Students at Varkala Model Higher Secondary School in Kerala were treated to an extraordinary surprise on Thursday when President Droupadi Murmu’s convoy made an unscheduled halt. On her way to inaugurate the centenary observance of Sree Narayana Guru’s Mahasamadhi at the Sivagiri Mutt, the President spotted the enthusiastic students gathered by the roadside and decided to step out and meet them.
The atmosphere was electric as the children and their teachers, who had gathered hoping for just a glimpse, were overjoyed to receive a warm greeting and a personal interaction with the President. NCC cadets from the school stood at attention, offering a salute as she approached.
A viral video captured the excitement, with one student recounting how he spotted the President in her car just moments before the convoy stopped directly in front of them. President Murmu graciously accepted the marigold flowers cultivated by the students in their school garden, adding a personal touch to the special occasion.
The headmaster shared the profound impact of the moment, stating, “It was an unforgettable moment for us and our students. We never expected the President to step out of her convoy and meet us.” The School Staff Secretary, Liyons, added that the students were thrilled by the five-minute interaction, saying, “We only expected the President to wave from her car. We are thrilled by this experience.”
Earlier, President Murmu had visited the Lord Ayyappa temple in Sabarimala, becoming the first woman head of state to pray at the revered hilltop shrine. Her visit to Kerala also included significant engagements, including a trip to Thiruvananthapuram after her prayers at the Sannidhanam.