Bela Saha Smriti Vidya Mandir marks first anniversary with blood donation camp and community celebration

Bela Saha Smriti Vidya Mandir, a primary school located in a remote corner of the Sundarbans, celebrated the completion of its first year on Sunday with a day-long programme marked by social service, cultural festivities and community participation.

The school, a CSR initiative of Shyam Sundar Co Jewellers, is named in memory of Bela Saha, whose lifelong dedication to education continues to inspire many. The anniversary celebration coincided with her 81st birth anniversary and was organised in her commemoration.

The programme began with the symbolic release of pigeons and the unfurling of the school flag, setting a tone of hope and unity. The highlight of the event was a voluntary blood donation camp, where residents of the neighbourhood enthusiastically came forward to donate blood, reflecting the spirit of service and solidarity.

Students and teachers joined in the celebrations with songs, dances and other cultural performances. The occasion was further brightened by the distribution of new uniforms and gift hampers among students and staff members.

The event was graced by distinguished guests, including Shri M. L. Lohia, Chairman of Jupiter Wagons Ltd and President of East Bengal Club, who attended as the Chief Guest. Among the Guests of Honour were Shri Sunil Poddar, Chairman (East), Gems & Jewellery Council; Dr. Sujit Roy, former In-Charge of Goenka College of Commerce; and Dr. Dipankar Mondal, Secretary of Sundarban Binodpur Shibom Society.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Lohia said he felt privileged to be part of the initiative and expressed his support for the school’s continued growth. He described the founders’ efforts as a meaningful contribution to the region’s educational landscape.

Rupak Saha, Director of Shyam Sundar Co Jewellers and son of the late Bela Saha, recalled his mother’s passion for education. “She excelled in her studies as a school topper and later returned to college eighteen years after her marriage to complete her graduation with distinction. She was always ready to support meritorious students pursuing higher education,” he said.

Echoing similar sentiments, Sucharita Roy, daughter of Bela Saha, described her mother as a guiding figure for many students who benefited from her affection and encouragement. She reaffirmed the family’s commitment to ensuring that the school lives up to the ideals embodied in her name.

The celebrations concluded with a community lunch, bringing together guests, residents, students and teachers in a spirit of warmth and shared joy.