From Pawns to Kings: The Power of Perseverance

Principal's Corner

Dear Parents,

We were also proud to welcome back our own alumnus, Mr. Prakhar Srivastava, an IITian and current PhD scholar at the University of California. He delivered an inspiring session to our senior students and parents on the promise and challenges of Artificial Intelligence, blending technical depth with real-world relevance.

Another proud moment came with our students’ victory at the national-level GeoLab 2024 Contest, where they presented a project on coastal erosion that earned them top honours. Competing with senior school students from across the country, our students showcased their scientific acumen and commitment to environmental awareness.

The Jnana Mangalam ceremonies held for Grades X and XII with symbolic rituals, heartfelt blessings, and powerful words of encouragement.

The INTACH Film-It Workshop, gave our students a chance to explore and document local heritage sites. With awards in several categories including Best Narration and Best Documentary, our young filmmakers proved their ability to blend creativity with cultural insight—leaving a lasting imprint on the larger educational community.

Preserving India’s classical roots, the SPIC MACAY Hindustani Classical Baithak brought to campus the renowned Dr. Janki Mithaiwala, whose soulful performance and interaction with students left us all enriched. The session was both an aesthetic delight and an education in the beauty and discipline of traditional arts.

We also marked a major milestone with the Aarambhotsav Graduation Ceremony for our Kindergarten students. Graced by Ms. Mamata Pandya, granddaughter of educationist Gijubhai Badheka, and Dr. Ambika Aiyadurai, Professor IIT Gandhinagar. The event featured a book launch, student performances, and heartfelt participation from teachers and parents alike. The handcrafted mementoes made it truly unforgettable. However, amidst these celebrations, we must also pause to reflect. The last two SPIC MACAY sessions had no parental participation, and the Kindergarten Graduation Ceremony saw only a few parents and students remaining until the National Anthem. We understand that daily life is busy, and everyone has pressing commitments. Yet, let us remind ourselves that our children learn best by watching us. They take their cues from how we honour our guests, uphold traditions, and show respect in public settings. Let us carry this thought forward into the new academic year: courtesy, respect, and presence matter, and the lessons we silently impart through our actions shape our children's values far more powerfully than words alone.

Thank you, dear parents, for your continued support, trust, and collaboration. We look forward to stepping into a new year together—with renewed purpose and shared pride in the journey ahead.

With warm regards,

Principal

Chanderbala Modi Academy

As we draw the curtain on yet another vibrant academic year at Chanderbala Modi Academy, we do so with immense pride and gratitude for the experiences, milestones, and memories that have enriched our shared journey. This final edition of our school’s monthly magazine encapsulates the spirit of growth, excellence, and celebration that defines our community.

This year, our Grade XI and XII students made a remarkable leap forward in academic enrichment by taking up and completing a prestigious 8-week certification course in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence with IIT Madras. The participation of students reflects our students' eagerness to engage with real-world learning opportunities. Their commendable performances, especially those scoring above 90%, are proof of their diligence and determination.

Outstanding Accomplishments of Our Students in IIT-Madras Certification Program

Ankleshwar: 3rd February 2025

Chanderbala Modi Academy is dedicated to nurturing well-rounded individuals by promoting holistic development. Our mission is to empower students to achieve excellence not only in academics but also in their extracurricular endeavours, preparing them for success in every aspect of life. In alignment with this vision, we are delighted to announce the remarkable achievement by a group of our Grade XI students who have made significant strides in the field of technology. With a consistent passion for learning and a steadfast commitment to excellence, six of our students successfully completed an 8-week certification course in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, conducted by the renowned Indian Institute of Technology-Madras (IIT-Madras).

This achievement not only showcases the students' exceptional academic abilities but also emphasizes their immense potential to make meaningful contributions to the realms of technology, research, and innovation. As they progress in their educational journeys, these accomplishments will serve as a strong foundation, offering them a competitive edge in pursuing higher education and future career endeavours.

At Chanderbala Modi Academy, we are incredibly proud of their success and remain steadfast in our dedication to empowering all our learners to achieve their highest potential.

Unraveling the Future: AI Insights from an Alumnus

Ankleshwar: 5th February 2025

How is Artificial Intelligence (AI) shaping the world, and where do our children stand in this revolution? These were the thought-provoking questions that set the tone for an insightful session at Chanderbala Modi Academy on Wednesday, 05 February 2025. The school had the privilege of hosting one of its own—Mr. Prakhar Srivastava, an esteemed alumnus who is currently pursuing his PhD in AI at the University of California, Irvine, USA.

