Top Honours at inter school debate and critical thinking conclave at Udaipur school

The Golden Jubilee Debates and Critical Thinking Conclave 2024, organised by Maharana Mewar Public School in Udaipur, offered an exceptional platform for students to showcase their intellectual acumen and creativity. Held from 4- 5 October, the event saw participation from top schools across the country. Our School was proudly represented by Deepanshi Moitra (11B), Ashmin Malhotra (11B), and Samiya Khurana (10A)

The conclave featured three prominent competitions: Debate, Creative Writing with Visual Installation, and Shakespearean Duologues. Each competition tested the participants’ abilities at critical thinking, creative presentation, and teamwork. Our team’s impressive skills and dedication earned them well-deserved recognition throughout the event.

The debate was held over multiple rounds. The first phase, the turncoat debate, saw Samiya Khurana as the primary speaker, supported by Deepanshi Moitra in the role of researcher. Their topic, “This House Believes that the South Asian Youth is More Show Than Substance”, demanded nuanced argumentation, and our team delivered a balanced, thoroughly researched performance that drew praise from the judges.

Another highlight was the Extempore Shipwreck round, where Ashmin Malhotra of 11B advocated for Jadav Payeng, the Forest Man of India, as the sole person deserving of a lifeboat in a fictional shipwreck scenario. Her compelling argument and articulate delivery earned her the prestigious Best Extempore Speaker award, underscoring her poise under pressure.

In the Creative Writing with Visual Installation event, Deepanshi Moitra and Ashmin Malhotra, both of 11B joined forces to create a powerful visual piece that blended thoughtful writing with impactful visuals. Their creativity and attention to detail were recognised with the Best Delegation in Written Text award, highlighting the sophistication of their work.

The duo of Samiya Khurana and Deepanshi Moitra also left a lasting impression in the Shakespearean Duologue Theatre event. They delivered a captivating exchange between Juliet ( of Romeo and Juliet) and Indian freedom fighter Durgabai Deshmukh. This creative fusion of literary and historical elements resonated deeply with the audience, demonstrating the team’s range and adaptability.

These events unfolded on Day 1, after which participants enjoyed lunch in the school dining hall. The afternoon offered a cultural retreat, featuring a tour of a local museum and a tranquil boat ride on the enchanting Lake Pichhola. The team witnessed a breathtaking sunset over the lake, followed by dinner at Shikar Badi and a memorable prize-giving ceremony.

Day 2 kicked off with the semi-finals of the debate, followed by a traditional Rajasthani lunch, where the participants enjoyed the local delicacy, daal baati choorma. The grand finale was held at the Khush Mahal in the historic City Palace, where the Block and Tackle debate took place in the presence of Udaipur’s royal family, Maharaj Kumar Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar and Princess Nivritti Kumari Mewar, adding a regal touch to the occasion. The event concluded with a thought-provoking panel discussion led by Mr Parnab Mukherjee, a popular figure at debate and public speaking.

The team departed with fond memories, feeling enriched by a well-organised, intellectually stimulating experience. The Golden Jubilee Debates and Critical Thinking Conclave 2024 not only honed the team's analytical skills but also offered rich cultural exposure and the opportunity to form meaningful connections.