By Br Royston Colaco for BIS Mumbai
Lonavla, November 13, 2025 — Don Bosco Lonavla marked the feast of St Artemide Zatti, Salesian Coadjutor with a day of spirited prayer, film, and reflection that brought together the entire community of aspirants in gratitude and faith.
The celebration opened with a lively Holy Eucharist presided over by Fr Vivian D’Souza, Vice-Rector of Don Bosco Lonavala. The aspirants led the introduction, the prayer of the faithful, and the singing, setting a deeply devotional tone. In his homily, Fr D’Souza drew attention to St Zatti’s care for the sick and the underprivileged, urging the young to mirror his compassion, humility, and sense of joyful service.
In the evening, Fr Avil Correa, Catechist, conducted the Eucharistic Adoration, a reflective prayer service that spotlighted St Zatti’s spiritual strength and steadfast following of Christ. The adoration invited the aspirants to contemplate the saint’s faith-filled response to human suffering and his unwavering dedication to those who were sick, victimised, or vulnerable.
After supper, the aspirants watched the film ‘Zatti, Our Brother’, a moving portrayal of the Salesian saint’s life of service and self-giving. The screening was followed by an interactive Q&A session, where aspirants identified the distinctive qualities that defined St Zatti’s life and vocation.
The day concluded with a Good Night message by Br Royston Colaco, Province Vocation Animator and member of the Don Bosco Lonavla community. In his closing words, Br Colaco urged the aspirants to “become Good Samaritans like Br Zatti, to listen actively to the Lord like Br Zatti, and to render quality service like Br Zatti.” He described the saint as a model of generous, benevolent, and intelligent faith — a Salesian lay brother who read the signs of the times and responded with action rooted in love.
The feast day-notwithstanding the poor table fare-ended on a note of reflection and resolve. For the aspirants of Don Bosco Lonavala, St Artemide Zatti stood not as a distant figure of the past but as a living call to serve, listen, and love — wholeheartedly and without reserve.
By Ujjwala Siddapur for BIS Mumbai
Don Bosco High School and Junior College, Lonavla, came alive on November 10 as its terrace turned into a buzzing science arena for the school’s annual Science Exhibition. Students showcased projects that proved how curiosity, skill, and teamwork can create genuine innovation.
Judges Mrs Slomy Biju and Bro. Melton Suares examined each display with keen attention. Mrs Biju praised the participants for their originality and scientific clarity, saying, “The projects were innovative and reflected a deep understanding of concepts.” Bro. Suares added, “The students have shown great potential and a strong link between theory and practice.”
The exhibition featured three main categories — Applied Science, Environment Management, and Electrical Circuits — each offering a glimpse into young minds at work.
In Applied Science, students presented renewable-energy prototypes, solar-powered devices, and water-purification systems designed to solve real-world problems. The Environment Management section focused on conservation and sustainability, featuring models on reducing plastic waste, recycling materials, and promoting eco-friendly lifestyles. In Electrical Circuits, participants demonstrated precision and creativity with working models, smart wiring systems, and inventive circuit designs.
Teachers guided students through weeks of preparation, turning the terrace into a laboratory of ideas. The exhibition attracted parents, alumni, and visitors who admired the confidence and skill of the young presenters. The steady flow of explanations, questions, and demonstrations gave the event a lively pace that reflected genuine engagement.
At the closing ceremony, the judges announced the winners, who received certificates and prizes for outstanding work. Applause filled the terrace as students celebrated not only the awards but the experience of discovery itself.
The event’s success lay in its energy — in the way students explained, argued, and defended their ideas with clarity and enthusiasm.
Principal and staff members commended the students and teachers for their hard work, emphasising that such initiatives strengthen scientific thinking and encourage responsible innovation.
As daylight faded over the Lonavla hills, the terrace still buzzed with excitement. The Science Exhibition at Don Bosco Lonavla had once again proved that when young people are given space to explore, they don’t just learn science — they create it.
