Friday 29 / November / 2024
Muscat: The Indian School Talent Fest (ISTF) 2024, hosted by the Indian School Al Wadi Al Kabir (ISWK) under the aegis of the Board of Directors, Indian Schools in Oman, concluded triumphantly, showcasing the artistic and intellectual prowess of students from 22 Indian schools across Oman. This prestigious event unfolded across multiple venues—including the Primary School, Senior School, Cambridge School, and Majan Heights—creating an inclusive platform for participants from the Foundation, Preparatory, Middle and Secondary Stages. In total, 39 competitive and 2 non-competitive events were organized, celebrating a rich tapestry of talent.
The ISTF 2024 commenced on October 28 at the Multipurpose Hall of ISWK Senior School, highlighting the theme Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — One World, One Family. The ceremony was graced by Chief Guest Dr. Kabaly P. Subramanian, Acting Dean of the Faculty of Business Studies at Arab Open University, Oman, alongside Guest of Honour Mr. Pardeep Kumar, First Secretary of Education & Head of Chancery at the Embassy of India in Muscat and Mr. Syed Salman, Vice-Chairman of the Board of Directors of Indian schools in Oman. Esteemed attendees included members of the Board of Directors, Indian schools in Oman, members of the Indian Embassy, members of the Ministry of Education, Shiekh Shri Anil Khimji, Mr. Rajendra Ved, principals from various schools, school management representatives from other Indian schools, parents and students.
The event began with a warm welcome by Mr. Sachin Toprani, Honorary President of the ISWK School Management Committee followed by an inspiring address by Mr. Syed Salman, Vice-Chairman of the Board of Directors of Indian schools in Oman. His address resonated with the festival’s theme, emphasizing the significance of unity and collaboration among diverse cultures.
The honourable Chief Guest, Dr. Kabaly P. Subramanian officially inaugurated the festival with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp and declaring ISTF 2024 open, complemented by an energetic dance performance titled One World, One Family, which beautifully encapsulated the spirit of inclusivity and togetherness. The proceedings included a vibrant parade of school contingents, the ISTF oath-taking ceremony, and the impressive flag hoisting ceremony, symbolizing commitment to excellence and mutual respect. Notably, the inauguration and valedictory ceremonies were broadcast live, allowing families and supporters to partake in the celebration from afar.
The two-day festival was filled with captivating performances that celebrated a wide range of talents. A total of 39 competitive events allowed students to showcase their skills, participating in a wide array of activities like Speak Up, Synergy Role Play, Cube Masters, Mind Over Math, Impromptu Ignite, Nritya, Warli Whispers of Peace, Rhythmic Unity, just to name a few . The performances highlighted both solo and group endeavours, with acts such as Just Beat It, Raga Ecstasy, Street Play, and Instant Groove Dance taking center stage. Staff Got Talent and Unique Talent Recognition were also featured as non-competitive events, giving participants a chance to shine in a supportive atmosphere.
Additionally, students showcased their creativity through spoken word and visual arts in events like Hindi Kavita Vaachan, Verses Unveiled, Tales from Young Hearts, Sketch Symphony, and Tapestry of Paper Art. This vibrant atmosphere fostered unity and celebrated the richness of diversity within the student community, aligning perfectly with the festival's theme of global harmony.
The closing ceremony on October 29 at Majan Heights was honored by the presence of Chief Guest Mr. Mohamed Issa Al Zadjali, Chairman of Muscat Media Group, Times of Oman, and Al Shabiba Arabic Newspaper, along with Dr. Sivakumar Manickam, Chairman of the Board of Directors, Indian schools in Oman, members of the Board of Directors, Indian Schools in Oman and other management representatives from ISWK and other Indian schools. The ceremony commenced with a heartfelt prayer song, followed by a presidential address by Dr. Sivakumar Manickam. A digital highlight reel captured memorable moments from ISTF 2024, leading to Mr. Al Zadjali’s keynote address, in which he commended the participants remarkable efforts and the overall success of the event.
Mementos were given to the 22 schools to recognize their active participation in ISTF 2024. The sponsors' contributions were acknowledged by the school for their essential role in supporting the event. Trophies were awarded to celebrate the exceptional achievements of the participating schools. The overall champion of ISTF 2024 was Indian School Al Wadi Al Kabir, and the runner-up was Indian School Muscat. Alligning with the NEP’s structured stages, stage-wise distinctions were conferred to recognize excellence at each educational level for the very first time at ISTF 2024 : Foundation Stage Winner - Indian School Ghubra and Runner-Up - Indian School Bousher; Preparatory Stage Winner - Indian School Salalah and Runner-Up - Indian School Muladha; Middle Stage Winner - Indian School Darsait and Runner-Up - Indian School Seeb; and Secondary Stage Winner - Indian School Maabela and Runner-Up - Indian School Sohar. The commitment and contribution of all participating institutions, alongside the host school ISWK, led by Principal Mr. D.N. Rao, were duly acknowledged with these esteemed honours.
The ceremony concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks, followed by the Royal Anthem of Oman and the National Anthem of India, marking the successful conclusion of ISTF 2024—a magnificent celebration of talent, cultural pride, and community unity, perfectly encapsulated by the theme Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.
