In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family

BENGALURU: This Republic Day, KLAY, one of India’s leading and most trusted early childhood education and care brand, has launched its Republic Day campaign ‘What Is India?’. The campaign draws from the natural curiosity of preschool children to explore how early ideas of belonging and national identity begin to take shape long before children formally understand the concept of a country.

This digital campaign is designed to make parents, educators and communities reflect on how young children see India, not through history or national symbols, but through the behaviours, feelings, and relationships they observe around them. Focusing on the voices of preschoolers, the campaign redefines nationhood as an experience of inclusion, care, and shared moments in social life.

Link to the campaign -https://youtu.be/Lx9F8u1lU10

Preschoolers are not old enough to understand abstract ideas like governance or geography. But after seeing the national celebrations and the adults around the children showing pride and emotion on Republic Day, the children start asking questions about what India is. The hook “What Is India?” stems from this initial curiosity, with an understanding that children see meaning in experience rather than explanation.

The campaign is based on KLAY’s belief that the environment in which children are exposed to during their childhood plays a significant role in shaping their perception of things around them. At this stage of development, ideas of identity and belonging are expressed through an assessment of relationship, community, and emotional security in familiar environments like a classroom or a home.

Speaking on the campaign thought, Arshleen Kalra, Head of Academic, KLAY Preschools and Daycare, said, “The concept of a nation may still be alien to young children, but they do understand the intricacies of behavioural patterns and interpersonal relationships. And when they see pride in India, they seek to know what India stands for. Therefore, this campaign is an interpretation of children’s perception of the given slogan based on their everyday life experiences and interactions with others.”

With this campaign, KLAY continues to emphasis on its approach to early learning that not only focuses on academic readiness but also on social awareness, the emotional development of the child, and the sense of community. The campaign supports the belief that the building blocks of citizenship are established at an early stage and are silently cultivated by the surroundings of which children nurture and absorb knowledge.

About KLAY:

KLAY is India’s leading chain of Preschools and Daycare centres, valued for supporting over 70,000 families through top-notch learning and care for their children. Our focus is on creating a safe, nurturing and engaging environment for little ones to learn and grow, supported by passionate facilitators, modern infrastructure, and a proven pedagogy. The institution boasts a robust network of 170+ centres across 20+ cities in India, supported by over 500+ corporate partnerships and a workforce of 3,500+ dedicated individuals. Founded in 2012, KLAY offers heartfelt and holistic learning experiences, shaping compassionate and confident future leaders. 

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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