From Pawns to Kings: The Power of Perseverance

Principal's Corner

Dear Parents,

In his conversation with Mr. Amitabh ji, Mitrabha provided profound insight into his journey. He revealed that he dedicated nearly 8–10 hours each day to refining his skills—strategising moves, anticipating opponents' tactics, and analysing his gameplay. Over the years, he has competed in more than 10,000 live games and an astounding 1,00,000 online matches. His dedication, focus, and passion for chess have propelled him to the prestigious rank of grandmaster—an achievement reserved for a select few.

Mitrabha Guha’s journey exemplifies the transformative power of perseverance. It serves as a powerful reminder that true success is not an overnight phenomenon but rather the result of years of disciplined effort, resilience, and an unyielding belief in one’s aspirations.

As parents, we often wish to see our children excel, but are we fostering an environment where passion is nurtured with persistence? Are we encouraging them to embrace challenges, commit to their goals, and devote themselves to meaningful pursuits beyond the allure of immediate rewards?

Chess, much like life, demands patience, strategic thinking, and the ability to navigate setbacks with composure. However, the lesson from Mitrabha Guha’s journey extends far beyond the 64 squares of a chessboard—it speaks to the fire that fuels ambition, the discipline that sharpens skill, and the unwavering spirit that transforms dreams into reality.

Let us inspire our children to discover their own ‘chessboard’—whether in academics, sports, music, or any passion they seek to pursue. Let us instil in them the understanding that perseverance, more than innate talent, is the ultimate determinant of success.

Who knows? The next grandmaster, scientist, artist, or innovator may very well be among us, awaiting the right encouragement, the right guidance, and the right mindset to realise their true potential.

    Warm regards,

    Ramjee Nagarajan

    Principal,

    Chanderbala Modi Academy

I am pleased to share that the latest issue of our school magazine, Chandrodaya, is now available. Ms. Nisha and Mr. Ananda, along with the other members of our School English Faculty, have meticulously curated this edition, showcasing the achievements, aspirations, and creative expressions of our students. I encourage you to explore its pages with your children and take pride in the remarkable journeys shaping our school community.

During a recent viewing of Kaun Banega Crorepati (Sony TV, Season 16, Episode 140), I was deeply inspired by the journey of India's 72nd Chess Grandmaster, Mr. Mitrabha Guha. His story serves as an invaluable lesson not only for aspiring chess players but for every child striving for excellence. In an era marked by fleeting distractions and instant gratification, his unwavering dedication and relentless pursuit of mastery stand as a beacon of perseverance.

Little Champions in the Making :

PLAYFUL PARENTING AND THE IMPORTANCE OF SPORTS FOR CHILDREN AGED III-VIII

As a Pre-primary Coordinator, I frequently guide parents in finding a balance between academics and play. In today’s fast-paced world, it's crucial to create a playful learning environment at home. Designating a space filled with toys, puzzles, and books can spark curiosity and inspire exploration. Parents can further engage with their children through activities like storytelling, arts and crafts, and learning games. It’s essential to encourage imagination, celebrate mistakes, and maintain a daily routine that includes fun learning opportunities. Involving grandparents, offering affection, and actively listening to your child also help build stronger emotional bonds. By embracing playful parenting, parents nurture cognitive growth while creating lasting memories.

Activity ideas for various settings include:

• For traveling: Try games like Road Trip Bingo, the License Plate Game, or enjoy audiobooks and podcasts.

• At the beach: Go on a treasure hunt, build sandcastles, or play beach ball games.

• At the zoo: Set up scavenger hunts, interact with animals, or have a photography safari.

• While making dinner: Read recipes, explore ingredients, or have a taste-testing session.

When visiting relatives: Share family history, engage in cultural exchanges, and play family games

Incorporating math into housework can also be a fun learning opportunity. Count laundry, toys, or utensils, measure ingredients or liquids, and create patterns using household items. To build communication skills, actively listen, encourage conversation, and use descriptive language. Make learning enjoyable through activities like "I Spy" or cooking together. The key lies in patience, engagement, and fostering creativity, independence, and learning in every interaction.

