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Independence Day : Flag raising
Woodstock hosted its annual Independence Day celebration Wednesday, marking 60 years of Indian independence. The busy morning began in Parker Hall with students and staff, adorned in traditional saris, salwar kameez and kurta pajamas, hurrying into the standing-room-only flag raising event. Kaye Aoki began by offering a contemplative prayer, remembering the history of India's struggles, yet looking forward to the nation's hopeful, free and bright future. Woodstock's Indian musical ensemble, headed by Mr. Aloke Maiti, made several appearances, punctuating the morning with traditional selections from Indian music literature. Vice Principal Philip Jacob also offered comments, followed by loud shouts of "Jai Hind" at the call of grade 11 student Shubhashish Bhutiani. The cries in Hindi from the energized audience demonstrated the school's national pride and its love for country. Then, led by bandmaster Mr. David Hugg, the high school band started enthusiastically into its rendition of the national anthem during which grade 12 student Shael Joon, who has been a student since grade 5, unfurled the gathered flag, spilling confetti into the air. Traditionally bestowed upon the longest attending senior, this honor marked the formal end of the assembly. Once younger elementary and middle school students filed out to lunch, though, the auditorium's speakers erupted with bhangra music, and the space was transformed into a high-energy dance floor. Lights began to flash as the floor filled with seasoned teachers, students and staff. New members of the Woodstock community, initially shocked or reserved, succumbed inevitably to the infectious beats or encouragement of friends and joined the spectacle.