આપવામાં આવ્યા હતા જેમાં આ ભૂલકુઓએ તેમની આવડત પ્રમાણે ગ્રુપમાં તે ચાર લાઈનના શબ્દોને સુંદર કમ્પોઝ કરી જેમાં કોઈ ગીત ગઝલ કે ભજનના શબ્દોનો ઉપયોગ કર્યા વગર તેમને તેમની જાતે શબ્દોની સ્વર-રચના બનાવીને સુંદર પ્રસ્તુતિ કરી વાતાવરણમાં સંગીતના સુરો લહેરાવ્યા હતા.
કક્ષા ૯ થી ૧૦:
૯ થી ૧૦ ના ભૂલકુ સંગીત કૃતિ માં તેમની સંગીત સાધના તથા તેમનો લગાવ ખૂબજ આનંદીત અને સર્વ આત્મીય પરિવારને પોતાની તરફ આકર્ષે તેવો હતો.
ત્યારબાદ ગુરુજી કોઈ એક વાદ્ય પર ૪ માત્રા ની લય સાથે લયકારી અને જુદી જુદી તિહાઈ સાથે વાદન કરે અને તે જ સમયમાં ભૂલકુએ બીજા આવર્તનમાં તેની નકલ કરી સુંદર જુગલબંદી પ્રસ્તુત કરી હતી.
આ ભાગમાં ભુલકુની આવડત, તેની સંગીત પ્રત્યેની લાગણી, તેની સાધના તથા ગુરુ શિષ્યની સુંદર જુગલબંદી (સાથ-સંગત) જોવા મળી હતી.
આમ કરવાથી દરેક ભૂલકુમાં રહેલ સંગીતની ઉપયોગી એવી તાલ લય અને સ્વરનું જ્ઞાન બહાર આવ્યું અને આત્મીય પરિવારમાં નાદ-બ્રહ્મની ઉપાસના કરનાર ભૂલકુમાં વધારો થયો અને શિક્ષક, ભૂલકુ, અને સમસ્ત આત્મીય પરિવાર સ્વામીજીના ભૂલકુ રાજી થયા ને આ જોઈ અમને થયું કે જરૂર આ સંગીત નાદ બ્રહ્મ ઉપાસના ગુરુ મહારાજ સુધી પહોચીને ગુરુ મહરાજને ભગવાન રાજી રાજી થયા …
આ સંગીત નાદ બ્રહ્મ ઉપાસનામાં વિજયસર, સ્વયમ મેડમ, આશિષસર તથા આત્મીય પરિવારના શિક્ષક ગણ આને સમસ્ત આત્મીય પરિવારનો ખૂબ ખૂબ સહકાર રહ્યો ને આ બધો શ્રેય સ્વામીજી અને આત્મીય પરિવારના તમામ સભ્યોને હું આપું છું. હું હ્રદય પૂર્વક સર્વ આત્મીય પરિવારનો આભાર માંનુ છું.
Interpersonal Intelligence Competition 2013-14
/0 Comments/in 21st Century Skills, AVM Updates /by AVM TeachersTo cater to the individual needs of student and to nurture the unique intelligence they possess, teachers at Atmiya Vidya Mandir have made a humble effort to design and organize many inter-house competitions throughout the year based on the theory of Multiple Intelligence given by Howard Gardner of Harvard University (USA).
Considering above mentioned realities this competition was organized grade wise and house wise. All the participants had been given different themes/tasks as per their grades. They had to work as a team and unleash their creativity to finish the given task in limited time.
The grade wise themes/competitions were as follows:
For Grade 1 to 3: Making Animals with Clay
For Grade 4: Model making from Lego blocks
In this competition there were total 8 participants (2 students from each house). All the participants were given the task to make a model from the given Lego blocks in the given time. For this task they had to work as a team and come up with the idea to design the model and ultimately create that model. All the participants gave wings to their imagination and made varieties of models like Model of a Town, Model of Castle, and Model of Garden etc. It was exciting to note that the children were able to put in small little details in their models.
For Grade 5 and 6: Card Castle Making
In this competition there were total 16 participants (2 students per Grade from each house). For this competition participants had to make a castle from a given deck of cards and the castle with longest height will win. All the participants enjoyed making castle from the playing cards as a team. Their team work, patience and accuracy were tested here.
For Grade 7 and 8: Poster Making
In this competition there were total 16 participants (2 students per Grade from each house). The theme for this poster making competition was “Recipe of Success: Hard work + Earnest Prayer + Company of Good Friends”. Participant had to brainstorm and come up with the flow about how they can project this theme on a given chart paper. They were given time limit of one and half hour. All the teams came up with very creative ways to represent their ideas.