By Presley Andrade for BIS Mumbai
Don Bosco Lonavla marked a historic milestone on November 11, 2025 — the 150th anniversary of the First Salesian Missionary Expedition. The commemoration honoured the bold journey that began on November 11, 1875, when Don Bosco sent nine missionaries from Turin to Argentina, driven by a vision to spread God’s love across the globe.
The day began with an animated Holy Mass, rich in hymns and reflections on the missionaries’ unwavering dedication to youth in over 137 countries. Every prayer resonated with gratitude — for those who carried the Salesian spirit across continents, building schools, orphanages, and communities with tireless devotion.
As evening approached, the mood turned contemplative with Eucharistic Adoration, followed by the Rosary, offered in memory of missionaries who gave their lives in service. Cleric Presley and Cleric Melton, the community assistants, then addressed the Salesians and aspirants with vivid presentations on the origins and expansion of the Salesian mission.
Cleric Presley traced the first expedition, highlighting the courage, faith, and resolve required to navigate distant lands and cultural barriers. The journey planted the seeds of a global Salesian family, fulfilling Don Bosco’s dream despite the uncertainties of travel in the 19th century.
Cleric Melton turned to India, recounting the arrival of the first Salesians in Mumbai on January 6, 1906, under Fr George Tomatis. From pioneering work in Tanjore and Mylapore — establishing schools and orphanages for underprivileged children — the mission expanded north to Assam and beyond. He emphasised the enduring impact of the Salesian preventive system, rooted in reason, religion, and loving kindness, which continues to transform young lives across India.
Using maps, timelines, and stories of courage, the presentations captivated 55 aspirants and Salesians. The day was more than a commemoration; it was a call to live Don Bosco’s charism with renewed missionary zeal, connecting historical awareness with present purpose.
The celebration closed with quiet resolve, echoing Don Bosco’s enduring motto: Da mihi animas, cetera tolle — “Give me souls, take away the rest.” A sense of mission, history, and spiritual commitment lingered long after the final hymn, reaffirming the congregation’s global legacy.
By Presley Andrade & Melton Suares for BIS Mumbai
Don Bosco Aspirantate in Lonavla hosted a four-day Art Therapy Workshop from 6 to 9 November, led by professional artist and educator C. D. Jain, widely known for his work on childhood and his advocacy for children’s rights. Designed specifically for the aspirants of the house, the programme sought to nurture creativity, mindfulness, and emotional openness. Structured as a hybrid of guided practice and personal reflection, the workshop introduced participants to art as a disciplined yet freeing space for self-expression.
The workshop opened with foundational exercises intended to sharpen observation and spark imagination. Mr Jain encouraged the aspirants to slow down, absorb their surroundings, and translate their impressions onto paper without pressure or judgement. Early sessions focused on simple sketching and exploratory colour work, allowing participants to break away from routine thought patterns and engage with art as a process rather than a performance. These initial tasks helped set a quiet yet stimulating tone for the days ahead.
As the workshop progressed, the aspirants were led into deeper, memory-based exercises. The third day centred on drawing scenes from early childhood—mountains, rivers, houses, and the familiar rising sun. These uncomplicated images prompted participants to reconnect with formative memories and emotions. They also created circular compositions, mixing shapes, colours, and symbols to represent balance, unity, and inner harmony. Through these activities, the aspirants were invited to reflect on their personal journeys and rediscover the ease and spontaneity of their younger selves.
Throughout the sessions, Mr Jain emphasised that art is not defined solely by technique but by awareness and presence. He encouraged the young participants to embrace patience, focus, and authenticity in each stroke. His approach highlighted art as a means of grounding oneself, managing emotions, and cultivating attentiveness—skills essential not only to artistic practice but also to personal development and formation.
The final day concluded with an informal group reflection. Aspirants shared how the exercises had helped them relax, concentrate, and express thoughts that are often difficult to articulate verbally.