As parents, we all strive to help our children grow into happy, healthy, and well-rounded individuals. One essential aspect of their development is engaging in sports from a young age. For children between 3-8 years old, sports play a crucial role in refining fine motor skills and coordination, laying the groundwork for a lifetime of physical activity and overall wellness. Fine motor skills, which involve precise hand and finger movements, are enhanced through sports like tennis, basketball, and soccer, which develop hand-eye coordination, ball control, and teamwork. Coordination, the harmonious integration of body movements, is essential for balance, agility, and physical fitness, and is strengthened through activities like gymnastics, dance, and martial arts. Sports help children master fundamental movements like running, jumping, throwing, and catching, while also boosting cognitive abilities such as concentration, memory, and problem-solving. Team sports cultivate important social skills like communication, cooperation, and sportsmanship, while also boosting confidence and self-esteem through achievements and praise.

Engaging in sports from a young age encourages a love for physical activity and reduces the risk of obesity and related health issues. Parents can support their child’s development by encouraging play-based learning, finding age-appropriate programs, praising effort over results, and participating in physical activities as a family. In conclusion, sports are vital for developing fine motor skills and coordination, ultimately setting children up for a healthy, active future.

Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and be present with your child!

    Ms. Minal Makadia

    Maple Bear - Coordinator

Exciting News!

We are thrilled to announce the installation of a brand-new jungle gym on our school ground! This state-of-the-art play structure is designed to provide our students with a fun and challenging way to stay active, build strength, and develop their gross motor skills.

Features:

- Colourful and sturdy equipment

- Variety of climbing walls, ropes, and ladders

- Slides, tunnels, and bridges for endless exploration

- Safety features, including soft landing surfaces and secure enclosures

Benefits:

- Encourages physical activity, coordination, and balance

- Fosters social skills, teamwork, and communication

- Develops problem-solving and critical thinking

- Provides a safe and engaging space for recess and playtime

Let's Get Ready to Climb, Explore, and Have Fun!

Feathered Insights: Exploring the Fascinating World of Birds

Chanderbala Modi Academy hosted a captivating session on bird watching, led by distinguished Senior Biologist and ornithologist, Mr. Christopher Guna. The event aimed to inspire students to appreciate and understand the vital role of birds in our ecosystem.

The session commenced on December 4, 2024, with Gloria Biju, a Class XI student, introducing Mr Guna and highlighting his remarkable achievements in wildlife conservation and ecological studies. Principal Mr Ramjee Nagarajan encouraged students to emulate Mr Guna's passion for wildlife biology.

Mr. Guna's engaging presentation focused on “Endemic and Rare Birds of the Western Ghats.” He emphasized the significance of birds as pollinators, seed dispersers, and ecological indicators. The session featured stunning visuals and insightful discussions on various bird species, including the Nilgiri Wood Pigeon, Nilgiri Sholakili, endangered vultures, Malabar Whistling Thrush, Emerald Dove, Asian Paradise Flycatcher, Drongos, and many other rare bird species.

Students from Classes VI to IX actively participated in the session, asking thought-provoking questions and enhancing their knowledge about avian biodiversity. Principal Mr. Nagarajan reiterated the importance of bird watching and encouraged students to be more inquisitive.

Ankleshwar: 4th December 2024

The session concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Tamanna Majumdar of Class XI. This enlightening session not only inspired students to appreciate the wonders of bird watching but also instilled a sense of responsibility towards the conservation and protection of our natural world.

A Symphony of Life and Nature: "Prakriti Vandana" Shines at Chanderbala Modi Academy’s 31st Junior Annual Day CelebrationA Symphony of Life and Nature: "Prakriti Vandana" Shines at Chanderbala Modi Academy’s 31st Junior Annual Day Celebration

Ankleshwar: 20th December 2024

Chanderbala Modi Academy celebrated its 31st Annual Day with grandeur and creativity under the theme “Prakriti Vandana,” honouring the essence of nature and the interconnectedness of life’s elements. The event showcased the vibrant talents of junior students from Nursery to Grade IV, who mesmerized the audience with captivating performances that beautifully blended art, dance, and music to convey powerful messages about environmental preservation.