Throughout this competition participants from each grade levels worked as a team and learned to respect other’s ideas. It was a good experience for them to learn how to resolve their conflicts in a constructive way. For teachers it was a delightful treat to see their budding stars in action. Overall the competition was successful in providing the platform to students to unleash their creativity and practice their interpersonal skills. Both the students and teachers had thoroughly enjoyed it.
Grade wise winners of the Interpersonal Intelligence Competition are as follows:
For Grade 1 to 3: Making Animals with Clay: Shivam House
For Grade 4: Model making from blocks: Satyam House
For Grade 5 and 6: Card Castle Making: Shivam House
For Grade 7 and 8: Poster Making:
Sundaram House
Overall Result
1st Position Shivam House
2nd Position Satyam House
3rd Position Sundaram House
4th Position Suhradam House
Kinaesthetic Intelligence Competition 2013-14
/0 Comments/in 21st Century Skills, AVM Updates /by AVM TeachersGroup A: Std 1, 2, 3
Group B: Std 4, 5, 6
Group C: Std 7, 8
Group D: Std 9, 10
Overall Result:
First: Sundaram House 84 points
Second: Shivam House 80 points
Third: Satyam House 78 points
Fourth: Suhradam House 77 points
MT-CET 2014 Notice for Pharmacy courses in Maharashtra
/0 Comments/in Career /by AVM TeachersPractice Makes Perfect
/0 Comments/in AVM Updates, Value Based Education /by AVM TeachersThus, Satyam House conducted the assemblies for the week of Dec.16 to Dec.21, 2013 with the value Practice Makes Perfect. The underlying theme was that proper & repeated action results in perfection.
This value is very significant for the students as it can help to perform better in academics, excel in sports or master any art such as dance, music, drawing and painting, etc.
The following was witnessed in the assemblies during this week:
Thought For the Day:
This forms a very insightful feature of the morning assembly. What great people think about the value is conveyed to the children. Pleasant morning, fresh mind and peaceful atmosphere makes it an ideal time for them to spare room in their thought process for the value. One of the thoughts conveyed during the week was: “Chance favours the prepared mind.”
Introduction:
On Monday, the Primary Section kids were very privileged because the value was introduced by the Principal Dr. Vijay Patel through a ‘vaat’ from “Swami Ni Vaato” and an interesting story.
At the same time, in the senior assembly, Kshitij Sir introduced it through a scientific research conveying how special type of brain tissue called Myelin, plays a key role in helping us to gain mastery over the skill and how regular practice rewires our brain. The assembly continued with a discussion of examples of two great personalities, Ludwig van Beethoven [the great music composer and pianist] and Karoly [handicapped pistol shooter who won gold medals in two successive Olympic Games].
AVM Young Talent Show: [under the guidance of Sharmil Ma’am]
Three students of AVM with outstanding performance in different fields were interviewed by the Show Host, Naman Banka of Std 7.
Young Talents:
All of them were clear-sighted that daily practice without fail, blended with God’s company and blessings helped them a lot in pursuit of excellence and still their journey is on. The SHOW helped students know the significance of practice in their day to day life.
The Music Maestro:
Jaimin Sir, the school’s tabla guru, shared his experience throughout his journey towards mastering the art of playing tabla. He highlighted that the painful struggle and the thrill of the journey led to happiness after each step forward from what he was in the beginning, only because of PRACTICE.
A live performance by him filled the environment with some beautiful rhythms that shall stay in the children’s minds inspiring them.
Hindi Assembly:
Paying respect to our National Language, assemblies are also often conducted in Hindi. Pushpak Sir conveyed the importance of ‘Practice’ through a self-composed poem:
तब जा के एक बार में उसने, दो-दो दक्षता हासिल की होगी।
पहले भी किसी ने ऐसे ही, अभ्यास की कही कहानी होगी,
आगे यहाँ से आपको भी, ये पद्धति पे पद्धति चलानी होगी।।
Practice polishes the inborn talent of a person. Arjun and Eklavya, who acquired perfection through their tireless practice in archery, are not unfamiliar to us.
Videos:
Young or old, everyone enjoys exploring information through audio-visual presentations and they also leave a prominent effect on our minds. Inspiring videos related to the fields of music, art, sports, academics, adventures, etc. were shown which left the spectators spellbound. Glimpses of the movie Bhag Milkha Bhag; a girl practising for the World Math Day and other sports were selected by Rekha Ma’am for discussion in the Gujarati Assembly.
