A vibrant all-rounder and the SPL for 2024–25, Akshavikaa Mariappan of Class X is an editor, athlete, artist, and inspiring leader with a heart committed to service. Her passion for dance, sports, and helping others shines through, as she exemplifies confidence, humility, and resilience. Her journey at Vidyanjali is a testament to growth, teamwork, and the power of staying true to oneself. What fuels her positivity and lively spirit? Read on...
Vidyanjali Academy for Learning, Cholanayakanahalli, R T Nagar, Bangalore

Student Spotlight -

Questionnaire for Student Spotlight

1. Describe yourself in a few words:
   A curious blend of interests—editor, karateka, dancer, artist, volleyball player, swimmer—and the SPL of 2024–25, with a strong desire to serve the nation.
2. What do you like most about your school?
   The green campus, supportive staff, and the wide range of memories and events that have shaped me into who I am.
3. What is your favorite Vidyanjali memory?
   Montessori and Grade 10—my first and last years. The joy of growing from learning about school events to organizing them.
4. What is one thing about Vidyanjali you would like others to know?
   It’s a mix of experiences—fun, challenges, and growth—that truly prepares you for the world outside. It unlocks your full potential.
5. What is your favorite place to go?
   It keeps changing, but it’s always where my loved ones are and peace surrounds me.
6. What are your favorite things to do?
   Dancing, swimming, playing volleyball, and spending time with my family.
7. Do you have a life lesson you would like to share with others?
   BE YOU. DO YOU. FOR YOU.
8. What was your experience helping someone?
   Helping others lifts your mood—and that’s something I’ve come to realize. Stay humble, and you’ll notice the difference.
9. Is there anything else you’d like to share or let others know?
   Stay strong and confident—tough times won’t break you if you believe in yourself.
10. What did you learn being an SPL?
    There will be both YES and NO moments. Stay open-minded, expect less, fulfill your duty, and trust in teamwork and a positive mindset.

A steadfast and vibrant teacher, Mrs. Manju brings warmth, inner strength, and a love for learning into everything she does. Inspired by her parents, mentors, husband, and students, she embraces child-centered teaching. Vidyanjali has been her second home, offering growth, recognition, and countless memories, reflecting her passion and purpose. Read on to find out more about her.

Spot Light – Questionnaire

1.    How would you describe yourself?
I would describe myself as committed, diligent, enthusiastic, courageous, and self-assured. I am always open to feedback and eager to learn. I approach every challenge in life with a positive mindset and a willingness to grow.

2.    How would your friends and family describe you?
My friends describe me as helpful, cheerful, kind, trustworthy, and affectionate—a person who’s always there when needed. My husband says he’s lucky to have me as his partner. My kids think I’m caring, loving, responsible, and an amazing cook.

3.    Where is your favourite place to visit?
Temples across India hold a special place in my heart. I’m deeply drawn to the spiritual energy and fascinated by the richness of Indian architecture. Exploring these sacred spaces brings me peace and inspiration.

4.    What are your favorite activities?
I enjoy cooking, keeping my home clean and welcoming, listening to music, chanting shlokas, and reading the Bhagavad Gita. These activities ground me and bring me joy in everyday life.

5.    Who has made the biggest impact in your life?
My parents and my high school teacher, Mrs. Padmavathi, deeply influenced me during my childhood. My parents taught me confidence and how to face life’s challenges with grace. Mrs. Padmavathi constantly motivated me and believed in my success.
After marriage, my husband played a vital role in making me more independent and self-assured.
Director Dr. S. Rekha Ma’am and  Principal Vijayalakshmi.N Ma’am have always appreciated and encouraged me, helping me grow as a more responsible educator. My students impact me every day with their love, energy, and affection.

6.    What is your approach to teaching or interacting with students?
I believe teaching should be child-centered, focusing on simplifying concepts and making learning enjoyable. I aim to encourage active participation and critical thinking. I want my students to feel comfortable, valued, and free to express themselves. Often, they become the teachers too—and I’m always learning from them.

7.       What is your favorite memory in Vidyanjali?
Every day at Vidyanjali brings beautiful memories. However, receiving the "Best Teacher" Award twice stands out as a highlight. I’m deeply grateful for the appreciation shown by our Principal Ma’am and my head teacher, Mrs. Lakshmi Tapasvi. Their kind words have always motivated me to do better.

8.       Is there anything else you’d like to share or let others know?
As the name suggests, Vidyanjali Academy for Learning isn’t just a place for students—it’s a place of learning for everyone. It has helped me discover my potential and grow both professionally and personally. I’m thankful to Rekha Ma’am for believing in me, and I’m forever grateful to my team for their constant support and encouragement.

An active, young enthusiast of class VIII A in Vidyanjali whose interests range from
classical dance to cycling. Ms Bhanu’s academic achievements leave little to be
desired. What else motivates her to be positive and lively? Read on.

