On Monday morning, St Aloysius deemed-to-be university in Mangaluru was abuzz with excitement. The university grounds, typically tranquil, transformed into a hub of vibrant energy and cultural pageantry. DHiE Expressions 2024, an inter-school competition, co-powered by Pilot, was organised by Deccan Herald and Prajavani, in collaboration with WonderLa Parks and Resorts and Poorvika Mobile as associate sponsors. .The event was meticulously organised into categories for juniors and seniors, engaging students with themes that ranged from the joyous 'Festivals of India' to the thought-provoking 'Conservation of Earth'. Each participant brought forward their interpretation, filling the venue with a kaleidoscope of colours and ideas. Judges Gururaj Nayak and Charitha had the challenging yet rewarding task of evaluating these vibrant expressions of creativity.The day also featured innovative puzzle contests that drew enthusiastic participation. Managed by Sanjay Arabatti and Sahana Arabatti, these contests included the engaging Giant Word Winder and Giant Math Winder, presented on large nine-foot boards. These interactive games required not only sharp minds but also collaboration, as students huddled together to solve complex puzzles in real-time, promoting an atmosphere of teamwork and collective problem-solving..Parallel to the dance floor, the art competition saw young artists wielding brushes with flair, their canvases blossoming with vivid depictions of Indian festivals. From the elephant-headed deity Ganesha to scenes of Diwali and Durga Puja, the artworks not only showcased the students’ artistic skills but also their deep connections to cultural traditions.Shreema from SDM, CBSE Ujire, reflected on the uniqueness of the event, saying, “Usually, when you hear ‘cultural competition,’ people only think of dance. But here, the beautiful combination of both painting and dance competitions creates a unique platform that showcases a wide range of artistic talents.”.The participants themselves spoke highly of their experiences. Pranathi Nayak from Sharada Vidyalaya shared her emotions about the day, “When we grow up and look back, events like this will be so memorable. Honestly, we came only to participate—we never thought we would win! It’s such a wonderful surprise, and it makes the experience even more special. I also hope to be a judge at an event like this someday—it would be such an honour!”Govind, a student from Gujarati English Medium School, expressed his appreciation for the platform, “It was a great opportunity to showcase our talent, and the team involvement during the event was a fantastic experience.”.Charvi D G from Kendriya Vidyalaya, also shared her thoughts, “I drew a painting featuring the Ganesha festival. Ganesha is my favourite deity, and I love festivals. I am thrilled to express this through my art.”Educators and parents also expressed their satisfaction with the organization and outcomes of the event. Manjula, a parent, said, “The themes for the drawing competition were nice. The event should be held every year.”.When we grow up and look back, events like this will be so memorable. Honestly, we came only to participate—we never thought we would win! It’s such a wonderful surprise, and it makes the experience even more special. I also hope to be a judge at an event like this someday—it would be such an honour!Pranathi Nayak, student, Sharada VidyalayaUsually, when you hear 'cultural competition,' people only think of dance. But here, there's a beautiful combination of both painting and dance competitions. That’s something very unique about this event. It really showcases a wide range of artistic talents.Shreema, student, SDM-CBSE, Ujire.During the inauguration, usually when I ask the children to the stage, students often hesitate to come forward. But at this event, we saw an impressive turnout—there was a very long queue of students eager to participate in the inauguration and kick off the event. It's clear that students from DHIE schools are bold and truly want to be involved. They're not as shy as you might expect.Chittaranjan Bolar, President, AthmaShakthi Multipurpose Cooperative Society"The venue was peaceful, and the extended time duration made the students happy. They appreciated the relaxed setting of the competition. Unlike other events, there weren't many rules here, which really opened up room for creativity. It's clear that the students were not only comfortable but also excited to showcase their talents in such a supportive environment.Sukanya, teacher, Sri Vani School, Nagavruja Pavanje, Haleangadi.Drawing competitionJuniorsFirst Prize: Siddhiksha Rao, Sharada Vidyalaya, MangaluruSecond Prize: Ahan, Canara Higher Primary School, MangaluruThird Prize: Yash H B, Vivekananda English Medium School, Puttur Consolation prizes:Siri S Shetty, Little Rock Indian School, BrahmavarRio L Pinto, Don Bosco School, ShirvaAdyan R, Vivekananda English Medium School, PutturThanishka Kotian, Sharada Vidyalaya, MangaluruApoorva, Kunil ILMU Academy, NatekalPratham KotianShavin D’Souza, St Aloysius Higher Primary School, Mangaluru SeniorsFirst Prize: Niliksha K Vivekananda English Medium School, PutturSecond Prize: Adit, Canara Higher Primary School, MangaluruThird Prize: Thejas P M, Karnataka Public School, Puttur Consolation prizes:Sameeksha Acharya, St Aloysius School, MangaluruAvani S V, Vivekananda English Medium School, PutturKarthik Shettigar, Sri Ramakrishna High School, MangaluruNihal Gatty, Canara High School, Urwa, MangaluruAjith Kamath, Sri Vyasa Maharshi Vidya Peetha, MulkyChinthana M, Vivekananda English Medium School, PutturStuthi Shetty, Little Rock Indian School, BrahmavarMohal Devadiga, Sri Vyasa Maharshi Vidya Peetha, Mulki Dance competition JuniorsFirst Prize: SDM English Medium School (CBSE), UjireSecond Prize: Presidency School, MangaluruThird Prize: Sharada Vidyalaya, Mangaluru SeniorsFirst Prize: SDM English Medium School (CBSE), UjireSecond Prize: Don Bosco English Medium School, ShirvaThird Prize: Sharada Vidyalaya, Mangaluru
