The Annual Day celebrations of Indian School Salalah for the academic year 2025–26, held on Friday, 13th December 2025, unfolded as a spectacular showcase of culture, creativity, and commitment under the inspiring theme “NEXA 2K25.” The chief guest, Mr. Hamed Bin Bakheet Al-Mashikhi, Assistant Director General of Education, Dhofar Region and the Guest of Honour  Dr. Surendra Swamy, BOD Member and Director-in-Charge of Indian School Salalah were received by Dr. Syed Ahsan  Jamil, President of the School Management, other esteemed members of SMC, Principal Mr. Deepak Patankar, other admins and the school student’s council. The event reflected the school’s dedication to holistic education and its alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), transforming the evening into an experience that was both entertaining and deeply meaningful.

The programme commenced with a general welcome, followed by the National Anthems of Oman and India, which evoked a sense of unity and pride. The ceremonial lighting of the lamp (done by the chief guest, guest of honour, President of SMC, other esteemed members of SMC and Principal) illuminated the stage and symbolised wisdom, hope, and enlightenment. An engaging introductory act by the compering team set the tone for the evening, leading into the Invocation Dance, which radiated serenity and devotion. A melodious Welcome Song embraced the audience with warmth, and the performance by the Centre for Special Education (CSE) was met with heartfelt applause for its purity and grace.

The formal proceedings began with the address by Dr. Syed Ahsan Jamil, President of the SMC, who described the evening as a testimony to the hard work of the Principal, staff, students and parents. He highlighted the school’s excellent performance in interschool and national competitions and appreciated the commendable support extended by parents in academics, cultural activities, and sports. He also applauded the CSE performance and reminded all stakeholders of their vital roles in the school’s progress.

A floral welcome was extended to the dignitaries. The event was also graced by the presence of other esteemed guests, including Dr. Sanathanan (Consular Agent, Indian Embassy), Mr. Sunny Jacob, Vice President of Indian Social club, Mr.Rasal Muhammad, President of SMC, Indian School Thumrait, the Principals of the British School, Egyptian School, World School Salalah, Indian School Thumrait, and the Pakistani School, along with faculty from Dhofar University and members of the Indian Social Club. Their presence added prestige to the occasion and reflected the strong educational partnerships within Salalah.

The Chief Guest, Mr. Hamed Bin Bakheet Al-Mashikhi, Assistant Director General of Education, Dhofar Region, was introduced by Vice Principal Mr. Mammikutty. He expressed great delight in witnessing the school’s achievements and praised the management, Principal, and staff for their dedication. He remarked that Dhofar is fortunate to have such an esteemed institution catering to over 4,000 students and conveyed his happiness at being part of the celebration. A memento was presented to him by the BOD Member and Director-in-Charge of Indian School Salalah, Dr. Surendra Swamy, along with the School President and the Principal.

Following this, the Guest of Honour, Dr. Surendra Swamy, BOD Member and Director-in-Charge of Indian School Salalah, delivered an insightful address. He reflected on his school days, appreciated the quality of the programme, and commended the school for choosing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals as its theme. He emphasised the importance of shared responsibility among all stakeholders, acknowledging that the school is run by the community and for the community. He assured the constant support of the Board of Directors in providing quality education to help the school fulfil its responsibility towards the students and the larger community.

An address by SMC member,  Dr. Abubacker Siddique followed, in which he emphasised the need for upgraded facilities and affirmed the committee’s commitment to constructing a new school building to replace the old block in order to meet growing demands.

The Principal, Mr. Deepak Patankar, then addressed the audience, describing the Annual Day not merely as a gathering but as a reflection of the school’s achievements, goals, and values. He spoke proudly of the school’s journey since its establishment in 1981 and its growth into a vibrant institution offering experiential and value-based education from KG to Grade 12. He reminded the audience that education involves not only knowledge but also expression, creativity, and responsibility. He thanked the parents and community for their continued support and reaffirmed the school’s aim of nurturing responsible global citizens with the strong backing of the Board of Directors. He highlighted the achievements and applauded the school toppers in the Board Examinations for their excellent performance.

The Awards Ceremony celebrated excellence and dedication. Mrs. Dharna Garg (PRT-English faculty)) was honoured with the Best Teacher Award for Indian School Salalah by the BOD. Subject teachers whose students achieved centums in X and XII CBSE exams 2025 were felicitated with certificates and gold coins. Omani staff and  teachers who completed milestone years of 30, 25, 20 and 10 years of service in ISS received Long Service Awards for their valuable contribution to the institution. The awards were given by the chief guest, Mr. Hamed Bin Bakheet Al-Mashikhi, Assistant Director General of Education, Dhofar Region and the Guest of Honour Dr. Surendra Swamy, BOD Member and Director-in-Charge of Indian School Salalah accompanied by Dr. Syed Ahsan  Jamil, President of the School Management, other esteemed members of SMC and Principal Mr. Deepak Patankar,

The cultural segment began with the mime titled Ability Beyond Disability, portraying inclusion and perseverance. This was followed by the vibrant Punjabi Folk Dance that celebrated India’s colourful traditions. The Senior Hindi Skit delivered impactful messages on values and social responsibility, while Life Under Water reminded the audience of the urgent need to protect marine ecosystems. Move. Heal. Shine. promoted well-being and mindfulness, followed by Chandrayaan, which honoured India’s scientific achievements and progress in space exploration.

The cultural segment continued with Spectacle – An Artistic Imagery for Equal Dreams, advocating gender equality. The energetic dance medley Global Fitness Symphony promoted health and fitness. Junk Jams transformed waste materials into rhythm, reinforcing messages of sustainability and responsible consumption. The English play Beyond the Silence (inspiring journey of Helen Keller) emphasised equality and integrity, followed by Voices of Courage, a presentation celebrating resilience and empowerment. A powerful Street Play highlighting the urgent need for water conservation, while Despair to Hope conveyed the importance of climate action and environmental stewardship.

The Tableau on National Integration showcased the essence of unity, collaboration, and collective strength. Harmony of Heritage further celebrated cultural diversity. The English skit Dear Departed highlighted timeless lessons in honesty and family values. The colourful Rajasthani Folk Dance captivated the audience with its rhythm and vibrancy. Long Service Awards for Indian staff members were presented thereafter.

The aesthetic showcase Stitched Between Care and Chaos promoted sustainable fashion, while Path of Promise celebrated the transformative power of education. The Tamil Folk Dance added yet another splash of cultural richness to the evening. The Vote of Thanks was delivered by SMC Treasurer Dr. Shaji P. Sreedhar, who expressed gratitude to the dignitaries, parents, staff, and students for contributing to the event’s success. The finale, Phoenix – Rising Beyond Limits, symbolised resilience, equality, and the human spirit’s ability to rise above challenges.

With over 700 students participating, NEXA 2K25 was not just a celebration—it was a movement that blended art with advocacy and entertainment with enlightenment. By integrating the Sustainable Development Goals into each performance, the event inspired values of equality, sustainability, unity, and global responsibility. The evening concluded with resounding applause, pride, and a renewed commitment to nurturing responsible global citizens.

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