Vidyanjali Academy for Learning
Cholanayakanahalli, R T Nagar, Bangalore

 

Questionnaire for Student Spotlight

Ms Bhanu’s altruism led her to donate 12 inches of her thick, lustrous locks towards
making wigs for cancer patients. That’s just one part of her lovable nature. We asked
her a few questions to learn more.
1. Describe yourself in a few words.

I am a person who would like to learn new things and actively participate
in all the possible things I can. I am also passionate about classical dance
and love to explore its possibilities.
2. What do you like most about your school?

I like field trips because they are educational and motivate me to learn
many new things.

3. What is your favourite Vidyanjali memory?

There are lots of memories in Vidyanjali which I can cherish. One of the
best memories is of the day I received the “Best Student” award in the
year 2019-20.

4. What is one thing about Vidyanjali you would like others to know?

Vidyanjali provides opportunities and encourages each and every child to
bring out their skills and showcase their talents.

5. What is your favourite place to go?

France.

6. What are your favourite things to do?

Cycling, Singing and Dancing (Classical)

7. Do you have a life lesson you would like to share with others?

All of us have ups and downs in life. It is pointless to spend time worrying
about it. There is always a chance that every situation will change for the
better. I believe that “A positive mindset brings positive things”, so be
positive, think positive and believe in hard work.
8. What was your experience in helping a cancer patient?

I was proud of myself and felt happy as I could make someone smile
because of the small initiative I had taken. The credit goes to my mother
who educated and supported me in this. I’m growing my hair so I can
donate and share that joy again.

9. Is there anything else you’d like to share or let others know?
Believe in yourself and move on confidently.

A teacher is the one who not only incorporates all his beliefs in his everyday life but
sees that his students are inspired to do that too. One such teacher is Mr Ramesh.
Read on to find out more about him. 

1. How would you describe yourself?
I am a dedicated, sportive and virtuous person. I like to be engaged in various
activities. I am also a quick learner and adapt to situations, ready to lend my
hand in need and always care for nature.

2. How would your friends and family describe you?
My friends say that I am a talented all-rounder and good social worker. My family
members say that I am hardworking, intelligent and god’s gift to Saval’s Family.

3. Which is your favourite place to visit?
I wish to visit Switzerland. It has been my dream since childhood, when our
teacher first taught geographical features of Switzerland. I was so impressed with
it that I would like to see this place once in my lifetime.

4. What are your favourite activities?
I like nature walks, spending time on the farm, web surfing, gymming  & playing
outdoor games.

5. Who has made the biggest impact in your life?
My Parents, Teachers & Students have all made a huge impact in my life. Even
though my father had a major surgery on his thigh bone, he works like a
youngster on our farmland. He is an inspiration & motivation to me. I learnt to
trust people, be honest and work hard from him. My mother taught me to manage
money. 
My brother & sister sacrificed their education to nurture me, and I learnt a lot of
life lessons watching them work hard day and night till our economic conditions
improved.
My Gurus gave a proper shape to a highly energetic, adventurous child and
moulded me into a model student.
 
6. What is your approach to teaching or interacting with your students?
Science is not a subject to be taught within the four walls of the classroom. A
teacher should provide space for them to think and explore. Hence, most of the
time I  take children around the campus to study relevant topics, and the
laboratory to perform various experiments.
More interactive, technology and activity based classroom teaching can be
expected in my class and also individual attention to the child who requires it.
I create a positive atmosphere in the class that keeps the child active and
engaged in studies.

7. What is your favourite memory in Vidyanjali?
I liked the experience of naming all the plants and trees as per my love and care
for Botany.
Few of my favourite memories are of being rewarded with The Best Class
Teacher, The Best Teacher & The Head Teacher.
Another memorable event was when I made short movies on Election campaigns
along with the students.

8. Is there anything else you would like to share or let others know?
I strongly opine “Planting saplings and Educating the Young Minds will contribute
to the development of our Nation”.
I always believe that I can shape my destiny with perseverance and hard work. I
follow the motto - ‘Work is worship’. It is one of the principles of my parents.

Talent and conscientiousness is a rare combination in an individual. Ms Prateksha Mariappan of class X is a
humble embodiment of that. Read more about her abilities and achievements. 
1. Describe yourself in a few words.
I am always energetic and eager to learn new skills. I am a 2nd Dan Karate Black belt, 1st dan
Nunchaku Black belt, pursuing Nanchak (weapon) and Classical Bharathanatyam dance. I am
hardworking and have a positive behaviour towards everyone. My father is no more with us. But my
mother, sister and grandparents are very supportive and are the core reason for what I am today.
  
2. What is your favourite Vidyanjali memory?
Vidyanjali itself is a memory that will last till my last breath. Two special moments were when I
received the ‘Best Student’ award in the year 2017-18 and when I was elected as the School Pupil leader
for the year 2021-22.
 
