Celebrating 76 Years of Independence!

The year 1947 was most eventful. Not only was this the year that India attained Independence, but also the Centenary of the foundation of The Lawrence School, Sanawar. As the year progressed, the School witnessed a hugely diminished student and staff population as after the declaration of India’s independence, most chose to leave for England. It was most evident that the fate of the School hung in a precarious balance.

However, true to the motto of Never Give In, the institution soldiered on under the care and guidance of Mr. Carter, the then Principal. In August 1948 the students and teachers at Sanawar planted trees to mark the first anniversary of the Independence of India. And these were not any random species but the magnificent Himalyan Deodar, known as the Cedrus Deodara. And these noble trees can still be seen in the Independence Garden at Sanawar! Incidentally, the Deodar is the state tree of Himachal Pradesh.

A Night View of the Independence Garden.

The interesting fact is that although Sanawar is Chir, Scientific name Pinus Roxburghii, country, these Deodars have only thrived with the passage of time. The altitude of Sanawar is around 1750 metres. Deodars are usually found at a higher altitude e.g. in the environs of Simla. The tree is most suited to an elevation of around 1800 to 2600 metres. Interestingly, this year the students along with the staff planted 250 deodars during the monsoons.

In a volatile and uncertain world what is certain is that these beautiful deodars will only go from strength to strength and that generations to come will draw sustenance from their therapeutic shade as they dance in the sweet mountain breeze. Do visit, and, if you care to listen to the sussuration of their branches, they will tell you the most wonderful stories!