Cottonian’s Weekend marks 165 years of Shimla school

Singer Akriti Kakar gave an electrifying performance during the first day of Cottonian’s Weekend-2024, organised to celebrate 165 years of Bishop Cotton School, Shimla.

This three-day event (October 18-20) also featured a Son et Lumière light and sound show, showcasing rare archive images from the 1880s that depict the school’s rich history and diverse community.

The multi-format show, projected on the school’s main building, will include performances by current BCS students.

Apart from this, the event will also feature sports matches between alumni and the current school teams, a special chapel service, and the release of publications that commemorate the school’s 165-year journey.

Among the notable releases will be a special cover and cancellation by the GPO, and two publications — ‘Pegasus’, a collection of poetry by BCS students, and ‘Overcome Evil with Good’ a reprinted version of a history book.

In addition, the BCS school application will be officially launched during the celebrations.

The weekend will also bring together Old Cottonians, along with a special guest Henry Jodrell, a descendant of Bishop George Cotton.

Reflecting on the event, director Simon Weale said, “BCS is celebrating its 165th birthday. Founded in 1859, the same year that Charles Darwin published his book on the ‘Origin of Species’, the school has evolved from a small institution for middle-ranking British officials to a globally recognised Indian school.”

“BCS has endured many challenges over the years, but in overcoming them, it has shaped modern India by producing leaders in every field, including public service, business, and the arts. This will be a celebration to remember” he added.

Weale emphasised the school’s ongoing commitment to excellence, stating, “BCS prides itself on challenging young people to be the best version of them. The legacy of Bishop Cotton, Shimla, is about teaching boys to succeed through hard work, routine, training, and a healthy lifestyle. This event is a celebration of that legacy.”

Bishop Cotton School was founded in 1859 by Bishop George Edward Lynch Cotton, a British educationalist who had served as headmaster at Marlborough College, UK, before coming to India.

This year, the school has also been ranked No 1 in the Vintage Boys Boarding Schools category by Education World Magazine.