The day’s celebrations commenced with an impressive exhibition, formally inaugurated by the Chief Guest, Dr. Kamala Kannan from DRDO, Bengaluru. The exhibition, themed around the integration of mathematics across all subjects, captivated visitors with innovative displays and interactive models that highlighted the practical applications of mathematical concepts in daily life. Parents and guests were deeply impressed by the creativity and depth of understanding exhibited by the young learners.

The main event began with a warm welcome from the anchors, Aaradhya Nair and Navya Balan, whose introduction of the evening’s theme, "Panchabhutam," symbolizing the life-sustaining elements of Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Sky, set the tone for a memorable evening. Their enthusiastic and engaging opening left the audience eagerly anticipating the performances ahead.

The celebrations proceeded with the auspicious Lighting of the Lamp ceremony, invoking the blessings of Goddess Saraswati for wisdom and enlightenment. The stage was graced by the esteemed presence of Chief Guest Dr. Kamala Kannan, Guest of Honour Ms. Ritu Dewan, Principal of Dayawati Modi Academy, and Special Guest A.M. Surana, Director of Finance at Gujarat Guardian Limited. Accompanying them were Principal Mr. Ramjee Nagarajan and Vice Principal Mrs. Rosy Mehta. The dignitaries were eloquently introduced by Mansi Piludaria and Gloria Biju and were formally welcomed with mementos as tokens of gratitude, adding a touch of elegance to the occasion.

The School Student Council, led by Head Boy Aryan Nair, Head Girl Gloria Biju, and council members Nidhi Bhandari and Tamana Mazumdar, presented the Annual Report, which highlighted the school’s achievements, initiatives, and milestones over the past year. Their comprehensive presentation reflected the school’s commitment to academic excellence and holistic development.

The evening’s highlight was the Annual Awards Ceremony, a moment of pride and celebration for the entire school community. Students were honoured by Chief Guest Dr. Kamala Kannan, Guest of Honour Dr. Ritu Dewan, and Special Guest Mr. A.M. Surana for their exceptional achievements in academics, co-curricular activities, and sports. As each achiever took the stage, the atmosphere was filled with a sense of pride and accomplishment.

A vibrant cultural program followed, featuring captivating performances by budding talents from Nursery to Grade IV. The young performers brought the theme "Prakriti Vandana" to life through a beautiful fusion of dance, drama, and music. Each dance celebrated one of the five elements—Earth, Water, Air, Fire, and Sky—with graceful movements and vibrant energy, leading to a grand finale that left the audience in awe. The drama students powerfully highlighted the importance of conserving and protecting nature, delivering a poignant message that resonated deeply with all. The performances not only showcased the harmony of the elements but also inspired and moved everyone present.

The motivational addresses by Chief Guest Dr. Kamala Kannan and Guest of Honour Dr. Ritu Dewan left an everlasting impression on the audience. Dr. Kannan praised the school’s dedication to nurture young minds and highlighted the significance of instilling values, along with the importance of respecting both parents and teachers. Dr. Dewan’s words resonated deeply as she praised the efforts of all the students who presented a spectacular event. She applauded their hard work, highly commending their dedication and excellence. Principal Ramjee Nagarajan’s address eloquently conveyed the school’s vision for sustained growth, emphasizing its unwavering commitment to nurture creativity and promoting sustainability.

The event concluded with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks by Samridha Balamurugan, expressing gratitude to the dignitaries, parents, teachers, and students for their contributions to the success of the celebration. The National Anthem brought the evening to a close, leaving everyone with a sense of pride and inspiration.

The 31st Annual Day celebration at Chanderbala Modi Academy was a testament to the school’s commitment to nurture talent, fostering innovation, and promoting a deep connection with nature. “Prakriti Vandana” beautifully encapsulated the spirit of unity, creativity, and environmental consciousness, making it a memorable and impactful event.

A Celebration of Nature’s Elements at Chanderbala Modi Academy’s 31st Senior Annual Day Celebration

Chanderbala Modi Academy marked its 31st Annual Day with remarkable grandeur and creativity, under the theme “Prakriti Vandana,” celebrating the profound connection between life and nature.

