by Cl Alfred Menezes for BIS Mumbai

The Republic day of India was celebrated with much pomp and festivities in Shelter Don Bosco on 26 January 2025. The flag hoisting and a well-organized program displayed the fervor of patriotism amongst the community. 

The program began at 8:15 am and was graced with the presence of Sr Rosalin Pereira, the chief guest for the occasion. She was joined by a few other sisters from her community who came to witness the program. The program started with the chief guest being escorted to the courtyard and hoisting the flag. The assembly then sang the national anthem and proceeded to the hall for the rest of the program. The program started with the Rector, Fr Rudolf D’souza introducing the chief guest – Sr Rosalin and giving us a few words of encouragement. 

Following this, Soham Yele delivered an energetic speech recounting the effort Babasaheb Ambedkar and his team put in to make the Constitution. This was followed by a few boys singing a patriotic song to show their love for India. The next program was an electric dance performance by the youth of Shelter, who danced to a mash-up of patriotic songs with all their josh. Finally, girls from the neighborhood who are associated with Bal Prafulta put up a beautiful dance performance to bring the program to an end. The chief guest Sr Rosalin then spoke to the assembly in a very interactive and educative manner highlighting the main people behind the constitution and the importance of following it. 

The program was a short and sweet event that showcased the patriotic spirit in the community of Shelter Don Bosco. The performances were well done and the entire event flowed smoothly. This was surely a day to remember for all who were present.