Alumni

I enrolled in 1984 as a student at Sheth C. N. College of Fine Arts. I still remember the amazing feeling about the campus’s environment from my first day. C. N. environment helped me find myself and figure out the path I wanted to be on. The staff and classmates were amazing people with whom I built lifelong friendships. C. N. Environment supported me as my parent in my most difficult times. I always felt that some divine energy is surrounding me when I am on the campus. I still remember each and every place that filled me with positive thoughts during my study at the College. It was my home away from home. Even today, after 38 years I have the same feelings for C. N. environment which was my institute, home, friend, philosopher, guide, parent, nature and a source of divine energy. I am proud to be a student of C. N. Vidyavihar. I consider myself very lucky for also having the opportunity to work at C. N. as the Director of Sheth C. N. Computer Centre since last 19 years.

I studied at Sheth C. N. Vidyalaya from 5^th to 12^th Standard. I passed out from 12^th Standard in the year 1993. CN gave me the best competitive environment for my studies. During our time it had the best of students and teachers. The major advantage of studying in CN was that I was exposed to various extra- curricular activities like sports, carpentry, drawing, music, drama etc. from an early age. I now realize that CN had the system to bring out the best in any student in his/her chosen field. It has given me a great education, cultural values and life-long friends. CN has shaped my life and contributed immensely in making me what I am today!

Rutvij Shah,
practicing Chartered Accountant, 7^th rank in Gujarat and 3^rd rank in Ahmedabad, Gujarat Higher Secondary Board Examination, 1993.

Thinking about school days is an energy booster for me; it invariably reminds me of the encouragement I received from my teachers, especially Shri Zinabhai Desai, then school Principal. I was inspired to learn new things - be it elocution, garba or solving issues democratically as a mahamantri in panchayat. Their unconditional support even when I made mistakes made me a very self-confident person. Listening to Shri Zinabhai or the guests in Prarthana Mandir, inculcated many life-long values in me. Looking back, I realize that these experiences built many beliefs like we must nurture our talents and contribute wholeheartedly to the society, which I have sublimated by becoming a Human Resource Professional. I am indebted to all my mentors.

Beena Handa,
Founder, Poiesis Achievement Foundation, Alumnus-1967-68,Mahamantri-1966-67

Securing admission in Sheth C. N. Vyayam Vidyabhavan in 1993 was god’s send for me – keenly interested in Sports that I was. The Diploma in Physical Education Programme  at C. N. moulded me physically, mentally and emotionally . Initially, I found the whole regimen very tough and there were times when I thought of going back and retreat to helping my father’s farming activity. Soon, I was appointed the group leader of one of the four groups; the leadership skills helped me become the youngest sarpanch of my village in 1995-96 at the age of 27 years. Today, as a Physical Education teacher at Bal Vidyalaya I am able to give to my students the genuine affection and quality skills that I acquired here.

Sukhdevsinh Vaghla,
Physical Education instructor, C. N. Bal Vidyalaya

As regards to CN, I consider myself fortunate for having attended this great institution  which helped me in reaching my highest potential.  I came to Chhatralaya in 1947  as an ordinary student from a lower middle class family, and  left the Vidyalaya in 1954 as a ‘so called’ scholar with the highest achievement at the SSCE Board both for me as well as for  CN Vidyalaya (I am told this record is still unbroken).  All credit for my academic accomplishment and the subsequent successful career goes to my alma Matter  Vidyavihar – a real Cultural Mother. 

More important contribution of CN in my life was character building.  Vidyavihar’s Gandhian spirit coupled with Sneharashmi’s cultural leadership impressed upon me the civic responsibly - ‘how to be a good citizen’ which I still cherish. The inspiring lives of Shri Chimanbhai Sheth, Manek Baa and Indumatiben  – filled with generosity,  humility and caring,  taught me that ‘ extending your hand to the needy is not a charity but your social duty’.

