Old friends Painting by Dorothy Riley

Bookends Theme | A Song that says it all.

Posted by on in Kazhak Chronicles

I have often wondered, if there was to be one song that captured the essence of friendship, and the deep sense of fondness, affection and respect, what would it sound like? And my mind would always play back Simon & Garfunkel’s ” Old Friends/ Bookends Theme ” from their BOOKENDS album. It becomes all the more poignant with the musicians themselves, Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel, sharing a rare, fulfilling and unique relationship that started way back in 1957, and been around ever since.

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Basketball courts at Sainik School Kazhakootam

What does Sainik School mean to a Kazhak?

Posted by on in Kazhak Chronicles, The Young Kazhaks

It has not been an easy journey so far, and as much as I have put up with my disability, I have been nurtured and protected by a circle of love that is a direct offshoot of the relationships that were cast in iron during my years at Sainik School. My classmates rallied around me, taking their time out from their own busy lives to support me as I tried to live my life on my own terms. They have contributed, not in small measure, for my expensive treatments and funding an electric wheelchair which would help me at work and make my task easier. Considering my penchant for travel and being mobile as much possible, their sensitive gesture has gone a great way in enabling me to remain productive and relevant.

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In the Beginning was the Sainik School Entrance Test.

In the Beginning was the Sainik School Entrance Test.

Posted by on in Kazhak Chronicles

That intimation from the school in the capital, must have come on a day, as ordinary and yet filled with the excitement of the growing years. It must have been brought to your attention by your father or mother, as you came in, muddy and disheveled after an evening’s worth of game in your neighborhood playground. He would have probably called you to the living room, and with equal parts of pride and paternal seriousness in his voice, would have matter-of-factly told you that you have got through the Nation wide entrance test to Sainik Schools, and that you should be joining there.

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