India Night

Hearing from the Class of 2025 about their experiences in India

“Throughout this trip, I found myself forming deeper connections to Krishnamurti’s words, and now, after all these years, I may truly consider myself one of his students.”

Each year, our high school seniors embark on a transformative three-week journey to India, designed to foster confidence, self-sufficiency, awareness, and an appreciation of beauty, as well as self-knowledge through a deep connection with nature and each other.

This year’s trip began at Rishi Valley School, where students immersed themselves in daily school life: sharing meals, attending assemblies, participating in academic and art classes, and engaging in sports. They also visited the Rural Education Centre and the Rural Health Centre and hiked to a 360-degree view of the valley.

From Rishi Valley, students and chaperones traveled to Bangalore to visit The Valley School, located on the vast city’s outskirts. There, they integrated into the school’s routine and explored the surrounding area, taking guided day trips to Mysore and Bangalore to visit temples, ashrams, restaurants, and markets, and gaining a broader cultural perspective beyond the school setting.

This 12th grade journey to India marks the culmination of Oak Grove School’s outdoor education program, which begins in early childhood with on-campus campouts with parents and teachers, and gradually expands into more challenging, immersive experiences.

During India Night, each 12th grade student gets to share their unique reflections on their three-week trip to India. For one senior, Dahlia, the time at Rishi Valley deeply resonated with J. Krishnamurti’s philosophy of observing without expectation.

Approaching the experience with an open mind, Dahlia discovered beauty in the landscape’s arching green trees, shifting light, and morning mist. Wandering the campus, whether alone or with friends, became an opportunity for profound observation; where even the smallest details, like dusty paths, tamarind pods, or unexpected encounters with animals, held significance. These moments created a deep connection to the place and its people, leaving her with a newfound sense of belonging. Reflecting on her journey, Dahlia said: “Throughout this trip, I found myself forming deeper connections to Krishnamurti’s words, and now, after all these years, I may truly consider myself one of his students.”