3. What is one thing about Vidyanjali you would like others to know?
Vidyanjali provides opportunities to excel in various fields. For example, I got to travel to Hyderabad
for a CREYA Ignited Minds Challenge on a National level platform, which helped in expanding my
imagination and way of approach towards diverse fields.
4. What is your favourite place to go? 
God’s Own Country, KERALA.
5. What is your favourite thing to do?
Karate and Dance (Classical and Western)
 
6. What is your favourite book?
I am a total stranger to books. But I found one book written by Sudha Murthy, ‘How I taught my
grandmother to Read and other stories’, very interesting.
 
7. Do you have a life lesson you would like to share with others?
Never judge a book by its cover and never assume things without knowing what the truth is. This might
lead to unwanted and uninvited misunderstanding which is not healthy for a normal human being.
8. Is there anything else you’d like to share or let others know? 
Be selfless and also think about people around you which will in turn help you in a positive way. Be
confident and have a healthy competition between you and only you.
9. What did you learn being a SPL?
Managing your team is the core aspect of being a leader. This is possible only with the co-operation and
support of all the people who are on the same path to reach success. And time management is essential
in leadership, as tasks can be completed only one after the other.
10. What did you like the most about your school days?
I loved having people around me who comforted me always and who were there with me no matter
what.

A teacher who encapsulates so many qualities that it’s hard to pick just
one. Learn more about what drives Mrs Parveen to be the best in her
chosen field of education. 
1. How would you describe yourself?
I am organised & trustworthy. I always try to keep a clear workspace. I am also
committed, disciplined, balanced, positive, diplomatic and respectful.
2. How would your friends and family describe you?
My friends describe me as a pleasant, helpful and understanding person. They
appreciate my behaviour as a friend and as a leader with my colleagues and also with
non- teaching staff as well as my supervisors. They say I motivate my peers to work
very politely, and am very creative.
The Director once said that I spread happiness all around and am an inspiration to
others.
Principal says I’m dedicated. VP says I’m loving. Academic supervisor says I’m
proactive and hard working.
My family says I’m very loving. I try to keep everyone happy. But they say I love
school more than my family as I don’t listen to anyone till, I finish my duty.
 
3. Where is your favourite place to go?
My parents’ house. To talk to them for at least half an hour every day.
 
4. What are your favourite things to do?
Cooking, chatting with friends, shopping and embroidery work.
5. What is a little-known fact about you?
I know it's crazy, but I’m scared of dogs and cats. I’m scared to stay alone even at
home.
6. Who has made the biggest impact in your life?
My father is the most influential person in my life. He has always guided me to give
my best wherever I go and whatever I do with honesty.
My supportive family, especially my husband, who always makes me feel he is
always with me.
The schools that I worked for in the last 20 years always appreciated my work and
motivated me to continue the same which keeps me going.
7. What is your favourite quote?
‘When you wish good for others, good things come back to you.’
AND
Never think hard about the past, it brings tears. 
Don’t think about the future, it brings fears. 

Live this moment with a smile, it brings cheers.
8. Tell us your favourite movie.
I hardly watch movies. Even if I sit for some time with family - either I miss the
beginning or the end.
9. What is your approach to teaching or interacting with your students?
I believe in preparing for the class, keeping students interactive and communicative,
encouraging all the students to share or give their opinion, love and respect each child,
involve them in discussions without judging right or wrong, making the concepts
simple by giving examples related to real life situations.
10. What is your favourite Vidyanjali memory?
 First year when I joined: Working with Ramesh sir for the Science exhibition
and implementing a creative idea with planets.
 Receiving best teacher award 2018-19
 Principal announcing my name as a head teacher for middle school
 The Director’s inspiring speeches and receiving tokens of appreciation from
her
 When I was affected by Covid, the Director messaged ‘Parveen gets well soon
you have a lot to achieve’ made me stronger. And my other colleague’s best
wishes to get well soon always remain in my heart.

11. Can you share with us your happiest moment?
One is about my 2006-2007 batch of 12 th std students of Progressive English School in
Sharjah, UAE.
On a Wednesday morning, at 5am, after 8 years of my leaving a school in Sharjah, I
heard the doorbell ring. I was shocked to see 4 students had come to see me all the
way from Dubai. On their way to Makkah, they saw the sign board of Dammam and
remembered that I had shifted there. Immediately they took a deviation despite the
extra 800 km they had to drive.
They had called my husband, taken the location and requested him to keep it a secret.
Wow!
I even got permission from the principal of the school that I was working with to take
the day off without deduction in the salary because it was such a proud moment for
me. I will always cherish and feel happy.
 
