South 24 Pargnas, 24 July (H.S.): Students of Falta F.P. School in South 24 Parganas celebrated Ulto Rath Yatra with great enthusiasm on Friday as the school organised a special procession and community feast. The Mid-Day Meal prepared for the students was first offered as bhog to Lord Jagannath before being served, making the celebration a memorable one for the children.

As part of the event, students pulled the chariot of Lord Jagannath from the school to the Falta Bus Stand, creating a festive atmosphere throughout the day. Around 385 students participated in the celebration and received the sacred offering after the rituals.

The special Mid-Day Meal included Basanti Pulao, Kashmiri Aloo Dum, Beguni (fried eggplant), chutney, fried papad, gaja, fruits, and sweets.

School Headmaster Tilak Naskar said the event was organised to ensure that children who are unable to experience the Rath Yatra festivities outside could also enjoy the occasion. The objective is to bring all students together and allow them to experience the joy of the festival within the school, he said.

The school authorities also said the initiative was aimed at making the Mid-Day Meal programme more engaging while promoting cultural values among students. Encouraged by the enthusiastic participation of the children, the school has decided to organise the Rath Yatra celebration every year.

The unique initiative has been widely appreciated by parents and local residents, who praised the school for combining education, culture and community participation in a meaningful way.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Priyanka Pandey