On a quiet Saturday (Nov 1) morning, the corridors of Saraswati Higher Secondary School in Satna, Madhya Pradesh, echoed with cheers, chants, and the sound of patriotic songs. The occasion was extraordinary, Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, one of the nation’s most decorated military leaders, had come back to the very classrooms where his journey began as a curious fourth-grade student.
Marking 55 years since his last day at the school, the visit was far more than a nostalgic trip down memory lane. It was a deeply emotional moment of gratitude, a salute to the institution that had shaped his ideals of discipline, courage, and selfless service.
As the Army Chief stepped onto the school grounds, students lined up waving the tricolour, while teachers, alumni, and townspeople gathered to welcome their distinguished guest. The sight of Satna’s most illustrious son walking through familiar pathways brought tears of pride to many eyes.
“Returning to Saraswati Vishnu Mandir is a moment of joy”
General Dwivedi signed the school’s visitor’s book with heartfelt words that captured his emotional connection, “Returning to Saraswati Vishnu Mandir, where I once studied in Class 4, is a moment of humble joy. The values learned here, discipline, respect, curiosity, and ‘Nation First’ have guided my life. I extend heartfelt congratulations to the principal, teachers, and entire staff for shaping minds and hearts.”
His words resonated deeply with everyone present, teachers who had once guided him, and young students who now looked up to him as a living embodiment of the school’s motto.
Speaking to the assembled crowd, General Dwivedi shared memories of his formative years at the school. He recalled that it was within these very classrooms that he learned not only mathematics and grammar but also the art of decision-making, a skill that would prove crucial in his later military career.
“The ability to make clear, timely decisions, something I first learned here in fourth grade helped me achieve success in my military life, especially during Operation Sindoor,” he said.
He also emphasised how the school’s culture of discipline, punctuality, and moral education formed the bedrock of his personality, qualities that became synonymous with his leadership in the Indian Army.
“The moral values and hard work instilled here are the same principles that drive every soldier of the Indian Army,” he added.
General Dwivedi referred to Saraswati Higher Secondary School as a ‘Temple of Knowledge’, calling it not merely a place of education but a space where character and nationhood are built.
“This school has not only taught lessons from textbooks but lessons of life, respect, humility, service, and courage,” he said. “These values are the soul of our civilisation and the spirit of our Army.”
He described how institutions like Saraswati School are essential to India’s “Rashtra Pratham” philosophy, putting the nation above self. His statement drew long applause from teachers and students alike.
Turning to the students who listened with wide eyes and reverence, the Army Chief urged them to dream big but remain rooted in values.
“Dear students, dream big, work hard, stay rooted in your values, and serve India with pride. Whether you wear the uniform or not, every citizen can serve the nation,” he said.
He shared his personal mantra for success the Three-A Principle, which he believes applies to every field of life:
Attitude: Stay positive and courageous.
Adaptability: Learn and evolve with time.
Ability: Strive for excellence in everything you do.
His advice struck a chord with the young audience, many of whom said they were inspired to pursue careers in the armed forces.
For the teachers and staff, General Dwivedi’s visit was a moment of immense pride. The school organised a traditional welcome ceremony, complete with garlands, cultural performances, and a special assembly in his honour. The event turned into a celebration of the school’s legacy from its humble beginnings in Satna to its role in shaping a national hero.
“This institution molded my personality and strengthened my resolve to serve the nation,” the Army Chief said, visibly emotional. “It will always remain the foundation of who I am.”
The principal of Saraswati School, in his address, said, “We are honoured that one of our students has risen to the highest ranks of the Indian Army while upholding the very values we teach, discipline, integrity, and service.”
The visit wasn’t just a personal journey for General Dwivedi, it reignited a sense of purpose within the school community. Students spoke of feeling motivated, while teachers expressed renewed commitment to nurturing future leaders with the same spirit of patriotism and humility that their distinguished alumnus embodied.
As he left the school, the Army Chief’s final gesture summed up the essence of the day he paused near the statue of Goddess Saraswati, folded his hands, and bowed in reverence before departing for the next leg of his visit.
He wrote, “May this temple of knowledge continue to build confident and compassionate leaders for an Atmanirbhar Bharat. Jai Hind.”
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