One of the oldest schools serving the Indian expatriate community in Bahrain celebrated 75 years since its opening, during its annual cultural fair, which concluded last night.
Thousands of students, parents, alumni and visitors from across Bahrain visited the Indian School Bahrain during the two-day celebration, which kicked off on Thursday evening.
The school’s annual cultural fair was a major highlight of its Platinum Jubilee celebrations.
Social Development Minister Osama Al Alawi was the chief guest during the opening of the fair.
In his speech, Mr Al Alawi said that the Indian School Bahrain has fostered a rich educational and cultural environment while shaping brighter futures.
“Rooted in shared values and the spirit of social harmony, the school reflects the deep ties of the vibrant Indian community with Bahrain,” he added.
“Through dedication and meaningful contributions to society, the ISB stands as a model institution, inspiring future generations.”
Social Development Ministry Under-Secretary Zeyad Adel Darwish, Labour Ministry former assistant under-secretary Ahmed Al Hayki, as well as other key government and business officials also attended the opening.
“Over the past 75 years, since our humble beginnings in 1950, we have come a long way,” ISB chairman Binu Varughese told the GDN.
“On behalf of the Indian community, I would like to extend our deepest gratitude to His Majesty King Hamad, His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, and all the ministries and ruling family members for their constant support, encouragement and benevolence.
“Their visionary leadership has created an environment where institutions like us can flourish and serve the community with pride in Bahrain.
“As we close the spectacular ISB Platinum Jubilee edition Annual Fair of 2025, I am full of gratitude and pride.
“What we have witnessed over the last two days has been nothing short of extraordinary – a true celebration of music, culture, creativity and community spirit.
“We began our 75th anniversary programme this month and are planning a world-record attempt by April or May. The theme is not yet finalised, but we recently conducted a flag formation and achieved three world records: the largest number of students participating to form a flag, 3,700 students saluting the flag, and the team chanting a slogan in three different languages.
“Last year we digitalised our entire campus, which is a major achievement, and many alumni from batches including 1970, 1990, 1996, 1998 and 2000 have been returning and enjoying the current facilities while reminiscing about their old memories.
“We are also planning a Platinum Jubilee building to replace the old Tagore Block; having recently received approval from the Education Ministry.”
Mr Varughese also expressed gratitude to the Bahrain leadership, parents, and community for their enduring support in shaping generations of responsible global citizens.
On the opening night, prominent businessman and philanthropist Pambavasan Nair was honoured for recently receiving the Dr Mangalam Swaminathan National Excellence Award 2025 in recognition of his extensive humanitarian contributions.
In his acceptance speech, Mr Nair expressed his gratitude to the school and shared fond memories of his association with the ISB.
On both days, students entertained the audience with vibrant cultural performances, showcasing the rich diversity and talent nurtured at the school.
Proceeds from the fair will be used for student welfare initiatives and staff support programmes.
Celebrations also included a stellar musical line-up, including a live concert by acclaimed musician and composer Stephen Devassy and his team on the first night.
Last night, popular playback singer Rupali Jagga, accompanied by Abhishek Soni and their ensemble, took the stage.
Ms Jagga’s concert was followed by a souvenir release and closing ceremony, as well as more cultural performances.
ISB was founded in 1950 with a headmistress, three teachers and around 35 students.
Today it is one of the largest expatriate schools in the Arabian Gulf with a strength of more than 11,900 students and 700 staff members, across campuses in Isa Town and Riffa.
naman@gdnmedia.bh
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