A distinguished scholar with an IIT Jodhpur B.Tech in Electrical Engineering and a Data Science postgraduate degree from École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Switzerland, Mr. Srivastava has worked with leading research institutions such as Adobe and the Allen Institute for AI, holding multiple patents and publishing research in renowned journals.

The Power of AI: More Than Just Machines Thinking

During the session, Mr. Srivastava provided a deep dive into how AI is revolutionizing industries like healthcare, finance, and education. He explained how AI models can detect diseases before symptoms appear, predict stock market trends, and personalize education for students based on learning patterns.

Foundations Matter: Science & Math Before AI

Mr. Srivastava emphasized that AI is not magic—it is built on strong fundamentals in mathematics, physics, and computer science. He urged students to focus on strengthening their logical reasoning and analytical skills, as these are crucial to excelling in AI-driven careers.

Bias in AI: A Thought-Provoking DiscussionA particularly engaging moment was when Principal Mr. Ramjee Nagarajan raised concerns about biases in AI-generated content. Sharing a real-life example of AI producing stereotypical depictions of Indian teachers, he questioned how these biases could be mitigated. Mr. Srivastava acknowledged that AI is still in its "winter phase", where models are learning from limited data, but as AI

Preparing Students for an AI Future

The session concluded with a dynamic Q&A, where parents showed keen interest in AI as a career option. The Principal also announced a significant step forward—introducing AI as a subject in the Secondary and Senior Secondary curriculum, ensuring students stay ahead of the technological curve.

This event was not just a talk—it was a glimpse into the future of education and careers. As AI reshapes the world, Chanderbala Modi Academy remains committed to preparing students for the opportunities and challenges ahead.

Triumph at GEOLAB 2024 Contest

Ankleshwar: 6th February 2025

At Chanderbala Modi Academy, we are devoted to cultivating an environment that sparks critical thinking, encourages collaborative problem-solving, and equips students to make meaningful contributions to the ever-evolving field of scientific research.

With great pride, we celebrate the outstanding achievement of our students—Mstr. Ehan Hasan, Ms. Navya Shukla, and Mstr. Arnav Singh Gautam—who, guided by the exemplary mentorship of Mr. Gaurav Mishra, emerged victorious in the prestigious GEOLAB 2024 Contest. Organized by the renowned Centre for Education Research in Geosciences (CERG), this esteemed competition highlights the exceptional skill, commitment, and perseverance of our remarkable team.

This achievement not only showcases their exceptional innovation and scientific expertise but also underscores our academy's steadfast dedication to cultivating competitive and engaged learners. Their project, "Coastal Erosion," stood out in a highly competitive arena, showcasing their dedication, ingenuity, and perseverance. Competing against schools nationwide, their success demonstrates the calibre of talent and determination we cultivate among our students.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Gaurav Mishra and his team for this phenomenal accomplishment. This achievement reaffirms our vision of empowering students to excel academically, embrace challenges, and prepare for a future brimming with opportunities.

Grade XII Jñāna Maṅgalam and Farewell 2025: A Cherished Farewell to New Beginnings

Ankleshwar: 8th February 2025

"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." – Eleanor Roosevelt

The Jñāna Maṅgalam and Farewell for Grade XII students was held in the Multi-purpose hall, marking a pivotal moment in their academic journey. The event was filled with warmth, joy, and encouragement, offering the students both divine blessings and support as they appear for their upcoming board exams.

The ceremony began with a heartfelt welcome by the anchors-Nidhi Bhandari and Diya Patel, who set the tone by emphasizing the significance of the day. Principal Mr. Ramjee Nagarajan shared his motivating words, encouraging students to stay focused, believe in their efforts, and remain confident in their abilities. Following this, a prayer session invoked divine blessings for strength, wisdom, and success.

The Jñāna Maṅgalam and Farewell for Grade XII students was held in the Multi-purpose hall, marking a pivotal moment in their academic journey. The event was filled with warmth, joy, and encouragement, offering the students both divine blessings and support as they appear for their upcoming board exams.

The ceremony began with a heartfelt welcome by the anchors-Nidhi Bhandari and Diya Patel, who set the tone by emphasizing the significance of the day. Principal Mr. Ramjee Nagarajan shared his motivating words, encouraging students to stay focused, believe in their efforts, and remain confident in their abilities. Following this, a prayer session invoked divine blessings for strength, wisdom, and success.

