By Br Ankita Shelke for BIS Mumbai
The ordination of Deacon Avil Correa took place on December 21, 2023, at the Shrine of Don Bosco’s Madonna, Matunga-Mumbai. His Eminence Cardinal Oswald Gracias presided over the Solemn Eucharist, joined by priests, religious, family members, and friends.
Cardinal Gracias delivered a meaningful homily emphasizing that a priest is a gift of God to society. He also pressed upon the importance of young people joining the priesthood and how it is the hope for today.
During the sacred rite, Cardinal Gracias and the priests present laid hands on Deacon Avil, conferring upon him the grace of priesthood through the Holy Spirit. The newly ordained Fr Avil was then vested with the priestly stole and chasuble, followed by the presentation of the chalice and paten.
Fr Savio Silveira, Provincial of the Mumbai Salesian Province, expressed gratitude to Cardinal Gracias and congratulated Fr Avil and his family. Fr Avil then offered words of thanks to all who supported his journey to priesthood. His ordination motto- “Abide in My love.” John 15:9 is inspired by the motif of Sacred Heart of Jesus in Rome. At the bottom of the image at the main altar are the words “praebe fill mi, cor tuum mihi” which translates as “Bring, my child, your heart to me”.
By Br Royston Colaco for BIS Mumbai
Over two transformative days in Lonavala, the discernment retreat “Speak, Lord, Your Servant is Listening” provided twenty-three aspirant participants – including three from Alirajpur, with a profound journey of introspection and spiritual renewal. The retreat, held on December 7 and 8, focused on themes of identity, belonging, and purpose, combining reflective activities with creative expressions of faith. Mumbai Salesians’ Province Delegate for Social Communication, Fr Joyston Machado animated the retreat in tandem with Br Royston Colaco, the Province Vocation Animator.
The first day explored the question, “Who Am I Before God?” Participants began with reflections on the story of Samuel, lighting symbolic candles as a gesture of readiness to hear God’s voice. A session on Freedom, Identity, Belonging, and Purpose (FIBP) encouraged participants to delve into their personal spirituality, while a creative workshop, “As Clay in the Hands of the Potter,” used the act of shaping clay to symbolize surrender to divine guidance.
One of the most striking exercises, “What Do You Want Your Tombstone to Say?” prompted participants to evaluate their lives and reflect on how their choices aligned with their values. The day balanced profound moments with lighter activities, such as the Zombie Game, which imparted lessons on teamwork, awareness, and faith.
The second day shifted focus to discerning God’s call to action, asking the question, “What Does God Want Me to Do?” A reflective Rosary Walk inspired by Mary’s “Yes” set the tone, followed by a celebratory Eucharist. Participants explored their spiritual journeys through sessions like “Journey of Life” and “Need to Be Accompanied Before Accompanying Others.” The retreat concluded with “Faces of Jesus,” where participants responded to God’s call through creative prayer and letter-writing.
As the retreat drew to a close with a benediction and a slideshow of memorable moments, participants left with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper connection to their faith. The event served as a gentle yet profound awakening to the presence of God’s voice in everyday life, inspiring the aspirant-participants to embrace their spiritual paths with clarity and trust.
The entire two-day process culminated in the aspirants handing over their individual applications during the solemn concelebrated festal mass in honour of the Immaculate Conception, presided over by Don Bosco Lonavla Vice-Rector and Principal, Fr Ranson D’Souza.
By Br Royston Colaco for BISMumbai
To motivate and encourage young boys to discern their vocation, Don Bosco Lonavala hosted an engaging ‘Come & See’ camp for boys of classes 7 and 8 on November 23-24, 2024. Designed to inspire young minds, the two-day event beautifully blended spirituality with fun and learning.
The Come & See camp attracted around 50 enthusiastic participants from all over the Province right from Alirajput to Vasai-Virar. All the boys participating in the camp were eager to explore Salesian life and understand Don Bosco’s legacy.
The camp was coordinated by Br Royston Colaco, the Vocation Promoter of the Salesian Province of Bombay, who set the tone with sessions on “Being a Good Samaritan” and “Being an Active Listener of the Lord.” Dn Avil Correa enriched the gathering with insights on “Being Faithful to One’s Duties,” encouraging responsibility and integrity in daily life. The boys also enjoyed an animated film on St. John Bosco with a discussion, skillfully crafted by Fr Blany Pinto which highlighted the saint’s life and mission.
