Annual Day Report 2024-25
(Secondary and Senior Secondary section)
Shaheed E Azam
There are reasons why Vikhe Patil Memorial School students fetch the multitude of compliments and a lot of appreciation for everything
they do. They blossom, shine and stand out whenever it comes to their annual day performance.
This year, the standing ovation and wordless admiration they received was no less than any prestigious award. VPMS Pune in association
with the Swatantra Theatre, Pune staged a drama ‘ Shaheed E Azam’ as part of their Annual Day. Mr. Rajeev Tambe, a popular writer in
Marathi Literature was invited as a chief guest. This play was an ode to the freedom fighters from Bhagat Singh’s time and before. The
process started in June followed by months of intense practice. The professional actors trained 250 students for this show. Students from 9
to 12 were a part of this dance- drama. The exhaustive training and rigorous practice sessions helped our children learn more about the
theatre and the theatrical performances. ‘ Shaheed E Azam’ was a vibrant tapestry of drama and dance, vividly bringing to life the
legacy and impact of the life of Bhagatsingh. The event commenced with a dramatic portrayal that captured key moments from the
historical figures life. Actors donned period-appropriate costumes, transporting the audience to a different era. Their performances were
infused with emotional depth, showcasing pivotal events and personal struggles, thus allowing the audience to connect with the figures
journey on a profound level.
As the drama unfolded, the stage transformed into a dynamic visual narrative, enhanced by evocative lighting and sound design. The
interplay of dialogue and movement emphasized the historical context, highlighting the challenges faced and the triumphs achieved.
Each scene was carefully crafted to reflect not just the life of the figure but also the broader social and political landscape of their time.
Along with Bhagatsingh, the play highlighted the contributions of other contemporary freedom fighters such as Sukhdev, Rajguru,
Chandra-Shekhar Azad and many more from that era. Interspersed throughout the performance were dance segments that
seamlessly integrated with the narrative. These dances, rooted in traditional forms relevant to the figures culture and era, added a layer
of expression that transcended words. The choreography was both intricate and powerful, conveying themes of struggle, hope, and
resilience. Dancers, clad in costumes that mirrored the historical period, moved in unison, creating a visual rhythm that captivated the
audience. The narrators weaved the thread of different stories highlighting the historical, social and political background of the then
era in a lucid manner.
The entire play encapsulated the essence of the historical figure’s legacy, inviting the audience to reflect on the lessons learned and the
ongoing relevance of their contributions. The gripping and engaging plot, powerful dialogues, impactful characters, the colourful backdrop
heightened the beauty of the play. The dance performances added the necessary pace and meaning to the moving story. The highlight of the
play was that there were goosebumps felt by the audience on many occasions.
Contrary to the usual ending, the ending of this play did not receive any applause immediately. But the silence coupled with tears in
everyone’s eyes was a testament to the powerful storytelling through the combined art forms of drama and dance.
Like all other people, the chief guest was also in tears. He wholeheartedly appreciated everyone for the stellar performance that
was put up by VPMS students. Thus, ‘Shaheed E Azam’ created a special place in the pages of VPMS history.
Umashankar Devadhe
