On July 29, 2026, students and parents gathered at the Jing Si Hall in Lumbini, Nepal, to celebrate Teacher's Day, known locally as Guru Purnima. Through traditional Sanskrit chants, sign language performances, and a reverent tea ceremony, children expressed deep gratitude to their educators. The event provided an opportunity for families to pause and reflect on the vital role teachers play in shaping the next generation, blending cultural traditions to foster mutual respect.

Reviving traditions of respect

The celebration began with eleven students performing a Sanskrit song that honors teachers as creators, protectors, and transformers of knowledge. Following the musical tribute, children carefully guided their parents, who carried trays of warm tea, to the stage. Kneeling before their educators, the students respectfully offered the tea, wishing them health, peace, and happiness.

Kindergarteners approached their teachers with handmade potted plants, earning warm smiles and embraces in return. The children also gathered around a tree inside the hall, hanging hand-drawn heart-shaped cards filled with personal messages of thanks.

Bridging generations through participation

The event encouraged active participation from families, bringing parents and children closer together. Eighteen pairs of parents and students stood on stage to perform a sign language song, filling the room with a gentle warmth. For many parents, witnessing their children embrace these traditional values was a moving experience.

Deepak Chhetri, a father who volunteers daily at the school, practiced sign language with his son Depanker Chhetri for their joint performance.

I am very happy that Lumbini has a Buddhist Tzu Chi school. I no longer have to send my son on a 20-kilometer journey to Bhairahawa for school. He is doing well, and honestly, every child here is learning effectively. Our performance today wasn't perfect, but it was our first time collaborating, and we will only get better.— Deepak Chhetri, Parent Volunteer

Deepak noted that traditional values of respect are slowly fading in Nepal, and he was grateful to see these customs reintroduced in such a caring environment.

Binita KC, another parent assisting with the ceremony, echoed this sentiment. She observed that children today are often distracted by digital devices, making the display of respect during the tea ceremony particularly striking.

Our generation has almost stopped honoring teachers, and children might forget their cultural traditions. But today's event showed me love, care, and respect. My son Kriyansh KC was a bit nervous giving his speech on stage, but he did well, and I am very proud.— Binita KC, Parent

Empowering students to lead

The students themselves took on significant responsibilities during the event, showcasing their growing confidence. Second-grader Kabya Subedi Nepali served as the emcee, guiding the audience through the day's program.

I am grateful to my teachers for lovingly guiding us through educational games. We also have a library, delicious lunches, and our class walks in a line by height. Happy Teacher's Day. Thank you, teachers. I love you.— Kabya Subedi Nepali, Second-Grade Student

Her classmate, Shreya Barai, also found joy in the day's activities.

My previous school never held a Teacher's Day event. I am very happy to perform sign language and a play today. I am grateful to our teachers for teaching and loving us.— Shreya Barai, Second-Grade Student

Fostering a nurturing environment

School Principal Kriti Singh Khati observed that the event beautifully blended local Guru Purnima traditions—which honor the givers of knowledge—with the school's unique approach to character building. She found the eye contact and connection between students and teachers during the tea offering to be deeply moving.

I thought the students might be too young for a formal event, but they were full of confidence and worked hard on their performances. Watching the kindergarteners follow instructions, present flowers, and show their love brought us so much joy. It makes me proud to be a teacher and reassures me that we are on the right path.— Kriti Singh Khati, Principal

Kriti acknowledged the challenges in the region, including varying educational standards and language barriers, with students speaking a mix of Hindi and Nepali. Yet, she has seen noticeable changes in the students' behavior and sense of responsibility in just three months.

The event concluded with remarks from Sio, a Tzu Chi volunteer who emphasized the importance of inspiring both gratitude in students and a strong sense of purpose in educators. Located near the Maya Devi Temple, the school aims to provide an environment where children learn practical life skills, respect for others, and a foundation for a bright future.

Written by Jennifer Pai (白如璐)