Anandotsava ’26 celebrates its 40th edition with 2,500 students from 79 Delhi schools and launches a youth campaign for a drug-free India
NEW DELHI Anandotsava ’26 began in New Delhi on Wednesday with 2,500 students from 79 schools participating in the 40th edition of the interschool festival. Jointly organised by Arya Samaj Vasant Vihar and Suraj Bhan D.A.V. Public School, Vasant Vihar, the event will continue until October 16 with competitions, cultural performances and activities promoting social awareness.
This year’s opening day featured the launch of No Nasha Nation, a campaign designed to engage young people in raising awareness about substance abuse and supporting the goal of a drug-free India.
The festival also commemorates the 143rd birth anniversary of Mahatma Anand Swami Saraswati, who founded Arya Samaj Vasant Vihar.
Youth-Led Campaign Takes Centre Stage
Arya Yuva Samaj launched No Nasha Nation under the leadership of its National President, Yogi Suri, who is also Managing Editor of Milap Publications.
The initiative seeks to encourage students to understand the risks associated with substance abuse and share awareness messages within their communities. Its launch featured a video presentation, a campaign scroll unveiling, a pledge and a missed-call campaign.
Students further highlighted the issue through Champions Without Addiction, a themed choreography performance, and a street play focused on substance abuse.
Yogi Suri said the campaign aims to motivate young people to stand against substance abuse and spread the message of a drug-free India among their peers, families and communities.
Sambit Mishra, Deputy Director General of the Narcotics Control Bureau, said awareness and prevention are important in tackling substance abuse. He noted that students can contribute by sharing information and encouraging responsible choices.
Festival Blends Culture, Creativity and Life Skills
The inaugural ceremony opened with a havan, followed by Vande Mataram, DAV Gaan, a classical fusion performance by the school choir, a divine invocation and the lighting of the ceremonial lamp.
A student presentation titled Dashavatar – A Journey Through Ten Incarnations added a cultural element to the programme before the interschool competitions began.
The event features activities across performing arts, public speaking, digital creativity, wellness and environmental awareness. Students can participate in Gratitude Card, Positive Affirmations, Million Dollar Smile, Doodling, Healthy Platter, JAM (Just a Minute), Dance Without Borders, Rhythmic Yoga, Reel Making, JANMANCH street play, Digital Art, Bhajan Beats and MIC DROP English Debate.
These activities aim to provide opportunities for students to express themselves, develop communication skills and engage with themes extending beyond academic learning.
Dignitaries Highlight Education and Social Responsibility
The opening ceremony was attended by Sambit Mishra, Deputy Director General of the Narcotics Control Bureau; Anil Sharma, MLA from R.K. Puram; and Santosh Kapoor, President of Arya Samaj Vasant Vihar.
Other dignitaries associated with the programme included Justice Pritam Pal, Vice-President; Mani Suri; Anup Vats, Director of Colleges; Satya Pal Arya, Secretary of the DAV College Managing Committee; Adlakha, Honorary Treasurer; Anita Wadehra, Manager of Suraj Bhan D.A.V. Public School, Vasant Vihar; Priya Suri, Director of Milap Publications; and S. K. Sarma, Director of Publication.
Anil Sharma said Anandotsava provides students with opportunities to showcase their talents while understanding social responsibility. Santosh Kapoor said the festival’s 40th edition reflects a continued commitment to the teachings of Mahatma Anand Swami Saraswati and values that benefit society.
Gargi Chhabra, Principal of Suraj Bhan D.A.V. Public School, said the festival helps students build confidence, develop their abilities and strengthen social awareness through creativity and collaboration.
Anita Wadehra, the school’s manager, said Anandotsava combines creative expression with social awareness and encourages students to apply what they learn in their everyday lives.
Anandotsava ’26 Continues Until October 16
The three-day festival will continue with interschool competitions and programmes focused on cultural expression, environmental responsibility, creativity and the legacy of Mahatma Anand Swami Saraswati.
By combining student participation with the No Nasha Nation awareness drive, Anandotsava ’26 seeks to connect school activities with broader conversations about responsible citizenship and substance abuse prevention.
