Manama: 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.
