The Beauty in Bridging of Two Worlds

 

In an increasingly interconnected world, international student exchange programs stand as vibrant bridges between diverse cultures, encouraging curiosity, empathy, and collaboration. One such inspiring initiative was the exchange program between The Mann School, Delhi and the partner school Städtisches Gymnasium Gütersloh, Germany.

I was fortunate to be a part of this initiative. When we left India for Germany on 7th May 2025, we stepped into a chapter of our lives that will always hold a special place in our hearts. Through this Cultural Exchange Program, the beauty in bridging of two worlds miles apart, was unfolded and brought out before our eyes in ways we have never expected. It was definitely once in a lifetime opportunity which was not to be missed.

The host families welcomed us with open hearts and made sure that we felt at home. From the very beginning, thoughtfully planned activities awaited us—organized by both the school and our host families.

 On our first day of school, we played a Canadian game called Kinball which was new not only to us but also to our German peers. That evening, we were treated to sumptuous dinner having traditional German dishes. We built bonds and grew closer to one another over the dinner. The three-day visit to Berlin was marked with chilly and windy weather. But that did not dampen our spirits. We visited the remnants of the historic Berlin Wall about which we had read previously in our history books. Riding a double-decker bus through the city and experiencing the workings of the Reichstag Parliament Building gave us a first-hand understanding of German history and governance.

The beautiful medical city of Münster is a place which speaks for itself. One of its highlights is St. Lambert’s Church which has three iron cages suspended from the steeple. Another highlight was our visit to CLAAS, the world’s largest producer of harvesting machines. Touring the factory and learning about its innovative production process broadened our understanding of engineering and modern technology. Meeting the Mayor of Gütersloh at the Rathaus (Town Hall) was another cherished moment, where we were introduced to a presentation showcasing the growth, development, and cultural richness of the city.

As the exchange drew to its close, we shared a final dinner-a fusion of both Indian and German dishes prepared by groups formed amongst us. A lot of leisure activities such as shopping, strawberry picking, solving puzzles and inter-cultural workshops created a strong bond between us.

We returned to India on 23rd May 2025, our hearts full and our minds richer—with warm hugs, heartfelt goodbyes, and dreams for the future as we each go our separate ways.

Though the days have passed, the laughter, the inside jokes, and the memories live on. The photographs are the strong reminder of the time well spent. We forged friendships for life, bridging the gap between two distinct worlds. We immersed ourselves in new cultures, embraced different ways of life, and returned with stories we’ll continue to share for years to come.

Lily Lalruathlui Zathang

XII B

Summer Days: A Student’s Reflection

 

What a wonderful time of the year summer is! The joy of stepping outside, playing with friends, and simply spending time together creates some of the happiest memories. There’s something magical about exploring new places—the very thought of it fills me with excitement and energy.

Summer is the season we all wish would come again and again. It’s the perfect time for fun activities like camping, family picnics, gardening, cooking, swimming—the list is endless! Just last week, I attended a dinner with all my school friends, and it was absolutely amazing. We laughed, talked, and made memories that I’ll cherish for a long time.

Of course, summer isn’t all play. The ever-present summer homework patiently waits to be completed. As much as I wish I could escape it, I know it must be done! So here’s a little advice: don’t forget to spend quality time with your family and friends, but also make sure you stay on top of your work—or prepare for a few scoldings!

This break has also been a time for rejuvenation. As a Class 12 student, this is the only long pause in a very important academic year. It gave me the much-needed space to reflect, recharge, and prepare myself mentally for the challenges ahead. Now, I feel refreshed and ready to return, motivated to make the most of my final year and give it my best shot.

Most importantly, remember to rest. Summer is a time to relax, to grow, and to explore new things at your own pace. As the school gates reopen, I carry not only the memories of a joyful break but also the lessons and inspiration of a summer well spent.

By Alcina Biakthantluangi (Head Student Editor)

Five Timeless Principles for a Happy Life

 

Happiness often lies in simplicity. When we stop overthinking and learn to accept life as it is, we begin to notice its quiet beauty. In slowing down and letting go of constant control, we find peace in everyday moments and a renewed appreciation for the present.

