The students of The Sun Smart Foundation International School (SSFI) recently hosted the Madras Carnival in conjunction with the Madras Week celebrations. This event, organized as part of the school’s Creativity, Art, and Service (CAS) program, aimed to celebrate the rich culture and heritage of Chennai while contributing to a meaningful cause.
The carnival saw an overwhelming response, with over 200 attendees from the school and local community coming together to participate in the festivities. The event provided a platform for students to showcase their talents and foster a deeper connection with the cultural heritage of Chennai.
A portion of the proceeds from the carnival was donated to aid the Wayanad flood relief efforts. These funds have been directed to the Kerala Chief Minister’s Welfare Fund, specifically designated for Wayanad. This initiative marked the first time that learners from a school took such a significant step to support this cause while also honoring the culture of Chennai.
Special Highlights of the Event:*
- Madras Sensational Song Teaser: The teaser for the “Madras Sensational” song, written, composed, and performed by the students of SSFI, was released, paving the way for the full song release on September 15, 2024.
- Cultural Workshops: The event featured traditional Kurumba art and dye-making sessions.
- Madras Photo Gallery Walk: A showcase of photographs taken by SSFI learners highlighted their favorite places in Chennai.
- Games and Food: Attendees enjoyed a variety of games and foods inspired by Madras.
- Historical Gallery Walk: An exhibit displayed artefacts and stories that traced the history of Chennai, showcasing the best of the city’s legacy.
- Skit on Wayanad Landslides: Learners of SSFI performed a skit on the ‘Wayanad Landslides,’ focusing on the instinctive nature of animals, the effects of climate change, and the urgent need for environmental awareness.
Leadership Remarks:
The Leadership Team at SSFI has shared their views on the event, below: “The Madras Carnival stands as a testament to our belief in the power of education to make a difference in the world. Through this event, we have not only celebrated Chennai’s vibrant culture but also extended our support to those affected by the Wayanad floods. It fills me with pride to see our students take initiative and embrace their heritage,” said Mrs. B.K.K Pillai, Chairperson of The Vailankanni Charity Trust.
Mrs. Aparna Bharani Pillai, Founder Director of SSFI School, added, “The carnival has been a beautiful confluence of creativity, culture, and compassion. Our students have demonstrated that learning goes beyond textbooks, as they used their talents to impact the community meaningfully. The skit on the Wayanad landslides was particularly poignant, reflecting our learners’ awareness of global issues and their empathy for those affected.”
Mrs. Aysha Fahim H, Coordinator at SSFI Shenoy Nagar, and Mrs. Anuradha Navaneeth, Coordinator at SSFI Anna Nagar, expressed, “The students’ enthusiasm and dedication towards the Madras Carnival have been inspiring. This event was not only a celebration of Chennai but also an opportunity for our learners to understand the importance of social responsibility and environmental consciousness. The students’ skit on the Wayanad landslides was a moving reminder of the impact of climate change, and their contributions to the relief efforts have made a tangible difference.”
Looking Ahead:
Building on the success of this year’s event, SSFI plans to make the Madras Carnival an annual celebration, with even more activities and greater community involvement. Next year’s carnival aims to include a broader range of cultural performances, expanded workshops, and increased fundraising efforts for additional causes. The school looks forward to continuing this tradition, providing students opportunities to grow creatively and contribute to society.
The Madras Carnival was an enriching and enjoyable event that brought together the community for a cause that mattered. Through their leadership and the students’ efforts, SSFI successfully combined the celebration of culture with a heartfelt contribution to a pressing humanitarian need.