As CN met the educational and cultural needs of the 20^th century,  I hope and pray that  both Chhatralaya and Vidyalaya will dynamically transform into an institution which meets the need of the 21^st century by producing  world citizens, global entrepreneurs and leaders striving for world peace.  The inauguration of the CN Vidyavihar web site is one more step in that direction.  I wish best of success in Vidyavihar’s effort harnessing the ever advancing technology.

Shri Arvind Shah

I, Dr. Gaurang Chokshi  (M.s.) orthopedic., am a proud student of Sheth C. N. high school.  I  studied there from  1965 to 1971 and completed my total high school education. I have never forgotten my school days. I believe that what I am Today is only because of my school.  The C.N. school has taught me not only the Board  Courses but the culture of being honest and dedicated towards  the country and the people. I believe that c.n. teach strong athics which all students carry their entire life. I have 20 Bed Private orthopedic Hospital running Satisfactorily. I am  servicing  needy patients at a reasonable  cost. I love to serve all my teachers whenever I get the chance. I like the school  so much that I made both my kids Aakruti & Aakar study there. I am attaching the photo. Here is what I painted in 8th standard under the guidance of my painting teacher. Long live the great C. N. school!

Gaurang Chokshi 

I can proudly say that I am born and brought up in C. N. Vidyavihar because I did my schooling here and also began my professional at C. N. Vidyavihar. I am connected with the institution since 1992. It is proven that maximum growth of a human being happens during the years spent at school - both the mental and physical development is dependent on the atmosphere of school. During school, I had absolute freedom to choose activities of my liking and freedom to share innovative ideas. I can say for sure that it is only because of this school, I was able to convert my interest in music to a full-time occupation.

Rujul Shah,
music teacher Bal Vidyalaya

As lotus stands out among a bunch of flowers, a students of C. N. Vidyavihar stands out among other students. ‘A journey on the path of Vidya’ is the identity of a CNite. Education, harmony, character building and key to a happy life – these are the ingredients of a successful C. N. studnts. I am proud of what I have received.

Kusumben Arunbhai Shah (1952 batch)

CN Vidyalaya is not only an alma mater, but a nurturing and training ground for me to become a noble, successful, confident, and compassionate woman/ professional that I am.

It has been a mother, a family, an educational institute for me. Especially Zinadada and other teachers have played the role of a loving guru and a guide – I could never have done without their invaluable mentorship.

In addition, I can't emphasize enough the significance of all the extra-curricular and Prarthna Mandir activities in building my dynamic, all-rounded personality.

I am proud to be a CNite and to be able to train thousands of my countrymen in the field of English & Public Speaking in my institute located in Ahmedabad, India. 

Salam, CN Vidyalaya!

Dipti A. Shah -1967 Batch

C.N., My Second Mother

CN is like my second mother and I am sure most of the alumni of CN will have similar feelings about CN and will agree with me. 

Just like everyone’s mother, my mother nurtured me physically, emotionally and intellectually by teaching me things which are important in life  - values, hard work, truthfulness, open mindedness, empathy, sharing, basic languages and maths and so on.

CN  consolidated all those things and taught me so many new things - History, Geography, Civics, Physics, Chemistry, Maths, Languages, Sports, Music and so on.

My mother gave me 4 siblings who have been and are close to my heart for the last 70 years , CN gave me tens of friends who are close to my heart for the last 60 years since I met them in 1960 and beyond.

Every time I hear or sing અમેનમીએતનેચીરસાથીI get goose bumps just like thinking about my mother brings back beautiful memories and great feelings.

I am sure CN will prosper and will continue to make life changing contributions in the lives of hundreds of students for years to come.

Pratik Munshi- 1967 Batch

The Name of CN evokes very nostalgic emotions in me. The vast playground, greenery is unbeatable that too in the middle of the city! My fondest memories are of the Prarthna Mandir where we used to assemble after one period. It was a special place where we used to sing various Prarthanas and listen to the Principal Shree Jhinabhai Desai and Head master Shree Dalal saheb. Many time we got the privilege of listening to different celebrities, among them were Shakuntaladevi, Dr Jayant Narlikar, Shri Yashwant Shukla, Shri Umashankar Joshi, Shri Hitendrabhai, the then Chief Minister and many more. CN has imbibed great value system of Truthfulness, simple living and high thinking.

