By Mrs Jyotsna Dsouza for BIS Mumbai

The Gratitude Day Celebration at Don Bosco Nerul, held on February 21, 2026, was organised to acknowledge and appreciate the families of staff members who continually support them in their educational mission. Rooted in the Salesian spirit of communion and family, the event aimed to strengthen the bond between home and school while fostering an attitude of gratitude within the educational community.

The programme commenced with the Salutation of St. John Bosco, invoking blessings upon the gathering and recalling the Preventive System founded by St. John Bosco. This was followed by a Prayer Song that set a reflective and reverent tone for the evening. The Vice Principal and Administrator, Fr Shekar Mariadas, formally welcomed the gathering and highlighted the indispensable role of families in sustaining and encouraging educators in their vocation.

A student-led reflection video formed the emotional core of the programme. Through heartfelt testimonies, students expressed how teachers have shaped their confidence, values, and aspirations. The video also extended sincere gratitude to the families of staff members, acknowledging their unseen sacrifices and unwavering support.

The celebration was enriched with vibrant cultural performances. A soulful song by the Art teacher, Mr Dashrath Mullick, a graceful classical dance performance by Mrs Vinaya Valsan, and a light-hearted yet meaningful stand-up act by the Headmistress, Mrs Jyotsna Dsouza, brought joy and warmth to the evening. These performances reflected the spirit of togetherness and celebration that characterises the Salesian family while emphasising on filial bonds that give them the wings to soar to great heights.

The Principal, Mrs Kalyani Chaudhuri, addressed the gathering and emphasised the partnership between home and school in forming responsible, compassionate, and value-oriented young people. She reiterated that education is not an individual effort but a shared mission sustained by collaboration and mutual support.

A significant moment of the evening was the presentation of tokens of appreciation, thoughtfully designed by Supervisor, Mrs Cleona Quadras. The token was a fridge magnet designed as a post card which carried handwritten messages from staff members to their families, symbolising heartfelt gratitude and personal acknowledgement.

The celebration concluded with refreshments and fellowship, providing an opportunity for meaningful interaction and strengthening bonds within the school community.

Gratitude Day was a meaningful initiative that reflected the Salesian charism of synodality, communion, and appreciation. The event reinforced the belief that education at Don Bosco Nerul is a shared mission, supported not only by its dedicated staff but also by the families who stand steadfastly behind them.