The “josh”, that unmistakable spirit of enthusiasm, was palpable right from the start.

It was an honour and a privilege to be invited as the Chief Guest for the Annual Sports Day Celebration of Mount Fort Academy, Dehradun, on 17th October 2025. The event was not just a sports function, it was a heartwarming display of discipline, teamwork, and the deep-rooted values that define true education.

As I arrived at the school premises, I was received with a traditional welcome, a tilak ceremony that instantly evoked warmth and respect. In an age where ceremonial courtesies are often forgotten, this simple yet profound gesture spoke volumes about the school’s commitment to preserving India’s cultural traditions. It reminded me of the very ethos that binds our classrooms to our consciousness, respect, humility, and grace.

The programme commenced with the recitation of the Gayatri Mantra, creating an atmosphere charged with serenity and purpose. The rhythmic chanting by the students set a spiritual tone that beautifully complemented the athletic energy of the day. It was a powerful reminder that education and sports, intellect and integrity, spirit and strength, all coexist harmoniously when guided by the right values.

From the very outset, one could sense the meticulous preparation that had gone into organising the event. The Physical Training Instructors and the team of volunteer students worked tirelessly to ensure the seamless conduct of the day’s activities. Every event, every transition, every announcement reflected teamwork and coordination. It was evident that this was not merely a one-day affair but the culmination of weeks of preparation, planning, and practice.

The “josh”, that unmistakable spirit of enthusiasm, was palpable right from the start. The students’ march past was synchronised and spirited, showcasing their discipline and pride in representing their respective houses. Their steps echoed determination, while their eyes sparkled with confidence. Each contingent marched past the saluting base with precision, and one could not help but feel a sense of pride watching these young cadets in the making.

As the events progressed, the field turned into a vibrant theatre of youthful energy. The cheers of the crowd, the encouragement from teachers, and the laughter of students created a festive atmosphere. Yet, beneath the excitement, there was an undercurrent of focus and commitment that set Mount Fort Academy apart.

Towards the end of the programme, the mass PT display was a sight to behold, scores of students moving in perfect unison, their synchronised movements reflecting the essence of teamwork. Such coordination doesn’t happen overnight. It is the result of constant guidance, patient training, and above all, a shared belief in collective excellence.

But among all the moments that morning, one stood out distinctly, a small yet powerful act that defined the spirit of the institution. During one of the races, a young child, in his eagerness to win, found himself at a point where he could have easily taken an extra step ahead into the hoopla, unnoticed by many. Instead, he paused, corrected himself, and continued running honestly, even though it cost him precious seconds.

He didn’t win the race. But in that moment, he won something far greater, the admiration of everyone watching. For me, as a soldier who has spent three decades in uniform, that act of truthfulness and integrity was more inspiring than any medal or trophy. It was a living example of character-building, the very foundation on which our future as a nation rests. My Bharat was in able hands, I murmured to myself.

That small moment encapsulated the true purpose of education, to create individuals who stand for what is right, even when no one is watching. The child’s action reflected the kind of moral grounding that cannot be taught through textbooks but must be nurtured through values, mentorship, and example.

As I looked around, I realised that this was not an isolated instance. The school’s atmosphere resonated with sincerity, commitment, and pride. The Principal’s vision, the teachers’ dedication, and the students’ earnestness came together in perfect harmony. Every teacher seemed deeply invested in shaping not just the minds but also the character of their students. The staff’s guidance was visible in the smallest gestures of discipline, students greeting visitors with folded hands, maintaining cleanliness, and ensuring orderliness throughout the event.

Mount Fort Academy, in my observation, is not merely imparting education, it is building citizens. In an era where academic achievements often overshadow human values, the institution’s focus on integrity, sportsmanship, and teamwork stands out as a beacon of balanced education.

As the event concluded, I felt a deep sense of gratitude and optimism. Gratitude for being part of a morning that reaffirmed my belief in India’s youth, and optimism for the future these young minds represent. If every school in our country could instil such values, India’s next generation would not only be competent professionals but also compassionate, honest, and responsible individuals.

I left Mount Fort Academy that day with immense pride, my heart filled with admiration for the teachers and students alike. The morning had begun with the Gayatri Mantra, a prayer for wisdom and righteousness, and ended with a living example of both.

Indeed, sports build muscles, but values build nations. And at Mount Fort Academy, I witnessed both in perfect harmony.

The event took place at Laxmi Garden Hall, nestled along Sagar Road, where the atmosphere brimmed with energy. The hall was jampacked with enthusiastic parents, proud teachers, and gleeful students. Drone shots captured the grandeur of the evening, complemented by vibrant lighting and a series of impressive student performances — from skits and speeches to skill demonstrations and cultural showcases.

Zahack Tanvir, a globally recognized voice from India, delivered a keynote speech that resonated far beyond the walls of the hall. Addressing students, parents, and educators alike, he emphasized the deeper essence of education in shaping a just and resilient society.

“We celebrate not just certificates and medals — we celebrate progress. We celebrate the future,” Zahack began.

Drawing from Islamic tradition and modern-day challenges, he spoke of the need to pursue knowledge not merely for jobs, but for the betterment of humanity. Quoting the Prophet Muhammad, he reminded the audience that seeking knowledge is a lifelong obligation upon every Muslim — men and women alike.

He cautioned against the perils of the information age: “We live in a time of too much information — YouTube, WhatsApp, Instagram, and now AI like ChatGPT. But not everything you see is true. Not everything you hear is wise. We need something more powerful than information — we need wisdom.”

His speech also addressed societal development and national loyalty, calling on the youth to be agents of constructive change: “Governments will come and go. But our country remains. India is our home. Be builders, not breakers. Don’t fall for hate or propaganda. This land has given us freedom and opportunity — let’s give back.”

A particularly powerful moment came when he celebrated the legacy of educated Muslim women in Islamic history — citing Khadijah (RA) and Ayesha (RA) as role models — and urged parents to empower their daughters through education and dignity. “If you have daughters, give them wings. Let them fly high in education and in honour.”

He also cited Shifa Bint Abdullah al-Adawiyya, who was a healer and scholar, and the second caliph of Islam Umar Al-Khattab would consult her for affairs related to trade market.

Speaking directly to the children, Zahack shared heartfelt advice on kindness, discipline, curiosity, and dreaming big. He narrated the story of a baby eagle that was raised in a chicken coop — unaware of its true potential, it spent its life clucking and pecking like a chicken, never realizing it was meant to soar. He urged the students to recognize their inner strength and greatness.

“Don’t let your surroundings limit your potential. You are meant to fly. Be like the eagle — not trapped among chickens,” he said, drawing applause and reflection from the audience.

The event also saw the felicitation of Zahack Tanvir by the school’s founder, Mr. Ismail Hadeesi, alongside other distinguished guests including Islamic scholars Shaykh Ibrahim Mohammedi, Shaykh Abdus-Samad Madani, educationist Mohammed Ateeq, and Mr. Mohammed Afsar Mohiuddin.

In his closing remarks, Mr. Hadeesi thanked the attendees, faculty, and parents for their unwavering support in nurturing the next generation of thinkers, leaders, and changemakers.

The celebration was more than a graduation — it was a reflection of hope, resilience, and the enduring power of education in a world hungry for both knowledge and compassion.