Shishu Bharati Celebrates Its 38th Graduation Ceremony: Honoring Heritage, Leadership, and Lifelong Learning

Shishu Bharati celebrated its 38th Graduation Ceremony on June 13, 2026, at the John F. Kennedy Middle School in Waltham, marking another milestone in its nearly five-decade mission of preserving Indian languages, culture, and values for the next generation. Sixty students graduated in the presence of proud parents, teachers, administrators, alumni, and hundreds of volunteers and well-wishers.

This year's ceremony was particularly historic as five adult Sanskrit students from the Walpole campus became the first graduating class of Shishu Bharati's Sanskrit program, reflecting the organization's commitment to lifelong learning and preserving one of the world's oldest classical languages.

The celebration began in the afternoon with the graduating students presenting their creative Language Diorama Projects, showcasing the richness and diversity of Indian languages and culture. Families, students, and volunteers—beautifully dressed in colorful traditional Indian attire—filled the venue with excitement and pride. Graduating students, principals, and volunteers wearing tricolor sashes entered the auditorium to enthusiastic applause, creating a memorable atmosphere of celebration and accomplishment.

Master of Ceremonies Vakula Daruri opened the formal ceremony by inviting everyone to stand for the American and Indian National Anthems, symbolizing the dual heritage that Shishu Bharati has proudly embraced for nearly five decades.

Shishu Bharati President Vineet Kumar, along with Principals Renu Tewarie (Walpole), Jay Pandit (Nashua), and Sulochana Devadas (Lexington), congratulated the graduates and reflected on their remarkable eight- to nine-year journey from kindergarten through eighth grade. They praised the students for their dedication and perseverance in learning Indian languages while embracing their cultural heritage. President Kumar encouraged the graduates to remain true to themselves and to become the authors of their own future, while expressing heartfelt gratitude to the teachers, volunteers, and parents whose unwavering commitment made the students' success possible.

One of the evening's highlights was the inspiring keynote address by Meena Bharath, whose message centered on identity, leadership, and service. She encouraged graduates to embrace their unique identity as young individuals rooted in both Indian and American cultures and challenged them to pursue excellence while helping others succeed. Using the metaphor of countless stars illuminating the night sky, she reminded students that another person's success never diminishes their own. She also urged them to remain engaged in their communities and become leaders through service. In a touching tribute, Meena honored the late Nalin Parekh, one of Shishu Bharati's pioneers and her mentor, whose humility, dedication, and selfless service continue to inspire generations of Shishu Bharati families and volunteers.

Alumna Janini Chandran Elumalai delighted the audience with a heartfelt and humorous reflection on her years at Shishu Bharati. She recalled how, as a child, she initially disliked waking up early every Sunday to attend classes. Before long, however, those Sundays became something she eagerly anticipated because of the friendships, teachers, and deep connection to her Indian heritage. She shared how Shishu Bharati helped her balance both her Indian and American identities while giving her a profound appreciation for India's language, culture, traditions, and values.

Continuing a longstanding Shishu Bharati tradition, President Kumar also presented the organization's annual financial report on behalf of Treasurer Vasant Jinwala. He highlighted the school's strong financial position, responsible stewardship of resources, growing sponsorships, and matching donations, all of which continue to strengthen Shishu Bharati's educational mission and student programs.

The diploma presentation marked the emotional culmination of the ceremony as each graduate proudly walked across the stage to receive it from the President and their respective Principal. Alongside the 60 student graduates, the ceremony celebrated the graduation of the inaugural class of five adult Sanskrit students from the Walpole campus. Graduate Prabhakar Kodandaraman, himself a longtime volunteer, teacher, and administrator, spoke about the significance of Sanskrit education and the program's continued growth. The audience also learned that Shishu Bharati recently received an external grant from the Asian Community Fund for its “Survival, Solidarity, and Stability” of Asian Heritage initiative –an important recognition of the school's efforts to preserve this classical language.

Another emotional moment came as the Shishu Bharati community recognized Meena Ramamurthy, who retired after decades of extraordinary service as a Language Vice Principal, Director, Tamil teacher and dedicated volunteer. Widely respected for her kindness, humility, meticulous attention to detail, and unwavering commitment, Meena has long been one of the institution's quiet pillars. While everyone celebrated her remarkable contributions, there was also a shared sense of gratitude and nostalgia, knowing that her presence and countless behind-the-scenes efforts will be deeply missed. But she promised, she would be would be Shishu Bharati’s Emeritus volunteer, and be a part.

The evening concluded with dinner and fellowship as graduates, families, teachers, volunteers, and alumni gathered to celebrate the accomplishments of the Class of 2026 and reflect on another successful academic year.

Founded 48 years ago, Shishu Bharati has grown into one of the largest Indian Sunday schools in New England, serving approximately 850 students with the support of nearly 250 volunteers across its three campuses in Lexington (MA), Nashua (NH), and Walpole (MA). The organization has been recognized by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and state legislative leaders for its outstanding contributions to teaching Indian languages, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting diversity.

Registration for the 2026–2027 academic year is now open. Families interested in providing their children with a rich foundation in Indian languages, culture, and values are warmly invited to become part of the Shishu Bharati family and continue its proud tradition of education, heritage, and community service.