Many described the workshop as both refreshing and reassuring, offering a rare opportunity to pause and explore their inner landscapes.
The Art Therapy Workshop emerged as an enriching experience for the Don Bosco Lonavla community, reinforcing the role of creativity in holistic education. By blending structured guidance with personal exploration, the programme enabled the aspirants to appreciate art not merely as a craft, but as a meaningful path towards self-awareness and growth.
By Royston Colaco for BIS Mumbai
Don Bosco Aspirantate, Lonavla, hosted its annual “Come & See Camp” on September 20-21 2025, drawing over 32 Class 10 boys from across parishes in Mumbai, Vasai, Virar, Pune, Vadodara and Alirajpur, who were eager to experience the Salesian life. The two-day residential programme offered participants a close encounter with the spirit of Don Bosco, combining prayer, discernment, fellowship and witness.
The camp opened on the morning of September 20 with registration at 9.30 a.m. Young participants were welcomed into the rhythm of community living and guided through a schedule that blended reflection, sharing and spiritual practice. The fee of ₹500 kept the camp affordable and accessible to families.
The programme unfolded in five sessions, each designed to highlight a distinct facet of Salesian formation. Fr Avil Correa led the first session on the Salesian Spirit: Joy, Friendship & Service, underlining the values that shaped Don Bosco’s mission. Fr Kiran Salve followed with Meeting Jesus Daily: Prayer & Sacraments, emphasising how personal prayer and regular reception of the sacraments sustains spiritual growth.
Fr Blany Pinto animated the third session with Don Bosco’s Story: Dream Big, Live Bold, presenting the founder’s life as an inspiration for courage and vision. Later, he also moderated A Path Unfolding, where aspirants themselves shared their experiences of vocational discovery, giving the younger boys a glimpse of the journey ahead. Br Royston Colaco completed the sequence with God’s Eternal Plan: Discovering My Vocation, inviting participants to recognise discernment as a vital step in aligning with God’s call.
The sessions collectively addressed five guiding movements: Inspiration through Don Bosco’s life, Witness through aspirant testimonies, Discernment of God’s call, Spirituality rooted in prayer and sacraments, and Identity anchored in Salesian spirit. Each theme was presented in a manner that encouraged reflection and dialogue.
Beyond the talks, the camp fostered moments of prayer, recreation and fraternity, ensuring that participants experienced the holistic character of Salesian life. Meals, liturgies and group activities created an atmosphere of joy and belonging, reinforcing the sense that vocation emerges within community.
The camp concluded on September 21 at 4 p.m., after two days of intensive engagement.
Thanks to the parish priests and rectors who sent the boys. They were already guiding in faith formation and vocational discernment. The camp thus became a space where faith, friendship and future possibilities converged.
At its heart, the Come & See Camp offered young boys not just information about Salesian life but an experience of it—planting seeds of discernment that may grow into lifelong vocations.
By Ujjwala Siddapur & Avil Correa for BISMumbai
The auditorium of Don Bosco High School and Junior College, Lonavla, came alive on Thursday morning with the rhythm and colour of Dil Se Nacho, the annual interhouse dance competition. Held on August 28, 2025, the event brought together the school’s four houses in a spirited celebration of India’s rich cultural tapestry.
The competition was divided into three categories: Juniors (Standards V to VII), Inters (Standards VIII to X), and Seniors (Standards XI and XII). Each house was tasked with presenting a distinct regional culture of India.The Yellow House chose Jammu and Kashmiri traditions, the Blue House performed the vibrancy of Assam, the Red House showcased Himachali heritage, while the Green House brought to life the spirit of Goa.
At 10.30 a.m., the first performance began, with each group stepping forward in turn, their costumes, music, and choreography transforming the stage into a panorama of India’s diversity. The judges, Mr Aditya Kamat and Ms Bhagwati Goel, watched attentively as the dancers moved with energy and precision.