The boys also had some fun interactive moments with the aspirants at Don Bosco Lonavala. These were done through an adventurous trek, letting the boys immerse and enjoy themselves amidst the beauty of nature while also nurturing teamwork thorugh the various activites en route to the trek destination.
Prayer formed the camp’s spiritual core, with Mass, Adoration, and Rosary guiding the boys towards deeper faith. Cl Pranit Kokya brought energy and excitement with animated night games, while a well-organized treasure hunt thrilled participants with strategic clues, wrapping up the day with smiles and camaraderie. A few select aspirants wanting to pursue their calling as future Salesians, helped Br Colaco in the organisation.
The camp was a resounding success, blending prayer, play, and learning into an unforgettable memorable experience for all.
By Br Royston Colaco for BIS Mumbai
A group of Catholic young men from Class 12 and college levels from Mumbai, Vasai, Pune and Madhya Pradesh embarked on an eye-opening mission trip deep into Gujarat’s tribal heartlands. The “Exploring Mission Life” camp, held from October 26 to November 1, aimed to offer these youth a true Salesian experience by immersing them in the daily lives of the Rathwa tribe across Kawant, Chhotaudepur, and Narukot. Organized by the Salesian community of Don Bosco Kawant, the initiative was led by Province Vocation Animator Br Royston Colaco, with Cl Rohan D’Souza as his dedicated assistant.
The camp, guided by the motto “Search, Stay, Discern, and Do,” invited participants to step out of their comfort zones and engage with a lifestyle deeply rooted in the earth. For two days, these young men lived in the villages of Kawra, Kochvad and Gungalia, experiencing firsthand the resilient simplicity of tribal life. “The Rathwa community opened our eyes to a different way of living,” reflected one participant. “Their resilience, generosity, and love for their heritage were inspiring.” From fetching water at dawn to preparing traditional meals and lending hands in the fields, they embraced the rhythms of rural life, forging a bond of mutual respect and understanding.
A memorable part of their journey was the day of outdoor adventure—a trek to the scenic Khandabari Dam, which provided both a physical challenge and an exhilarating communion with nature. The campers also engaged in field work and environmental cleanup within village surroundings, taking active roles in preserving the natural beauty of the area.
Educational sessions formed a core part of the camp. Deacon Agnel Dias held an impactful workshop on “Mission & a 10-Point Mission Outlook,” encouraging the participants to find purpose and direction in their lives. In another session, Fr. Mayank Parmar provided insights into the Social Work initiatives carried out by DISHA Development Centre, helping participants understand the outreach efforts for local empowerment and development.
The camp extended beyond Kawant as they visited neighboring communities in Narukot, Chhotaudepur, Alirajpur, Makarpura-Vadodara, and Snehalaya: the Child Care Institue run by the Salesians at Vishwamitri, enriching their understanding of the region’s diversity. The campers organized games and activities for local children, bringing joy and laughter into the community.
As the week came to a close, these young men returned with a deepened sense of purpose, moved by the warmth of the Rathwa people and enriched by their Salesian mission experience. The camp, bridging cultural and spiritual divides, offered them a unique opportunity to reflect on the value of service, solidarity, and understanding across cultures.
By Fr Joyston Machado
The Salesian Province of Mumbai was privileged to host a series of deeply spiritual and inspiring retreats led by Fr Pascual Chávez SDB, former Rector Major of the Salesians of Don Bosco, from September 22 to October 12, 2024. The retreats, held at Don Bosco Lonavla and Prayer House Khandala, brought together rectors, leaders, confreres in the decennium, and those under general patronage. These retreats offered a unique opportunity for spiritual renewal and deeper reflection on Salesian life, leadership, and the mission entrusted by Don Bosco to his sons.
In his opening talk, Fr Chávez set the spiritual tone for the retreats with the theme “Your Face, Lord, Do I Seek.” This call to seek God’s face served as the foundation for all his reflections, urging the participants to encounter Christ in a profound, personal way, and to allow this relationship to inspire their ministry.
The first retreat, from September 22 to 28, focused on rectors and leaders of Salesian communities. Fr Chávez addressed the unique role of rectors, emphasizing their responsibility as spiritual leaders and animators of fraternity within their communities. His sessions on Rectors as Leaders stressed that Salesian leadership is rooted in service, humility, and wisdom. He encouraged rectors to lead by example, fostering environments of trust, love, and mutual support, where each confrere can grow in his vocation.
