Sishya
New No. 2, PADMANABHA NAGAR,
ADYAR, CHENNAI – 600 020
The KIT Thomas Oration: A Tribute to Excellence
The KIT Thomas Oration is a revered annual tradition at Sishya, honouring the legacy of our founder, Mr. K.I. Thomas. This prestigious event brings together a diverse audience, including senior students, faculty, parents, distinguished guests, and alumni of the Lawrence School Lovedale and Sishya.
Each year, the oration features accomplished individuals from various fields who have achieved excellence in their domains. These inspiring speakers share their experiences, insights, and perspectives, broadening the students’ understanding of the world and its countless possibilities.
This tradition aligns perfectly with Mr. KIT Thomas’ vision, which emphasizes nurturing inquisitive minds, encouraging students to excel in their areas of passion, and fostering a culture of excellence. The KIT Thomas Oration has become an integral part of Sishya’s heritage, inspiring generations of students to explore, discover, and achieve their full potential.
On April 7, 2022, the 23rd Annual KIT Thomas Memorial Oration was delivered by renowned singer, author, and activist Shri. T M Krishna. The thought-provoking topic for the day was “Music & Mathematics: Visualising the Abstract.”
Krishna’s engaging and insightful lecture explored the intricate relationships between music and mathematics, transcending their practical applications. He posited that both musicians and mathematicians are seekers of truth, and that the true essence of their pursuits lies in abstracting human experience beyond cultural and judgmental boundaries.
Krishna emphasized that music is created when mathematical concepts are discovered, encouraging the audience to look beyond patterns and literal interpretations to seek the soul of music and mathematics. His words inspired the audience to contemplate the deeper connections between these two seemingly disparate fields.
On April 7th, 2025, the school had the privilege of hosting Mr. N. Ram, Chairman, Kasturi and Sons and one of India’s most respected journalists, as the guest orator.
This year, the oration was held on the 9th of April 2024. Mr. Prabhu Chawla, Editorial Director - the New Indian Express, was the orator.
This year, the oration was held on the 12th of April. Mr. Palanivel Thiagarajan, Finance Minister of Tamilnadu, was the orator for the evening.
This year, the oration was held on the 8th of April 2019. Sri. Madhukarnath Ji, popularly known as Sri. M - Himalayan Mystic and Yogi, was the Chief Guest for the occasion.
This year, the oration was held on the 10th of August. Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, Deputy Director General (Programmes), World Health Organisation, was the Chief Guest for the occasion.
Jun22
Mr. S. Gurumurthy, political commentator and economist was the Chief Guest for the occasion. The hall was packed to capacity and the topic 'Economic Model Suited to India' was of great interest to all.
Jun17
The oration was held on the 17th of June 2015. Mr. Yogendra Yadav, sociologist and popular psephologist, was the Chief Guest on this occasion. The topic of his speech ‘Rethinking Revolution’ was of great interest to all.
Jul25
Mr. Vijay Amritraj, legendary tennis player turned commentator, was the Chief Guest at this oration held on the 25th of July. The topic ‘Does Education get in the way of a Professional Sportsman’ was of great interest...
Jun12
This year Mrs. Brinda Somaya, Architect and Urban Conservationist, was the Chief Guest at the KIT Thomas Oration. The topic ‘Weaving Architecture - Conserving the Old, Building the New’ was of great interest to all.
Apr05
This years Oration was held on the 5th of April. Yogi, mystic and visionary, Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev, founder of Isha Foundation was the Chief Guest. The topic “Education – Expanding Horizons” was of great interest to ...