 Early Times Report
JAMMU, Sept 16: Delhi Public School Jammu accorded a heartfelt and emotional farewell to three of its longest-serving and most respected faculty members - Anil Baru (Music Department), Tehmina Akhter (Urdu Department), and Veena Bakshi (Hindi Department) - as they retired after rendering meritorious service spanning nearly three decades. On this occasion, the distinguished Management of DPS Jammu, M.K. Ajatshatru Singh, President, Rajput Charitable Trust; Kunwarani Dr. Ritu Singh, Pro Vice Chairperson; and S.S. Sodhi, Director expressed their deep gratitude to the retiring teachers. They acknowledged the invaluable contribution of the three stalwarts to the school's journey and assured that the "doors of DPS Jammu will always remain open and the hearts of the DPS family forever warmed by their presence." The farewell ceremony was marked by warmth and reverence as children, teachers, non-teaching and transport staff, along with the entire support staff, showered flower petals on the retiring teachers. Principal Ruchi Chabra garlanded them, and they were escorted amidst auspicious dhol beats, making the moment both celebratory and poignant. The retiring teachers thanked the management, Principal, and staff, recalling their early days, challenges, and achievements while reaffirming that DPS Jammu would always remain their family. Anil Baru, who served 33 years, was the first music teacher when the school was known as Saplings. As the founding Head of the Music Department, he guided Inter-DPS competitions, assemblies, and cultural programmes. His violin solos and jugalbandis remain unforgettable. In his address, he said: "DPS has been my home, my family. To have seen it grow from Saplings to this magnificent institution is a privilege. The love of students and colleagues will remain my greatest treasure." Tehmina Akhter, with 27 years of service, contributed far beyond her Urdu classes, taking on responsibilities as Subject Head, Timetable, Substitution, Activity, and Transport In-charge, besides Skill Education Teacher and House In-charge. Known for her discipline and organizational skills, she also recited her self-composed Nazm dedicated to the school. She said: "This school gave me every opportunity to grow. Each duty, whether in the classroom or administration, was a joy because it was shared with colleagues who became family. I carry with me not only memories but also bonds that will last a lifetime." Veena Bakshi, who served 22 years, taught Hindi and Sanskrit and was known for her sincerity and gentle guidance. As Subject Head, House Warden, and Class Teacher, she was admired for her counseling and mentorship. She reflected: "Every child I taught has left an imprint on my heart. I will always cherish the trust and affection of my students, colleagues, and the school management. DPS Jammu will forever be a part of me."
Principal, Ruchi Chabra described the retiring teachers as "lamps of learning whose light has shaped generations of DPS students." She highlighted their honesty, dedication, and the inspiration they leave behind:
"As educators, we do not retire - we only move into a new phase where the love of our students and colleagues continues to keep us alive in memory and in spirit. You will always remain the guiding light of our school."
Meenu Gupta (Vice Principal) admired the trio's unwavering commitment and said their legacy would continue to inspire younger teachers. Ravi Kotroo (Headmaster) called them "pillars of strength," while Umesh Sharma (Deputy HM) praised their role in building traditions of teamwork and harmony. Mrignaini Pathania (Coordinator) emphasized their warmth and discipline, and Anuradha Malhotra (Academic Coordinator) lauded their academic leadership. Preeti (German Teacher), on behalf of the Third Language Faculty, shared how their mentoring enriched colleagues as well as students. Rama Gupta moved the gathering with her self-composed Dogri poems in their honor.
The Music Department presented a soulful cultural programme with instrumental renditions and evergreen songs, adding nostalgia to the occasion. The programme was compered gracefully by Anuradha Anand and Lotika Mahajan. |
