The second day of DHiE Fest 2007 started with cheering in the auditorium, amidst the organisers on the stage giving a stream of instructions to students making a beeline to their seats. Most of the students said they have come better prepared on Friday.
During the early hours of the event, Shri Maitri English School performed the Lord Shiva dance. They ran around the stage with trishuls and executed dance moves that drew “wows” even from the rear row.
Judges Mamata and Radhika also gave some tips to the young performers. “Dance is a way to talk to God,” Mamata said. “So add facial expressions while dancing to get fully involved and immersed,” she said.
There was never a dull moment inside the auditorium. The instructor Aditi would suddenly crack a joke or persuade the audience to do a funny task, bringing the action from the stage to the floor.
The students were confident about winning the events they had come for. “I’m so sure we’re going to take away the prizes,” said Aliya, a 10th standard student of Kamala Bai School. “I love this festival because it has taught me to be brave in facing competitions,” she said.
Many teachers present there said they were proud to see their students doing specialised roles. “My students have taken part in various contests. It’s like a unit in which everybody has their roles,” said Sheela, a crafts teacher of Patel Public School. “The kids are having fun, which is indeed the most important thing,” she said, smiling.
Creative writing and painting students could be seen walking around either fiddling with their equipment or practising their craft. They also gave expert opinion on their subjects. “The problem with painting using water colours is that sketches loose their black and white effects, hence the final form may not look nice,” said Keerthi, a 9th standard student of Delhi Public School (DPS), South.
“But the point is I have learned a lot from this festival. It feels nice to be back again at a huge competition such as this one,” said Bhawana, another student from DPS, South.
Even the volunteers from St Joseph’s Indian High School enjoyed their experience. “We have been working round the clock to give these students a memorable time. I have gained valuable points looking after the students’ needs,” said Bhaskar, a volunteer who is pursuing computer applications.
After lunch time, judges Arul Mani and Joseph grilled the students and gave them chocolates as well during the quiz contest. The questions were tricky, nevertheless easily solvable.
“I’m not looking for the right answer, instead I’m looking for the one that’s closest to the right answer,” Arul said. “This quiz contest will test you ability to make good use of available resources, hence guessing for answers is the point here,” he added.
The second day of the Fest ended with more activity than the first. The students expect more competition as the Fest approaches the final rounds. Until then, it’s all wait and watch – of course the fun goes on.