From September 29 to October 5, the retreat at Khandala was aimed at Salesians in their decennium – those within their first ten years of priesthood or perpetual profession. For them, Fr Chávez’s reflections on the Experience of God and Religious Vocation were particularly relevant. He reminded the participants that their vocation is a gift from God and that their mission is to be lived out with joy and enthusiasm, particularly in their service to the young, especially the poor. Echoing his first letter as Rector Major, “My Dear Salesians, Be Saints!”, Fr Chávez called on the young Salesians to strive for holiness, emphasizing that a personal relationship with Christ should always be at the heart of their ministry.
The final ongoing retreat, from October 6 to 12, is designed for those under general patronage, and here Fr Chávez takes a broader perspective, focusing on themes such as Christian Hope and Fraternal Life. He connected Don Bosco’s Dream at the Age of Nine to the contemporary Salesian mission, urging participants to be bearers of hope in a world that often feels overwhelmed by despair. “Christian hope,” he emphasized, “must be the driving force of our mission.” In these reflections, Fr Chávez offered practical guidance on how to live out the Salesian charism in today’s world, especially by cultivating love, which he described as “the fruit of the Spirit.”
A recurring theme throughout the retreats was the need to be “the hope that overturns the world.” Fr Chávez urged the participants to live their Salesian vocation with courage, conviction, and an unwavering sense of mission, reminding them that their call is to transform the world by serving the young, especially those on the margins.
Fr Chávez’s simplicity and holiness were evident in his approach. He began each session with a prayer to the Holy Spirit and a Hail Mary, grounding his reflections in prayer and inviting participants to do the same. His ability to weave together deep theological insights with practical examples from his time as Rector Major, and his ministry around the world, made his talks accessible and relatable.
As the retreats concluded, there was a profound sense of gratitude among the participants. Fr Chávez’s presence had renewed their commitment to their Salesian vocation, inspiring them to live out their mission with greater zeal and joy. His words had rekindled their passion for serving the young, particularly the poor, and reminded them that holiness is at the heart of their Salesian calling.
In the words of one participant, “These retreats have been a moment of grace, a time to come closer to God, and a powerful reminder of our Salesian mission to be saints in the service of the young.” The spiritual and charismatic renewal experienced during these retreats will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the province.
By Cl. Pranit Kokya
The vocation animator of the Salesian Province of St. Francis Xavier, Bombay, Brother Royston Colaco, and the provincial councillor for the vocation dimension, Fr. Blany Pinto, met the Local Vocation Teams at Borivali, Wadala (East and West), on July 15, 17 and 18, 2024. Earlier, Br. Royston had also met with the Local Vocation Team at Makarpura in Vadodara. He had also paid a visit to the other rural sub-stations at Kawant and Narukot.
The purpose of these initial rounds of meetings, Br. Colaco says, “is first and foremost to familiarize myself and build a better rapport with the Local Vocation Teams across all the presences.” He further adds, “It is essential to work as a team. Also, because I have just been appointed this May, I feel the need to connect with our local animators.”
The province Vocation Commission also had its core group meeting and formulated an action plan to identify, inspire, and encourage probable candidates to be open to God’s call and commit themselves as consecrated religious for life.
Br. Colaco took over from Fr. Velasli Bandya and is the first Coadjutor Salesian to be appointed as the Province Vocation Animator. Earlier, he served as the Province Delegate for Coadjutor Salesians.
Provincial Councillor, Fr. Blany Pinto, who is currently Rector of the Aspirantate – Don Bosco Lonavla, remarks, “It is with great effort that we now have the Local Vocation Teams in place. We have held regular meetings, both online and offline, to animate, encourage, and support them. Fr. Bandya did a commendable job. Now, Br. Colaco has stepped into his shoes and is carrying the work ahead.”
By Br Royston Colaco
The Salesian community and the aspirants at Don Bosco Lonavla spent an evening in recollection on 12 July 2024. Rector Fr Blany Pinto animated the recollection.
The theme for reflection was: Moses’ childhood and youth, as planned and directed by God.
A few Salesian Cooperators also joined the community and the aspirants. They also volunteered their service in assisting the aspirants to help them with the reflection. This enabled the Salesians to spend a recollection evening.
