New Era Alumni Group

02/04/2026

On the morning of the 21st of December, 2026, the dawn prayers were held in the presence of the alumni, current students, staff members, dignitaries, and panel members. Prayers were offered for the well-being of the school and the New Era family, seeking the Almighty’s guidance during the celebrations of the school’s 80th anniversary, and beseeching that the institution may continue to remain a blessed spot for decades to come. These prayers marked a serene and spiritually uplifting beginning to the celebrations.

31/03/2026

31/03/2026

“Soon will God bring into being a new race of men. He will, verily, create them through the power of His might, and will breathe into them the spirit of life. He is, in truth, the Almighty, the All-Powerful.” Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh

A Plenary Gathering was held on December 21, 2025, in the Main Auditorium, as part of the celebrations marking our school’s 80th year anniversary. The gathering brought together two inspiring panels of alumni representing earlier batches and recent pass-outs from diverse backgrounds and beliefs, from India and abroad, united in friendship and the joy experienced at returning to their alma mater.

It served as a powerful platform for reflection, dialogue, and inspiration, highlighting the enduring influence of the institution on the personal and professional journeys of its former students.
The panels comprised distinguished alumni from diverse fields, including education, medicine, architecture, community service, and social development. Each panellist shared insights rooted in lived experiences, illustrating how the values imparted at New Era continue to guide their choices, relationships, and service to society.
The discussion opened with reflections on relationships within the New Era family and the manner in which the deep bonds with students, teachers, and staff evolved into pathways of professional excellence and social responsibility. The panellists spoke of the school’s role in imbuing integrity, discipline, humility, resilience, and adaptability, qualities that proved essential in navigating life’s challenges and opportunities.
Several speakers acknowledged the transformative guidance of teachers, whose faith and mentorship extended far beyond academic instruction. These influences helped to shape clarity of purpose, self-discipline, and a commitment to lifelong learning. The alumni emphasised that New Era instilled not only professional competence but also confidence, ethical awareness, and a strong sense of responsibility towards others.
A significant theme of the plenary was Service as a way of life. The alumni who chose professions rooted in compassion and community welfare reflected on how their schooling awakened a deep desire to serve with dedication, empathy, and humility. Others shared how values such as consultation, unity, justice, and perseverance continued to inform their professional decisions and civic activities.
Particular attention was given to the impact of the Junior Youth Empowerment Programme. Former animators reflected on the ways in which the programme shaped their understanding of the Dual Moral Purpose, strengthened their beliefs in the potential of young people, and enhanced their appreciation for the power of consultation and meaningful expression. Moving personal accounts highlighted moments when the junior youth recognised their own capacities, reinforcing the animators’ faith in education as a force for transformation. These insights, the panellists noted, continue to influence how they respond to challenges and design initiatives in their present professional and personal lives.
The plenary also emphasised New Era’s emphasis on sustainability, humane values, and lifelong relationships, illustrating that early educational experiences can inspire responsible choices across disciplines, including environment-friendly development and community-centred innovation.
The gathering was enriched by the presence of the senior alumni described below whose lives reflect New Era’s enduring values across decades and continents:
Mr. Anwar Akhtarjahan (1961–1972), a mechanical engineer by training, built a distinguished global career across vocational education, technical institutions, and entrepreneurship. Now retired and based in Auckland, he continues to value learning and exploration. His deep bond with New Era is reflected in a family legacy of service, with several members, including his wife Mrs. Mojdeh, having studied at and served the school.
Mr. Nabeel Sakkaf (1990–1992), an IIT alumnus with a background in automotive studies, transitioned successfully into information technology. Presently based in Belgium, his journey reflects academic brilliance, linguistic finesse, and a global outlook nurtured during his years at New Era.
Mr. Mohammad Sharif (1983–1996), who studied at New Era from KG to Class XII, is a graduate of the SP Jain School of Global Management, Dubai. Currently serving as President of Alliance Insurance Broker Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai, his professional journey reflects perseverance, discipline, and principled leadership shaped by the school.
