Narayana Group of Schools Showcases Holistic Excellence with Elite World Records in Thirukkural Recitation and Spellathon

Chennai, October 7, 2024

The Narayana Group of Schools, with a vast network of over 801 branches across India, proudly celebrates 45 years of nurturing young minds and empowering excellence. Since its inception, Narayana has consistently produced top rankers in highly competitive exams like NEET, JEE Mains, and JEE Advanced, with many alumni excelling at esteemed institutions worldwide. Beyond academics, Narayana fosters holistic development through extracurricular and co-curricular activities and takes pride in instilling a deep appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu and India. This approach shapes well-rounded individuals who excel both academically and culturally, preparing them for a brighter future.

Smt. Ponguru Sharani, Director of the Narayana Group of Institutions, announced, “In alignment with our commitment to holistic education, the Narayana Group of Schools in Tamil Nadu proudly hosted the ‘Narayana World Records Festival 2024,’ during which we achieved two remarkable world records. The event showcased the ‘Longest Thirukkural Recitation Marathon by a Team (Multiple Venues)’ and the ‘Most Participants in a Spellathon at Multiple Locations.’ On September 22, 2024, the festival brought together 8,384 students from Pre-Primary I to Grade VIII, representing 19 branches in Chennai and one branch in Madurai. These extraordinary accomplishments received certification from Elite World Records, Asian Records Academy, India Records Academy, and Tamilan Book of Records, marking yet another significant milestone for Narayana.”

Dr. Lakshmi Samyuktha, Academic Head- Chennai, highlighted the Narayana Group of Schools’ achievement in setting a new world record for the “Longest Thirukkural Recitation Marathon by a Team (Multiple Venues).” This initiative, aimed at promoting the values of the Thirukkural, took place across 41 venues in India, celebrating Tamil Nadu’s rich literary heritage.

Initially planned for 42 venues, the event saw active participation from 41, overseen by 54 adjudicators. A total of 7,827 students participated, including 7,231 from Pre-Primary I to Grade V and 596 from Grades VI to VIII, with 36 students with special needs and 41 unwell students joining in. The marathon lasted 353 hours, 50 minutes, and 31 seconds, with a final approved duration of 342 hours, 13 minutes, and 3 seconds after deductions. This milestone underscores the Narayana Group’s commitment to the universal values of the Thirukkural, serving as a tribute to its enduring legacy for future generations, Dr.Samyuktha further stated.

Jyothi Ellar Dharba, Principal of Narayana eTechno School, Madurai, stated, “I am glad that 331 students from our Madurai branch have played a pivotal role in this accomplishment by contributing 8 hours and 13 minutes to the marathon.” Jyothi further detailed that the Thirukkural, a timeless literary masterpiece by Thiruvalluvar, embodies the essence of ethics, love, and governance, serving as a guide to moral living. This initiative not only honors our rich cultural heritage but also highlights the importance of imparting these values to our students, she concluded.

Chandrasekhar Padavala, DGM-Madurai Zone, pointed out that Madurai, known as the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu, has a rich history steeped in literature and philosophy. By engaging our students in this marathon, we aim to instill a deep appreciation for Tamil literature and its teachings, ensuring that the wisdom of the Thirukkural continues to inspire future generations. Chandrasekhar further stated that this achievement reflects our commitment to holistic education, where academics and cultural heritage go hand in hand. We are incredibly proud of our students’ dedication and hard work, which has made this accomplishment possible.

Lau Thein Poh, CEO of Elite World Records, Singapore, shared the outstanding achievement of the Narayana Group of Schools in setting a new world record for the “Most Participants in a Spellathon at Multiple Venues.” The event took place across four venues, with 557 students from Grade I to Grade V showcasing their spelling talents. Participants spelled words dictated by six adjudicators, with each student spelling between 50 to 90 words within a five-minute time limit. The seamless rotation ensured continuous engagement, allowing all participants to stay actively involved. The event also emphasized inclusivity, with five special needs students, including those with Down Syndrome, Dyslexia, and Hyperactivity, taking part. Notably, four students, despite being unwell and hospitalized, demonstrated remarkable perseverance by attending the attempt. While 28 students were absent and two were disqualified, 527 students were officially approved based on their performance.

The Spellathon lasted 36 hours, 13 minutes, and 29 seconds, providing ample time for participants to excel. This event underscored both the students’ impressive spelling skills and Narayana’s commitment to holistic education, fostering life skills alongside academic excellence, he further appreciated.

Following the successful completion of these record attempts, a grand citation ceremony was held for all branches including Madurai. During the event held at Madurai, Jyothi Ellar Dharba, Principal, and Chandrasekhar Padavala, DGM-Madurai Zone, presented the Elite World Records and Tamilan Book of Records citations to all the students in recognition of their outstanding accomplishment.  The commitment of both students and staff made the event truly memorable and impactful. The Narayana Group of Schools not only celebrates academic excellence but also honours cultural heritage, inspiring future generations through a holistic and inclusive approach to education.