Fr Pinto elaborated the birth and early growing up of Moses. he pointed out how God’s plan was set in motion through different events in an extraordinary and miraculous manner. he also explained how God similarly works in all our lives, as per His plan. fr Pinto dwelt on Moses growing up and identifying with his own people who were suffering as slaves. He said, *Though the ancient Codevof
Hammurabi was a just law code, Moses had to understand God’s plan and his personal role to bring God’s justice to his people. “
At significant moments, Fr. Pinto asked the assembly to pause and reflect on the questions he posed. The following Questions for reflections were asked:
In what way did your parents bring you up in Faith? Recall what your parents have done to bring you up in Faith.
Recall the good your parents have done for you.
Personal reflection and meditative prayer followed the talk. This first recollection concluded with the Eucharistic Adoration for all.
The aspirants at Don Bosco Lonavla were inspired to be champions of God on an adventure of faith, by Fr Joyston Machado – Mumbai Salesians’ Communications Delegate, over the weekend of 6-7 July, 2024. Fr Machado reminisced with nostalgia of his days in Lonavla, and invited the aspirants to make adventurous memories of their stay here. He celebrated the festive Eucharist on 06 July, commemorating Dominic Savio, a champion of God, an inspiration for the young.
Detailing the elements to be champions of God, Fr Machado said, “The five elements are: knowing where the hidden treasure is, being builders of a community, choosing one’s companions wisely, using the magical tools of prayer, the Word of God, the Eucharist, and going on a quest.” He also encouraged the aspirants to look at St Dominic Savio as a model towards holiness. The following day, Fr Machado spent interacting with the aspirants, especially the media group, and invited them to make their mark on the social media platforms. He also animated them to make and submit short films for the upcoming DBGYFF – Don Bosco Global Youth Film Festival.
The aspirants took this opportunity to express their gratitude to Fr Machado for his inspirational stint as their prefect of studies, through dances, an address and a well-prepared farewell moment. Fr Blany Pinto, the Rector, expressed his gratitude to Fr Machado for his dedication and commitment towards his responsibilities. He assured Fr Machado that the community would pray as he takes up his new ministry.
The adventure has well and truly begun even as the aspirants dare to dream and be champions of God, in imitation of Dominic Savio.
The Aspirants at Don Bosco Lonavla had a two-day retreat and group dynamics over the weekend of 21 – 23 June 2024. The retreat was animated by Mr Savio Fernandes, while Fr Chris Valentino sdb animated the Group Dynamics sessions.
The theme of the retreat was “Understanding & Deepening our Relationship with God”
The first day of the retreat began in the evening (Friday) with the Eucharistic Adoration & a session introducing the Retreat.
The next 2 days had various interactive sessions and inputs on how to understand and deepen the relationship with God. Besides the inputs, the Aspirants had the opportunity to avail the sacrament of reconciliation followed by an Adoration and inner healing service in the evening.
The final day of retreat focused on the importance of the Holy Spirit in our lives. The scripture references to the gifts and fruits of the Holy Spirit were explained in detail.
Eucharist was celebrated on both days of the retreat.
Mr Fernandes enjoyed animating the aspirants and said, “It was a good opportunity for me to meet and spend time with the aspirants individually. In my sharing with the Rector, I have suggested a few pointers for spiritual growth. ”
The group dynamics focused on the seven ‘I’ of groups: information, instruction, interaction, inclinations, implications, introspection, and implementation. Fr Valentino guided the aspirants through the process with interactive activities and input.
The wholesome outcome was the preparation of the annual personal plan by each aspirant using the SWOT Analysis model, which was offered up to the Lord during the concluding Eucharistic Adoration .
By Ms Qaafiya Syed for BISMumbai
On 16 September 2023, the Lonavla Municipal Corporation (LMC) joined hands with local schools to organise a cleanliness initiative on World Cleanliness Day. This collaborative effort enlisted the enthusiastic participation of the 42 students of Don Bosco High School in Lonavla, specifically those hailing from Grade 10, led by their esteemed class mentors, Ms Sushma Patankar and Ms Vrushali Jadhav.
This effort was aimed at raising awareness of the significance of a clean environment and inspiring people to be actively involved in preserving the cleanliness of their surroundings. People, which included students, teachers, and local residents, congregated early in the morning under the beautiful Sahara Bridge in Lonavla. Eager volunteers, largely students, took to the task of clearing litter from the thoroughfares of Bhushi Gaon. Wearing gloves and armed with garbage bags, they exemplified commitment to both safety and hygiene. A dedicated group of students diligently swept the streets, leaving no room for clutter. One of the students, Master Dev Patel, expressed his happiness in these words: “I felt fulfilled after cleaning the streets, and I look forward to more of these initiatives.” Neel Thule said, “It was a good initiative taken up by the LMC, and I was happy to participate in it.”
