Mangaluru: Gandhi Jayanthi was celebrated at Lourdes Central School, Bejai, on Monday, at the school grounds.

The programme began at 8 am with a prayer song sung by the school choir – Sarva Dharma Prarthana. Floral tribute was offered to Mahatama Gandhi, by the principal and vice-principal.

Eva Jessica D’Souza of Class XI welcomed the principal, vice-principal, staff and students of Lourdes Central School. Namitha and Portia of Class V spoke on the importance of the day. A skit on Gandhian values was depicted by the students of Classes VII and VIII. The ‘Dandi March’, headed by Teresa Monteiro, one of the most successful momentous in the freedom of India was taken by the students of Classes IV and V. The patriotic song ‘Bande Mein Tha Dum’ was sung melodiously by the nightingales of Classes VI to XII under the guidance of Lynette Pinto and Ivan Mascarenhas.

Principal Fr Robert D’Souza gave his message and emphasized on self-discipline, cleanliness, and gratitude towards parents, teachers. He urged the students to follow the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi by respecting others. He reiterated that ‘self discipline is the need of the hour’ and that is what would spread happiness.

The vote of thanks was delivered by Danish Pinto of Class X. The programme ended with the national anthem.