Honouring Heroes of the Homeland: JKPS Kunjwani pays tribute to Jammu’s Protectors & Pioneers
STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: “A local hero is a person who performs deeds of great courage or is widely admired for their contribution to a community.” With this powerful opening, Ishaan set the tone for the morning assembly on the theme “Local Heroes & Global Impact” at JK Public School, Kunjwani, conducting it with confidence and poise alongside his classmates.
Adding deeper insight, he reflected, “Heroes continue their journey with courage, resilience and hope, despite facing obstacles. They discover within themselves – and through the support of others – the strength to rise again.”
The assembly grew more compelling as Raghav highlighted the legendary General Zorawar Singh, fondly remembered as the ‘Napoleon of India’. He praised the military genius who carried the Indian flag across Ladakh, Baltistan, and Tibet – a shining symbol of Himalayan valour and national pride.
A heartwarming poem was recited by Deewanshi, celebrating the spirit of unsung heroes whose roots may be local but whose impact reaches far beyond boundaries:
“In valley deep and
mountains high,
Brave hearts rose
beneath our sky…
From local soil
their dreams took flight,
Their deeds now
glow with global light…
Local heroes –
humble and true,
The world is better
because of you.”
Under the segment Quotations, Maanik paid glowing tribute to Brigadier Rajinder Singh, the valiant saviour of Jammu & Kashmir in 1947, whose unparalleled sacrifice earned him the Maha Vir Chakra and eternal reverence.
Dilraaj honoured Air Chief Marshal Pratap Chandra Lal, the towering Air Force leader who steered India to triumph in the 1971 Indo-Pak War.
Garv remembered Colonel Ravi Sharma, a proud son of Jammu who embraced martyrdom while fighting terrorism with unwavering courage. Aditya expressed gratitude towards Padma Shri Balwant Thakur, whose artistic brilliance carried Dogri theatre to global stages.
Vaishnavi praised Ritika Kalsaria. She said, “Ritika has emerged as a promising athlete known for her exceptional performances in track and field events at state and national levels. Her relentless hard work, disciplined training, and strong competitive spirit have placed her among Jammu’s rising sports talents. She continues to represent the UT with pride, motivating young athletes-especially girls-to pursue sports with passion and dedication”.
Appreciating the artistic brilliance, Raghav highlighted the phenomenal contributions of Art maestro KK Gandhi saying, “He is one of Jammu’s most celebrated contemporary artists, is widely admired for his evocative landscapes, cultural narratives, and powerful visual interpretations of the Himalayan region. Through his dedication, humility, and lifelong commitment to art, he continues to inspire young artists and elevate Jammu’s presence on the global artistic map”.
Avni referred to Dr. Anjali Shastri and shared, “She is a celebrated yoga practitioner and wellness advocate, continues the family’s legacy of service and healing. She has conducted wellness camps, yoga workshops, and lifestyle sessions across India, promoting traditional Indian knowledge systems and holistic well-being. Her dedication to spreading yoga-based healing has made her a respected figure in the wellness movement emerging from Jammu”.
Vanshika threw light on the journey of Sanchita Gupta saying, She created history by excelling in cycle polo, a niche but highly competitive international sport. Representing India at global events, she has earned medals and accolades, bringing national attention to Jammu’s sporting talent. Her unique journey-marked by grit, discipline, and extraordinary resilience-continues to inspire youth to embrace unconventional sports”.
Applauding the presenters for their thoughtful and compelling assembly, Principal, JKPS Kunjwani, Rajesh Rathore, remarked, “Dear students, today’s theme reminds us that greatness does not always come from distant lands – often, it rises from the very soil we walk upon. Jammu has gifted India extraordinary heroes whose courage and sacrifice shaped the destiny of the nation.”
He added, “These heroes teach us that true greatness begins with staying rooted – in our values, our culture, and our community. You do not need a global stage to make a meaningful impact. The moment you use your courage, integrity, and talent for a higher purpose, you become a hero in your own right.”
He concluded with an inspiring message to students: “If they could rise from our soil and leave footprints across the world, so can you. Let their legacy ignite in you a spirit of pride, purpose, and possibility. Let us strive to be the next generation of ‘Local Heroes’ with a truly ‘Global Impact’.”