Beyond the realm of cleanliness, this event also provided an avenue for the students to unveil their talents and creativity through the medium of street theatre. This segment was artfully designed to captivate the community’s imagination while reinforcing the importance of a clean environment. The students crafted informative posters and placards, spotlighting the paramount significance of cleanliness and hygiene. Accompanied by the rhythmic songs of Dhol Tasha Pathak, talented student bands delighted the audience with their musical prowess.
The event, far from being merely a symbolic gesture, stood as a testament to the power of collective action. It not only breathed new life into the streets but also invigorated the students, affording them a platform to showcase their talents and creativity. Events of this nature serve to ignite a sense of deep responsibility towards our environment and nurture a stronger sense of unity within our beloved community. Piyush Pasalkar, the school captain, said, “It was an amazing rally that inspired the patriot in me, highlighting the importance of cleanliness in the city. I’m grateful to the school and the LMC for allowing me to contribute to my town and my nation.”
By Mr Hansel Fernandes for BISMumbai
On 9 September 2023, Don Bosco, Lonavla, hosted a two-day ‘Come and See’ camp for schoolboys who are considering joining the Aspirantate in the upcoming year. The event had 60 boys participating from the Salesian institutions of Borivli, Alirajpur, Wadala, and others from the Vasai region.
The campers arrived at 10 a.m., and they gathered in the chapel after a quick breakfast. There they were warmly welcomed by Fr Blany Pinto, the Rector. He outlined the camp’s primary goal, encouraging interaction with aspirants so that they could gain insight into their lives. Fr Velasli Bandya, the Province Vocation Animator, and Fr Joyston Machado introduced the staff and volunteers.
Following that, the campers were divided into teams, and icebreakers were organised. This helped them to shake off their timidity and launch wholeheartedly into the activities of the camp. After lunch, they were introduced to the vocation of the Salesian Brother and they interacted with the Brothers in their respective groups. There were eight Brothers who shared their vocation stories and their apostolate.
In the evening, after various fun and engaging games were organised, all gathered for a solemn Eucharistic Celebration. During his homily, Fr Machado referred to biblical figures illustrating how God’s calling varies for each person and urging the boys to embrace their own callings. The day culminated with a heartwarming family gathering, where both aspirants and campers showcased their talents through music, skits, and dances.
The following day commenced with a solemn Holy Mass. In the morning, the aspirants shared their schedule and the activities in the boarding with the campers, which was followed by a question and answer session. This was followed by an enlightening session on the life of Don Bosco and the Salesian ministry. This served to acquaint the boys with Don Bosco’s life and the essence of the Salesian mission. Post-lunch, they engaged in an hour of tournaments, followed by leisure activities. At around 4:00 in the evening, the camp drew to a close.
The camp was thoroughly enjoyed by all the campers. One of the participants, Keith Mota said, “This was a fun camp because of the events and opportunities that it gave us”.
By Ms Qaafiya Syed for BISMumbai
The Under-17 cricket team of Don Bosco High School & Junior College, Lonavla, emerged as the runner-up in the intensely contested District Level Cricket Tournament held on 26 August 2023. The team battled against 70 other schools on the grounds of Subhash Chandra Bose Military School, Alandi, Pune, and etched their mark.
Amidst the deluge of record-high rainfall that Lonavla generally receives, the prospects of preparing for the district-level cricket matches upon the school’s reopening are nearly impossible. Realising this predicament, the preparation commenced remarkably early in November 2022 and persisted till the end of April 2023 under the guidance of the coach, Mr Rahul Rathod.
Following a brief respite of a month in May, the rigorous practices resumed in mid-June, when the school and the college reopened. However, the heavy, incessant rain in July and August made outdoor practices impossible. Undeterred by the heavy monsoon, the team players exhibited a tenacious resolve and practised indoors while keeping their spirits high.
The team players were well acquainted with the age-old adage, “No gains without pains”. The sweat and dedication invested by the players yielded a bountiful harvest that was evident in their growing confidence with every practice.
Leading by example, the team’s captain, Dev Patel, demonstrated remarkable leadership both on and off the field. The astute strategic insights and unwavering dedication of the coaches, Mr Rathod and Mr Dinesh D’Souza, steered the team to the finals. The team was very close to victory, but lost the finals by eight runs. The cricket team was truly fortunate to have the steadfast support of the School Management, the Principal, the School Staff, and their Parents.