The event was a stunning showcase of the vibrant talents of senior students from Grades V to XI, who enthralled the audience with captivating performances that seamlessly blended art, dance, and music, while delivering powerful messages on the importance of environmental preservation and sustainability.

The festivities began with a spectacular exhibition, formally inaugurated by Chief Guest Dr. Kamala Kannan from DRDO, Bengaluru. Centred on the integration of mathematics across various subjects, the exhibition captivated visitors with interactive models and innovative displays that demonstrated the practical application of mathematical concepts in everyday life. The creativity and depth of understanding demonstrated by the young learners left a lasting impression on parents and guests alike.

Ankleshwar: 21st December 2024

The main event commenced with an engaging welcome by anchors Ananya Mishra and Krishna Ruperalia, who introduced the evening’s theme, "Panchabhutam," representing the five life-sustaining elements—Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Sky. Their dynamic opening set the stage for an evening filled with anticipation and excitement.

Following this, the auspicious Lighting of the Lamp ceremony invoked the blessings of Goddess Saraswati for wisdom and enlightenment. The ceremony was graced by distinguished guests, including Chief Guest Dr. Kamala Kannan, Guest of Honour Mr. Gaurav Chandra, Plant Head at Gujarat Guardian Limited, Special Guest A.M. Surana, Director of Finance at Gujarat Guardian Limited, and Mr. Amit Khatri, General Manager of Finance and Accounts at GGL. They were warmly welcomed by Principal Mr. Ramjee Nagarajan and Vice Principal Mrs. Rosy Mehta. The dignitaries were introduced by Aryan Nair and Gloria Biju, and presented with mementos as tokens of appreciation.

The Student Council, led by Head Boy Aryan Nair, Head Girl Gloria Biju, and council members Nidhi Bhandari and Tamana Mazumdar, proudly presented the Annual Report. Their presentation highlighted the school’s achievements, initiatives, and milestones over the past year, demonstrating the institution’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence and holistic development.

The pinnacle of the evening was the highly anticipated Annual Awards Ceremony, which recognized the remarkable achievements of students in academics, co-curricular activities, and sports. Chief Guest Dr. Kamala Kannan, Guest of Honour Mr. Gaurav Chandra, and Special Guests A.M. Surana and Amit Khatri presented the awards, as the achievers were celebrated for their hard work and dedication. The atmosphere was filled with pride as each student took the stage to be honored for their accomplishments.

A spectacular cultural program followed, featuring performances by budding talents from Grades V to XI. The young performers beautifully brought the theme "Prakriti Vandana" to life through a vibrant fusion of dance, drama, and music. Each dance portrayed one of the five elements—Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Sky—with fluid movements and boundless energy, culminating in a grand finale that left the audience in awe. The drama students beautifully delivered a poignant message on the importance of conserving and protecting nature, leaving the audience deeply moved.

Motivational speeches by Chief Guest Dr. Kamala Kannan and Guest of Honour Mr. Gaurav Chandra added an inspiring dimension to the evening. Dr. Kannan commended the school for its commitment to nurture young minds and emphasized the importance of instilling values and respecting parents and teachers. Mr. Gaurav Chandra praised the students for their extraordinary efforts, acknowledging the dedication and excellence displayed in the performances. Principal Ramjee Nagarajan’s address outlined the school’s vision for growth, emphasizing creativity, sustainability, and a holistic approach to education.

The event concluded with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks, delivered by Manthan Patel, Vedant Oza, and Vrishti Navadia, who expressed gratitude in English, Hindi, and Gujarati to the dignitaries, parents, teachers, and students for their contributions. The National Anthem brought the evening to a close, leaving everyone inspired and filled with pride.

The 31st Annual Day celebration at Chanderbala Modi Academy was a shining example of the school’s dedication to nurturing talent, innovation, and promoting a deep connection with nature. "Prakriti Vandana" beautifully captured the spirit of unity, creativity, and environmental consciousness, making it an unforgettable and impactful event.

