NEW DELHI, October 14, 2026
Anandotsava ’26, a three-day interschool festival jointly organised by Arya Samaj Vasant Vihar and Suraj Bhan D.A.V. Public School, Vasant Vihar, opened on Wednesday with 2,500 students from 79 schools across Delhi. The festival celebrates its 40th edition and commemorates the 143rd birth anniversary of Mahatma Anand Swami Saraswati, founder of Arya Samaj Vasant Vihar.
The opening day featured the launch of No Nasha Nation, a youth awareness campaign led by Arya Yuva Samaj under the leadership of its National President, Yogi Suri, who is also Managing Editor of Milap Publications. The campaign aims to raise awareness about substance abuse and encourage young people to contribute to building a drug-free India.
The launch included a video presentation, the unveiling of a campaign scroll, a pledge and a missed-call campaign. Students also presented Champions Without Addiction, a themed choreography, and a street play on substance abuse to encourage informed choices and peer awareness.
Yogi Suri, National President of Arya Yuva Samaj and Managing Editor of Milap Publications, said, “Through No Nasha Nation, we want young people to stand against substance abuse and take the message of a drug-free India to their schools, families and communities. Anandotsava gives us an opportunity to connect youth participation with social responsibility.”
The inaugural programme began with a havan, followed by Vande Mataram, DAV Gaan, a classical fusion performance by the school choir, a divine invocation and the ceremonial lighting of the lamp. Students presented Dashavatar – A Journey Through Ten Incarnations. The programme concluded with the start of the interschool competitions.
The festival features competitions and activities across performing arts, public speaking, digital creativity, wellness and environmental awareness. These include Gratitude Card, Positive Affirmations, Million Dollar Smile, Doodling, Healthy Platter, JAM (Just a Minute), Dance Without Borders, Rhythmic Yoga, Reel Making, JANMANCH street play, Digital Art, Bhajan Beats and MIC DROP English Debate.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by Sambit Mishra, Deputy Director General of the Narcotics Control Bureau; Anil Sharma, MLA from R.K. Puram; and Santosh Kapoor, President of Arya Samaj Vasant Vihar.
Other dignitaries associated with the programme included Justice Pritam Pal, Vice-President; Mrs. Mani Suri; Anup Vats, Director of Colleges; Satya Pal Arya, Secretary of the DAV College Managing Committee; Mr. Adlakha, Honorary Treasurer; Anita Wadehra, Manager of Suraj Bhan D.A.V. Public School, Vasant Vihar; Priya Suri, Director of Milap Publications; and S. K. Sarma, Director of Publication.
Sambit Mishra, Deputy Director General of the Narcotics Control Bureau, said, “Awareness and prevention are essential to addressing substance abuse. Students can help spread awareness among their peers and encourage informed choices.”
Anil Sharma, Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) from R.K. Puram, said, “Anandotsava gives students a platform to showcase their talents while learning about social responsibility. The focus on a drug-free India makes the initiative particularly meaningful.”
Santosh Kapoor, President of Arya Samaj Vasant Vihar, said, “As Anandotsava marks its 40th year, we are proud to bring students together to celebrate the teachings of Mahatma Anand Swamiji and promote values that benefit society.”
Gargi Chhabra, Principal of Suraj Bhan D.A.V. Public School, Vasant Vihar, said, “Anandotsava encourages students to develop their talents, confidence and social awareness. It takes learning beyond the classroom through creativity, collaboration and responsible citizenship.”
Anita Wadehra, Manager of Suraj Bhan D.A.V. Public School, Vasant Vihar, said, “Anandotsava combines creativity with social awareness and gives students opportunities to learn beyond the classroom. We hope they carry these lessons into their everyday lives.”
Anandotsava ’26 will continue until October 16, featuring interschool competitions and programmes focused on cultural expression, environmental responsibility and the legacy of Mahatma Anand Swami Saraswati.