RYLA 2025

Day 2-A Journey Through Heritage, Learning, and Lasting Friendships

The second day of the RYLA Camp was packed with enlightening sessions, engaging activities, and an enriching outside visit, leaving participants with valuable knowledge and experiences.

Mr. Seetharaman delivered an enlightening session on temple archaeology, focusing on the architectural brilliance of the Chola Dynasty. He offered rich historical insights into the heritage and artistic achievements of the Chola dynasty, emphasizing their lasting impact on temple architecture. The session explored iconic Chola temples, highlighting their intricate carvings, structural innovations, and symbolic representations. Additionally, Mr. Seetharaman emphasized the cultural significance of these temples as centers of art, religion, and community life. His engaging narrative provided participants with a deeper understanding of the grandeur and historical importance of Chola temple architecture, leaving them inspired by India's rich cultural legacy.

Padma Shri Radhakrishna Sthapati, a distinguished master sculptor, conducted an enlightening session on the traditional art of sculpture making, offering participants valuable insights into this ancient craft. He traced the origins of sculpture and its significance in Indian temple architecture, highlighting the deep cultural and spiritual meanings embodied in sculptures. The session explored traditional techniques, tools, and materials used in creating intricate sculptures, providing a deeper understanding of the craftsmanship involved. Mr. Radhakrishna Sthapati's live demonstrations captivated the audience, offering a rare glimpse into the meticulous artistry of sculpting. Overall, the session was both educational and inspiring, fostering a profound appreciation for the rich tradition of Indian sculpture-making.

Mr. Ramesh Venkat, Vice President of SPL Logistics, delivered an inspiring address on the critical importance of communication skills for success in both personal and professional spheres. He emphasized that effective communication is the key to thriving in todays fast-paced, interconnected world. Mr. Ramesh Venkat highlighted how strong communication skills can strengthen professional relationships, convey ideas clearly, solve problems efficiently, and build confidence.Encouraging the audience to actively work on improving their communication abilities, he suggested practical steps such as reading extensively, participating in discussions, and seeking constructive feedback. His engaging talk concluded with a motivating message: "Mastering communication opens doors to unlimited opportunities, so never stop investing in your ability to connect with others." The session left the audience inspired and motivated to enhance their communication skills, paving the way for greater success in the future.

Mr.PanneerSelvan, a second-generation agriculturist, conducted an insightful session on "Sustainable Eating Habits" at the RYLA Camp, emphasizing the crucial link between healthy eating and sustainable farming practices. He highlighted the importance of consuming seasonal, locally grown produce to support personal health and reduce environmental impact. Mr. Paneer Selvan shared practical tips on mindful eating, minimizing food waste, and opting for organic produce whenever possible. Drawing from his extensive experience in agriculture, he explained how traditional farming methods promote soil health, biodiversity, and long-term food security.The session sparked engaging discussions about the future of farming and the role individuals can play in supporting sustainable practices through conscious food choices. It concluded with a Q&A session, where Mr. Paneer Selvan addressed questions on sustainable farming techniques and the effects of modern agricultural practices. The session proved to be a wake-up call for many, inspiring participants to reflect on how simple dietary choices can contribute to a healthier life and a more sustainable planet.

Mr.Harikrishnan conducted an engaging and interactive session on neuroscience at the RYLA Camp, focusing on how different senses influence brain activity. The session included fun, hands-on activities designed for children of various age groups, demonstrating how the brain processes sensory information. Through experiments involving sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell, Mr. Harikrishnan led activities such as identifying objects by touch, sound recognition challenges, and a taste-test game that showcased how perception can be easily tricked.The children eagerly participated, gaining a deeper understanding of how their brains process sensory input and shape their perception of the world. By simplifying complex neuroscience concepts, Mr. Harikrishnan made the subject accessible and fascinating for all age groups. The session was both educational and entertaining, sparking curiosity in young minds and leaving them with a greater appreciation for the wonders of neuroscience.

An inspiring story telling session conducted by Major Rajan and Dr.NeenaGayatri highlighted the transformative power of stories, featuring two remarkable storytellers, Mr.Mathiazhagan and Mr. Shankar, who brought stories to life through engaging enactments. One of the key highlights was their captivating performance of a story with a strong environmental message, urging participants to avoid plastics to protect animals and the ecosystem. Their vivid storytelling, enriched with expressive actions and powerful dialogues, left a lasting impression on the audience. The session emphasized how storytelling can be a powerful medium for imparting values and inspiring change, concluding with an insightful discussion on its role in education and awareness. Participants left with not only a memorable experience but also a renewed sense of responsibility toward environmental preservation.

Rtn. Seshasai, the District RYLA Chairman, conducted an insightful session on empathy, inclusiveness, and the power of diplomacy, emphasizing the importance of understanding diverse perspectives and fostering meaningful connections in both personal and professional settings. Through real-life examples, he illustrated how empathy can break barriers and create inclusive environments, while highlighting diplomacys role in resolving conflicts and building consensus. The session encouraged participants to reflect on their ability to empathize and adapt in various social contexts, offering interactive discussions and thought-provoking activities that left attendees empowered to embrace diversity and strengthen interpersonal relationships. It was a valuable learning experience that inspired participants to practice empathy and inclusiveness in their daily lives.

The outside visit was another highlight, taking participants to the Sastra University Museum for scientific and historical exhibits, the majestic Iravatheeswara Temple for cultural immersion, and Swamimalai to witness traditional bronze sculpture-making. A reflective stop at Indeco Hotels reinforced sustainability principles, rounding off a day of learning and exploration. The evening culminated in a vibrant Campfire Night, where participants bonded over stories, songs, and laughter under the stars, strengthening friendships and creating lasting memories. This immersive second day of the RYLA Camp truly encapsulated the spirit of learning, creativity, and camaraderie.

Day 3-Republic Day and RYLA Valediction: A Celebration of Unity and Growth

The final day of the RYLA Camp began with the Republic Day celebrations at Dr.G.S.KalyanasundaramMemorial School, where RYLARIANS had the honor of witnessing a patriotic event filled with vibrant performances and inspiring speeches. The celebration emphasized the values of unity and national pride, creating a deeply moving experience for all participants. The performances showcased the rich cultural heritage of India, while the speeches reinforced the significance of responsibility and leadership in shaping the nations future. The atmosphere was charged with enthusiasm and a strong sense of patriotism, making it a meaningful start to the concluding day of the camp.The atmosphere was filled with joy, reflection, and a sense of fulfillment. Participants shared how the camp had been an enriching experience, fostering personal growth, leadership skills, and meaningful connections.The RYLA journey concluded on a memorable note, leaving a lasting impact on everyone involved, filled with inspiration and lifelong memories.