Activity in the Junior Assembly:
An activity was conducted to show comparison between two groups of students, the one who practices certain skills on everyday basis and the one who never practices. It was concluded that the group of students who practise daily performed better than those who never did so, even for the actions which seem very simple.
Its effect?
It was a pleasant surprise to find that the tiny tots of grade I and II had brought the value into practice.
Grade IV students of handwriting class noticed improvement in their hand writing when they compared it with their writing on the first day of the class.
Annual Athlete Meet: Inspired by the value, some of the participants put efforts at their level best on practising for various events to win medals for their respective houses.
With such inspiring examples that followed this week of value-based assemblies, Satyam House was eager and ready for the next.
આવી આવી આવી રે… ઉત્તરાયણ આવી
/0 Comments/in AVM Updates, Value Based Education /by AVM Teachersચટાકેદાર
ઊંધિયાની સોડમ સાથે લાવી.
સાચવીને
મિત્રો ! તહેવારનો તમે આનંદ લૂંટો.
આવી
આવી આવી રે… ઉત્તરાયણ આવી.
આવ્યો છે. એક છે સુદ પક્ષ અને બીજો છે વદ પક્ષ. એ જ રીતે વર્ષના પણ બે ભાગ
પાડવામાં આવ્યા છે. પહેલો છે ઉત્તરાયણ અને બીજો છે દક્ષિણાયન. આ
બંને અયન મળીને એક વર્ષ થાય છે. મકરસંક્રાંતિના દિવસે સૂર્ય થોડો ઉત્તરની તરફ ઢળે છે. આથી આ કાળ કે
સમયને ઉત્તરાયણ કહે છે.
આપવામાં આવ્યું છે. વેદો અને પુરાણોમાં પણ આ દિવસનો ઉલ્લેખ જોવા મળે છે. દિવાળી, હોળી, શિવરાત્રી અને અન્ય તહેવાર સાથે વિશેષ કથાઓ જોડાયેલી છે અને આ બધાં જ તહેવાર અંગ્રેજી મહિના અનુસાર ન આવતા હિંદુ
માસ અને તિથિ મુજબ આવે છે જ્યારે મકરસંક્રાંતિ એ એક ખગોળીય ઘટના છે અને
જેનાથી જડ અને ચેતનની દિશા અને દશા નક્કી થાય છે. આ તહેવાર એવો છે કે જે
અંગ્રેજી મહિના મુજબ ૧૪ જાન્યુઆરીએ આવે છે. ૧૪ જાન્યુઆરી પછી કમુરતાં
પૂરાં થઈને લગ્નસરાની મોસમ શરૂ થાય છે.
ઉત્તર તરફની ગતિને જ ઉત્તરાયણ કે મકરસંક્રાંતિ કહેવામાં આવે છે. મકરસંક્રાંતિના પર્વનું ધાર્મિક, સામાજિક અને વૈજ્ઞાનિક દૃષ્ટિએ ઘણું મહત્વ છે.
મકરસંક્રાંતિ સમગ્ર ભારતમાં ઊજવવામાં આવે છે. જોકે દરેક પ્રદેશમાં તેનું
અલગ-અલગ નામ છે અને ઉજવણીની રીતો પણ જુદી-જુદી છે.
નાના-નાના ભૂલકાંઓને મકરસંક્રાંત્તિ(ઉત્તરાયણ)ના પર્વનું ધાર્મિક, સામાજિક અને
વૈજ્ઞાનિક દ્વષ્ટિનું મહત્વ સમજાવવામાં આવ્યું. તથા પતંગ ચગાવવાની વિવિધ કળાઓ વિશે
માહિતગાર કરવામાં આવ્યા. જેમ કે પતંગ ખરીદવા, માંજો પાવો, પતંગને કિન્ના બાંધવી,
પતંગને ઊંચે આકાશમાં ચગાવી ગુલાંટ મરાવવી, ઢીલ આપવી, ખેંચ મારવી અને બીજાના પતંગને
કાપવો વગેરે કળાઓ શીખવવામાં આવી. ત્યારબાદ પતંગ ચગાવતી વખતે રાખવમાં આવતી સાવચેતીઓ
જેમકે પતંગ ચગાવતાં પહેલા આંગળીઓને મેડીકેટેડ ટેપ લગાવવી જોઈએ, વીજળીના તારને દોરી
અડે નહિ એ રીતે પતંગ ચગાવવા, લીસી, ખરબચડી, તૂટેલી અને નબળી અગાસી/છત કે ધાબા પર ઊભા
ન રહેવું જોઈએ, જાહેર રસ્તા પર પતંગ પકડવા દોડવું ન જોઈએ, પતંગ ચગાવતી વખતે એ પણ
ધ્યાન રાખવું કે તમારો આનંદ તમારા માટે કે બીજાના માટે જોખમ ન બને વગેરે વિશે
વિશેષ ધ્યાન દોરવામાં આવ્યું હતું. આમ, બાળકોએ ખૂબ જ ઉત્સાહપૂર્વક ભાગ લીધો અને પતંગ ચગાવવાની મજા માણી.
