Katihar, 13 December 2025:
Lt General Shashank Shekhar Mishra, PVSM, AVSM, VSM (Retd.) paid a gracious visit to Colonels Academy, Katihar on 13 December 2025, marking the inauguration of the school’s newly constructed mess facility.

The visit began with an interactive session at the School Auditorium, where Lt Gen Mishra addressed students with inspiring insights on modern career opportunities. He emphasized that in today’s evolving world, career choices are no longer limited to traditional fields such as doctors and engineers. He encouraged students to explore diverse avenues including law, designing, acting, advertising, event management, start-ups, and many other emerging fields.

Highlighting the importance of recognizing individual strengths, Lt Gen Mishra stated that every student may not excel academically, but many possess natural talents in sports, dance, singing, yoga, and event management. He urged teachers and parents to identify and nurture these talents instead of imposing undue pressure. Addressing teachers, he stressed that educators must continuously enrich themselves, as teachers and students complement each other in the learning process.

Verghese Kurien Mess: New Look

The programme was attended by Col Akshaya Kumar Yadav (Retd.), Chairman and Founder of Colonels Academy; Mr. Arun Kumar, Director; Mr. Rajiv Andrew Sah, Principal; along with teachers and students of the school. Expressing gratitude, Col Yadav thanked Lt Gen Mishra for his valuable guidance and for motivating the entire Colonels Academy community.

Following the interaction, Lt Gen Mishra formally inaugurated the new Colonels Academy Mess, named “Verghese Kurien Mess.” He appreciated the high standards and facilities of the mess, describing them as excellent. Responding to a query on whether parents should worry excessively about their children’s marks, he advised parents to choose the right school carefully and focus on nurturing their children rather than pressurising them.

The visit and inauguration marked a significant and inspiring milestone for Colonels Academy, leaving students, teachers, and parents motivated with a broader vision of education and holistic development.

Colonels Academy, Katihar, had the privilege of welcoming Mr. Anjani Kumar, General Manager (Construction), Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR)-IRSE 1990 Batch along with Mr. Murli Manohar Prasad, Chief Engineer (Construction),(CE/CON/KIR-DL) -IRSE 1999 Batch, and Mr. Ritesh Kumar Gupta, CST/Construction-II (CST/CON/II)-IRSE 2006 Batch on 2nd December 2025 at 1:15 PM.

The distinguished guests were warmly received by the Director of the Academy, Mr. Arun Kumar, and the Principal, Mr. Rajiv Andrew Sah along with children and teachers. The school campus resonated with excitement and enthusiasm as students and staff extended a heartfelt welcome to the visiting dignitaries.

Motivational Address to the Students

In a special assembly organized in the school auditorium, Mr. Anjani Kumar addressed the students and delivered an inspiring speech on the importance of hard work, dedication, and moral values.
He emphasized that:

“The place does not matter — your effort does.”

He encouraged students to remain focused, disciplined, and resilient in all circumstances. Mr. Kumar also laid special emphasis on Moral Education, highlighting that true success lies not only in academic excellence but also in honesty, integrity, and good character.

He reminded students that determination and honest effort are the true foundations of success. Mr. Kumar also advised the young learners to value their time in school, adding —

“Student life is important. You play — but play to win.”

Through these words, he encouraged students to take part in all activities with sincerity, confidence, and a winning attitude.

Campus Visit

Following his address, the General Manager, along with Mr. Murli Manohar Prasad and Mr. Ritesh Kumar Gupta, visited various sections of the school including the Library, Music Room, and Art Room.
They appreciated the school’s academic environment, creative initiatives, and the talents displayed by the students. The dignitaries expressed admiration for the discipline and enthusiasm evident throughout the campus.

A Step Toward a Greener Future

To conclude the visit, Mr. Anjani Kumar planted an Amla (Indian Gooseberry) sapling in the school premises as a symbol of environmental awareness and sustainability.
He encouraged students to take part in tree plantation drives and to care for nature, stating that protecting the environment is everyone’s moral responsibility.

Director Arun Kumar expressed his gratitude and said that the visit of such esteemed officers served as a great source of motivation for the students.
Principal Rajiv Andrew Sah added that the interaction with senior railway officials would inspire students to strive for excellence with sincerity and strong moral values.

