

The highly anticipated Inter-School Folk Dance Competition, held in conjunction with the illustrious Diamond Jubilee Celebrations at Sainik School Ghorakhal
Sainik School Ghorakhal, a distinguished institution under the aegis of the Sainik Schools Society, recently hosted an inter-school Folk Dance Competition as part of its Diamond Jubilee Celebrations. This remarkable event, held in the school’s auditorium, showcased India’s rich cultural heritage through enchanting performances by various esteemed schools from across the region.
The programme commenced with the ceremonial illumination of the lamp, officiated by Dr. Harish Rautela, the esteemed Chief Guest and Gp Capt Vijay Singh Dangwal, the Principal of Sainik School Ghorakhal, accompanied by the First Lady, Mrs. Sweta Dangwal. This poignant ceremony epitomized the dispelling of darkness and the ascendancy of knowledge. It was subsequently followed by a graceful rendition of Saraswati Vandana, performed by the girl cadets, which fostered a tranquil and reverent atmosphere.
Many reputed institutions; Ashok Hall Girls’ Residential School, Ranikhet, Army Public School, Ranikhet, Bhartiya Shaheed Sainik Vidyalaya, Nainital, Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Mohan Lal Shah Bal Vidya Mandir, Nainital, Green Mount Global School, Bhimtal, Sanwal School, Nainital, Naincy Convent School, Nainital, Herman Gmeiner School, Bhimtal, PM Shri Atal Utkrisht Government Inter College, Patlot, Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya, Khansyun (Okhalkanda), De Vito School, Bhowali, Lakes International School, Bhimtal, and the host institution, Sainik School Ghorakhal, took part in the competition
Each team showcased a distinct folk dance form representing various states of India, filling the auditorium with rhythm, colour, and energy. The event was sponsored by the Suman Nirmal Minda Foundation. The competition aimed to foster cultural understanding among students, promote appreciation for India’s traditional art forms, and uphold the spirit of unity in diversity. values deeply embedded in the ethos of Sainik School Ghorakhal.
The Chief Guest, Dr. Harish Rautela, awarded trophies to the winners and felicitated the staff members for their invaluable contribution.He also presented certificates to all participating teams. The third position was secured by Lakes International School, Bhimtal, the second position was secured by Mohan Lal Shah Bal Vidya Mandir, Nainital, and the proud winner of the competition was Sainik School Ghorakhal. A special prize was awarded to Nirmala Academy ,Gethiya for the wonderful performance.
The Principal, Group Captain Vijay Singh Dangwal, presented a special souvenir to the Chief Guest as a token of gratitude.
In his address, Dr. Harish Rautela congratulated all participating teams for their enthralling performances that beautifully celebrated India’s cultural diversity. He also extended warm congratulations to Sainik School Ghorakhal on completing sixty glorious years of excellence, discipline, and service to the nation. He praised the school for blending academic rigour with co-curricular excellence and for nurturing confident, disciplined, and responsible citizens. Highlighting the role of cultural activities in holistic education, he remarked that such events foster creativity, teamwork, and respect for heritage. He commended the Principal, staff, and cadets for their dedicated efforts and wished the school continued success in its journey ahead.
The programme concluded with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks, followed by the National Anthem, bringing the vibrant and memorable celebration to a graceful close.