The Hyderabad Public School, Begumpet Celebrates 80th Independence Day with the Inauguration of its Science Theme Park

The Hyderabad Public School, Begumpet, celebrated India’s 80th Independence Day on 15th August 2026 at the Bradknock Theatre with a morning that brought together patriotic remembrance, scientific curiosity, and a forward-looking vision for the nation. The occasion was marked by the inauguration of the school’s new Science Theme Park, a state-of-the-art addition to the campus that reinforces HPS Begumpet’s commitment to hands-on learning and meaningful educational experiences.

The ceremony began with the arrival of the Chief Guest, Professor Dorairajan Balasubramanian, Director of Research at the Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, L V Prasad Eye Institute, and former President of the Indian Academy of Sciences. A Padma Shri awardee and recipient of the French National Order of Merit, Professor Balasubramanian, fondly known as Professor Balu, has devoted his career to biophysical chemistry, ocular biochemistry, and vision research. He was received by the Principal, Dr. Skand Bali for the ceremonial inspection of the school’s NCC cadets.

Dr. Skand Bali then hoisted the National Flag, followed by the National Anthem and a ceremonial salute to the Tricolour by the Senior Division Cadets of the 1 (Telangana) Artillery Battery, NCC, presented with precision and discipline in honour of the nation’s sovereignty and unity.

A New Space for Curiosity

The highlight of the celebration was the inauguration of the Science Theme Park, envisioned as a vibrant, hands-on learning environment where students can experience science beyond the classroom. The park brings together Physics, Mathematics, Biology, Space Science, and Engineering through around 50 interactive exhibits and working models, transforming the campus into a space where scientific concepts can be explored, questioned, and experienced.

The exhibits introduce students to a wide range of concepts in engaging and accessible ways. Principles of force, motion, balance, friction, inertia, levers, energy, and action and reaction come alive through interactive Physics models. Mathematics becomes tangible through exhibits exploring geometry, patterns, measurement, logical reasoning, and mathematical relationships. Students can also explore the fascinating world of light, sound, colour, and perception, while exhibits such as the Vortex, Rain Gauge, Humidity Meter, Sun Dial, and Solar Powered Radio connect scientific learning with natural phenomena and renewable energy.

Engineering concepts are explored through working models such as the Archimedes Screw, Gear-Belt-Chain Drive, Lift Yourself, Arch Bridge, and Volume Tank. A three-dimensional DNA model introduces students to Biology, while the PSLV and GSLV models connect concepts of propulsion, thrust, gravity, payloads, and multistage rockets with India’s remarkable journey in space exploration.

Complementing the outdoor park is a specially curated collection of nearly 17 indoor scientific exhibits, offering students opportunities to explore phenomena such as the Tyndall Effect, Total Internal Reflection, Curie Point, electromagnetic induction, electrical discharge, the working of LEDs, and Brownian Movement through closer observation and demonstration.

The park was inaugurated and appreciated by Professor Balasubramanian, who encouraged students to nurture scientific curiosity and perseverance. Vice Principal Mrs. Amritha Chandra Raju spoke about the vision behind the space, describing it as an investment in the intellectual growth of young minds and in the future scientists, engineers, doctors, artists, and changemakers of the nation. She also expressed gratitude to alumni donors- Annapoorna Akkineni, Aditya Akkineni, and Rohit Vemulapalli, whose generosity made the Science Theme Park possible.

More than a collection of exhibits, the Science Theme Park is intended to cultivate curiosity and scientific temper. Its learning journey follows a simple but powerful cycle: Observe → Question → Predict → Explore → Discover → Explain. In doing so, it encourages students to seek evidence, test ideas, and develop their understanding through exploration.

Shaheen Takes Flight

The morning also marked the release of the school’s annual magazine, Shaheen. Principal Dr. Skand Bali, Vice Principal Mrs. Amritha Chandra Raju, Heads of School, and members of the Student Editorial Team were joined on stage by Grade 5 students with a perfect attendance record for the release.

Ms. Naveena of the Editorial Team spoke about the journey behind this year’s edition, describing the magazine as a keepsake of the school’s shared story—a record of the questions, ideas, and dreams of its young learners. Dr. Skand Bali then addressed the gathering, sharing his vision for the school and for the nation its students will help build.

Naya Bharat

The Independence Day celebrations concluded on a triumphant note with ‘Naya Bharat’, a theatrical production that brought together drama, live music, dance, and tableaux to reflect on India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047.

Conceptualised as a meeting point between the past and the present, Naya Bharat took the audience on a unique journey through India’s story. Inspired by the musical pieces “Jab Zero Diya Mere Bharat Ne” and “Beete Kal Se Humko Seekhte Jaana Hai,” the production followed four students who, reluctantly visiting a museum during their holiday, found themselves transported into a world where history came alive.

Guided by the enigmatic curator, Mr. Matrix, the young protagonists encountered figures from India’s past alongside contemporary achievers from the worlds of technology, agritech, sports, and space. The familiar theatrical format, inspired by the students’ much-loved drama activity Night Watchman, created an engaging bridge between India’s heritage and the aspirations of its young generation.

The production moved seamlessly between history, music, movement, and storytelling, celebrating India’s achievements while looking ahead to the possibilities of tomorrow. Rather than ending with a conventional message, Naya Bharat left the audience with a question that placed the responsibility for the country’s future firmly in the hands of its youth: “How will you write the next chapter?”

Woven through the presentation was a message of unity in diversity, reminding us that India’s many languages, cultures, and dreams come together to form one shared identity.

The morning concluded with a Vote of Thanks proposed by Head Girl Kyra Joanne Amith, followed by the National Anthem.

The celebration at HPS Begumpet brought together the spirit of independence, the richness of India’s heritage, and a vision for its future—aptly reflected in a day where remembrance, creativity, culture, and scientific curiosity came together on one campus.

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