Teachers, too, took a moment to address the graduating class, sharing inspiring words of encouragement and reminding them of the resilience, dedication, and hard work they have displayed throughout their journey. 

The ceremony concluded with speeches from Grade XII students Aesha and Sanskriti, who reflected on their school journey and expressed gratitude to their teachers, peers, and families.

As the event came to a close, the school bid farewell to the graduating class of 2025, leaving them with heartfelt wishes for success in their board exams and all their future endeavours.

We wish the Grade XII students the very best as they embark on this next chapter of their lives!

Grade X

Jñāna Maṅgalam

The Grade X Jñāna Maṅgalam took place in the Multi-purpose Hall, marking a significant milestone in the students' academic journey. Filled with warmth, encouragement, and positivity, the event offered students both divine blessings and heartfelt support as they appear for their upcoming board exams.

The ceremony began with a warm welcome from anchors Nidhi Bhandari and Vidhi Khatri, who highlighted the importance of the day. Principal Mr. Ramjee Nagarajan shared motivating words, urging students to stay focused, trust in their efforts, and have confidence in their abilities. He also presented a PPT outlining the changes the school has implemented for Grade XI in the upcoming session. The ceremony continued with a prayer session, invoking divine blessings for strength, wisdom, and success.

In a symbolic gesture of support, the Principal, alongside the teachers, blessed each student accompanied by their parents with a tilak before handing over their admit cards, marking an important milestone in their academic journey.

As the event concluded, the students were filled with heartfelt wishes for success in their board exams and all their future endeavours.

We wish the entire Grade X students the very best for their board examinations!

Believe in yourself, work hard, and success will follow. Best wishes for your board exams

INTACH INDIA FILM – IT WORKSHOP & TRAINING PROJECT- VADODARA

Ankleshwar: 8th February 2025

Chanderbala Modi Academy proudly participated in the INTACH India Film – IT Workshop & Training Project, embracing the opportunity to open the world of filmmaking to its students. This initiative not only nurtured their creative talents but also fostered a deeper passion for cultural exploration. Held in August 2024, the filmmaking workshop, organized by Navrachana International School Vadodara, welcomed students from Vadodara and Bharuch districts. The workshop, supported by HECS – INTACH Heritage Education and Communication Services, aimed to cultivate cultural awareness by inspiring students to express their understanding of heritage through the medium of film. Now in its 17th year, the FILM – IT program has seen participation from 190 schools across the region.

Guided by Principal Mr. Ramjee Nagarajan, the Chanderbala Modi Academy team, which included Mstr. Arnav Gautam, Mstr. Dhruv Mani, Mstr. Vivaan Vasania, Mstr. Rajveer Gandhi, Ms. Nidhi Bhandari, Ms. Riya Garg, Ms. Aadhya Gadetharia, and Ms. Vageshri Navadiya, was escorted by Mrs. Jalpa Pillai and Mrs. Madhuri Mohite. Together, they explored culturally and historically significant sites, creating eight two-minute films that enhanced their skills in filmmaking and deepened their understanding of cultural heritage and history. The films showcased:

• The Dutch Cemetery                 

• Dipchand Raichand Library

• The Bharuch Fort

• The Golden Bridge

• Hawk, The Telescope

• Standing Harmonium

• Indian Antiques – I

• Indian Antiques – II

In recognition of their exceptional contributions, INTACH Vadodara honored our students in the following categories in 2024:

• Best Narration for "The Dutch Cemetery" – Dhruv Mani

• Best Visuals for "Dipchand Raichand Library" – Dhruv Mani

• Best Narration for "The Dutch Cemetery" – Nidhi Bhandari

• Best Documentary for "Indian Antiques – I" – Nidhi Bhandari

• Best Visuals for "Dipchand Raichand Library" – Vivaan Vasania

• Best Narration for "The Dutch Cemetery" – Riya Garg

• Best Documentary for "Indian Antiques – I" – Riya Garg

• Best Documentary for "Indian Antiques – II" – Vageshri Navadiya

• Best Documentary for "Indian Antiques – I" – Aadhya Gadetharia

Arnav Gautam and Rajveer Gandhi also played a pivotal role in bringing together various elements of the films, ensuring a cohesive and impactful final product.

At Chanderbala Modi Academy, we take immense pride in providing our students with the opportunity to excel in filmmaking, allowing them to express their creativity while deepening their connection to their cultural roots. We remain committed to supporting and encouraging students with a passion for this field.