Sporting Carnival at AVM – the 10th Annual Atmiya Athletic Meet
/0 Comments/in AVM Updates, Sports /by AVM TeachersThe opening ceremony
The performances in opening ceremony included gymnastic activities, dumbbell drills, ‘Suryanamaskar’ and ‘aasans’. All of these activities underlined the importance of such physical work and the enthusiasm amongst students for these traditional methods to keep themselves fit and healthy. To add glamour and vibrancy to the ceremony, special dancing and singing performances were kept. The choir group of the students of class 6, 7 and 8 sung a melodious song ‘Ashaein’ under the able guidance of Himanshu Sir and Jaimin Sir. The song encouraged students to aspire and do everything they can to achieve those aspirations. A scintillating dance performance was presented by the dancing group on a very popular song ‘Bhaag Milkha bhaag’, which encapsulated the spirit of the event. The dance was very creatively choreographed by Suhradam Sir.
For this very important event special guests were invited. P. Fuvaji and P. Suhrad Swamiji along with P. Ambrish Swamiji graced the event with their presence. Not only that, P. Fuvaji and P. Suhrad Swamiji addressed the students and encouraged students to perform up to their potential. They also applauded the efforts put in by the sports teachers. After the speeches from the guests, it was the turn of the Sports Captain Nirmalbhai to conduct the oath taking ceremony. The ceremony concluded with the principal Respected Vijay Sir officially declaring the 10th Annual Atmiya Athletic Meet open.
Track and Field events
From December 26th, all the events began as every single student from class 1 to 11 participated in one or the other event. In itself it was the biggest attraction as well as a matter of recognition for the sports team as all the students were presented with an opportunity to compete in front of the whole school. The motto of the event, ‘Winning is not everything but participation and the will to win is’, truly reflected in the attitude and enthusiasm of the students and teachers. All the students did their best to win some points and medals for their houses. Those who could not, certainly tried to encourage and cheer the participants from their houses. But the most satisfying thing was that all the students appreciated good performances from the students from all houses as they realized that at the end of it is a win for the school.
We aim above the mark to hit the mark
Considering this famous quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson, the sports teachers printed and posted the current school and CBSE records for individual events on the respective track and field arena. The idea behind this was to encourage students to aim higher and maximize their potential. Not only were students encouraged to win the medals but were also pushed to break the current records to improve their individual performances. So many broken records in the 10th Annual Atmiya Athletic Meet is a testimony to the drive of the students to achieve and perform to the best of their abilities.
Contribution from Volunteers and Academic teachers
Such a massive event couldn’t have been possible without the dedicated contributions from the student volunteers, academic teachers and admin staff. Kalpesh Sir put together a very devoted team of 25-30 student volunteers who were the engines of the routine tasks such as managing the sports equipment for respective events and becoming the bridge between the officials, scorers and participants. The academic teachers and admin staff were also very keen to contribute immensely in the event. A special credit goes also to Kshitij Sir and Pushpak Sir who were the anchors for the whole event. They did not let such a hectic schedule of a long event come in the way and kept encouraging the students through the microphone. The kitchen department also played a very significant role, as throughout the days of this event, the refreshments and snacks were provided to the students on the field. The sincerity, availability and willingness to contribute from all the members of Atmiya family throughout the meet made the event even bigger success.
The last hurrah
After the vigour of 4 sessions, it boiled down to the final session in which 10 final events were kept from the 5 student categories. The planning was done so carefully by the sports teachers so that in the ultimate session of the event, students, teachers and guests could witness the most exciting finals. 100 metres finals and 4×100 metres relays were a matter of great anticipation and excitement in this last session. A special relay event was organised for the class 12 students as they were busy in their studies for the upcoming Board exams. The performances from the young athletes in this final session, captured the imagination of the whole school as they stepped up their performances. Sheer determination and uplifted performances not only entertained everybody but they also broke some more records in the process.
