Report on “Swar Shakti: Sukoon — Peace Through Melodies”
(An Inter-School Singing Competition)
The Upper Primary Section of Vikhe Patil Memorial School, Pune, hosted the third edition of its much-anticipated inter-school singing competition “Swar Shakti” on Saturday, 26th July 2025, under the resonant theme “Sukoon – Peace Through Melodies.” Anchored by students Aayana Sharma, Alisha Pai, Shreesha Kokate, and Ishaani Bhutada, the event welcomed a packed audience of participants, staff, and esteemed guests.
The program commenced with a warm welcome and a rendition of the VPMS school song. This heartfelt performance celebrated the spirit, values, and dreams of VPMS and set the tone for a meaningful and melodious event.
The occasion was graced by the presence of distinguished judges:
- Prachi Mahesh Panchal, a seasoned Hindustani classical vocalist, Sangeet Visharad and awardee of the Gaana Heera Award and Kalashree Puraskar.
- Dhanashree Ganatra, a multi-talented artist with the title Sangeet Alankar, known for her work as a singer, composer, poetess, and filmmaker. She has been honored nationally and internationally for her contributions to the arts.
The event was further enriched by the presence of Principal Ms. Mrinalini Fernandes and Vice Principal Mr. Amol Patil, whose continued support and guidance were deeply appreciated. The program began with a tribute to Padmashri Dr. Vitthalrao Vikhe Patil, the visionary founder of the school. His contributions to education and rural upliftment remain an inspiration.
This year’s theme, Sukoon, is beautifully aligned with the school’s focus for 2025–26: Mental Health Awareness. Through this, Swar Shakti became more than just a competition — it was a platform to emphasize the healing power of music and mindfulness. Nine schools participated in the competition, each presenting powerful group performances rooted in the theme of peace, compassion, nature, and mental well-being. The performances included original compositions, semi-classical pieces, patriotic anthems, and global peace songs like Imagine and Heal the World. Each team demonstrated remarkable harmony, sur, taal, creativity, and stage presence.
A few highlights included:
- Team Sukoon Seekers with a soulful semi-classical sufi number
- Team Tranquil Tunes presenting Aao Hum Sab Haath Milayein, promoting unity and compassion
- Team Sukoon Tribe’s heartwarming rendition of Kisi Ki Muskurahaton Pe Ho Nisar
- Team Raahat, who performed their self-composed song “Sukoon Zindagi”
- Team Aman’s performance, Sukoon ka Safar, and Team Anurag’s nature-inspired musical tribute took the program a couple of notches higher.
The performances culminated in a contemporary dance titled “Are You Alright?” by the school’s Grade V students, highlighting mental health challenges and the journey towards a positive state of mind. The judges’ words of encouragement and appreciation resonated with all, acknowledging the passion and discipline displayed by every team.
The event concluded with the much-awaited prize distribution:
- Second Runners-Up: The Orbis School, Keshav Nagar
- First Runners-Up: INS, Wakad
- Winners of the Swar Shakti Rolling Trophy 2025–26: VPMS, Lohegaon
In a significant update, this year’s Swar Shakti introduced special trophies for both the First and Second Runners-Up, expanding the recognition of excellence.
The program concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks to all participants, mentors, judges, volunteers, and the enthusiastic audience who made the day truly memorable. Swar Shakti: Sukoon was not only a musical celebration but also a gentle reminder of the power of music in healing, connecting, and spreading peace — within and beyond. The program ended with the singing of the National Anthem.