12. What is the biggest life lesson you would like to share with others? 
Nobody is free from tensions in life. When you enter the world of kids, drop your
suitcase of tension near the school gate and shower all your love and knowledge on
students. Whatever work comes to you, take it positively and think it’s your job,
anyway I have to do it. If you, do it happily, you will enjoy that work. Please
remember ‘God does not burden any soul with more than it can bear, you have
potential to use it to the maximum you will definitely enjoy the completion of work.
 
13. Is there anything else you would like to share or let others know? 
I believe in not wasting even a single minute of my time at school. Love all students
irrespective of their grades. Never make them feel you are partial to anyone.  
I thank all my teammates and teachers in Vidyanjali for always supporting me to
complete my work, and being my strength.

Name:  Dishi Makija
Class: II std Montessori
Introducing India Book record holder and all-round great gal Ms Dishi Makija!
She is the daughter of a state-level chess champion mother and a math enthusiast
father. Dishi prepares and follows a very structured schedule which includes 6
hours of practicing chess, either by playing with her father or by playing online.
She loves to solve chess puzzles. She rewards herself with a bedtime story or a
sweet delicacy when she completes her target. These attributes put her right in line
to achieve great things.
Achievements of Dishi Makija:
 She made it to the India Book of records for solving the 6-ring Tower of
Hanoi blindfolded within 1 min 24 seconds
 Winner in the Under-7 Girls chess championship “Bandhavya” organised by
Innovators Chess Academy
 Winner in the Under-7 Girls chess tournament organised by Brilliant Chess
Academy
 Scored 34/35 in the I std Math Olympiad at just 5 years of age
 First place as Moana in Fancy dress competition at RSI (Rajendra Singhji
institute) club
In addition to this Dishi has received recognition at various chess tournaments in
Karnataka.
Read about her favourites.
Dishi’s favourites:
1. What is your favourite place? 
Maldives because of the beach and crab races.
2. What is your favourite subject?
Mathematics.
3. What is your favourite book?
Akbar and Birbal.
4. What do you want to be when you grow up?
Chess grandmaster.
5. What do you like the most at Vidyanjali?
My friends, my teachers and the Montessori environment.

The most experienced teacher at Vidyanjali, an epitome of loyalty, personification
of hard work and sincerity! That’s Mrs Munawar Begum.
She is an energetic planner whose commitment towards the task at hand is
unmatched. Challenges and obstacles do not hinder her from achieving her
objectives. Her attitude ‘Learning never stops’ – is infused into her students, their
parents and colleagues.
Learn more about Mrs Munawar’s passions and inspirations!
Know your teacher!
1. What is your favourite quote?
“Throw me to the wolves and I’ll return leading the pack”
2. How would you describe yourself?
I motivate my friends, students and people around me. I am loyal in every
action of mine, to my superiors and to the Institution where I render my
service.
3. Which is your favourite place to visit?
A brisk nature-walk around the Gaganachukki Waterfall.
4. What is a little-known fact about you?
I love gardening - taking care of saplings and nurturing plants. I also love
watching English and Kannada movies.
5. Who has made the biggest impact in your life?
The biggest impact on my life is my husband. He inspires hope and
positivity in me.
6. What is your favourite book? 

The 5 Second Rule: Transform Your Life, Work, and Confidence with
Everyday Courage by Mel Robbins
7. Tell us about your favourite movie.
“The Karate Kid 2010 directed by Harald Zwart”. In this movie, a wimpy
kid is trained to defend himself by an old Japanese man. What I always take
from this movie is the unconventional ways that Mr. Miyagi taught Daniel.
Sometimes the unconventional is the way to go.
8. What is your approach to teaching or interacting with your students?
I create a welcoming learning environment, make students feel comfortable,
make presentations lively, involve the students in the presentations, take
their concerns seriously, encourage follow ups creatively and facilitate
students who need my help.
9. Why did you become a Montessori teacher?
When I joined Vidyanjali as a traditional teacher, I used to visit Montessori
classes to take materials. There, I observed the specially designed
environment, amazing presentations given by teachers and Montessori kids
working with materials independently. Students were exploring with
timelines, doing experiments and older children were helping younger
children. Their remarkable work attracted me to become a Montessori adult.
10. What is your favourite memory at Vidyanjali?
In the year 2011, I received the Persona award for best teacher where our
beloved director Dr Shashi Rekha appreciated my handwriting, commitment
and dedication in front of staff and parents.
11. Share with us your happiest moment.
One afternoon, I received a call from Mangalore Radio city 91.1 FM to
answer a few questions about RJ Vishwas Kamath, one of the students I had
taught in his 4 th std. He was the main performer for a jungle dance which I
had taught for the Annual day event. His performance earned him an award

of Rs.5000 and a chance to act in a movie directed by that program’s Chief
Guest B. Saroja Devi. I was happy to share some anecdotes from my days as
his teacher.