People who challenge binary social constructions of gender have traditionally faced discrimination and humiliation in society. The Breaking Barriers team has been working very sincerely to create a more inclusive mindset and to sensitise students to the needs of the LGBTQI+ community. As part of this effort, on 16 October 2023, our students had the opportunity to interact with Hiten Noonwal, who is a very successful drag artist, model, cosplayer and fashion designer. Hiten uses the pronouns ‘they’ and ‘them’ and  speaks openly about their genderfluid identity. They started with a beautiful live performance and the graceful dance moves spoke of acceptance and self–love. Hiten’s sensitive video exploring the concept of identity through music, dance, colours, costumes and creative visuals was deeply moving. Using simple language, they proceeded to share their journey of self discovery, of discrimination, ridicule, loneliness and finally the use of art as a therapy to express oneself and find one’s own place in the world. They made sure to put a special emphasis on expression as a form of letting out pain and vulnerability. Their struggle touched every listener and clearly students could empathise with their pain.The students were given a chance to express emotions through bodily postures in a theatrical display with groups of 8-10 students where they were given two minutes to prepare a scene and enact it just by stationary expression. Students came up with different situations ranging from a masquerade ball to a scene unfolding in a football field. Hiten gave their inputs and explained how this art helped them express their deepest emotions – an eye opener for all the hidden artists in the room !  The Q&A session which concluded the event showed how much students were inspired by this tale of struggle and self discovery.

In the month of June, the Breaking Barriers team hosted Prismatic – an online Intra-School Competition with the theme Ruminate, Radiate, Illuminate. Students competed in four categories namely;Artistic Alchemy: a piece of art (either traditional or digital ) to help spread the message of diversity and inclusivity.Essay Enigma: Essays reflecting  thought-provoking insights and demonstrating a genuine passion for bringing change in society.Poetry Pinnacle: express emotions in verse. The Seniors also took part in the “Reelovation” category, which required them to create a reel that raises awareness of the LGBTQIA+ community, in order to keep up with the social media age. Congratulations to all the winners.

Interact envisions a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change — across the globe, in their communities, and in themselves, which is not only true of what we believe at Tagore International but also what we are embracing as part of the inclusive precepts of  G20 and Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. The Installation Ceremony of the Interact Club was held on 24 July 2023. The ceremony began with the students  rendering ‘We Shall Overcome’ in English, Hindi and French, followed by the lively Chirni dance. The encouraging words of the distinguished guests, namely Interact Chair, Rtn. Sameer Mehrotra; Club Secretary, Rtn. Sudip De and Director, Youth Services and New Generation, Rtn. Sandeep Pal Mandal served to motivate the students to put in their best.   After being honoured with a medal and badge, President, Rhea Sehgal took the stage and delivered an inspiring address, emphasizing the importance of leadership, dedication and teamwork, followed by the introduction and installation of the 2023-2024 team. The ceremony came to a close with a vote of thanks delivered by the Vice President, Yashaswi. This will undoubtedly prove a  wonderful opportunity for Tagoreans to learn and grow !