by Father Jerome Aruldass for BISMumbai

On 08 March 2022, Don Bosco Chhotaudepur management celebrated International Women’s Day for the village women organized by Lok Seva Kendra and Aradhana Sadan on the the theme ‘Gender Equality for a sustainable tomorrow.’

The auspicious day recognized the contribution of women and girls around the world, who are leading the charge on climate change adaptation, mitigation, and response, to build a more sustainable future for all. The programme was solemnized with Rector-Father George Carlos, LSK Director-Father Jerome Edison, Father Chris Ferriera, Brother Tony Manickam, Aradhana Sadan Superior-Sister Carolina, Sister Theresa and Don Bosco High School Chhotaudepur Principal Mr. Ishwar Dabhi.

The beautiful event was graced with the presence of three guest speakers Smt. Geetaben Kant Women Councillor District SP office, Smt. Yasmin Mansuri Chhotaudepur District Women Legal Advisory Coordinator and Sister Snehal Macwan of Aradhana Sadan. Before the programme began the women were occupied with registrations, followed by a photo session, mehndi, fete games, clothes distribution and free medical checkup.

The programme commenced with a beautiful Timli Dolia procession by women accompanying the guests of honour. With a moment of prayer the lighting of the lamp began followed by prayer dance and welcome speech by the Rector. The dignitaries were felicitated with shawls and flowers. All the three guest speakers gave their speeches on the gift of being women and on women empowerment; between each speech rural women sang songs, performed skit and dances. The tailoring girls were given certificates and the annual report of LSK2021 was presented. Father Jerome Aruldass gave the vote of thanks. The programme ended with women dancing to the tune of Timli Dolia. With a delicious lunch the women departed to their respective villages thanking Don Bosco for this day.