Mr. Sachin Bhoi (Class of 1994) began as a science student at New Era before pursuing architecture in Pune. Now a practising architect in Bhiwandi, Thane, he contributes to environment-friendly infrastructure. Remembered as a humble and warm prefect, he continues to cherish lifelong friendships formed at the school.
Dr. Anuj K. Pradhan (Class of 1994), a former school prefect, pursued a PhD in Human Factors Engineering at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, followed by a Post-Doctoral Fellowship at the National Institutes of Health. Today a professor and scientist, his work reflects New Era’s emphasis on inquiry, critical thinking, and excellence in research.
Mr. Sandeep Shah (1983–1994), an alumnus of MIT Pune and Texas A&M University, is currently engaged in business planning at Hewlett-Packard Enterprise, Texas. His academic excellence and leadership, nurtured at New Era, continue to guide his professional life with confidence and integrity.
Ms. LaRae Johnson (Davis) (1971–1981), from a family of distinguished educators, is a graduate of Oklahoma State University and the University of New Mexico. An accomplished Bharatanatyam dancer encouraged by the school’s artistic environment, she continues to serve as a dedicated educator.
Ms. Benita Gurung (Class of 1994), from Bhutan, exemplifies New Era’s multicultural ethos. Educated at Punjab Engineering College and the Asian Institute of Management, she specialises in climate change and environmental studies and currently serves with the United Nations Climate Change Secretariat in Germany.
Dr. Tuhid Irani (Class of 1998), a gold medallist in Orthopaedics, is remembered for his clarity of thought and expressive abilities. Choosing a deeply humane path, he serves rural communities around Panchgani and Wai as a respected Orthopaedic Surgeon, embodying compassion, service, and empathy.
The presence of these senior alumni added depth and continuity to the plenary gathering, powerfully affirming New Era’s legacy of nurturing generations committed to excellence, service, and the oneness of humanity, as did the presence and participation of the distinguished recent alumni, whose journeys reflect enduring commitment to service, leadership, and excellence. They are described below:
Mr. Subhan Surendra Babu, who completed his entire schooling at New Era (2000–2012), currently serves as IT Application Manager for Intelligent Manufacturing at the Sandvik Innovation Hub, India. An alumnus of VIT University, Vellore, he continues to remain closely connected with the school as a dedicated animator and camp facilitator.
Mr. Omkar Mandhane (2006–2017), a Mobedzadeh Awardee for all-round excellence, is a Business Management graduate from Symbiosis International University and the founder of Pure Elements, a premium Ayurveda-based skincare brand. Known for his expressive abilities and spirit of service, he was an active anchor, animator, prefect, and dramatics performer during his school years.
Mr. Ashwin Vinod (2007–2017), remembered as a pioneering animator and the first to embrace the JYSEP programme, is an Electronics and Communication Engineering graduate from VIT University, Andhra Pradesh. Currently based in Bengaluru, he works in media strategy and continues to demonstrate creativity, initiative, and leadership.
Miss Mariyam Faizi, a Mobedzadeh Awardee from the Class of 2018, is a graduate of Azim Premji University with a focus on education. Presently serving as a Programme Coordinator with the Institute for Studies in Global Prosperity, Pune, she is known for her depth of thought, clarity, and sustained commitment to service.
Mr. Yash Chugh (Class of 2019), who studied at New Era from Classes VII to XII, is a marketing graduate from Amity University, Noida, and currently works as a Senior Marketing Associate in Bengaluru. An animator with strong leadership and expressive skills, he consistently translated values into action through responsible service.
Mr. Riaan Shah (2011–2022) is remembered as an accomplished orator and thoughtful writer. Currently pursuing an MBA in Entrepreneurship and Family Business Management at NMIMS’ Pravin Dalal School and having appeared for CFA Level I, he is actively involved in his family’s hospitality business and represents a family deeply connected with New Era.
Mr. Krishnansh Rao, a Mobedzadeh Awardee (2019–2024), is presently pursuing B.Com (Honours) at Amity University, Navi Mumbai. Known for his sincere involvement in dramatics, school functions, and his responsible role as a prefect, he exemplifies service through humility, consistency, and a strong sense of ownership.
Miss Rehya Basantani (2016–2025) is currently pursuing Business Management and Entrepreneurship at Nottingham Trent University, UK. Expressive, articulate, and constructive in her influence, she actively participated in dramatics, elocution, and JYSEP initiatives, leaving behind a positive and lasting impact.
Miss Karishma Adhia (2023–2025), presently pursuing BBA in Strategy and Business Analytics at Christ University, Bengaluru, continues to serve as an animator while actively running her own JYSEP group. Known for her insightful understanding of profound concepts, she remains inspired by the love and support of New Era.
The presence of these alumni at the plenary gathering was a manifestation of the school’s ethos of creating joyful learners who continue to serve humanity with empathy.

28/03/2026

Alumni shares heartfelt poem Mr. Akshay Ratan Agarwal, Class of 1994.