The experiences gained throughout this project have left a lasting impression on our students, not only enriching their memories but also instilling in them a deep appreciation for Indian culture and heritage. We are confident that this initiative will inspire some students to pursue careers dedicated to the preservation of India’s cultural legacy. We are deeply grateful to INTACH for providing such an enriching platform and to NISV for enabling our students to showcase their work, further encouraging the next generation to engage with and conserve our shared heritage.

A Melodious and Musical Afternoon

A Special Hindustani Classical Baithak with Dr. Janki Mithaiwala in Association with SPIC MACAY

Chanderbala Modi Academy had the privilege of hosting a mesmerizing Hindustani Classical Musical Baithak in collaboration with SPIC MACAY. This special event featured the renowned classical musician Dr. Janki Mithaiwala and was made possible through the dedicated efforts of student hosts Tamanna Mazumdar and Gloria Biju. The afternoon began with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, performed by our esteemed principal, Mr. Ramjee Nagarajan, along with Dr. Janki Mithaiwala, Ms. Maitri Kalapi Buch, Mr. Akar Surti, and Shri Nandkishor Date. Dhruv Maani eloquently introduced Dr. Janki Mithaiwala, highlighting her impressive credentials as a celebrated artist, accomplished classical musician, and passionate cultural ambassador.

Ms. Maitri Buch also addressed the gathering, enriching the audience with her thoughts. The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Anushka Sharma, followed by the National Anthem. This unforgettable musical afternoon truly demonstrated the unifying and inspiring power of music, leaving everyone in attendance with a deeper appreciation for Hindustani classical traditions. The school remains grateful to SPIC MACAY and Dr. Janki Mithaiwala for their invaluable contributions to this enriching experience.

"Music has the power to unite hearts and inspire souls. This mesmerizing baithak was a testament to the timeless beauty of Hindustani classical music."

As a token of appreciation, our Principal felicitated Dr. Janki Mithaiwala with a shawl, acknowledging her remarkable contributions to the world of classical music. The felicitation ceremony also honoured Ms. Maitri Buch, the Coordinator of SPIC MACAY, along with talented harmonium player Mr. Akar Surti and tabla maestro Shri Nandkishor Date. In his address, Principal Sir spoke about the significance of the musical concert and praised Dr. Mithaiwala’s illustrious career.

Dr. Janki Mithaiwala interactive session with students of Chanderbala Modi Academy

1. Dear ma’am what inspired you to pursue music?

From a young age, I was deeply moved by the power of music and its ability to express emotions beyond words. My family had a strong cultural inclination, and I grew up listening to soulful renditions by great classical musicians. This exposure, along with my innate passion for music, inspired me to pursue it as a lifelong journey.

2. Ma'am, for how many years have you been devoted to music?

I have been immersed in music for over three decades. My journey began in childhood, and through years of rigorous training, practice, and performances, I have dedicated my life to perfecting and sharing the beauty of Hindustani classical music.

3. Dear Ma'am, whom would you give full credit for your musical journey?

I owe my musical journey to my gurus, who have been my guiding light. Their patience, wisdom, and dedication have shaped me into the musician I am today .Their constant support and encouragement have played a crucial role in helping me

4. As a musician have you faced any challenges in your music journey?

Yes, every musician faces challenges, and my journey has been no exception. The path of classical music requires immense dedication, patience, and perseverance. One of the biggest challenges I faced was maintaining consistency and discipline in rigorous practice while balancing other responsibilities.

5. Ma'am, as a renowned musician, what message would you like to convey to society and us (students)?

Music is not just an art but a spiritual journey that nurtures the soul. To students, I would say—embrace music with dedication and patience. It teaches discipline, focus, and emotional expression. To society, I urge everyone to preserve and promote our rich classical heritage so that future generations can experience its profound beauty and depth.

6. As a symbol of women's empowerment, how did you overcome the challenges in your journey, and what message would you like to share?

Overcoming challenges as a woman in the field of classical music required resilience, dedication and belief in my passion. My determination and the support of my mentors kept me moving forward. I embraced every obstacle as an opportunity to grow, proving that perseverance and hard work can break any barrier.

AARAMBHOTSAV - Ceremony: A Milestone to Cherish

With tiny hands and big dreams, our young graduates embark on a promising journey towards a bright future.

