Over 1 lakh students, teachers, parents pay tributes to Shaheed Udham Singh

In a first-of-its-kind and emotionally stirring initiative, the Chandigarh Department of School Education organised a massive commemorative event to honour the valiant martyrdom of Shaheed Udham Singh, the iconic freedom fighter known for his unwavering commitment to justice in the aftermath of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, at all 209 schools, including 111 government institutions, across the city today.

The tribute witnessed the enthusiastic participation of over 1 lakh individuals, including students, educators and parents, at government, government-aided, Central government and recognised private schools.

The programme was conducted in two major sessions to ensure inclusivity for all institutions. The morning session was held between 11 am and 12 noon while the evening session was conducted between 3 pm and 4 pm.

“Each school held a special assembly, carefully designed to foster a sense of national pride, civic responsibility and moral courage. Students gathered to reflect on the life, mission and sacrifice of Shaheed Udham Singh — whose name has become synonymous with resistance against colonial tyranny,” said Harsuhinder Pal Singh Brar, Director, School Education.

In his special message sent to all schools on the occasion, Punjab Governor and UT Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria emphasised the vital importance of educating young citizens about India’s freedom movement, not merely as history, but as a living call to action.

The schools engaged in a diverse and creative set of activities, led entirely by students, showcasing their passion and understanding of national history. These included speeches narrating the life journey and vision of the martyr, patriotic songs and theatrical skits portraying episodes from the Independence struggle, quizzes, poster-making and visual presentations that deepened understanding and sparked dialogue, and reflections and open mic sessions, fostering emotional connection and critical thinking.

The tribute was organised alongside scheduled parent-teacher meetings (PTMs), allowing parents to witness and participate in this moment of shared remembrance. “This integrated format not only encouraged inter-generational learning but also strengthened the school-home partnership in value education,” Brar said.

“Through storytelling, performance and collective participation, the spirit of Shaheed Udham Singh was brought to life in classrooms, corridors and hearts across Chandigarh,” Brar opined, while lauding the tireless efforts of school heads, teachers and coordinators who mobilised resources, mentored students and executed the event seamlessly.

Aim to produce responsible citizens: Education Secy

“His response to the Jallianwala Bagh tragedy, culminating in his supreme sacrifice, stands as a beacon of resistance, courage and commitment to justice. The department’s effort to commemorate him reflects its broader vision of producing historically conscious, ethically driven and socially responsible citizens,” said Prerna Puri, UT Education Secretary.