HT Bureau
GUWAHATI, May 3: In an extraordinary display of solidarity and patriotism, PP Christian English High School hosted a solemn candlelight vigil in its school hall to honour the 28 innocent Indians whose lives were tragically taken in the recent Pahalgam terror attack.
The event, attended by students, faculty, parents, and community members, was more than a tribute, it was a powerful declaration of resilience against terrorism. The atmosphere was sombre, yet it resonated with the collective resolve of a community united in grief and strength.
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Students carrying placards with powerful slogans, condemning terrorism and demanding justice, added to the gravity of the occasion. Each slogan bore words that spoke for an entire nation.
The vigil opened with a moment of silence to honour the victims, followed by a heartfelt rendition of the national anthem that brought tears to many eyes.
The highlight of the evening was an electrifying speech by Miss Dishunga Perry, a Class 8 student, whose words ignited the spirit of the gathering:
“We will not forget. We will not forgive. India will not bow. Not now. Not ever. We want justice, not revenge born of hatred, but justice born of pain. Justice that honours the tears of every orphaned child and grieving parent. When one of us is attacked, all of us rise. We are united, from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, from Manipur to Maharashtra- India is one.”
Her words, delivered with the conviction of a young leader, were met with thunderous applause and left an indelible mark on all present.
Following her, Vice Principal Shri Bonbon Rajkumar addressed the audience with strong determination:
“This was not just an attack on 28 lives. This was an attack on India’s soul, on our people, on our peace. Terrorism of any kind, in any corner, under any disguise, will be condemned. No one has the right to take innocent lives, not with bombs, not with bullets, not with cowardice. From the blood-soaked valleys of Pahalgam to the proud hills and valleys of Manipur, we stand united. This is our India, and no force on earth can divide us.” “As teachers it is our sacred duty to teach what is right to our students. Every education institution in India should inculcate national values in students. He added.”
Ng Joseph, Maram Naga community leader, a veteran educationist and Principal, PP Christian English High School, Lairouching concluded the speeches with a moving salute to the courage of the youth:
“Let every terrorist and sympathiser hear this: the youth of Manipur are awake. The Northeast is not silent. We are watching. We are rising. And we are ready.”
He further added:
“At PP Christian English High School, we prepare students for tomorrow. We equip them not just with knowledge but with values that enable them to build communities and contribute to the progress of the nation. We strongly believe that education is not only about academic excellence but also about nurturing character, empathy, and the spirit of unity. Our students learn to stand for what is right and to work tirelessly for a brighter future, one that is free from hatred, division, and fear.”
The evening’s programme included prayers for the departed souls and a symbolic lighting of 28 candles, representing each life lost. As the flames danced in the hall, the crowd erupted into chants that echoed through the night: “Bharat Mata ki Jai!”
The event concluded with a heartfelt note of thanks from the organisers, emphasising the role of unity in combating the darkness of terrorism.
