A pre-Independence Day celebration was organized at Mawkasiang Center on 14th August with the aim of helping the students understand the significance of Independence Day and encouraging them to reflect on what it means to be an Indian and a responsible citizen of the country.

As part of the celebration, the students were asked to give short speeches on the themes “What Independence Day Means to Me” and “What Being Indian Means to Me.” The activity provided the students with an opportunity to express their thoughts and personal understanding of freedom, patriotism, national identity, and their responsibilities as citizens. Although the speeches were brief, they encouraged the students to think about the meaning of Independence Day beyond simply observing it as a national holiday. The trainers recorded each of the speeches and later compiled them into a video featuring the students’ individual contributions.

One of the most important activities during the celebration was learning and performing the National Anthem. It was observed that a majority of the students did not know the National Anthem. The trainers stressed that knowing and being able to sing the National Anthem is an important part of understanding and respecting one’s country, and therefore made it a priority to teach the students. Despite having only a short amount of time, the trainers patiently taught them the words and helped them practice repeatedly. The students made numerous attempts, gradually becoming more confident and familiar with the anthem. By the end of the practice, all the students were able to perform the National Anthem together.

The trainers used these activities not merely as part of the Independence Day celebration, but as an opportunity to instill important values in the students. Through the speeches, discussions, video activity, and learning of the National Anthem, the students were encouraged to develop a greater sense of patriotism, respect for the nation, unity, responsibility, and civic awareness.

The overall objective was to help the students understand that being a good citizen of India involves more than simply belonging to the country. It also involves respecting the nation, understanding its values, fulfilling one’s responsibilities, and contributing positively to society. The celebration therefore served as both a commemoration of Independence Day and a meaningful learning experience for the students.

Overall, the pre-Independence Day celebration at Mawkasiang Center was a positive and meaningful activity. It gave the students an opportunity to learn, participate, express their views, and develop a deeper appreciation for the country and the responsibilities that come with being an Indian citizen.