Two-day programme brings together students, educators and experts to promote emotional well-being
Raipur, 10 October 2026: N.H. Goel World School organised Mano Utsav 2026 on 9 and 10 October to mark World Mental Health Day. Through a student-made film, expert discussions, creative performances and interactive sessions, the programme encouraged open conversations about mental health, reducing stigma and building emotional resilience. The second day was organised in collaboration with the Rotary Club.
The first day, held at Rangshilp, centred on the theme “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change.” It opened with the premiere of “सहगामी – You are not alone” a short film created by Grade 12 Psychology students under the guidance of Senior Academic Coordinator Ms. Shweta Das, with creative and technical support from Mr. Raatul Sarkar and Mr. Rakesh Mirdha. The film explored mental health experiences from young people’s perspectives.
Principal Dr. Awinash Pandey introduced the purpose of the gathering. Mr. A.K. Trivedi, Principal of Government Blind & Deaf Higher Secondary School, Raipur, then delivered a keynote address, sharing his personal journey and experiences of resilience.
A panel discussion titled “Real Voices, Real Change” featured Dr. J.C. Ajwani, retired professor of Psychology; Mr. Nitin Shrivastava, psychologist; and Dr. Damini Saini, Assistant Professor of Organizational Behavior at IIM Raipur. The discussion highlighted the importance of understanding mental health challenges and creating supportive environments for students. Participating schools D.P.S, Brighton and Ryan further expressed these ideas through street plays, music and theatrical performances. The day concluded with felicitation and certificate distribution.
The second day began with ceremonial lamp lighting and floral felicitations. Rotary Club President Dr. Preeta Lal addressed the gathering, while Chief Guest Mr. Sateesh Nair, educationist and former District Education Officer, Raipur, emphasised the importance of mentorship, emotional resilience and life skills.
Dr. Ela Gupta, a doctorate holder in Psychology and founder of Talking Threads, conducted an interactive workshop introducing ideas from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy. Students explored practical approaches to building self-esteem, reconsidering unhelpful thoughts and managing stress.
The programme concluded with memento presentations and votes of thanks by the Rotary Club and the School Counselling Department. Mano Utsav 2026 reaffirmed the school’s commitment to a caring environment where students feel heard, supported and encouraged to seek help.
