Kendriya Vidyalaya School: Home is never too far away

In the heart of Moscow, amid the bustle of city life, stands the Indian Embassy School, Kendriya Vidyalaya. Since its founding in 1987, this institution has become more than just an educational center, but a living embodiment of India, a bridge between the great civilizations of Russia and India, and a comfortable environment for the children of diplomats, businessmen, and Indian compatriots who find themselves thousands of kilometers from their homeland.

The School at the Indian Embassy in Moscow was founded during the heyday of Indo-Soviet relations, but subsequent events led to the collapse of the Soviet Union and brought turbulent changes. Nevertheless, Kendriya Vidyalaya remained a constant presence in the heart of the world’s largest country.

This educational institution, founded as a small institution, has grown significantly over the years and now enrolls approximately 270 students in grades one through twelve, offering courses in Science and Commerce. The school is affiliated with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), New Delhi, and follows the curriculum of the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT), New Delhi, India. This allows students wishing to continue their education in India to easily adapt to the educational environment in their home country.

Shanti Kushwaha, a student from the first cohort of the Indian Embassy School, recalls her studies, giving a clear picture of how the school began its mission to educate children of Indian descent. Shanti arrived at the school with little knowledge of English or Hindi, as her Indo-Russian family spoke Russian; however, her classmates and teachers were kind and supportive and helped her feel comfortable.

She fondly remembers all the school events, including the annual school day, Teacher’s Day; a sense of belonging to the Indian people is fostered through regular practices such as morning prayers at assembly, celebrating Independence Day, Diwali, and Holi, observing national customs, using the Devanagari script, and more. Such daily contact with the culture of one’s homeland is vital for a child growing up abroad, as they grow and develop. This approach helps maintain a strong connection to the principles, traditions, and culture of their home country while living in Russia.

Thanks to the school, parents of Indian origin can be confident that their children are learning the culture and traditions of their country.

Every year, when students, parents, and teachers come together to celebrate School Day, it becomes clear that the School at the Embassy of India is more than just a place of learning; it is a family united by bonds of friendship, love, and a shared passion for knowledge. The school also serves as a starting point for integrating new Indian families into the local community. At the same time, the true spirit of India blends beautifully with Moscow’s beauty.

Kendriya Vidyalaya in Moscow is a place where the younger generation acquires valuable knowledge and important life experience in a unique socio-cultural environment, where the tricolor proudly flies and Indian values are instilled. This ensures that home never feels too far away for Indian children living in Moscow, and the school serves as a symbol of friendship and cooperation between Russia and India.

Thus, Kendriya Vidyalaya represents a miniature India, where the future is carefully nurtured not far from the Kremlin walls.