It seemed as if the school environment was purified by the incessant showers that fell on the day before the event, paving the way for a most memorable, divine and historic Saraswati Jayanti observance on Friday 23rd January, 2026 at Shiva Boys' Hindu College.

Preparations began as soon as school reopened this term spearheaded by Pundit Rickie Maharaj whose unwavering efforts over the past twenty-five years in the areas of religion and culture once again bore fruit as evidenced by the tremendous success of this year's observance. It was truly a day to cherish.

The day of Saraswati Jayanti has always been a special occasion at Shiva Boys' Hindu College, but this year's celebration felt extra special. Students came to school a bit earlier that day all dressed in their radiantly colourful Indian wear to make their final preparations. The decorated stage area seemed fit for another grand event, and generally, our school was transformed into an ashram.

It might come as a surprise to some that twenty-eight bedis were prepared this year which was the vision of Pundit Rickie Maharaj to have twenty-five bedis since we are still celebrating our twenty-fifth anniversary as an educational institution. It was really and truly history in the making. These twenty-eight bedis provided an opportunity for approximately seventy students to be directly involved in performing puja, and our students were quite impressive doing so.

Our students once again sang bhajans and supplied the accompanying music. They sang for an hour before our principal, Mr. Devenish Neeranjan, made his opening remarks after which Pundit Rickie Maharaj conducted the puja. A few bhajans were sung during the puja as well creating a wonderfully divine atmosphere.

Once again, the teachers at our college contributed significantly to the success of this year's event. All committees worked diligently and selflessly to ensure that our learning institution honoured Saraswati Devi, the Goddess of learning, in the best way possible. Our students got the opportunity to express gratitude to the Divine Goddess and to seek Her continued blessings as they traverse their world of academics and beyond.

After the puja, everyone present including a few parents received prasad and food. The teachers, led by the Deans of our school, were praised abundantly by everyone who were blessed to have tasted their absolutely delectable cooking. These teachers definitely impressed everyone.

It was a truly special day at Shiva Boys' Hindu College, a college that continues to cater to the holistic development of its students and that places a lot of emphasis on consistently providing enriching and meaningful experiences for all its students.

In preparation for the Puja, Pundit Rickie Maharaj tied rakshas (protective threads) on the right wrists of all participating students the day before the ceremony. This sacred ritual signified purity, focus, and divine protection, setting the tone for a spiritually uplifting celebration.

Pundit Rickie Maharaj tying rakshas on students, preparing them spiritually for the ceremony.

A defining feature of the 2026 observance was the remarkable execution of 28 bedis, conducted entirely by students, an unprecedented moment in the College's history. Their discipline, reverence, and devotion to Sanatan Dharma were evident as mantras echoed through the campus and offerings were made with deep sincerity. The atmosphere was filled with peace, unity, and cultural pride, reflecting the enduring strength of Hindu values at Shiva Boys' Hindu College.

The celebrations honoured Maa Saraswati, Goddess of learning, wisdom, music, and the arts, ideals that lie at the heart of the school's mission. Students from the Form 5 and Form 6 exam classes led the Puja, joined by additional participants from Form 3 and Form 4MB. Their participation reinforced the College's commitment to holistic education, integrating academic achievement with spiritual development and character formation.

Photo Caption: Students performing Puja at 28 bedis, a historic first for the College.

Students Who Performed Puja

Upper 6 Science

• Jayson Samlal
• Rajiv Rampersad
• Chandler Sampath
• Kaitlyn Phoolchan
• Nadia Ramroop
• Rihanna Harrybhajan
• Isha Sonnylal
• Anushka Maya – Bedi

Upper 6 Business

• Angelina Kanhai
• Marissa Jagkasar
• Kristy Pariagh
• Shriya Ramsingh
• Karishma Harry
• Thavir Gopaul
• Rajiv Ramkissoon

Lower 6 Business

• Anushka Seeth
• Vickash Marthura
• Azaria Ali
• Roshan Boodoo

Lower 6 Science

• Arianna Singh
• Angelina Sookram
• Shiromani Teeluckchan
• Syra Sooklal
• Kassidy Beharrylal
• Justin Kanhai
• Aditya Danraj

Form 5S (Science)

• Hayden Chanderbhan
• Vaayu Ramlagan
• Sachin Rattan
• Eshwar Rajack
• Veer Khalawan
• Darun Mohan
• Anesh Udit

Form 5SB (Science/Business)

• Shamal Smith
• Narendra Gopie
• Vikash Kuarsingh
• Shane Ramkumasingh
• Jaden Seurattan
• Adrian Singh

Form 5MB (Modern Studies/Business)

• Karesh Deopersad
• Arun Vernon
• Kaveer Kemchand
• Vikash Seemungal
• Krish Newaldass
• Navindra Mohan

Form 4MB (Modern Studies/Business)

• Pravin Maharaj
• Jaden Bhola
• Yuvraj Bhagwandin
• Triston Mohan
• Sanjeev

Form 3S

• Kanhaiya Persad
• Veer Persad
• Pranav Maharaj
• Aiden Ramdass
• Ashish Ramdeo
• Shivesh Balkeransingh

Form 3SB

• Bradley Jaimungal
• Tarendra Mahadeo
• Alejandro Packette
• Xavier Roberts
• Sanjeev Samaroo

Form 3MB

• Nivan Jagdeo
• Nevan Ramjattan
• Jonathon Ramdhan

A Celebration to Remember

The 2026 Saraswati Jayanti celebration stands as a shining testament to student leadership, devotion, and the vibrant spiritual community at Shiva Boys' Hindu College. With 28 bedis and widespread student participation, the event marked a new chapter in the school's religious and cultural heritage.

The College remains dedicated to nurturing students who excel academically while staying grounded in spirituality, cultural identity, and strong moral values. This year's observance will undoubtedly remain a proud and memorable milestone for years to come.

Tribute to Pundit Rickie Maharaj

For over two decades, Pundit Rickie Maharaj has been a guiding light in the spiritual life of Shiva Boys' Hindu College. Since officiating the very first Saraswati Puja in 2005, he has faithfully led the College in annual worship, nurturing a culture of devotion, discipline, and reverence for Sanatan Dharma.

Through his leadership, countless students have learned not only the rituals of puja, but the deeper meanings of humility, gratitude, and the sacred pursuit of knowledge under the blessings of Maa Saraswati.

As 2026 marks his final Saraswati Puja at the College ahead of his retirement, we extend heartfelt praise and appreciation for his exemplary service. Pundit Maharaj has inspired generations of young men to honour their dharma, to wear their culture with pride, and to pair academic excellence with spiritual grounding.

His compassionate guidance, gentle mentorship, and unwavering dedication to the propagation of Sanatan Dharma in our school community will remain a lasting legacy, etched in our hearts and our history. Dhanyavaad, Punditji. May Maa Saraswati continue to bless you on your onward journey.