By Fr Renold Lemos for BIS Mumbai

To mark the 150th anniversary of the first Salesian missionary expedition, the community of Don Bosco Banswara organised a special commemorative event on Friday, December 26, 2025. The occasion was graced by Fr Ashley Miranda, Provincial of the Mumbai Province, who formally inaugurated a specially curated Don Bosco Art Corner, marking a significant moment of remembrance and renewal of Salesian missionary zeal.

 The idea of setting up a dedicated Art Corner was first suggested by Fr Savio Silveira, the Former Provincial of the Mumbai, during one of his visits to Banswara. Inspired by this suggestion, Fr Michael Bansode, the Rector, with the assistance of the community members conceptualised and developed this dedicated art space within the house. The inauguration ceremony began with a prayer service led by Fr Miranda, invoking Don Bosco’s intercession and thanksgiving for the missionary zeal that continues to animate Salesian works across the world. This was followed by the ceremonial cutting of the ribbon and the blessing of the newly created Art Corner. The event was attended by Fr Nirmal Bariya, the Parish-Priest Banswara, Fr. William Katara, the Principal St. Paul’s School Banswara, staff members, and well-wishers of the community. In his brief message, Fr Miranda appreciated the creativity and dedication behind the initiative. He highlighted that the Art Corner is not merely an aesthetic display, but a powerful reminder of the Salesian charism rooted in missionary courage. Referring to the first missionary expedition sent by Don Bosco in 1875, he encouraged the community to keep the same spirit of daring faith, availability, and love for the young, especially the poor and the marginalised, in their present-day mission.

 The Art Corner has been designed as a place of reflection and inspiration, highlighting the life, mission, and missionary spirit of St. John Bosco. At the heart of this space is a miniature replica of Casa Don Bosco, the original home of Don Bosco in Turin, artistically crafted and placed against the backdrop of the Basilica of Don Bosco- Colle Don Bosco. Alongside this central piece, the corner displays several photographs and artistic representations related to the life and mission of Don Bosco. It features significant moments from the life of St. John Bosco, including Don Bosco sending forth the first Salesian missionaries, images of Mamma Margaret, and other key events that shaped the Salesian Congregation. Indeed, the Don Bosco Art Corner stands as an artistic and spiritual focal point within the Salesian community at Banswara. It symbolises not only a reverent memory of Don Bosco’s humble beginnings but also the missionary zeal that has animated 150 years of Salesian presence across continents. For the Banswara community, situated within a culturally vibrant yet socially challenging context, and for all who visit this Art Corner, it powerfully evokes the call to go forth, as Don Bosco did, with trust in God and love for the young.

 The inaugural celebration concluded with a moment of fellowship over tea and refreshments, fostering fraternity among those present. The Art Corner will remain open to visitors, youth, and parishioners, serving as a constant source of inspiration and a tangible reminder of the Salesian missionary legacy.