The visit of Mr. Anjani Kumar, Mr. Murli Manohar Prasad, and Mr. Ritesh Kumar Gupta turned into a memorable and inspiring occasion for the entire Colonel’s Academy family.
Their words of wisdom and valuable guidance will continue to motivate students to work hard, stay humble, and contribute positively to society.

Dadaji Art Festival – A Grand Success at Colonels Academy


The Dadaji Art Festival held at Colonels Academy, Katihar, concluded with overwhelming enthusiasm and remarkable participation. With more than 250 students from various schools and different corners of Katihar, the festival became a vibrant celebration of creativity, imagination, and artistic expression.

The event aimed to inspire young minds to express themselves through colors and creativity while fostering a sense of joy and community among budding artists.

The Academy was privileged to welcome Colonel K. K. Mishra as the Chief Guest, whose inspiring words motivated students to continue exploring their creative potential with confidence and discipline.

The competition was judged by Ms. Surbhi Thakkar, an esteemed art professional, whose expertise, encouragement, and valuable insights made the event even more memorable.

Competition Highlights

The festival featured a Painting Competition divided into three groups:

  • Group A: Class I-II
  • Group B: Classes III – IV
  • Group C: Classes V – VI

and separately for UKG students, of Each group displayed remarkable artistic ability and creativity, making it a tough competition for the judges.

Winners of Dadaji Art Festival 2025

Group A

🥇 1st Prize: Aaradhya Kumari (Class I)
🥈 2nd Prize: Shivanshi Raj (Class II)
🥉 3rd Prize: Yanee (Class II)

Group B

🥇 1st Prize: Samiksha Singh (Class IV)
🥈 2nd Prize: Shristi Bharti (Class III)
🥉 3rd Prize: Shaurya Kulshresta (Class IV)

Group C

🥇 1st Prize: Harsh Raj (Class VI)
🥈 2nd Prize: Shristi (Class VI)
🥉 3rd Prize: Rachna Kumari (Class VI)

Additionally, Consolation Prizes were awarded to several participants, and Participation Certificates were distributed to all students to recognize their effort and imagination.

The Chairperson of Colonels Academy addressed the gathering, appreciating the students’ creativity and expressing gratitude to parents and teachers for their support. The Chairperson emph -asized the school’s commitment to promoting art, culture, and holistic education alongside academics.

A special Parents’ Corner was also arranged, allowing parents to interact with faculty, view their children’s artwork, and share constructive feedback — making the event even more inclusive and interactive.

As part of the DIP Activity, students from Class 2 to Class 5 at Colonels Academy participated in an engaging English Newspaper Reading Session.The activity encouraged students to explore current events, enhance their reading comprehension, and improve their vocabulary.

Through this exercise, children not only developed a habit of reading but also gained valuable insights into the world around them—making learning both informative and enjoyable.

Diwali Celebration at Colonels Academy ✨

The spirit of Diwali shone brightly at Colonels Academy, Katihar, as students and teachers came together to celebrate the festival of lights with great enthusiasm and cultural vibrance.

The event was graced by our Chief Guest, Mrs. Dhriti Sharma, wife of Col. Chirag Bhardwaj, who added charm and grace to the occasion. The celebration began with a bouquet felicitation, followed by the traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.

The programme unfolded with a series of delightful performances that reflected the students’ creativity and festive joy. Angel Pragya delivered an inspiring speech on the significance of Diwali, followed by a group dance by students of Classes I to III, filling the stage with energy and cheer.

Saad Nabi captivated the audience with a beautifully recited poem, while the junior students’ group dance showcased rhythm, coordination, and cultural unity.

Adding a regional touch to the celebration, students presented a vibrant showcasing of Chhath Puja, highlighting Bihar’s traditional customs and devotion. The Rangoli exhibition added colors and artistry to the festive ambiance, displaying students’ creativity and teamwork.

A fireless cooking competition brought excitement and innovation, where young chefs prepared delicious festive treats without using fire — promoting safety and sustainability.

Throughout the event, the audience was charmed by the confident and graceful anchoring of Shreyashi Shrestha, who kept the programme lively and well-coordinated.

The celebration concluded with smiles, laughter, and the true Diwali spirit — spreading light, love, and togetherness across the Colonels Academy campus.

Wishing everyone a Happy and Prosperous Diwali from the Colonels Academy family! 🌼🪔