Auckland House School, Shimla, hosted its Senior Section Speech Day 2026, bringing together students, teachers, parents and distinguished guests to celebrate academic achievements, co-curricular accomplishments and the spirit of excellence that defines the institution. Prashant Sirkek, HAS, Additional Director, Dr. Manmohan Singh Himachal Pradesh Institute of Public Administration, was the Chief Guest at the annual event. The programme opened with a ceremonial welcome to the Chief Guest, followed by a prayer and the traditional lighting of the lamp, setting a dignified tone for the proceedings. (CLICK TO SEE ALL VIDEOS)
Principal Smaraki Samantaroy presented the Annual Report, reflecting on the school’s achievements and important milestones during the academic year. She highlighted the accomplishments of the students and acknowledged the sustained efforts of teachers and the support of parents in nurturing the students’ academic, creative and personal growth. Speaking on the occasion, the Principal said, “Speech Day is a celebration of our students’ achievements, their growth and the values they have developed during the year. We are proud of their accomplishments and grateful to our teachers and parents for their continued support.”
Representing the student community, Vice Head Girls Pritha Doegar and Saanvi Bharota addressed the gathering and shared their reflections on their school journey and the significance of the occasion.
In his address, Chief Guest Sirkek, encouraged the students to remain committed to discipline, perseverance and responsible citizenship. He emphasised that education extends beyond academic success and plays an important role in developing confident, responsible and socially conscious individuals. He urged the students to pursue excellence while remaining grounded in integrity and perseverance.
The ceremony also witnessed the presentation of awards to students for their outstanding achievements in various fields. A special moment of the occasion was the presentation of ‘The Sunita John Auckyite Award’ to Pritha Doegar of Class XII for her overall outstanding achievements. The award was presented in memory of Director-Principal Sunita John, honouring her legacy and contribution to Auckland House School. The school also felicitated teachers who have completed 25 years or more of dedicated service, recognising their longstanding commitment and valuable contribution to the institution and generations of students.
The formal ceremony was followed by an engaging Variety Entertainment Programme presented by the senior students, showcasing the breadth of their artistic and cultural talents. The programme began with the soulful opening hymn ‘Blessed Assurance’, followed by the English play ‘A Very Vocal Affair’. The school choir then presented ‘California Dreaming’, while a vibrant dance performance on ‘Sufi’ added colour and energy to the celebrations.
The musical presentations continued with a piano recital by Ziba Agathe Banerjee, followed by a lively Band Performance. Students then presented the street play ‘Respect for the Elderly’, conveying a meaningful social message through theatre. The choir returned with ‘Que Sera Sera’, followed by piano recitals by Kavya Tomar and Kavya Sharma. The audience was further treated to an Indian Orchestra performance and a melodious duet by Yaaganya Bharadwaj and Aashvi Dogra. The cultural segment concluded with an energetic Giddha performance.
Today’s celebrations recognised not only academic and extracurricular accomplishments but also the values of dedication, creativity, service and character. The Senior Section Speech Day 2026 thus served as a fitting celebration of the students’ journey through the year and the collective efforts of the Auckland House School community.
Sponsored
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
