by Father Xavier Bandya for BISMumbai

Salawad Education Development Society celebrated International Women’s Day at Don Bosco-Salawad on 14th March 2021. Knowing the conditions and atmosphere in the society, where women are suppressed in different forms, Father Gregory D'cunha along with his team decided to honour and provide some relaxed time for women from their busy schedule. Due to various restriction protocols, only a limited number of women from Mikhelpura and Salawad partivipsted.

The programme began with prayer. Then, Father D'cunha, Sister Melita-Superior St. Mary’s Convent Ramganjmandi, Sister Joyce-Superior St Teresa’s Convent, Salawad, and Father Ashwin Mal were invited to light the lamp. Fr D'cunha then addressed the women about their place in the family and the rights they have in society, and invited them to counteract the superstitions happening around the village. Advocate Smt. Vilma, gave a short talk on the rights of the widows, requesting to make their presence felt in the social and family gathering and rituals.

After that a question hour, was held, and the women were invited to ask questions related to their life, religion, physical, social, family problems and the like. Then, they joined in the fate games organized by the students of Don Bosco School, with prizes for the winners and lunch for all. women got the chance to play varieties of fate games and win small prizes. Around 1:00 pm the food was served for all. A short cultural programme with dances, skits and few other activities showcased the diversity in their culture.

Fr D'cunha then peoposed a vote of thanks, appreciating the hard work by students and others, who made this event successful.