“New India cannot be built by abandoning ancient traditions (like Dhanvantari Jayanti).”
— Dr. Ravi Prakash Tiwary
On October 18, 2025 (Saturday), the students of D.A.V. Nandraj Public School, Bariatu celebrated Diwali Cultural Fest with great enthusiasm and devotion.
The fest included a wide range of activities such as a puppet show based on the Ramayana (by Bal Vatika children), essay writing, drawing, painting, rangoli, dance, and music competitions. All these performances reflected the Vedic values of Indian civilization and culture.
Students showcased beautiful and meaningful rangoli designs, displaying vibrant colors of creativity. The dance and music performances were equally mesmerizing and captivating.
On this occasion, Principal Dr. Ravi Prakash Tiwary addressed the students, saying:
“Today is Dhanteras, which is celebrated as Dhanvantari Jayanti. We have all heard the story of the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean).
In Jharkhand, there is a place called Vasukinath, near Mandar Hill, which is believed to have been used as the churning rod during this divine event. From this churning emerged Lord Dhanvantari, the divine physician. The entire tale is filled with symbolism and deep meaning.
Indian festivals are based on scientific and spiritual principles. This season also marks the arrival of new grains, which are first offered to the deities before being consumed as sacred food (Prasad). Dhanvantari’s disciple, Sushruta, was the world’s first plastic surgeon.
His statue stands in the U.S., and research continues on his medical texts. The day originally known as Dhanvantari Jayanti came to be celebrated as Dhanteras because of its association with prosperity and wealth.”
Dr. Tiwary further added that understanding and embracing one’s heritage is both a moral duty and a cultural responsibility. “Why do we use mango wood in Yajnas? Why is ghee from the cow used? When we begin to understand these reasons, we develop a sense of pride in our culture.
Every school must make an effort to help children learn about festivals, as they play a vital role in character building. We cannot progress by abandoning our roots. The festival of Diwali symbolizes the journey from darkness to light.
It reminds us of Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati’s enlightenment, as well as the Buddhist, Jain, Punjabi, and mythological traditions such as the defeat of Narakasura — all carrying profound historical and moral significance that can inspire us to improve ourselves.”
The program concluded with the National Anthem.
