Founder Day Celebration 2023

The 83rd Birth Anniversary of Founder Chairman Late Dr. K. C. G. Verghese was commemorated as Founder’s Day on 20 June 2023. The Management, Officials, staff and students of Hindustan Group of Institutions (HGI) participated in the event. The celebration was held in the presence of Dr. Elizabeth Verghese, Founder Chairperson (HGI) and presided by Dr. Anand Jacob Verghese, Chairman (HGI). The Chief Guest was Mr. M. M. Rajendran, Former Governor of Odisha and Former Chief Secretary of Tamil Nadu.

Dr. Anand Jacob Verghese began his speech by stating that celebrating birthdays marks the passage of time and recognizes the joy that comes from being in the presence of remarkable individuals. He then continued to recollect the founding story of HGI and highlighted how the passion of Dr. K.C.G. Verghese for automobiles and airplanes played a pivotal role in shaping the institution and thereby contributing to the automobile revolution in India. He also mentioned that the Late Founder was a patriot and a nationalist who had understood that only a foundation built on strong basic principles of economics will stand the test of time. Dr. Anand Jacob Verghese also added that the legacy of the Visionary Leader continues to inspire and motivate the entire fraternity of Hindustan to strive for excellence and make a positive impact on society. Then, he recounted the story of Caesar and said that the worth of a good leader manifests even in their absence. This is true of the Late Founder who has left behind not just any position but a legacy through this citadel foundation. He then pointed out that the continued success in his absence is the indicator of how good a leader he has been even after he left us 16 years ago. The Chairman concluded his address by insisting that everyone should carry the legacy of progressive education into the future. He invited the members of HGI to contribute their part in upholding the vision and values instilled by Dr. K.C.G. Verghese.

Mr. M. M. Rajendran, the chief guest, firstly thanked the organizers for inviting him for the Founder’s Day celebration. He pointed out that students play a key role in making an institution successful. He stressed the symbiotic relationship between students and institutions, stating that the youth of today are the future of the country. He encouraged students to fulfil their responsibilities in repaying the investments made by their parents, institution, and the nation. Mr. Rajendran stressed that the objective of education is to prepare the young to continue educating themselves throughout their lives. He then highlighted the need for information and technology to reach the rural areas and the importance for a second Green Revolution to enhance agricultural productivity. The chief guest concluded his speech by quoting Khalil Gibran who said, "The true wealth of a nation lies not in its gold or silver but in its learning, wisdom, and in the uprightness of its sons." He urged everyone to turn Gibran's words into a reality in order to bring prosperity to the nation.

The welcome address was delivered by Dr. S. N. Sridhara, Vice Chancellor, HITS. He said that the seed sown by Dr. K. C. G. Verghese has grown into several educational institutions. He said that the life of the great Visionary Educationist has enlightened the lives of many families. He also recalled his great vision “ To Make Every Man a Success and No Man a Failure.” He expressed that each person must believe in themselves and achieve the best in their lives and careers. Earlier, the Founder’s Day celebration commenced with the opening hymn rendered by Hindustan International School, Padur and prayer offered by Rev. Justin Jose, Student Chaplain HGI followed by bible reading. The dignitaries paid floral tribute which was accompanied by a piano recital by Ms. Chiiuei Jean, Taiwan Education Center, HITS.

Later, excerpts from Late Founder’s autobiography were read by Ms. Bharathi Lakshmi, Principal, HIS Karapakkam. The choir from KCG College of Technology rendered a medley tribute and the students of HIS, Guindy staged a melodrama titled ‘The Exemplar’. The vote of thanks was proposed by Dr. R. W. Alexander Jesudasan, Pro Vice Chancellor, HITS. The event concluded with closing prayer offered by Rev. Zachariah Alexander, Vicar of MTC, Adyar.