And the winner is…..
After a very long fitness program, 2 week preparation camp for the students, planning and preparing the athletic arena from the teachers, competitive and enthusiastic participation and some record breaking performances later, we reached a moment where the recognition for all these efforts was due.
A special set up was prepared in the centre of the field for the prize distribution ceremony. The ceremony started as the medals and certificates to the winners were awarded by various teachers and guests. In such a massive event, few individuals always outshine the rest with their determination, persistent efforts and supreme performances. And it is only fair to recognize such individuals. To encourage such outliers, the Best Athlete trophy in each of the student category was presented to such students. The noise reached a new level as all of these students were equally appreciated by the students of all the houses.
Along with the winners, the efforts and sincerity of volunteers was also recognized. Special appreciation certificates were handed to these volunteers from respected Haresh Sir. Upon the request of Haresh Sir, a special photo was taken to commemorate the contribution of these young students who upheld a very core value of the school ‘seva’ (service).
All of these only added to the eagerness for the announcement of the winner house. Throughout the event it was very difficult to predict which house would win as athletes from all the houses had shown their worth in different categories as that kept their house in hunt to win the prestigious trophy. It was one of the closest fight in the recent years as only 6 points separated the houses occupying 2nd, 3rd and 4th positions. But reigning athletic meet champions Sundaram House won the competition second year in a row and Suhradam House finished second. Respected Govind Sir (Principal, Sarvanaman Vidya Mandir and Haresh Sir (Administrator, Atmiya Vidya Mandir) presented the trophies to the winner as the mega event came to an end. Vijay Sir then officially declared the 10th Annual Atmiya Athletic Meet closed as fireworks took the centre stage.
Although the event has ended but the echo and memories of this event will remain with everyone involved for a very long time. The administration of the school heartily congratulates all the students and the staff members for organizing such a fantastic and exhilarating event which can only enhance the experience at this wonderful institution.
Here are the highlights of the results:
Best Athletes
Name House Category Points Medals won
Hari Martin Satyam Group A 30 3 Golds
Mumukshu D Patel Satyam Group B 24 1 Gold, 1 Silver and 1 Bronze
Shrimed M Sangani Suhradam Group B 24 1 Gold, 1 Silver and 1 Bronze
Shubh J Patel Shivam Group C 30 3 Golds
Darshan J Patel Suhradam Group D 30 3 Golds
Mayank M Watwani Sundaram Group E 28 2 Golds and 1 Silver
(Note: The points from relay races are not considered for the adjudication of best athlete.)
House Gold Silver Bronze House Points
Winners Sundaram 14 11 16 324
Runners Up Suhradam 12 9 9 266
Preparations for the biggest sports carnival of the year – the 10th Atmiya Annual Athletic Meet
/0 Comments/in AVM Updates, Sports /by AVM TeachersAt the beginning of the year, a decision was taken to pay more attention to the fitness of the students. In line with that, after the summer vacation, a 15 day fitness camp was organised by the sports teachers so that the students can get back into a proper physical shape. To maintain fitness throughout the year, more time was allotted to the running, jogging, exercise drills, etc. It meant a bit lesser playing time for the students. But soon, the improved fitness helped students to improve their skills in their respective sports and helped them become better at it. Morning jogging and yoga was included in the physical fitness program as a part of the winter session in the school. Getting up early in a cold winter morning is never an easy task, but the students and sports teachers overcame the hurdle and followed the program with sincerity. All these efforts led to a better fitness of the students and hence expectation of a better performance in the athletic events.
The preparation of this mega event started as soon as the inter-house football competition ended on 7th December 2013. The Sports department at AVM planned the event in such a way that all students can participate in their choicest events. To increase the medal winning opportunities for students, the participation of each student was limited to 3 events. This time around, the students were divided into different age categories and standards. Five groups were made so that the students could compete fairly. Here are the groups:
Each group consisted various track and field events to suit the capabilities of the students. After the success of introducing the Javelin Throw event last year, the sports team added Triple Jump event for groups D and E.
To make sure the students understood the rules of various events and developed specific skills, a 2 week athletics camp was organised leading up to the athletic meet. They were given opportunities to practice their events regularly with inputs from the coaches. Emphasis was put on maximizing the potential and aiming for better performances. To motivate the students further, existing school records and CBSE zonal records were displayed so that students push themselves harder to achieve more.
After some very meticulous planning and super preparation, the arena was set for the opening ceremony of the 10th Atmiya Annual Athletic Meet on 25th December.