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Dehradun: Welham Girls’ School, one of India’s premier all-girls’ residential institutions, has unveiled a stunning new School Museum to commemorate its rich legacy, storied past, and generations of empowered women. Situated in the historic Nasreen estate—a Neo-Tudor-style building that once belonged to the Nizam of Hyderabad and the original campus of the school—the Museum pays homage to the school’s heritage and its role in advancing girls’ education in post-Independence India.
Founded in 1957, just a decade after India’s independence, Welham Girls’ School was the brainchild of two visionary educators—Miss Hersilia Susie Oliphant and Miss Grace Mary Linnell. At a time when residential education was male-dominated and societal norms discouraged girls from pursuing holistic academic paths, the establishment of an all-girls’ residential school was revolutionary. These pioneers defied convention to lay the foundation for a school that would go on to shape some of India’s most remarkable women leaders.
Speaking at the unveiling, Romesh Sobti, President of the Board of Governors, emphasized the school’s fearless beginnings. “We celebrate a legacy defined by courage and resilience. This museum stands as a testament to a glorious past, a thriving present, and a future full of promise,” he remarked.
The occasion was made even more special with the presence of two distinguished Welham alumnae—Mrs. Neelam Khanna, from the Class of 1965, as Chief Guest, and Mrs. Premila Nazir (née Chaudhary) from the inaugural 1957 batch, as Guest of Honour. Mrs. Nazir holds the unique distinction of being Welham’s first registered student—Roll No. 1. Both women personify the school’s early spirit of ambition, excellence, and determination.
In her address, Mrs. Khanna described Ms. Linnell as the “spirit and backdrop of Welham”, recalling the founder’s profound influence. Mrs. Nazir, deeply moved, shared, “Nasreen was our first home away from home,” praising the museum’s evocative title Echoes of Eternity. She expressed hope that the traditions and values showcased in the Museum would continue to inspire future generations.
Vibha Kapoor, Principal of Welham Girls’ School, said, “This Museum reflects the soul of Welham. It tells a story beyond academics—a story of compassion, leadership, tradition, and transformation. It honours our founders’ vision and our commitment to shaping thoughtful leaders.”
The newly inaugurated Heritage Block within the Museum documents Welham’s incredible journey—from its humble beginnings to becoming one of India’s foremost educational institutions. It houses rare memorabilia, personal notes, and archival photographs from Miss Linnell and successive Principals. These exhibits offer insight into the school’s evolving ethos, always rooted in purpose and progress.
Every corner of the museum is rich with stories—of the original ten students, of staff members who dedicated their lives to the school, and of campus traditions etched into the hearts of generations of Welhamites. Anecdotes like the assembly prayers, midnight feasts, spooky tales, and the love for gulabos and bajri pathways are lovingly preserved. Relics such as postcolonial Indian coins, early school uniforms marked with ‘tadpoles,’ and personal letters lend a deeply nostalgic charm.
The school’s iconic Houses—named after birds once spotted on campus, such as Bulbul, Hoopoe, Flycatcher, Oriole, and Woodpecker—also find space in the museum. So do memories from Mrs. Russell’s famed Nature Study classes, and views from Nasreen’s upper balcony, which still overlook the school’s leafy expanse.
Welham Girls’ School remains deeply committed to nurturing young women of strength, intellect, and integrity. With affiliations to CISCE and CAIE, and memberships in prestigious global networks like Round Square and the World Leading Schools’ Association (WLSA), the school combines Indian values with global exposure, fostering a spirit of inquiry, service, and leadership.
Guided by the motto “Aartt Shanti Phala Vidya”—The aim of knowledge is to bring peace—Welham continues to build on a legacy that transcends education. It cultivates young minds ready to lead with compassion and conviction.
The Museum is not just a space to reflect on the past—it is a promise to the future. A place where stories of courage, tradition, and vision converge to inspire the next generation of Welhamites to write their own bold chapters in the school’s ever-evolving history.
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