Teachers Workshop: Exploring the Objectives of “I’m OK, You’re OK” by Thomas A. Harris

Ankleshwar: 28th December, 2024

A workshop for teachers was conducted to explore the objectives of the book “I’m OK, You’re OK” by Thomas A. Harris, with a specific focus on its relevance to teaching practices and student development. The session commenced with an introduction to the host, Mr. Pabitra Chakravorty, a professor from Karnavati University. With his extensive experience collaborating with various schools and colleges in Gandhinagar and overseeing more than 350 professors, Mr. Chakravorty shared his valuable insights with the participants.

Mr. Chakravorty introduced the concept of Transactional Analysis (TA), a psychological theory that helps individuals better understand their behaviour and enhance self-awareness. TA’s core principles focus on three key states of mind—Parent, Adult, and Child—and how these influence our professional and personal interactions. The session emphasized how recognizing these states can improve interpersonal relationships, foster a positive learning environment, and enhance conflict resolution and emotional intelligence, all of which are vital in the teaching profession.

To encourage practical application, an engaging activity based on the Value Cascade concept was conducted. Participants were tasked with identifying their personal values and creating visual representations of how these values influence their thoughts, feelings, and actions. Teachers worked in groups to discuss the importance of aligning their personal values with their professional roles, reflecting on how this alignment can enhance their teaching practices.

In conclusion, the workshop provided valuable insights into the principles of “I’m OK, You’re OK” and the impact of Transactional Analysis on both personal and professional development. The session also highlighted the importance of feedback, mind-set, and effective communication in fostering healthier relationships and resolving conflicts, both in the classroom and beyond.

Special Assembly:

A Tribute to

Netaji Subhash Chandra Bosebhash Chandra bose

Ankleshwar: 23rd January, 2025

Chanderbala Modi Academy honoured Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose with a heartfelt tribute, recognizing his monumental contributions to India’s freedom struggle and his steadfast dedication to the nation. The event highlighted the school’s commitment to instilling the values of valour, courage, and patriotism in its students, reflecting the qualities Netaji exemplified throughout his life. Hosted by S. B. Navya and Bhuvi Singhal, the program began with a solemn tribute ceremony where the Principal, Ramjee Nagarajan, along with coordinators, garlanded the statue of Netaji and offered flowers in honour of his legacy.

The assembly proceeded with a prayer, invoking blessings and emphasizing gratitude for Netaji’s enduring impact on the country’s independence movement. Het Patel of Class V introduced the word of the day, "Parakram" (courage), directly linking it to the fearless and determined nature of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose. The students were reminded of how courage played a central role in Netaji's leadership and his relentless fight for freedom.

A motivational thought was shared by Reyansh Choudhary, which inspired all present to embody the same courage, determination, and selflessness that were the hallmarks of Netaji’s character. Rajvi Raulji from Class VII delivered a powerful speech, discussing the life and contributions of Netaji, focusing on his formation of the Indian National Army and his iconic call to arms, "Give me blood, and I will give you freedom." This speech further fuelled the assembly’s purpose of honouring Netaji’s bravery and selfless service to the nation.

Adding to the patriotic fervor, Aadhya from Class VI performed a soul-stirring patriotic song, followed by Manan Ramani’s heartfelt poem, which beautifully captured Netaji’s indomitable spirit and dedication to the freedom struggle. The students’ performances left a deep impression on all present, reinforcing the school’s dedication to nurture the values of patriotism and courage among its students.

In his address, the Principal emphasized the importance of learning from both Netaji and Mahatma Gandhi. While their methods differed, their shared vision for India’s freedom was unwavering, and their commitment to the nation’s independence remains a beacon for future generations. The assembly concluded with the National Anthem, uniting everyone in a collective expression of pride and respect for the sacrifices made by leaders like Netaji.

This special assembly was not just a tribute to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose but also a reminder of the school’s ongoing dedication to instilling the values of courage, perseverance, and selflessness in every student. The event reinforced the importance of embracing these values in both personal and academic endeavors, ensuring that Netaji’s legacy continues to inspire the hearts and minds of the youth for generations to come.

