by Cleric Jittin Mathew with Father Sunil Pinto for BISMumbai

Bosco Boys Home (BBH) Borivali is a melting pot of different creeds, cultures and languages. Love, tolerance and respect, for all faiths and cultures, has been an integral part of the education system in this institute. On 22 August 2020, the festival of ‘Ganesh Utsav’ was celebrated with resounding cries of 'bappa morya'.

The day began with waking up to melodious bhajans. Later a prayer service was organised under the guidance of the BBH staff. Datta Gade [senior BBH staff] in his address to the boys, spoke about the meaning and importance of the festival. “Ganesh Chaturthi”, he said, “marks the birthday of the beloved elephant-headed Lord Ganesha. He is the god of wealth, sciences, knowledge, wisdom, prosperity, and remover of obstacles. That's why most Hindus remember him and seek his blessings before starting any important work.”

The service was followed up by a meaningful skit presentation highlighting some legends associated with Ganesha. The boys then indulged in some homemade traditional 'Modaks' prepared by Sonali [BBH staff]. In the afternoon, the boys were divided into teams to prepare colourful ‘rangolis’ around the house in keeping with the festive tradition which was evaluated by Father Diego Nunes. The festive day came to a close with the screening of a movie for the boys.