Generosity is another powerful key to fulfilling life. When we are generous with our thoughts, actions and possessions, we not only uplift others but also create a more positive and compassionate space for ourselves. Giving—whether it is time, kindness, or support—strengthens our sense of connection and reminds us of our shared humanity.

Life also follows the law of karma: what we think, say and do eventually return to us in some form. This simple yet profound truth encourages us to act with awareness and integrity. When we live mindfully, we not only shape our own experiences but also contribute positively to the world around us.

Equally important is learning to live in harmony with the natural flow of life, which is often referred to as the Tao. When we resist or try to force outcomes, we create unnecessary tension. However, when we trust the process and allow life to unfold, we experience greater ease and clarity. Letting go does not mean giving up—it means moving with life rather than against it.

Finally, cultivating a positive mindset helps us navigate life’s challenges with strength and grace. Positivity does not mean ignoring hardship; it means choosing to remain hopeful, resilient and open-hearted even despite adversity. With a positive outlook, we are better equipped to discover meaning in difficult times and joy in simple ones.

These five timeless principles—simplicity, generosity, mindful action, going with the flow and positivity—offer a foundation for a truly happy and meaningful life. When practiced daily, they guide us gently toward peace, purpose, and lasting fulfillment.

By Indira Solanki, Class X-C

New Months- The Gifts of Life

With the start of April come new beginnings, where Mother Nature blooms into its full grace. New chapters being unlocked in our lives, we come across new souls in which we will work in unity for the coming academic year. Keeping our spirits of sportsmanship alive, we kick started the year with the Inter-House Volleyball Match. As we begin this new journey, unforgettable moments await us in the offing.

Making the most of each new day, motivating one another and keeping a track of all the goals we have set for ourselves are the main motives of ours at present. We presume our life is a bed full of roses or even dead and withered are the beauty of it all as we overcome life's challenges and learn from our mistakes. We are in constant competition and tussle with ourselves in this race called 'life'.

I wish each and every one of my fellow mates and dear teachers that this year will push us to the highest potential of ours. Best of luck as the beauty of the month is unfolding before our eyes while the months pass by like feathers blown away with the gentle breeze.

Lily Zathang

XII B

The Headmistress: A Pillar of Leadership and Excellence

In the world of education, where every day is a new lesson and every challenge is a stepping stone, there are a few individuals who leave an everlasting impact on both students and teachers alike. One such inspiring personality is Dr Nidhi Dewan, the esteemed Headmistress of our Primary School. A perfect role model, she has not only shaped young minds but has also guided teachers towards excellence with her wisdom and grace.

From the moment one steps into her presence, it is evident that Dr Dewan carries an aura of respect and admiration. She possesses the rare ability to connect with people through her professional skills and empathetic communication. Her words are more than mere conversations; they are magic spells of motivation that push everyone to strive for greatness. Whether it is students seeking encouragement or teachers looking for guidance, she never fails to uplift and inspire.

Dr Dewan’s perseverance is reflected in everything she does. She leads by example, showing that dedication, patience, and hard work are the key ingredients to success. Her continuous interaction with students has made her one of the most loved figures in the school. With every encouraging word and thoughtful gesture, she fosters an environment where students feel valued and heard.

One of her greatest strengths is her creativity. As a teacher, I have witnessed firsthand how she goes beyond managing a school; she cultivates an environment where young minds are encouraged to question, create, and flourish. Whether it’s implementing new teaching methodologies or organising engaging activities, her ideas breathe life into the school’s daily operations. Her magic words of wisdom and encouragement instil confidence and ignite the passion for learning in every child. This attachment and commitment to the institution make her a pillar of strength for both faculty and students alike.

Under her leadership, the school is not just an educational institution—it is a family, a place where values are instilled, dreams are nurtured, and the foundation for a bright future is laid. Dr Nidhi Dewan’s presence is a reminder that true leadership is not about authority but about inspiring change, instilling confidence, and guiding with love and perseverance.