The staff and students of Don Bosco High School and College are elated and extend their heartfelt congratulations to the Under-17 Cricket team, which is brimming with immense pride. This achievement stands as a testament to their commitment, hard work and perseverance, as the team embraced numerous challenges and exemplified true sportsmanship throughout the tournament.
By Ms Shinu Jose for BISMumbai
The Annual Vocation Team Meet was held at Don Bosco, Lonavla, on 19 and 20 August 2023. The meeting was attended by 80 participants, including 15 Salesians and two religious sisters.
The Meet began with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist. Fr Blany Pinto, the Rector, during the homily, likened Jesus’ concern for children to the responsibility of every member of the Salesian Family in not alienating youth from faith through unwelcoming behaviour. Promoting a welcoming stance is vital for vocation ministry and a hallmark of a Salesian community.
After lunch, Fr Velasli Bandya, the Provincial Vocation Animator, warmly welcomed all the participants and gave an overview of the two-day Meet.
Fr Pinto, addressing the gathering, said that the Meet serves as a refreshing reminder of the Vocation Teams’ goals, enabling a collective exchange of insights on unit activities and fostering inspiration for novel endeavours. The shared province plan offers guidance for local plans, while the strength of unity empowers and propels everyone towards shared objectives. During the session led by Fr Bosco Carvalho on the ‘Role of Vocation Promoters’, he emphasised that all individuals, through Baptism, contribute to the Church’s mission. He likened vocation to unwrapping a gift from God, guiding young people through stages like building bonds, positive influence, community reflection, and understanding the Salesian charism.
The Provincial, Fr Savio Silveira, visited Lonavla and addressed the gathering later in the evening. Apart from sharing the statistics of Salesians in the province and updating them about the various new initiatives, Fr Silveira stressed three important avenues the vocation teams need to focus on: to help youngsters hear and understand God’s call, to invite senior college and graduate youth to consider Salesian life, and to encourage the vocation of the Salesian Brother.
During the Eucharist on the morning of 20 August, Fr Silveira contemplated the virtues of the Syro-Phoenician woman and encouraged Vocation Animators to nurture the same attributes within themselves, specifically highlighting Initiative, Perseverance, and Serenity. Later that morning, Fr Pinto conducted a session on the ‘Art of Salesian Encounter, Accompaniment, and Discernment’. He shared that Don Bosco is the model when it comes to the art of accompanying the youngsters. Reflecting on the incident of Bartholomew Garelli, Fr Pinto then proposed seven stages in the process of accompaniment.
Fr Bandya then presented the Province Vocation Plan Evaluation of the past year and also proposed lines of action drafted for the period of 2022-2025. Based on these guidelines, the local vocation teams discussed them in their respective groups and drew up their local vocation plan. After presenting their plans to other vocation teams, the Meet concluded with Fr Bandya and Fr Pinto expressing their gratitude to the local vocation teams for the hard work they put into vocation animation.
The Annual Vocation Team Meet was an opportunity to get acquainted with the common goal of vocation animation, and to work with greater coherence. The two days were also an opportunity for the vocation teams to meet the aspirants and experience their life at Don Bosco, Lonavla.
By Fr Blany Pinto for BISMumbai
On 9 August 2023, a collaborative effort between the Eklavya Foundation, Manshakti Kendra, and Don Bosco, Lonavla, led to the organisation of a medical camp dedicated to serving the Adivasi community on the occasion of Adivasi Day. The programme began at 10 a.m. and extended until 3 in the afternoon at Manshakti Kendra, Lonavla.
Approximately 180 tribals from the neighbouring villages of Navkhandevadi and Vaksai actively participated in the programme. The programme commenced with the lighting of a lamp, followed by the reverential placement of the garland upon the image of Hutatma Nagya, a revered Adivasi revolutionary figure. A collective homage was then paid to the departed Adivasis who tragically lost their lives in a recent landslide in Irshalwadi village in Khalapur, near Lonavla, just a few weeks prior. Numerous Adivasi families experienced not only the heartbreaking loss of their loved ones but also the devastation of their homes and all their possessions.
In a show of solidarity, Br Royston Colaco and Fr Velasli Bandya, accompanied by the social outreach team from Don Bosco, Lonavla, including Mrs Sonali Shelke and Mr Ravi Shelke, graced the occasion with their presence. Likewise, the event was graced by the attendance of Dr Suhas Gosavi and Mr Namdev Phapale from the Manshakti Kendra. Mr Pravin Deshmukh, the visionary founder of Eklavya Foundation, along with his dedicated team, also showed their commitment to the cause by being present.