Each performance carried both artistic flair and cultural authenticity, winning warm applause from the packed audience of students and staff.
Following the house presentations, the judges shared their appreciation for the effort and artistry on display. In a delightful surprise, Mr Kamat himself performed, drawing cheers and leaving the hall enthralled.
The awards ceremony followed, with certificates presented to the winners. The event concluded with a gracious vote of thanks delivered by Miss Sanidhya Wakade, acknowledging the efforts of the participants, organisers, and judges.
The programme was coordinated by teachers Sushma and Priya, whose careful planning ensured that the competition ran seamlessly. Beyond the contest, the aim of Dil Se Nacho was clearly fulfilled: to encourage students to express their talents, build confidence, and celebrate India’s plural culture through the medium of dance.
The results reflected the intensity of the contest. In the Juniors category, the Green House took first place, with Red House in second. Among the Inters, Yellow House emerged victorious, while Green and Blue shared second place. The Seniors delivered an equally compelling contest, with Blue House securing the top spot and Yellow House finishing a close second.
The day ended not only with winners, but with a sense of shared pride across the houses—proof once again that at Don Bosco Lonavla, dance is more than performance; it is celebration, learning, and unity expressed through movement.
By Marie Rodriques for BIS Mumbai
The annual retreat of the Salesian Cooperators began from August 22 to 25, 2025, at Don Bosco Aspirantate Lonavla. Approximately 80 Cooperators registered from various units of the Bombay Province, demonstrating commendable resolve in overcoming adverse weather and traffic conditions. The participants were graciously welcomed by the Administrator, Fr Vivian D’Souza SDB.
On the inaugural day, just before dinner, the members convened in the AV room for a thoughtfully conducted contemplative scriptural rosary led by Shonan from the Wadala (W) unit. Following dinner, the members reconvened in the AV room for an engaging and meticulously prepared Bible quiz conducted by Alvito from the Naigaon unit. It was, indeed, an extraordinary session of biblical learning.
The second day commenced on a profound note with a beautifully executed bilingual meditation on the scenes of the Wedding at Cana, led by Sr Vandana FMA, delegate of the Koparkhairane unit. The day’s sessions began with Fr Diego Nunes SDB, the Salfam Delegate, who officially welcomed and expressed gratitude to the participants for dedicating their time to this annual retreat. He briefly shared insights regarding his health before introducing the retreat’s speaker, Fr Jesu Robinson SDB, Rector of Social Ministry at Walvanda. After requesting the participants to observe silence, punctuality, and openness to the divine voice, he commenced his discourse on Matthew chapter 5 – The Beatitudes. The sessions over both days provided an in-depth exploration of the Beatitudes, with insightful discussions and enriching group sessions.
Gita, the secretary of the Lonavla unit, shared her journey as a Salesian Cooperator, emphasizing that with the encouragement and guidance from both their past and present delegates, Frs Vivian and Blany, alongside the support of Fr Diego Nunes and the council members, she has been able to surmount challenges and progress in furthering the mission of the Salesians within her unit.
Sr Vandana and other Aspirants and Cooperators from Alirajpur, Yerwada, Wadala East, and West recounted their experiences of collaboration within their respective units, bolstered by the guidance of Fr Nunes and the Province team during their visits. The most poignant testimony was delivered by Jacinta Jones from the Nerul Unit, whose narrative of the challenges she faced on the day of her Promise evoked deep emotion among all present.
A prayerful Adoration was led by the youth from the Yerwada unit, who also orchestrated the singing alongside members of the Alirajpur unit during the Eucharistic Celebrations on both days. The day concluded with a beautiful candlelight rosary conducted by the Lonavla unit, followed by an inspiring goodnight address by Sr Iona Barretto, FMA delegate.
The third day of the retreat commenced with a meditative silent nature walk around the campus lawns, guided by Fr Jesu. This experience heightened our awareness of God’s magnificent gifts, recalling Psalm 121. It was indeed a remarkable experience.
