Navy Chief Admiral Krishna Swaminathan to be Chief Guest at Sanawar Founder’s Day

The Lawrence School, Sanawar, will celebrate its 179th Founder’s Day from October 3 to 5, with Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Krishna Swaminathan attending the concluding ceremony as Chief Guest. The event will culminate in the traditional Founder’s Trooping of the School Flag on October 5.

Admiral Swaminathan, who took charge as the 27th Chief of the Naval Staff on May 31, is scheduled to be present at the final ceremony as part of the school’s annual observances. His participation will coincide with the closing day of the three-day programme, which brings together the school community for one of its most important calendar events.

The celebrations are expected to draw students, faculty members, parents and Old Sanawarians from across the world. Over the three days, the school will host sporting events, cultural activities, exhibitions, assemblies and traditional ceremonies, reflecting the mix of formal and community-based traditions that shape Founder’s Day at Sanawar.

The occasion also highlights the long history of The Lawrence School, Sanawar, which was founded on April 15, 1847, by Sir Henry Lawrence and Lady Honoria Lawrence. The school began with 14 boys and girls living under canvas before its first buildings were constructed. Since then, it has grown into an institution with a long association with education and has produced a significant number of defence officers.

Among its most distinguished alumni is Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, who was awarded the Param Vir Chakra for his actions during the 1971 Indo-Pak War and is remembered for his role in the Battle of Basantar. His name remains closely associated with the school’s legacy and its links with the armed forces.

The 179th Founder’s Day celebrations will conclude on October 5 with the Founder’s Trooping of the School Flag, a traditional event that forms the centrepiece of the observances. Admiral Swaminathan’s presence as Chief Guest will add to the significance of the closing ceremony for students, staff, parents and alumni gathered for the occasion.