Shaagird Foundation commemorated the 78th Independence Day of India with immense pride and patriotic zeal at Kala Mahal on August 15, 2024. The event was held at the terrace of the Madrassa, where students presented their love for their nation through spectacular performances.
Shaagird Foundation believes in instilling a sense of love, harmony, peace, and unity in the nation-builders of our country by celebrating Independence Day every year at their educational centers. These celebrations not only fulfills the aforementioned aim but also brings a wave of patriotism into the lives of students.
The celebration began with the flag hoisting ceremony, where the unfurling of the country’s tricolor flag was followed by the national anthem and the release of a myriad of balloons and vibrant color confetti in the sky.
The chief guest, Aasif Mujtaba, Director and Founder of Shaagird Foundation, highlighted the work of our freedom fighters. He explained how selflessly they sacrificed their love, comfort, happiness, family, and everything else for the country and its future. Continuing his speech, Mr. Mujtaba talked about the responsibilities that we, the proud citizens of India, have on our shoulders. He further talked about the significance of unity and harmony and how one should contribute to philanthropic work to help the needy, thereby spreading positivity.
Following this, the kids dressed in tricolor costumes recited the Quran in melodious qirat and gave heart-touching speeches to show their love for the country. After delivering profound words, the girls pursuing Alimah conducted a quiz competition on ‘the history of India.’ What a competition it was! Full of learning and excitement.
Next came the most-awaited performance, the poem competition. Students with buzz and excitement read the patriotic poem they penned down from the core of their hearts. The students channeled their love for the country through their words and left the audience awestruck.
As the program came to an end, the students of Kala Mahal expressed their gratitude to Miles2Smile for helping them in their toughest times and for taking care of them throughout. The roots of the students at Kala Mahal belong to a poor family, so Miles2Smile helps them complete both their worldly and spiritual education.
A group of students at Kala Malah includes those who have witnessed the merciless demolition of their previous mosque and madrasa, the centuries-old Akhunji mosque in Mehrauli. Their mosque was not just a place of worship for them, and their madrasa was not just a learning center for them; they were their homes.
In the wee hours of January 30, the DDA demolished the Akhunji Mosque and the madrassa adjacent to it without prior notice. These students were not even given the time to wear a sweater, put on their shoes, or pack up their belongings.
When Shaagird Foundation went to see them, they were shivering in the chilling cold breezes of January, standing near the debris of their madrasa and mosque without sweaters. They were barefooted, crying their hearts out, engulfed with grief and helplessness. Shaagird Foundation promised them a better life.
True to their promise, Shaagird Foundation relocated them to Kala Mahal, facilitated their admission, and has been taking care of their small and big needs ever since the demolition. In addition to this, Miles2Smile has embarked on a new mission to collaborate with Madrassa Kala Mahal in sponsoring Alimah and educating them without hindrance.
About the Sunrise Public School: Sunrise Public School in Loni, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, was founded by the Miles2Smile to support survivors of the 2020 North-East Delhi Pogrom. Over time, it has expanded to educate orphans, underprivileged, and marginalized children, successfully bringing 480 students back to school. The school encourages students to pursue their interests through various programs, competitions, and activities held throughout the year. With opportunities in sports, cultural events, and literature, every child is encouraged to participate and grow. The focus remains on creating an inclusive space where students can explore their potential and build a brighter future.
By providing access to education, we empower these young minds to become the torchbearers of their own lives and the future leaders of our nation. We opine that together, we can build a more inclusive, equitable society, one bright mind at a time. To learn more about the Foundation’s uplifting stories and their work visit the website.