27/03/2026

“The education of the child is the most meritorious of all deeds, for it is the means whereby the child is guided to know and worship God, to develop good character and conduct, and to walk the path of service to humanity.”— Abdul-Baha
To rekindle fond memories, an exhibition commemorating 80 glorious years of New Era was held in the Primary Auditorium from the 19th of December to the 21st of December, 2025. It was a moving tribute to eight decades of sacrifice, service and love for the institution that has built thousands of lives and which took root with the selfless devotion of Mrs. Mobedzadeh, followed by countless dedicated souls who gave their lives to the growth and service of the school. As visitors entered the campus gates, they were overwhelmed with nostalgia and a deep sense of gratitude. The inauguration ceremony was made especially meaningful by the presence of the families associated with the school since its inception. Their participation added a profound sense of continuity and legacy to the occasion. Members of these founding families reflected warmly on their forebears’ vision and sacrifices. It was a deeply moving tribute to the enduring contributions that helped to shape the institution’s remarkable journey.
For ease of experience and meaningful reflection, the exhibition was thoughtfully divided into several sections, each narrating a unique chapter of the school’s remarkable journey.
The first section was dedicated to the beloved founder and visionary, Mrs. Mobedzadeh, who began the school with just sixteen children from Iran. This section also highlighted the divine presence of the Hands of the Cause of God who visited the school over the years, reflecting virtues of generosity, sacrifice, and spiritual guidance that laid the foundation of the institution. This was followed by an appealing display of photographs presenting the early days of the school and the dedicated Principals who continued to nurture and translate Mrs. Mobedzadeh’s vision into reality across generations. From the early leadership of Dr. Sidney Dean and Professor Premnath Rai to the dedicated stewardship of Mr. Kashyap and Dr. Ray Johnson, each brought unique strength and perspective to the institution. In the years that followed, Dr. Vasudevan Nair, Dr. A. H. Mehrassa, Mr. Arne Kittang, and Mr. Ganesha Murti continued to guide the school with wisdom, integrity, and commitment. Together, their collective leadership has nurtured New Era’s growth from its formative years to its flourishing present, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and service that continues to inspire.
Further, heartfelt gratitude was extended to the generous contributors who had strengthened the school’s foundations. Special acknowledgment was given to those families and well-wishers who made personal sacrifices for the development of its physical infrastructure. Their spirit of selfless giving continues to stand as a pillar of the institution’s growth and progress.
The next two boards offered an insightful glimpse into the School Committee Members and Panel Members who played a vital role in moulding the institution over the years. This section also highlighted the strong framework of Moral Education, a hallmark of New Era’s philosophy.
Miniature building structures beautifully recreated the dormitories and iconic buildings of the campus, each narrating silent stories of eight decades etched within their walls and holding a special place in the hearts of countless students.
The picturesque location of the school and its association with popular films and events was depicted through a charming vintage display. Special attention was drawn to the filming of ‘Taare Zameen Par’, along with other memorable events, bringing delight to visitors such as the classic film Naunihal (1967), in 1998, the television serial Woh, telecast on Zee TV, brought renowned personalities like Ashutosh Gowariker and Shreyas Talpade to the campus, with several scenes featuring students of that era. The school was also chosen as a filming location for Ab Insaaf Hoga, starring Mithun Chakraborty and Rekha. The vibrancy of the campus was further reflected in the finale of Junior Masterchef, where Ms. Tuba and students participated in memorable sequences, as well as in a Sunsilk advertisement filmed at the basketball court near the Primary Building. More recently, the web series The Reunion, telecast on Zoom, extensively featured the school campus; notably, its director, Karishma Kohli, is an alumna of the institution, and one of the characters was portrayed as an ex-student, a touching tribute to the enduring bond between the school and its alumni.
Several students and staff members featured in some of the above shows and movies.
Staying true to its belief in holistic education, the exhibition also featured a dedicated section on physical development, displaying five decades of growth in sports through vibrant photographs and achievements.
The final section celebrated the journey of New Era students who have made a mark not only in India but across the globe. In collaboration with Univariety, the data encapsulating alumni from prestigious universities and diverse professions was thoughtfully presented through files containing photographs and achievements.
At the entrance, special stands displaying yearbooks and school calendars allowed visitors to browse through memorable events and milestones from different eras. Guests were also encouraged to share their thoughts, memories and valuable feedback in a specially curated space, adding to the collective treasure of cherished memories.
The exhibition concluded on a heartwarming note, with guests expressing deep appreciation for the thoughtful presentation, meticulous planning and emotional connect of the exhibition. Many lauded it as a beautiful journey through time, appreciating the school’s efforts in preserving its rich legacy while inspiring future generations.