Celebrating Patriotism and Sportsmanship: A Day of Unity, Excellence, and Team Spirit at Chanderbala Modi Academy

Ankleshwar: 26th January 2025

Chanderbala Modi Academy proudly celebrated the values of patriotism and sportsmanship during its Republic Day and Sports Day celebrations. The day commenced with the unfurling of the national flag by the esteemed Chief Guest, Retired Captain Manmeet Singh Kapoor an alumnus of the school, marking a moment of pride and reflection for all present, alongside Principal Ramjee Nagarajan. This momentous occasion symbolized the school’s constant commitment to instil a deep sense of national pride and unity among its students.

The ceremony, expertly anchored by Ariha Shah and Purbasa Majee, was followed by the national anthem and a heartfelt patriotic poem recited by Arnav Singh Gautam, which echoed the values of unity, sacrifice, and love for the nation. Dhruv Mani of Class VIII- A captivated the audience with an inspiring speech on the Indian Constitution, igniting a sense of responsibility and patriotism among the students.

Through these meaningful events, the academy continues to nurture both the spirit of patriotism and the pursuit of excellence in sports, empowering students to embody the values of discipline, teamwork, and resilience in all aspects of their lives.

The younger students from Nursery to Grade V charmed the audience with vibrant dance performances, while the gymnastics demonstration left everyone in awe of the strength, flexibility, and coordination displayed by the performers.Through these meaningful events, the academy continues to nurture both the spirit of patriotism and the pursuit of excellence in sports, empowering students to embody the values of discipline, teamwork, and resilience in all aspects of their lives.

The program concluded with an inspiring address by the Chief Guest, Retired Captain Manmeet Singh Kapoor, who encouraged the students to uphold the values of integrity, discipline, and patriotism in every aspect of their lives. Following this, the Principal, Ramjee Nagarajan, delivered a motivational speech to both students and parents, emphasizing the significance of Republic Day and urging everyone to continue striving for excellence and embodying the spirit of unity and national pride. This was followed by the lighting of the torch, symbolizing the spirit of sportsmanship, to mark the official opening of the Athletic Meet.

One of the highlights of the event was the synchronized Mass Drill and March Past, where the four school houses – Gandhi, Nehru, Raman, and Tagore – marched in perfect unity. The synchronized movements of the students, dressed in their house colours, showcased discipline and teamwork.

Following the March Past, the athletic competitions kicked off with a series of exciting races. Students competed in various sprint events, including the Middle Boys' 100m, Junior Boys' 100m, Senior Girls' 100m, and many more. The races were filled with fierce competition and high energy as the athletes pushed their limits to claim victory. In the relay events, the teams displayed excellent coordination and teamwork, adding further excitement to the day’s proceedings.

The relay teams displayed remarkable teamwork and spirit, pushing each other to achieve victory for their respective houses. At the conclusion of the athletic events, Tagore House was awarded the Athletic Trophy, in recognition of their exceptional performance and sportsmanship throughout the day.

Raman House was proudly awarded the March Past Trophy (Boys and Girls) in recognition of their outstanding coordination, precision, and disciplined performance.The day concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered in Gujarati by Kavya Ramani, who expressed gratitude to the Chief Guest, the Principal, staff, students, and parents for their contributions to the success of the event.

This was followed by a powerful rendition of the national song, filling the atmosphere with a deep sense of patriotism and unity.

Little Learners on a Farm Adventure: Exploring Healthy Food and the Farmer's World

Ankleshwr: 29th January, 2025

As part of the school’s initiative to promote learning beyond the classroom, the students of Nursery to Senior KG at Chanderbala Modi Academy visited Shreeji Farm, owned by Rishikesh Dudhat. This visit was an exciting and valuable experience, offering young learners a hands-on opportunity to explore the importance of healthy food habits and gain a deeper understanding of the crucial role farmers’ play in our daily lives.

The trip provided a unique chance for students to observe farm animals and understand how they contribute to farming and food production. In addition to farm animals, the students were introduced to the tools used in farming and the process of growing crops. They learned about planting, nurture, and harvesting, as well as the importance of water conservation and irrigation in sustainable farming. Special focus was given to organic farming practices, showing students how these methods are important to ensuring healthy food choices. The children were particularly fascinated by the greenhouse, which demonstrates how vegetables can be grown in an eco-friendly and controlled environment.

