Vidisha (Madhya Pradesh): “Social media has become an important part of children’s lives today. It is therefore essential for them to understand that its use must be guided by wisdom and responsibility. A child’s real identity is not defined by the number of followers or likes, but by personality, values and character,” said senior journalist, author and founder-president of BSPS, Krishna Mohan Jha.

Jha was addressing students at the Ganesh Utsav and Annual Festival organised at Vatsalya School in Vidisha.

He said Ganesh Utsav is not merely a religious celebration but also an important occasion to connect the younger generation with Indian culture, traditions and values. The personality of Lord Ganesha reflects several important life values, including wisdom, discrimination, concentration, humility and patience. According to Jha, these values have become even more relevant in the digital age.

Addressing the students, Jha said there was no need to stay away from social media or technology; rather, young people need to understand how to use them responsibly. Social media can be an effective platform for gaining knowledge, showcasing talent and connecting with the world. However, forwarding information without verification or reacting instantly to everything is not appropriate.

“Mobile phones are useful tools in our hands, but they should not start controlling our routine and thinking. We must use technology, not allow technology to control us,” he said.

Vidisha’s Legacy of Leadership

Referring to Vidisha’s distinguished legacy, Jha said the region has produced leaders of national stature, including Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Sushma Swaraj and Shivraj Singh Chouhan. Pointing towards the students, he said there was immense talent among them and many could go on to contribute to leadership in different fields in the future.

He urged students not to focus only on securing good marks but also on strengthening their personality, thoughts and character. “With the right education, values, opportunities and guidance, today’s students can become tomorrow’s leaders who contribute to shaping society and the nation,” he said.

Jha expressed confidence that the young generation of Vidisha has the potential to contribute to the future of India.

‘Vatsalya’ Reflects the Spirit of Care

Referring to Vatsalya School’s founders, Devna Arora and Namrata Arora, Jha said the name ‘Vatsalya’ itself reflects the values of affection, care, belonging and protection.

He said education is not merely about teaching children from textbooks. Treating them with affection, understanding their curiosity and guiding them in the right direction are equally important aspects of education.

He appreciated the school’s tradition of organising its Annual Festival through Ganesh Utsav and said such events provide an important platform for transmitting Indian culture and values to the younger generation.

Jha said that at a time when children are becoming increasingly connected with the rapidly changing digital world, keeping them rooted in their cultural heritage and nurturing a sense of commitment towards the nation is an important responsibility.

Students Showcase Yoga, History and National Spirit

The programme began with a skit highlighting the importance of yoga. Through their performance, students presented yoga as a foundation for a healthy body, a healthy mind and a disciplined lifestyle.

This was followed by a theatrical presentation based on the life and valour of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. Students brought alive his courage, sacrifice and commitment to the nation and his faith through their performance.

The concluding presentation was a dance-drama centred on the significance of Bharat Mata and devotion to the nation, creating an atmosphere filled with national spirit. The performances showcased a blend of Indian history, culture and patriotism.

Meritorious Students Honoured

Students who secured positions on the merit list for their outstanding academic performance were felicitated with awards by Krishna Mohan Jha.

Encouraging the students, he said good marks were important, but the habit of learning, discipline and the continuous effort to improve were even more significant. “Success is not created merely by the result, but by the hard work and dedication behind it,” he said.

During the programme, Jha also interacted warmly with the students and invited them to approach him without hesitation if they had any problem, question or curiosity. He said listening to children, understanding their concerns and providing them with appropriate guidance was a collective responsibility.

Vatsalya School’s Annual Festival emerged as a vibrant confluence of students’ talent, yoga, Indian history, culture, values and national spirit. The event conveyed the message that education is not confined to textbook knowledge or achieving good examination results. Its broader purpose is to nurture responsible, sensitive, value-driven and aware citizens who can keep pace with modern technology and a changing world while remaining firmly connected to their cultural roots and values.

The programme concluded amid chants of “Ganpati Bappa Morya” and an atmosphere filled with national spirit.