By: Aarav Sharma, Grade 4 | Posted: March 15, 2025
I still remember my first day at Panini School. I was so nervous that I held my mother’s hand very tightly. The school looked so big, and there were so many children running and playing.
When we reached the gate, a didi with a warm smile came to welcome us. She bent down and said, “Namaste, what is your name?” I whispered, “Aarav.” She held my hand gently and told my mother, “Don’t worry, he will be fine.”
The classroom was so colorful! There were paintings on the walls, books in the corner, and so many toys. But what made me happy was seeing another boy sitting alone. I sat next to him and said, “Hi, I am Aarav.” He smiled. His name is Rohan, and today he is my best friend.
The teacher taught us a Sanskrit shloka. I didn’t understand the words, but the sound was beautiful. We all said together: “ॐ सह नाववतु…”
At lunch time, I was scared again. But Rohan shared his tiffin with me because I forgot mine. The food was yummy – roti and vegetables from the school farm, Rohan told me.
When my mother came to pick me up, I ran to her and said, “Mamma, I love this school!”
Now I am in Grade 4, and I still love coming to Panini every morning. That first day taught me that new things can be scary, but if you are brave, you will find friends and happiness.
Moral: Every journey starts with one small step. ❤️
