Amritsar : Delhi Public School’s Department of Foreign Languages celebrated French Day in the school premises. The highlight of the celebration was A French play ‘Les Guerriers Sikhs en France’- which came alive showcasing the crucial role of Sikhs in World War –I when they fought for France. Identified as a warrior community the Sikhs were brave, daring and heroic and fought in both WW-I and WW-II.
The connection of the French with Punjab and Sikhs has been vital even during the reign of Maharaja Ranjit Singh who built his infantry on the French pattern trained by a French officer. The Maharaja Kapurthala Jagatjit S Bhadur was an ardent admirer of French architecture and replicated several Indian buildings using this European style.
The celebrations opened with a French prayer Notre P`ere (Our Father) and a plethora of French activities. The School band played French music and belted out a French song ‘Nouveau Parfum’ or the new Perfume with a message that my individuality is my personality and my strength. This was followed with an Urban Hip-Hop dance that has become popular all over Europe.
It was followed by a virtual tour via multi-media film of French monuments. Students were delighted to see Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the Palais Garnier opera house, Notre Dame Cathedral etc. It was an amazing experience for the students as they tried to blend themselves with the French culture and gained a better insight into it.
As many as 109 students of DPS became a part of the French day celebrations.
Earlier the occasion was inaugurated by school Principal Mrs Sangeeta Singh. In her address the she stated “The celebrations are purported to ignite love for languages and pay tributes to valiant and courageous Sikh soldiers who risked their lives for their duty, highlighting their dedication to ‘service before self.”
She further added- “True schooling is not merely confined to class room study or just sports and academics, it goes beyond books and play, towards new learning and discovering new ways of communication that includes languages. Learning any language is always musical as it unfolds the notes of its rhythmical beauty.”
The programme ended with the National anthem of France I’hymne National de la France followed by the Indian National Anthem.