The grand celebration of Authenticity – Graduation Ceremony unfolded at Chanderbala Modi Academy, marking a significant milestone for our young graduates as they embarked on a new journey of learning. The event was graced by our esteemed Chief Guest, Ms. Mamta Pandya—granddaughter of the legendary educationist Shri Gijubhai Badheka—and Guest of Honour, Dr. Ambika Aiyadurai, a distinguished contemporary anthropologist. Their presence, along with our respected Principal, Mr. Ramjee Nagarajan, coordinators, teachers, proud parents, and enthusiastic young graduates, added immense joy and prestige to this memorable occasion.

The ceremony commenced with a heartfelt welcome from the young graduates—Pirai Vyas, Siya Prajapati, Miraya Dhanajay, Aaradhya Nair, and Gulfatima Pathan—who gracefully anchored the event. This was followed by the auspicious lighting of the lamp by the esteemed guests, accompanied by the Principal and Coordinators, symbolizing the pursuit of knowledge and wisdom. The event beautifully captured the transformative journey of the young learners, highlighting their growth from curious toddlers to confident individuals ready to embark on their next academic adventure.

Inspirational Address was given by the Chief Guest- Ms. Mamta Pandya, in her address, appreciated the students and emphasized how children learn from their immediate environment by observing, imitating, and experimenting. She explained that a child's brain develops up to 90% in early childhood, making formative experiences crucial in shaping future learning.

She reflected on the role of parents as primary nurturers, cautioning against "helicopter parenting" and "bulldozer parenting," where excessive involvement can hinder a child's independence. While parents often invest in activities like dance and art, perceived as indicators of success, she urged them to reflect on whether these pursuits genuinely support a child's growth or merely compensate for parental guilt due to busy schedules. She further highlighted that excessive expectations can lead to stress and pressure, fostering dependency rather than problem-solving abilities.

Ms. Pandya also stressed the importance of soft skills such as critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, teamwork, and communication, which are essential for navigating life confidently. She shared insights from the renowned educationist Gijubhai Badheka, advocating for a nurturing environment both at home and in school to foster independence and resilience in children.

Our Guest of Honour -Dr. Ambika Aiyadurai took the audience on an immersive journey to Arunachal Pradesh through her insightful presentation. She introduced her book and shared fascinating stories about the people and their unique relationship with animals in the region. Recounting her experience of staying in Arunachal Pradesh for a year, she spoke about studying local culture and wildlife.

AARAMBHOTSAV - Ceremony: A Milestone to Cherish

A Tale from Dibang Valley: Why Are the Akru’s Horns Curved?

Her book narrates the story of Akru, a mythological creature from Dibang Valley. Through her engaging storytelling and heartfelt congratulations to the graduates, she added great depth and meaning to the event.

On this special occasion, the school proudly celebrated the book launch of A Tale from Dibang Valley: Why Are the Akru's Horns Curved?, co-authored by Ms. Mamta Pandya and Dr. Ambika Aiyadurai. This beautifully crafted story, available in both English and Hindi, takes young readers on a captivating journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Dibang Valley, igniting their curiosity about nature and wildlife.

A key highlight of the event was the certificate distribution, where students, accompanied by their parents, were honoured for their achievements. They received certificates along with exquisitely handcrafted mementos—hand-moulded imprints of their hand holding a pen—symbolizing their first step towards a bright academic future. These unique keepsakes were artfully created by Ms. Sabiha Sheikh and Mr. Kishore Kumar Mondal.

Principal Mr. Ramjee Nagarajan addressed the audience, commending the collective efforts of students, teachers, and parents in shaping a promising future for the young learners.

The event also featured a delightful graduation dance and a skit on the theme of Neighbourhood, performed by the Junior and Senior KG students, earning enthusiastic applause from the audience. The young performers captivated everyone with their confidence and expressions, beautifully portraying the essence of community and togetherness.

Parents were invited to share their thoughts and experiences, adding warmth and encouragement to the occasion. As the ceremony drew to a close, Swaksha Upadhyay delivered a heartfelt Vote of Thanks, expressing gratitude to the Chief Guest, Guest of Honour, Principal, Coordinators, Teachers, and Parents for their unwavering support.

Authenticity- Graduation Ceremony 2024-25 was truly a milestone to cherish, celebrating the achievements of our little graduates and inspiring them as they step confidently into the next phase of their educational journey.

Congratulations to all the graduates!

Authenticity

2025

Aarabhotsav

2025