After so many years, I still have many close friends from school days. There is a special bond which binds us all together. “Ame Namie tane chirsathi, Sathi Vidyavihar”.I was in CN vidyavihar from 8th grade to 11th grade i.e. from 1961- 65. I passed 11th grade in 1965.

Then I did electronics Engineering from BITS,Pilani, first Gujarati girl to have done engineering from BITS, Pilani. My base been made strong by CN and on it a tree has blossomed.

 Smriti Dagur (nee Desai) 1965 batch 

While I was in 10th standard in our C N Vidyalaya in 1966, one of the most popular teachers, Willieben Dewan on one auspicious moment declared in our B classroom: “I’m very glad to announce that to my student, Nandan Shastri, I’ve given 7.5 marks out of 10 in English essay competition. Students, after a gap of 7 years, I have given to a student these many marks! Congrats, Nandan, I’m proud of you!”

Her encouragement was a motivational factor in my future career. Even at the California Academy of Sciences, San Francisco (in 2009) and in the Lawrence Hall of Science, University of California, Berkeley, USA ( 2011 thru’ 2020), while teaching the topics: Earthquake &Tsuanami to the school children, my communication skill in English was well appreciated by the pupils. I give credit for giving me inspiration to my very favourite teacher, respected Willieben.

Nandan Shastri-1967 Batch

C N Vidyavihar has transformed and enriched the lives of many of her students. The Teachers instilled the values of service and sacrifice by their own life examples. The students learned not only to excel academically but also learned to become a good compassionate human being. The Prarthna Mandir, the heart of our school, introduced us to literature, to social awareness and to the historical identity of our nation. I can truthfully state that the ideals and moral values I learned at C N have made me the person that I am today.

My journey from C N took me to IIT Bombay and then to the USA for Masters in Chemical Engineering. Achieved much success and acclaim in my field. Founded and established a very large business enterprise. The core values of hard work, analytical thinking and genuine compassion for the team members have helped me achieve much success in the business. The teachings of giving back to society, charity and philanthropy have helped me become a good human being.

Harish Surati-1967 Batch 

I have passed my 11^th Standard from C. N. Vidhyavihar in 1974. My school prepared me for so much more in the world than a traditional high school would have, by providing the selection from various ‘Udyog’.  I have selected Sewing and Embroidery as my Udyog and it was really a great learning experience that I enjoyed this as my hobby and explore that skill even today. After that I have selected “Sangeet” as my Udyog and that has helped me to overcome my stage fear as I used to sit on the stage with few students to sing ‘Prarthnna’ (Prayer).

Daily gathering for a Prayer in ‘Prarthna Mandir’ helped me for cultivating gratitude and appreciation for my school that showed me the right path for my life and a lesson of discipline.

My school has provided me a leadership skill when I was elected as a ‘Mahamnatri’ (General Secretary) for the high school. This skill helped me to understand Relationship building, Team building, Adaptability, Innovation and creativity, Critical thinking Motivation, Decision-making etc. that helped me a lot in my professional career and day to day activities.

Different cultural activities at school are non-academic pursuits that provided students a platform to explore their interests and develop aesthetically, artistically, historically, intellectually, or socially. Different types of activities are carried out in schools, such as sports, dance-Garba painting, music, festival celebrations etc. By participating in few such activities has improved my confidence and self-esteem.

The school has a large open spaces/playground surrounded by greenery that provides a safe outdoors environment within the school that stimulates the students to use their creative energy in healthy interactions with one another.

There is a real connection between teachers and students that isn't available at any other schools. The teachers are caring and actively check in with me when they see I am struggling, offering time to catch up and receive the help that I need. CN Vidhyavihar is a great school that has great teachers and of course great staff. Everyone at here is super loving and caring. They are kind of like a family in a way.

