BAGLESS DAY AND ANANDAYI SHANIVAR (JOYFUL SATURDAY) 2025 : IN THE CONTEXT OF NEP 2020

BAGLESS DAY AND ANANDAYI SHANIVAR (JOYFUL SATURDAY) 2025 : IN THE CONTEXT OF NEP 2020

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 is a transformative vision for education in India. It emphasizes holistic, enjoyable, and stress-free learning experiences, aiming to reduce rote learning and foster creativity, critical thinking, and experiential learning. In this context, initiatives like Bagless Day and Anandayi Shanivar (Joyful Saturday) are innovative steps towards making learning more engaging and meaningful.

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Bagless Day: Reimagining Learning Spaces

Bagless Day is an initiative where students attend school without their traditional school bags. Instead of regular classroom activities, they participate in hands-on learning experiences, including vocational training, creative arts, storytelling, science experiments, outdoor games, and interaction with local artisans or professionals. This concept aligns directly with NEP 2020’s recommendation to integrate vocational education from Grade 6 onwards.

Key Objectives:

Reduce academic stress and pressure on students.
Promote experiential and practical learning.
Encourage interdisciplinary and holistic development.
Help students explore new skills and interests.

According to NEP 2020, at least 10 days a year should be dedicated to bagless days for students in Grades 6 to 8. During these days, students engage in activities such as gardening, carpentry, pottery, music, art, and community service. This not only develops life skills but also helps bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world applications.

Anandayi Shanivar (Joyful Saturday): Bringing Joy into Education

Anandayi Shanivar is another initiative inspired by the NEP 2020’s push for play-based and joyful learning. Typically observed on Saturdays, these sessions are designed to break away from the monotony of the traditional classroom structure. The focus is on games, cultural programs, talent shows, quizzes, group projects, and peer learning.

These Saturdays aim to:

Foster collaboration and creativity among students.
Build stronger teacher-student and peer relationships.
Develop communication, leadership, and social skills.
Make the school environment more inclusive and supportive.

The activities are not strictly academic but contribute to the overall development of children, nurturing emotional intelligence, curiosity, and a love for learning — all core pillars of the NEP 2020 vision.

Implementation in 2025: A Step Forward

In 2025, many schools across India, especially under the guidance of state education boards and local authorities, are celebrating Bagless Days and Anandayi Shanivar regularly. Teachers are being trained to plan these days effectively, ensuring a balance between learning and fun. Feedback from students, parents, and educators shows increased engagement, improved student attendance, and better emotional well-being.

Conclusion

Bagless Day and Anandayi Shanivar are not just events; they represent a paradigm shift in Indian education. Rooted in the progressive ideals of NEP 2020, these initiatives redefine learning as a joyful, inclusive, and enriching experience. By prioritizing skills, creativity, and holistic growth, they prepare students not just for exams, but for life. As 2025 unfolds, such initiatives continue to inspire educators and transform the educational landscape of India.

The year 2025 marks a significant step forward in Indian education as schools across the country embrace the spirit of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 through two joyful initiatives: Bag Less Day and Anandayi Shanivar (Joyful Saturday). These programs are transforming traditional schooling by encouraging creativity, hands-on learning, and emotional well-being.

What is Bag Less Day?

Bag Less Day is an innovative approach where students attend school without carrying their regular books and bags. Instead of following the usual timetable, students engage in various fun and skill-based activities such as:

Art and craft
Storytelling and drama
Science experiments
Nature walks and gardening
Vocational training like pottery, carpentry, or weaving

The purpose is to reduce academic pressure, promote experiential learning, and help students explore their hidden talents and interests. NEP 2020 recommends that students from Grade 6 onwards should get exposure to vocational education and real-life skills, and Bag Less Days are a perfect way to implement this idea.

These days give children a break from textbooks and encourage them to learn by doing, observing, and collaborating. Teachers act as facilitators rather than lecturers, and the classroom becomes a space for curiosity and exploration.

What is Anandayi Shanivar (Joyful Saturday)?

Anandayi Shanivar is another creative idea that makes Saturdays special and exciting. Instead of routine classes, students participate in:

Cultural programs and talent shows
Group games and sports
Quiz competitions and debates
Music, dance, and theatre
Peer learning and storytelling

These activities make learning joyful, playful, and emotionally enriching. They help students build confidence, teamwork, leadership skills, and a deeper connection with their peers and teachers.

NEP 2020 encourages stress-free and play-based learning, especially in early and middle childhood. Anandayi Shanivar supports this by providing time for relaxation, self-expression, and creativity within the school environment.

Why It Matters in 2025

In 2025, with schools increasingly adopting NEP 2020 guidelines, Bag Less Day and Anandayi Shanivar are no longer occasional events — they are becoming regular parts of school culture. Teachers are receiving training in experiential teaching methods, and schools are creating weekly or monthly schedules to include these joyful learning days.

These initiatives are helping students:

Stay motivated and excited about school
Improve their mental health and reduce anxiety
Discover their unique talents and interests
Strengthen social and emotional skills

Parents and educators are also reporting better attendance, improved student behavior, and a more vibrant learning environment.

Conclusion

Bag Less Day and Anandayi Shanivar 2025 are more than just breaks from academics — they represent a joyful transformation in how children experience school. Rooted in the values of NEP 2020, these initiatives show that learning can be fun, meaningful, and full of discovery. As more schools join this movement, education in India is moving closer to becoming student-centered, creative, and truly holistic.