The visit also included interactive activities such as feeding the animals and picking fresh vegetables. The students gained a greater understanding of where their food comes from and how it reaches their plates, encouraging healthy eating habits.

Through this initiative, the school aimed to broaden the students' knowledge of food production and farming. The experience not only enhanced their understanding of farming but also reinforced the importance of community, sustainability, and healthy living.

The Curious Case of the “CHAWAL KI PAROTA”

It was a bright Monday morning at our school, and students and teachers were eagerly lining up at the school canteen, ready to grab a quick breakfast before the short-break bell rang. The aroma of sizzling spices and crispy dosas filled the air, setting the perfect mood for a hearty meal.

But that morning, something was different. Something was… off.

A brand-new canteen attendant, fresh from his first day of training, had been assigned the prestigious task of handling the breakfast counter. His name was Vasu, a well-meaning but slightly confused young man with an extraordinary talent for… creative menu descriptions.

As the first customer of the day, our ever-curious English teacher, walked up to the counter, she greeted him with a polite smile and asked,

"Beta, what’s for breakfast today?"

Vasu, standing tall in his crisp new uniform, beamed with confidence and proudly announced,

"Chawal ki Parota, Madam!"

The teacher blinked. “Excuse me?”

Vasu repeated, this time even more confidently, “Chawal ki Parota, Madam! Freshly made!”

Highly intrigued, she had eaten parathas. She had eaten chawal (rice). But Chawal ki Parota? This was new. Was this some revolutionary South Indian-North Indian fusion dish? Was the school introducing a culinary experiment? Had MasterChef come to Chanderbala Modi Academy?

A few students overheard and gathered around. “Wow! Chawal ki Parota? That sounds fancy!”

“I bet it’s like a stuffed paratha but with rice inside!” guessed Jeet from Class 11.

“No, no! Maybe it’s a dosa rolled like a paratha!” said Revati, a passionate writer from Class 8, already preparing her food blog review in her head.

Excitement spread like wildfire. Even the Maths teacher, Urvish, who rarely ventured beyond his beloved adrak ki chai, was intrigued. “Chawal ki Parota? Never heard of it in my entire life. Let me try one!”

The queue got longer, and everyone wanted a piece of this mysterious new breakfast item. The cashier frantically started issuing tokens, and the kitchen staff in the background looked utterly bewildered.

Finally, the head cook, a stout and no-nonsense guy named Vikas, stepped out, wiping his hands on his apron. He saw the crowd, saw the excitement, and then saw the utterly clueless Vasu grinning proudly.

“What’s going on here?” he demanded.

“Bhaiya, we have a special today! Chawal ki Parota! Everyone wants to try it!” Vasu said enthusiastically.

Vikas bhai stared at him. He then stared at the massive pile of freshly made oothappams behind him. The realisation hit his head like a coconut falling from a temple tree.

“You fool!” he smacked him lightly on the head. “This is Oothappam! Not Chawal ki Parota!”

A deep silence fell.

And then, in a matter of seconds, the entire canteen erupted in laughter.

“Arre wah, Vasu bhai, you have just renamed South Indian cuisine!” said Ghanshyam one of the sports teachers, holding his stomach from laughing too hard.

“Next, will you call idli ‘Chawal ke Pakode’?” joked a student.

“Or dosa ‘Chawal ka Roll’?” giggled another.

Poor Vasu, now redder than a ripe tomato, scratched his head and muttered, “Par Bhaiya… oothappam is made from chawal ka batter… and it’s round like a paratha… toh….”

Vikas Bhai sighed and shook his head. “Beta, if this logic worked, then by your definition, pizza should be called ‘Gehun ka Chilla’!”

The laughter only grew louder.

From that day onwards, "Chawal ki Parota" became an inside joke at Chanderbala Modi Academy. Students would come to the canteen and order it just to see the Vasu chuckle.

And as for Vasu? Well, he eventually learned all the proper names of South Indian dishes… but to this day, he remains The Inventor of Chawal Ki Parota!