I wanted to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for the incredible gift that my parents have given me by selecting C.N. Vidhyavihar and providing me an opportunity  to receive an education from this great school.

Dr. Shreyasi K. Parikh -  1974 Batch

I started my study at Sheth C. N. Vidyalaya from 5th standard and studied there till 11th standard. I have ranked first in all standards / classes in every annual examination. In the 11th standard annual exam, my maths teacher asked me to take (higher maths subject). At that time, I was one of the 4 students who got 100/100 marks in the board exam. I passed the 11th annual board exam with second rank in C. N. Vidyalaya.

When I was in 5th standard my class teacher asked me to prepare a speech on a topic to speak during the prayer meeting. I started my speech but stopped speaking suddenly. I had two options - I stop my speech and go back or at the same time my class teacher came, stood near me and said Ajay you have to finish your speech. At that moment I started my speech and finished it in time.

After that I joined medical college, became a doctor and was associated with many organizations.

Became the President of Ahmedabad Medical Association. I also became the Secretary and President of the Gujarat Surgeons Association. I also became a council member of All India Surgeons Association and was appointed as a Fellow of American College of Surgeons and International College of Surgeons.

Today, at the age of 72, I am still busy treating patients. For 35 years, I have rendered honorary services as a Surgeon at the ShethVadilal Sarabhai Hospital. And have also rendered honorary service in Gujarat Cancer Society Medical College for 6 years.

I have been able to survive in all these places due to my foundation education at the Sheth C. N. Vidyalaya.

I have also written a book related to my experiences. I express my heartfelt gratitude to Respected Jinadada and the Sheth C. N. Vidyalaya.

Dr. Ajay Munshi- 1969 Batch

I, Nitin Shukla, spent six of my most formative years at CN VidyaVihar. In the year 1961,I was 9 years old and got admitted to the 6th standard, and in the year  1967, at the age of 15, I appeared for 11th standard SSCE.

In the meanwhile, our country  had to fight two wars with China and Pakistan (1962 & 1965), the pomp and circumstance of Diwali celebration was subdued, fireworks were muted, and we followed a call from our then Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastriji for skipping dinners on Mondays. This environment at home was complimented, strengthened and deepened at CN.

If our teachers' conduct-behaviours-interactions-principles far exceeded their words, our Prarthana Mandir offered an aura of culture and echoed addresses of erudite invited guest speakers. To our hands, crafts like carpentry inculcated love for labour while introduction to violin & Kanthya Sangeet helped develop aesthetic sense. To our creativity, extempore dramatic opportunities were offered. Librarian Dhirubhai Saheb and our class-teachers introduced us to our lifelong friends called books (which resulted into an inseparable love for reading).Our youthful and crazy creativity found us living in the Golden Age of Haiku. And such numerous factors helped our growth.

We all got our education in Gujarati as a medium of instructions. Standard 8 found us struggling with English alphabets for the first time. Our revered poet Niranjan Bhagat Saheb would form a slogan ("Medium Gujarati, Fluent/Excellent English") decades later. But that being unsaid at the time, our CN saw to it that it wouldn't be inaccurate when said. And that prepared us with a confidence of clarity to overcome all language barriers.

Leadership of Indumatibahen, creativity of "SnehRashmi" and Dalal Saheb's demand for discipline merged in such a mysterious way that we grew up in an environment of values such as openness, broadmindedness, patriotism, social awareness, freedom of expression and empathy etc. which got imbibed in us.

At this dusk hour, when I look back at my 44 years of corporate life (wherein the last 18 years were as MD-CEO of MNC's India based companies) and post-retirement activities of last six years (as a trustee of Sabarmati Gandhi Ashram, Gujarat VishvaKosh, Darshak Itihas Nidhi and as an Independent Director/Director of 4-6 companies), our CN had a unique and unrivalled role in development of our potential to face the challenges and embracing opportunities of future as well as imbibing foundational core values of lofty ideals in our beings. I will be eternally grateful to CN for that and will remain indebted till the last day of my life.                                                                                    

Nitin Shukla -1967 Batch