The central objective of hosting the event on Adivasi Day was to gather the Adivasis from the different villages. It was also to disseminate vital information regarding the array of government initiatives tailored to uplift the Adivasi populace. Moreover, a concerted effort was made to instill an enthusiasm for education among the Adivasi families, urging them to enrol their children in schools to facilitate their academic journey.
The event not only facilitated the gathering and dissemination of information but also included a medical camp. A dedicated medical team comprising of Dr Gosavi and Dr Santosh Nikharaje, assisted by two nurses, conducted health check-ups, accompanied by ophthalmologists. To address the immediate healthcare needs, medicines were distributed freely to all the families that were sponsored by Mr Rajendra Khandelwal.
A select group of aspirants from the English Academy of Don Bosco, Lonavla, were actively involved in the medical camp. Their participation extended to the distribution of the medicines to each Adivasi family, engendering a rewarding experience for both the aspirants and the community they served.
The International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples is observed on 9 August each year to raise awareness and protect the rights of the world’s indigenous population. This is an occasion to recognise the achievements and contributions that indigenous people make to society.
The Salesian Youth Movement (SYM) of Don Bosco, Lonavla, organised one of the biggest events of the rainy season, ‘Monsoon Dhamaal’, exclusively for the students of Grade 12 on 4 August 2023. There was good and enthusiastic participation on the part of the youngsters in the event.
A fortnight prior to the commencement of the event, planning and preparation were set in motion. During this time, a dedicated core team was formed, consisting of teachers and students from the college. Mentored by Br Royston Colaco, the local Youth Ministry Delegate, and Fr Joyston Machado, the core team was fully prepared to take on the task at hand.
The event kicked off soon after the students had wrapped up their final unit test paper. It began at 10.30 a.m. and ended at 2 p.m. The Rector, Fr Blany Pinto, welcomed the youngsters, addressed the gathering, and declared the event open. During his talk, Fr Pinto enlightened them about the four dimensions of the SYM and how Monsoon Dhamaal was designed to enhance group dynamics by fostering a sense of coming together and bringing about a collaborative effort among the students.
Following this, the students were provided an opportunity to acquaint themselves with their counterparts from different classes. After the introduction, six teams were formed, and team games commenced. After several rounds of relays, the momentum transitioned into a medley of outdoor games. The students were all animated and participated with renewed gusto and vigour.
As the event drew to a close, the youngsters danced to some Bollywood numbers. The youngsters, who had registered themselves for the event, were happy to have the opportunity to revel in fellowship and celebrate their youthfulness. It was also a much-needed respite after their exams—a day of relaxation and enjoyment.
The joy was reflected on the faces of the youngsters as they extended their heartfelt thanks to both the SYM core team and the Salesians for executing the event to perfection.
By Ms Qaafiya Syed for BISMumbai
To help the students explore non-conventional career options, the alumni of the 1978 batch of Don Bosco, Lonavla, organized a career guidance session on 24 July 2023, exclusively for the students of Grades 9 to 12.
The session began with the felicitation of all the members from the batch 1978, gracefully done by School & Junior College captains. Following that, Fr Ranson D’souza, the Principal, warmly welcomed everyone and offered a concise overview of the session.
An introduction to an array of various career opportunities and scopes across diverse fields was then presented by the distinguished alumnus, Mr Krishna Kotak, the Chairman and Co-owner of the JM Baxi Group of Companies. He, along with Mr Shakeel Juwale, a chief engineer and technical inspector at the Merchant Navy, shed light on the vast possibilities in the realm of shipping and logistics. The subsequent session, on Education & Counselling,
featured two esteemed resource persons – Fr Leslie Perriera, the former principal of Don Bosco Lonavla, and Mrs Marina Neves, the former vice principal of VPS High School Lonavla. Their inspiring words urged not only the students but also the teachers to embrace teaching as a vocation, transcending beyond a mere profession. Adding to the spectrum, Mr Antonio Coutinho, an Insurance Advisor, provided insightful perspectives on Insurance and Health Care. Meanwhile, Mr Sunith Lobo, a postgraduate in Psychology with a major in Consumer Behaviour, meticulously outlined the various career opportunities in Advertising & HR. The virtual presence of Mr Daniel Bosco, connecting all the way from Dubai via zoom video calling, instilled the significance of AI & Robotics while encouraging the students to consider these cutting-edge courses.