She is not just a headmistress; she is a beacon of inspiration for all of us. And in her unwavering commitment to shaping young lives, she continues to leave a legacy that will be cherished for years to come.

Arpit Sharma

Examinations- Don’t fear, beat it wisely!

 

Examinations have been an integral part of human life since ancient times. The concept of testing one’s knowledge and skill dates back to the epic era. In the Mahabharata, Guru Dronacharya famously conducted a concentration test for the Pandava and Kaurava princes to assess their focus and determination. Examinations continue to play a vital role in every sphere of life.

There is a universal agreement that examinations are stressful; be it an academic examination, an eye examination or for that matter an examination of a cupboard in the hostel. Based on the results of these exams, the people are categorised on their status and capabilities. Exams sort the brightest and the most competent among the crowd. However, it may not be so as sometimes many bright and hardworking students are left behind due to some specific reason. A good result can be a source of motivation and high self-esteem whereas a poor result can lead to great distress and self-doubt. It is a shame that students, start to play a game of blame, looking for an excuse to justify their failures instead of accepting shortcomings head-on because of the embarrassment and shame surrounding failure. We must know that good marks do not guarantee a good future. It is important for us to instead instil in the students a joy for learning and growing from failure, and to be ready to tackle a tough and challenging exam with open arms. Exams really don't have to be about passing, success can also come from failure. Therefore, our society must create a more supportive and open-minded environment for students. 

The examination journey is a roller coaster of emotions for the students. From the initial preparation and intensive studying to the actual attempt and the anxious wait for the results, a multitude of thoughts flood their minds. One word that comes to their mind most often is ‘Maybe’.. “Maybe if I had paid more attention”,  “Maybe if I had not wasted my time on movies”, etc. or in other words regret creeps in. These thoughts can be overwhelming, making the students wish that they had used their time wisely and handled things differently. Thus, examinations make them realise the importance of time management. It is unfortunate that this realization strikes a few students too late.

The pressure to succeed in competitive exams can be tremendous. Some students spend a part of their lives preparing for a certain exam, driven by the determination to succeed. The outcome of these exams determines their future. Tragically, this pressure can sometimes be too much to bear, leading some students who face disappointment to take drastic measures. The students must understand that failure is not the finale of life; but rather a fresh start. It offers us a valuable chance to relearn, reassess and grow stronger and wiser.

Hence, it is important for us to understand that life is an exam itself testing us every day and giving us an opportunity to grow and learn. Examinations are challenging but an important part of our life’s journey. We must approach them with a positive mindset and in the face of any adversity, we must get up and strive harder than before to achieve success. As Swami Vivekananda has rightly said, “Arise, awake and stop not till the goal is reached.”

    

By: Zodingpuii, XI

Unleashing my Creativity during Winter Vacations

Winter vacations are a magical time for students. The crisp air, cosy blankets, and hot cocoa set the stage for relaxation and inspiration. While it’s tempting to binge-watch our favourite shows or sleep, winter vacations offer the perfect opportunity to explore our creative side. There are various ways to spark our imagination and make our winter break fun and productive.

Winter vacations have always been my favourite time of the year. This year, I decided to use my break to explore my creative side and make the most of the holidays.

I started with writing, something I’ve always enjoyed but rarely get time for during school. Sitting by the window with a notebook, I let my imagination take over. I wrote a short story about a girl discovering a magical winter wonderland hidden in her backyard. It felt amazing to bring my ideas to life and create a world of my own.

Next, I tried my hands on some holiday crafts. I made paper snowflakes and painted a few mason jars to be used as candle holders. My favourite project was creating personalised greeting cards for my friends and family. Everyone loved them, and it felt so rewarding to give something handmade.

One of the best parts of my vacation was experimenting in the kitchen. With my mom’s help, I baked cookies and even tried making hot chocolate bombs. We had a lot of laughs when a few cookies didn’t turn out as planned, but the experience was so much fun.

This winter vacation was not just a break from school but also a chance to discover new hobbies, reflect on my goals and create lasting memories. It reminded me that creativity has no limits, and even small efforts can lead to big joys.

By Mishthi Trivedi

5422 Vlll C