Huge Crowd Gathers for ISB Annual Cultural Fair as Celebrations Begin on a High Note
The Indian School came alive with colour, music, and celebration as it kicked off its Annual Cultural Fair, presented by Star Vision Events on Thursday, January 15, 2026, marking a major highlight of its Platinum Jubilee celebrations.
H.E Osama Bin Saleh Al Alawi, Minister of Social Development was the chief guest. In his speech the minister said The Indian School marks a significant milestone in fostering 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. Through dedication and meaningful contributions to society, the ISB stands as a model institution, inspiring future generations, the minister said.
Zeyad Adel Darwish, Undersecretary, Ministry of Social Development, Pambavasan Nair, Managing Director, Amad Baeed Electrical WLL; Ahmed Al Hayki, Former Assistant Undersecretary, Ministry of Labour; Mishal Khalid Ahmed, Director, Social Development Minister’s Office; Major Khulood Yahya Ebrahim, Chief of Traffic Awareness Division, Traffic Directorate; First Lieutenant Shaikha Ahood Abdulla Ahmed Al Khalifa, Traffic Directorate; Sara Mohammed Al Shaikh, Head, Private Educational Institutions Support Group; Adv. Binu Mannil Varughese, Hon. Chairman, ISB; V. Rajapandian, Hon. Secretary, ISB; V. R Palaniswamy, Principal; R. Ramesh, ISB Fair General Convener; Sethuraj Kadakkal, Chairman, Star Vision Events; Dr. Mohammed Faizal, Hon. Vice-Chairman & Hon. Member – Sports; Ranjini Mohan, Hon. Assistant Secretary & Hon. Member – Academics; Bonny Joseph, Hon. Member – Finance & IT; Mithun Mohan, Hon. Member – Projects & Maintenance; Mohammad Nayaz Ullah, Hon. Member – Transport; Pamela Xavier, Principal, Junior Wing; G. Satheesh, Vice-Principal, Senior School & Academic Administration; Priya Laji, Vice-Principal, Junior Wing; Parvathi Devadas, Staff Representative; Prince S. Natarajan, General Convener, Platinum Jubilee; Mohammed Hussain Malim, Advisor, Fair Committee; Saji Antony, Former Secretary; Ashraf Kattilpeadika, Fair Coordinator, also were in attendance.
Addressing the gathering, ISB Hon.Chairman Adv.Binu Mannil Varughese stated that the Platinum Jubilee celebrations mark seventy-five years of the ISB’s steadfast commitment to academic excellence, cultural harmony, and social responsibility. He expressed gratitude to the Bahrain leadership, parents, and community for their enduring support in shaping generations of responsible global citizens.
The inaugural ceremony began on a solemn note with the national anthems of India and Bahrain, followed by the recitation of the Holy Quran and the school prayer. Principal VR Palaniswamy welcomed the gathering, setting the tone for a celebration that blends culture, community, and heritage.
Prominent businessman and philanthropist Pambavasan Nair, a former ISB parent and long-time well-wisher of the school,was felicitated during the ceremony. He was honoured for recently receiving the Dr. Mangalam Swaminathan National Excellence Award 2025 in recognition of his extensive humanitarian contributions. In his acceptance speech, Pambavasan Nair expressed his gratitude to the school and shared fond memories of his association with the ISB. Hon.Secretary V Rajapandian gave vote of thanks.
Students enthralled the audience with vibrant cultural performances, showcasing the rich diversity and talent nurtured at the school. Presented by Star Vision Events, the two-day extravaganza continues on Friday and promises to be the biggest cultural fair in the school’s 75-year history.
Poised to be the largest cultural fair ever organised by the ISB, the event is expected to draw thousands of students, parents, alumni, and visitors over the two days. Extensive preparations by dedicated committees have gone into logistics, programmes, sponsorships, and infrastructure to ensure a seamless experience. Proceeds from the fair will be utilised for student welfare initiatives and staff support programmes, reaffirming the ISB’s strong commitment to social responsibility.
Adding star power to the celebrations was a stellar musical line-up. The evening featured a live concert by acclaimed musician and composer Stephen Devassy and his team, known for their innovative musical fusion and electrifying performances. On Friday, the festivities continue with student cultural programmes, followed by a high-energy musical night led by popular playback singer Rupali Jagga, accompanied by Abhishek Soni and their ensemble.
The Annual Cultural Fair stands as a signature event of the ISB’s Platinum Jubilee Year 2025, symbolising 75 years of educational excellence, cultural vibrancy, and community bonding in the Kingdom of Bahrain. The excitement is further amplified by an attractive raffle draw, with the first prize being a brand-new MG ZS silver car sponsored by Zayani Motors. Raffle draw will take place online on January 26,as per the guidelines of the ministry.
Entry to the ISB Mega Fair is priced at BD 2 per ticket, making it accessible to families and individuals from all sections of the community. With grand prizes, renowned performers, and large-scale participation, the ISB Annual Cultural Fair is set to be a historic and unforgettable milestone in the school’s illustrious journey.
Date Month 2025, ISB ISA TOWN CAMPUS