By the conclusion of the retreat, the Cooperators expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Lord for the opportunity to partake in this enriching experience.
Christalina Pinto from Naigaon said, “Those who attended the retreat from our unit had a beautiful and blessed experience. God bless Fr Diego and the Province Council for meticulously orchestrating every detail regarding our stay, speakers, sessions, etc.” Gracy Thomas said, “A beautiful and blessed experience for all.”
By Fr Blany Pinto for BIS Mumbai
The hillside town of Lonavla, known for its quiet ridges and cooling winds, turned into a place of torrential spiritual downpour and profound renewal as the aspirants of Don Bosco gathered for their Annual Spiritual Retreat from August 22 – 24, 2025. Led by Father Allwyn Misquitta, a reputed and charismatic retreat preacher sought after across India for his healing ministry, the three-day encounter unfolded as both a disciplined programme and a spiritual ascent.
The retreat “Be An Agent of Change,” opened on Friday evening with hymns of praise and worship, ushering the aspirants into The Power of the Love of God. Later, the session Jesus the Universal Saviour deepened their focus on Christ at the centre of vocation. Silence accompanied the evening meal, before the rosary, adoration, and benediction brought the night to a contemplative close.
Saturday formed the retreat’s heart. Dawn prayers and the Eucharist grounded the aspirants before they were led through reflections on The Power of the Holy Spirit, devotion to Mother Mary, and a striking session on God’s Plan of Salvation. The afternoon shifted towards reconciliation: The Power of Repentance prepared the way for the Sacrament of Confession. Evening prayer turned to The Power of Divine Healing, where Father Misquitta’s gift for charismatic ministry invited aspirants into an intimate encounter with grace. The day ended with an intercessory healing rosary, revision of insights, and Divine Healing Adoration, sealing reflection with silence.
Sunday carried the retreat to its summit. After early worship and Eucharist, the aspirants entered Biblical Reflections on the Mountain, evoking the scriptural call to encounter God in high places. The later sessions, Personal Spiritual Transformation and Becoming the Best Version of Myself, urged the aspirants to align their lives with their deepest call. Thanksgiving prayers and a mercy service marked the closing arc, followed by feedback shared with Salesian staff. The retreat concluded not with solemnity alone but with tea, games, and shared laughter—a reminder that joy, too, belongs at the heart of discernment.
The retreat was marked by modest dress and reverent simplicity, minimising distraction and strengthening focus on prayer. For the aspirants of Don Bosco, these three days were not only formation but a deepening of vocation. Under Father Misquitta’s inspired preaching, they discovered silence as strength, healing as promise, and God’s call as the enduring thread in their lives.
By Ujjwala Siddapur for BISMumbai
Don Bosco High School and Junior College, Lonavla, hosted its annual General Knowledge Quiz Competition on August 18, 2025 in the AV Hall, bringing together students from Classes 5 to 8 for an afternoon of spirited learning and teamwork.
The competition was divided into two categories: Juniors from Classes 5 and 6, and Seniors from Classes 7 and 8. Each of the four houses — Blue, Red, Yellow, and Green — was represented by six participants, ensuring fair representation and healthy rivalry. Questions were projected on a PowerPoint screen and read aloud by the Quizmaster, allowing contestants to follow clearly while the audience remained fully engaged.
The quiz featured six distinct rounds. These included Choose the Correct Answer and True or False, which demanded sharp recall, as well as Who Am I, which tested reasoning skills. The Audio-Visual Quest required attentiveness and observation, while the fast-paced Rapid Fire Round rewarded quick thinking under pressure. The contest culminated in the dramatic Buzzer Round, where timing and confidence became as important as knowledge itself.
Throughout the event, students demonstrated confidence, enthusiasm, and cooperative spirit. Contestants often huddled together for last-second consultations, showing that teamwork mattered as much as individual ability. Teachers and classmates noted the blend of competition and camaraderie, which gave the programme its balanced and constructive character.
