Jamshedpur, Sept 12: Loyola School, Bistupur hosted Azionare 2026, an inter-school celebration of Indian music and culture, bringing together 290 participants from 11 schools in a vibrant showcase of talent, creativity and artistic expression.
Held under the theme “Where tradition inspired talent!”, the event sought to provide young participants a platform to celebrate India’s rich musical heritage while showcasing their performance skills and teamwork.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by accomplished vocalist and former music teacher S. V. Rao as the Chief Guest and R. Shyamala, mother of celebrated singer and Loyola alumna Shilpa Rao, as the Guest of Honour. The programme began with ceremonial lighting of the lamp, followed by a classical vocal performance and a cultural presentation.
Loyola School Rector Fr. Michael T. Raj, in his welcome address, extended greetings to the participating schools and set the tone for the day-long celebration. Principal Fr. Vinod Fernandes emphasised the importance of preserving and celebrating India’s rich musical heritage.
The festival featured nine on-stage and off-stage events, giving students opportunities to demonstrate their musical knowledge, creativity, artistic expression and teamwork. The on-stage competitions included MusIQ, Karwaan, Nrityanjali and Bandish Bandits, while the off-stage events were Vox Vitae, Sur Kshetra, Swar Chitra, Aaroh Exodus and Vilambit Venture.
The competitions were interspersed with vibrant cultural performances, with the day’s celebrations culminating in an energetic performance by the Loyola Band.
The closing ceremony and prize distribution were graced by Rajiv Talwar, a Loyola alumnus, Director of the Talbros Group, Senior Vice President of the Loyola Alumni Association and National Secretary of the Jesuit Alumni Association of India.
In the much-anticipated Overall Championship, Carmel Junior College emerged as the Overall Champion, while Sacred Heart Convent School secured the Overall Runner-Up position.
The winning schools were recognised for their exceptional talent, dedication, teamwork and creativity. The event also provided students from participating schools an opportunity to engage with Indian music and culture in a competitive yet collaborative environment.
Loyola School expressed appreciation to all participating schools, students, teachers and moderators for contributing to the success of Azionare 2026 and making it a memorable celebration of music, culture and youthful talent.