26/03/2026

“Be happy and joyous, for this is a time of rejoicing.”— Bahá’u’lláh
The Cultural Evening held on the 19th of December, 2026 to celebrate the 80th Anniversary of the school was a heartfelt portrayal of memories and achievements. The alumni, former teachers, parents, staff, and students gathered in the school amphitheatre, transforming the arena with the soft hues of the setting sun. Though the evening carried a festive glow, it remained deeply reflective, true to the spirit that has guided New Era for eight decades.
The programme opened with prayers drawn from diverse traditions and offered in multiple languages. This moment of reverence set the tone for the evening, gently reminding everyone present that unity has always been the School’s strongest foundation. The National Anthem that followed further strengthened the collective sense of belonging and respect.
Music soon became the language through which values were expressed. Songs rooted in the moral education tradition, familiar to generations of New Era students, filled the space with messages of fairness, love, and responsibility. These were followed by English musical pieces presented by students trained under professional guidance, creating a natural blend of enduring values and contemporary expression.
Dance performances added colour and vitality to the celebration. A lively Bollywood presentation brought energy and cheer, while later performances revisited the charm of earlier cinematic styles, drawing warm applause and appreciative smiles from the audience. Each performance reflected confidence and the joy of expression.
A particularly meaningful moment of the evening was the reflection on New Era’s journey since 1945. The narration traced the School’s beginnings from a modest start to the institution it is today, firmly rooted in character, inclusion, and purpose. This segment offered a pause, allowing the audience to reconnect with the ideals that have steadily shaped generations of learners.
Classical artistry found its place through a graceful Kathak performance by students from the middle school. The evening also touched a nostalgic chord with the rendition of the song Love, Love, a melody deeply associated with the School’s moral classes. An interactive segment brought warmth and spontaneity to the programme, strengthening the sense of celebration. This was followed by an address that reflected on leadership, responsibility and the importance of carrying forward New Era’s values with clarity, and another through a video by a much celebrated actor who has been associated with the school due to the filming of his iconic movie on our premises.
One of the most moving moments of the evening came through the staff performance set to 'Mile Sur Mera Tumhara'. The presentation captured the School’s motto, Unity in Diversity, not as an idea, but as a lived reality. It served as a reminder that the spirit of New Era is sustained as much by its educators as by its students.
The celebration concluded with a vibrant dance medley that showed cultural diversity through movement and rhythm, followed by the School Song. As voices joined together, the moment felt less like an ending and more like a reaffirmation of our solidarity.
The Cultural Programme was followed by a sumptuous Gala Dinner hosted in the school’s main ground around a festive bonfire, adding great joy to the festivities.

25/03/2026

“The future of the world depends upon the character and the spirit of its people.”— Shoghi Effendi
The New Era Alumni had a truly memorable time as they returned to their alma mater to witness and participate in the 50th Annual Athletic Meet on the 20th of December, 2025, held as part of the school’s 80th anniversary celebrations. The joy and excitement of the occasion were almost tangible, as alumni poured in large numbers, filling the school ground with energy and nostalgia.
A particularly heartwarming highlight of the day was the presence of the Chief Guest, Mr. Javed Khan, former Physical Education instructor of the school, who was widely admired for his deep love for sports, especially cricket and football. Each time he addressed the gathering or participated in the prize distribution ceremony, he was greeted with thunderous applause and cheers from the alumni, a touching reflection of their respect, admiration, and the enduring bond with their beloved teacher and their school.
The alumni enthusiastically took part in the special races organized exclusively for them, displaying remarkable sportsmanship and a spirited participation. The victory stand was rarely empty, as champions joyfully gathered around it, celebrating their wins with laughter and camaraderie. Their exuberance was unmistakable and added an interesting dimension to the day’s proceedings.
In a meaningful gesture, the alumni were also invited to present prizes, certificates, and trophies to the triumphant students. They carried out this responsibility with great positivity and encouragement, further strengthening the bridge between past and present generations of the school.
The excitement continued as they participated wholeheartedly in a tug of war and the closing march past. Their infectious enthusiasm and true spirit of sportsmanship created an uplifting and celebratory atmosphere throughout the event. The day stood as a beautiful reminder that while years may pass, the bond between the alumni and their school remains strong and everlasting.