The results captured the strengths of each house. In the Junior section, Blue House secured first place, followed by Red in second, Yellow in third, and Green in fourth. Among the Seniors, Yellow House claimed victory, with Green close behind in second, Red in third, and Blue in fourth. Each house was recognised for its contribution, and applause greeted both winners and runners-up.
The competition concluded with words of appreciation for the staff and organisers, whose careful planning ensured smooth execution. Beyond the trophies and rankings, the event was widely acknowledged as a success for the values it promoted — curiosity, teamwork, healthy competition, and house unity. It offered students not only the thrill of participation but also the satisfaction of learning together, making it an important part of the school’s academic calendar.
by Presley Andrade for BISMumbai
Don Bosco Lonavla marked Independence Day and the Feast of the Assumption with a visit from Fr Silvio Roggia, General Councillor for Formation of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The occasion combined national pride, faith and the Salesian mission, creating a moment of lasting significance for the community.
Fr Roggia presided over the Holy Eucharist and in his homily reflected on the Salesian mission of education and formation. He reminded the gathering that Don Bosco’s vision was not only to educate the mind but also to shape the heart. “A true Salesian education forms character as much as it forms intellect,” he said, urging both teachers and students to remain rooted in values that outlast circumstance.
After Mass, the aspirants from Standards VIII to XII hosted a family circle to welcome him. Their spirited programme of music, song, a band performance and the National Anthem reflected both devotion and patriotism.
Speaking directly to the young, Fr. Roggio encouraged them to pursue their studies with dedication and to anchor themselves in faith. “Education without values is incomplete,” he told them. “It is your integrity, not only your knowledge, that will shape the future.”
The students responded with equal conviction. “His words made us think about how our studies are also a responsibility,” said one of the aspirants. “It is not only about marks, but about becoming people who can serve others.”
The evening concluded with a community meal that brought together Salesians, staff and students in an atmosphere of warmth and fraternity. Conversations flowed easily, and many remarked that the visit had reminded them of the deeper purpose of their daily work. “We felt strengthened in our mission,” said a member of the community. “It was a simple evening, but one that touched the heart.”
As Fr Roggia departed, his presence left behind more than memories; it renewed the community’s resolve to live Don Bosco’s charism with conviction. The day stood as a reminder that education rooted in faith and integrity remains the most enduring gift to the young.
by Melton Suares for BIS Mumbai
Don Bosco Lonavla welcomed home one of its own — Fr Felix Almeida, Salesian missionary in Mexico and son of the Salesian Province of Bombay. His return was not just a visit, but a heartfelt homecoming to the very cradle of his vocation.
Ordained on June 21, 2025, Fr Almeida returned to Lonavla to offer a thanksgiving Eucharist, a tribute to the house that shaped his dreams and nurtured his priestly calling. His presence sparked joy, reflection, and deep gratitude among the community.
In a vibrant session with aspirants from Classes 8, 9, 10, and 12, Fr Felix shared his missionary journey through a compelling slideshow of personal photographs. Each image was more than a memory — it was a testimony of grace, growth, and gritty pastoral commitment.
He spoke warmly of Mexico’s people — their affection, hospitality, and faith. With sincerity, he also revealed the challenges of cross-cultural ministry, offering the boys an honest and rounded glimpse into missionary life.
“A Salesian is defined by generosity,” he said, “and even more so, a missionary. It’s the joy of giving your time, energy, and gifts that makes this vocation come alive.”
The boys listened, laughed, and questioned. They asked about his decision to serve in Mexico, the food, the language, the cultural shift — and what kept him going. In those moments, the mission field became real. The call became tangible.
For the house of Don Bosco Lonavla, this visit was more than a memory — it was a living reminder of Don Bosco’s dream: a missionary spirit that knows no borders and a vocation that begins in the quiet stirrings of an open heart.
