By Ms Pearl Fernandes for BISMumbai

Don Bosco Junior College, Pune, took part in an Inter- School and College Patriotic Singing Competition organised by the Rotary Club of Poona on 19 August 2023, at the YMCA Recreational and Activity Hall, Pune. 

Mr Vivek Aranha, Mr Narendrapal Bakshi, Mrs Tinki Virji, and Mrs Daljeet Raizada, accompanied by the other Rotary Club members, graced the occasion with their presence. The distinguished panel of judges was composed of Mr Turan Desai, a founding member and past president of IWC Poona Downtown; Mr Jayashree Kuber, a light music performer for All India Radio Pune; and Mrs Vaijayanti Khaladkarr, a businesswoman, singer, and social activist.

20 enthusiastic groups competed in the patriotic singing competition.  The groups had received extensive training from their music teachers and were eager to demonstrate their remarkable performances. Each group had amazing patriotic attire, props, and other accessories in order to perform

Mrs Raizada welcomed the guests and the various participating groups. She spoke about the significance and value of holding this competition, as well as the Rotary Club's efforts in organising such competitions and fostering a sense of national integration and patriotism. During the programme, Mrs Virji spoke about RYLA and Rotaract. She urged the students to join the Rotary Club and participate in their various outreach initiatives. 

Mr. Arhanha praised the teams' enthusiasm and remarked, 'It is the citizens who hold the country together, and the values that we teach children today will build our nation.’ He invited teachers and students to become active members and help build the nation. The judges praised all of the teams for their outstanding performances and encouraged them to compete in future competitions to further develop their skills.

Don Bosco Junior College won the competition, while Abhinav Public School bagged the second place and SSPMS third place. Erin Nagarwala School was honoured with a consolation prize for their outstanding performance.

On 21 August 2023, the Don Bosco Choir was also honoured at the college assembly, and the Principal, Fr Ajit Munis, praised them for their dedication, hard work, and efforts that led to their victory. Mrs Anjali David, who trained the students for the competition, said, "This is a proud moment as the team has put in their best to achieve this success. I couldn't ask for anything more.’’

In addition to their success, the students will have the opportunity to perform in a special show dedicated to the armed forces on 30 August 2023, and express their gratitude to the armed forces for their selfless service. Don Bosco Junior College, Pune, now has a new accomplishment to its name.