Zephyr 2026 Reinforces Auckland House School’s Legacy of Holistic Education
3 min read
Shimla, June 20, 2026: Auckland House School brought the curtains down on Zephyr 2026, its week-long celebration commemorating 160 Years of Excellence, with a vibrant showcase of scholarship, innovation, critical thinking, creativity and performing arts. Bringing together students from leading schools across Shimla, the festival provided a dynamic platform for young minds to engage with contemporary issues, original research, public speaking, theatre and collaborative learning.
One of the most significant highlights of the celebrations was the Symposium of Ideas, held in cherished memory of former Principal Mrs. Sunita John. Students from St. Edward’s School, St. Thomas’ School, Convent of Jesus and Mary, Chelsea School, Auckland House School for Boys, Auckland House School and RKMV presented insightful research papers and participated in meaningful academic discourse. The symposium encouraged scholarly inquiry, analytical reasoning and the confident exchange of ideas. The event was moderated by Dr. Pankaj K. Singh, former Professor and Chairperson, Department of English, Himachal Pradesh University, while Ms. Satwant Atwal Trivedi, IPS, Director General of Police, Himachal Pradesh, graced the occasion as Special Guest.
The spirit of intellectual exploration continued with Proof of the Matter, a competition centred on evidence-based problem-solving and critical analysis. Students presented well-researched and actionable solutions to contemporary challenges ranging from sustainable development and urban concerns to digital life and human behaviour. Auckland House School for Boys received the Best Actionable Plan Award, while Auckland House School earned the Honourable Mention Award.
Creativity and original thought took centre stage during From Script to Stage, the inter-school drama competition that celebrated the art of original storytelling. Participants transformed self-written scripts into compelling theatrical productions, demonstrating imagination, collaboration and confidence. Pritha Doegar of Auckland House School was honoured with both the Best Actor Award and the Best Script Award for her exceptional performance and writing.
The day also featured Shipwrecked, an innovative speaking competition that challenged participants to portray assigned personalities and convincingly argue why they deserved the last life jacket aboard a sinking ship. The event tested spontaneity, persuasion, creativity and critical thinking. Aaidhan Gowher of Auckland House School for Boys was declared Survivor in Category I (Classes IX-X), while Pritha Doegar of Auckland House School won the title of Survivor in Category II (Classes XI-XII).
The concluding day witnessed an engaging Inter-House Nukkad Natak Competition, where students from Lefroy, French, Durrant and Matthew Houses used the powerful medium of street theatre to address contemporary social themes. The performances were adjudged by noted theatre personalities Rupesh Bhimta and Kedar Thakur, whose insights added depth to the event.
Adding a vibrant cultural dimension to the celebrations was the French Fashion Show, which blended creativity, language learning and presentation skills. The event was judged by Ms. Parul and Ms. Harry from Auckland House School for Boys.
The competition results reflected the enthusiasm and teamwork displayed by the participants. Group 6 secured the First Position, with team members Anjali Pal (VIII-A), Naisha Negi (VIII-A), Samanvita Sharma (VIII-B), Angelica Rana (VIII-A), Mihika Sharma (VIII-C), and Aadiva Thakur (VIII-B). The Second Position was jointly shared by Group 1 and Group 2. Group 1 comprised Aradhya Thakur (VII-A), Namya Sood (VII-A), Arshiya Thapar (VII-A), Agatha Dogra (VII-C), Anahita Lall (VI-C), and Amaya Eva Laspal (VI-B), while Group 2 included Dhanya Verma (VII-C), Yashvi Aggarwal (VII-B), Advita Sharma (VII-C), Shivanya Sood (VI-C), Kshitija Sharma (VI-C), and Idhika Sharma (VII-C).
Throughout the week, Zephyr 2026 provided students with opportunities to research, question, create, perform and express themselves with confidence. The participation of educators, professionals, artists and experts enriched the experience, transforming the festival into a meaningful celebration of learning, innovation and intellectual growth.
As Auckland House School proudly celebrates its remarkable 160-year legacy, Zephyr 2026 stands as a testament to the institution’s enduring commitment to nurturing thoughtful, articulate, creative and socially responsible young individuals equipped to lead in an ever-changing world.
