Former India speedster Varun Aaron inspires students
Loyola’s ‘Rhapsody’ Blends Sports, Creativity and Talent in a Vibrant Celebration
Jamshedpur, August 29: Loyola School hosted its much- awaited Inter- School Cultural Fest Rhapsody this year, the theme being “Sports- The Spirit of Life.” The event brought together talent, creativity, intellect and vibrant performances from across 17 participating schools, thereby turning the campus into a hub of youthful enthusiasm and competitive spirit. The event commenced with the traditional lighting of the lamp by the distinguished Chief Guest Varun Raymond Aaron, a former Team India cricketer as well as an alumnus of Loyola, along with Fr. Michael Thaneraj, Rector, Loyola School, Fr. Vinod Fernandes, Principal, Fr. Victor Misquith, former Principal, Fr. Cyril Tigga, parish priest and teacher at Loyola and 2 Vice Principals, Jayanthi Sheshadri and Vineeta Ekka, thus symbolising knowledge and enlightenment.
This was followed by a solemn prayer led by Fr. Rector, invoking blessings for the occasion. The school choir then presented a melodious welcome song, setting the tone for the event. Vice-Principal Jayanthi Sheshadri introduced the Chief Guest to the audience, highlighting his achievements.
Aaron, one of India’s fastest bowlers, is renowned for his raw pace and consistently clocking speeds above 150kmph. A product of the MRF Pace Foundation, he made his international debut for India in 2011 against England in a One-Day International and played for several IPL franchises, winning the title with Gujarat Titans in 2022. An inspiration for fast bowlers in India, he embodies the spirit of resilience and the rare gift of pace in the world of Indian cricket. He is now the bowling coach for the Sunrisers Hyderabad for the IPL 2026 season.
Varun was warmly felicitated with a token of appreciation and a sapling, thus reflecting on Loyola’s commitment to tradition and eco-conscious values. Fr. Vinod Fernandes, in his welcome speech, emphasized that students learn the values of perseverance, collaboration and respect for one another through these events. A vibrant dance performance befitting the theme of sports enthralled the audience.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Guest highlighted the fact that these moments build character and instil confidence among the students, preparing them for the challenges of life beyond the classroom. He then declared the event open, marking the beginning of a memorable day. The campus was abuzz with a wide array of competitions and activities that engaged students across diverse fields. Adding a unique flavour, several competitions mirrored like sports commentary, echoing the style of Harsha Bhogle, artistic pursuits, intellectual challenges, creative arts and so on, each event being a platform for young minds to shine, collaborate and celebrate their unique talents.
The Off- Stage events included Chhatri Kaleidoscope, Spotiva, Astro Javelin, Verse Voyage, Half Court Havoc, Pen’athalon and Diplomatic Decathlon while the On-Stage events being Mythmoves, Half-time Harmony, Sports Caster, Quiz on the Pitch and Fifa.
The closing ceremony was graced by accomplished guests from the Tata Football Academy – Steven Benedic Dias, Head Coach; Rohit Singh, Manager; Rai Tachikawa, Pronay Halder and Pratik Choudhary.
Winners across categories were felicitated. Loyola School expressed gratitude to all the participating schools for making the event a grand success.
Carmel Junior College emerged as the Overall Champion, excelling in both On-Stage and Off- Stage events, while Sacred Heart Convent School along with Xavier’s School Gamharia was the Overall Runner-Up. JYOTI Co-ordinator, Sir Anthony Rodrigues, delivered the vote of thanks. With its diversity of events and youthful energy, Rhapsody 2025 witnessed enthusiastic participation, reflecting upon the multifaceted talents of the students, thus living up to its reputation as one of the most dynamic and Inter- school cultural fests of the town. May this Rhapsody inspire all to aim higher, dream bigger and always uphold the true’ spirit of sportsmanship and creativity.