The session further delighted the students as they were allowed to raise their questions, seeking more clarity on the career options presented. Mr. Felixco Fernandes moderated this interactive Q&A session, leaving the students enlightened.
The session concluded with our Rector extending his heartfelt gratitude, and the Don Bosco Lonavla 1978 batch shared their appreciation through the distribution of delectable snacks and cherished souvenirs for the students and staff. The career guidance session left an indelible mark on the young minds, propelling them towards a future filled with hope and purpose.
By Cl. Rohan D’Souza for BISMumbai
On 23 July 2023, five Salesians from the 1978 batch of Don Bosco Aspirantate, Lonavla, visited and shared their vocation journey and their Salesian experiences with the aspirants.
The batch of 1978 had visited Don Bosco Lonavla for their reunion and took the opportunity to interact with the aspirants. The encounter between the seasoned Salesians and the enthusiastic aspirants proved to be a memorable and transformative experience. With a compassionate demeanour and guiding words, the Salesians interacted with different groups of aspirants.
Frs Leslie Pereira and Matthew Coutinho addressed the senior boys, while Fr Solomon Rapol engaged with the Grade 10 aspirants and students from the English Academy. Frs Edwin Baracho and Tony Alemao interacted with the junior boys. During their sharings, they recounted their own calling to the Salesian life and priesthood, shedding light on the challenges and joys they encountered on their vocation journey.
They highlighted their moments of faith, which helped strengthen their lives as priests. Their sincere and relatable narratives touched the hearts of the students, sparking curiosity and contemplation about their own future paths. Their words of encouragement resonated deeply with the young minds, who were eager to explore the possibilities of a life dedicated to service and compassion. Their vibrant stories of transforming lives through kindness and mentorship left an indelible mark on the boys.
Throughout the interactive sessions, the Salesian priests emphasised the significance of prayer, discernment, and community support in nurturing a vocation. They encouraged the boys to remain open to the divine call and to trust in the journey ahead, even if it may seem uncertain at times. The message of finding joy in all their daily living at the aspirantate, and fostering a personal relationship with God struck a chord with the students.
Anvil Machado, an aspirant said, “The experiences shared by the Fathers, especially about their struggles to follow God and also experience His Love made me realise that though religious life is not all that easy, with God’s guidance, it is joyful.”
by Asgari Ahmed and Afrin Kusur
To promote singing talent among our school and college students, a singing competition entitled “Create a Symphony of Joy” was organized at Don Bosco High School and Junior College Lonavala on Tuesday, 25 July 2023. This was to provide a platform for the aspiring vocalists to showcase their talents and make a mark. Preparation for the competition began a couple of weeks in advance. Each participant was encouraged to choose a mentor from among the teachers who would guide them. They received expert guidance from the mentors, helping them to refine their skill in singing.
Singing creates strong bonds that transcends borders and cultures. The competition was fierce with contestants giving their best by baring their souls through the song. Their passion for singing and their melodious voice struck a chord with the audience who heard each contestant with rapt attention. Contestants sand the song of their choice in Marathi, Hindi and English.
The competition was held in the presence of two emiment judges Mr. Joey Mendoza and Dr. Priyanka Bachhav. Mr Mendonza is a maestro at music and theatre heading a company ‘Mendonza Muzikal’ that promotes the talents of youngsters. Dr. Bachhav, an alumna of Don Bosco college, is trained in classical music for 5 years. Her involvement in a grand Hindustani Classical Musical Symphony called “Antarnaad” led to an entry in the Guinness Book of World Records as a classical singer.
Students belonging to the school formed one group while the students from the college were in another groups. The competition was held separately for each group. The remarkable talent displayed by these gifted singers enthralled the esteemed panel of judges, making the selection process arduous but immensely rewarding.
In the school section, Aksh Oswal, Joshua Rodrigues and Aaron Colas triumphed as winners, leaving the audience spellbound. Dillon Falcao stood second while Emmanuel Dias secured the third place. In the college section, Ajit Pal Singh and Saniya Bhujel were judged as the joint winners. Joshua Gomes seized the second place while Ishwari Pawar and Vishaka Palkar jointly shared the third place. The winners were awarded certificates by the judges.
Teachers Asgari Ahmed and Afrin kusur organized the competition to challenge the students to excel in singing. Talent coupled with hardwork and proper mentoring enables students to achieve greatness.