By BIS Correspondent for BIS Mumbai

KAWANT, October 11, 2026: Don Bosco, Kawant, felicitated Mr Ramsingh Thatiyabhai Rathwa, affectionately known as ‘Ramsingh Baba’, on Sunday, October 11, in recognition of his more than 43 years of dedicated service to the institution. The farewell ceremony celebrated his commitment, simplicity and invaluable contribution to the growth and development of Don Bosco, Kawant.

Born on January 5, 1965, Mr Rathwa joined the institution on January 10, 1983, and retired on May 31, 2026. Initially appointed as caretaker of the land acquired by the Salesians, he devoted himself to its protection and development. The saplings planted during those early years have grown into large trees, while the mango trees on the campus stand as living witnesses to his years of hard work and dedication.

When the Salesian priests began residing at Kawant, Mr Rathwa was entrusted with the responsibility of preparing their meals. His service gradually extended to institutional programmes and gatherings, where he became the principal cook. His culinary skills, cheerful disposition and willingness to undertake every responsibility earned him affection and respect throughout the institution.

For generations of boarding students, ‘Ramsingh Baba’ was more than a member of the support staff; he was a familiar and affectionate presence who helped make the boarding house feel like home. His simplicity, ever-smiling face and readiness to accept every task endeared him to students, priests and staff members alike.

Addressing the gathering, Fr Mayank Parmar SDB, Rector of Don Bosco, Kawant, expressed immense joy and pride in honouring Mr Rathwa for his invaluable contribution. He highlighted his loyalty, hard work, simplicity and dedication, noting that his more than four decades of service represented a lasting example of commitment to the institution. Fr Parmar also offered prayers for his good health, happiness, peace and a joyful life with his family.

The farewell ceremony included the felicitation of Mr Rathwa by the Don Bosco community, Dominican Sisters, domestic staff, boarding staff and students, Don Bosco School, DISHA Don Bosco, the Sahayak Mata parish, the Don Bosco Kawant Past Pupil association, his family and the religious personnel present. His family members joined him for the celebration, making the occasion a heartfelt tribute to his years of service.

The Don Bosco, Kawant family presented him with a felicitation certificate in appreciation of his contribution to the institution’s development. The gathering concluded with prayers and best wishes for his future.

Though his formal service has ended, Ramsingh Baba’s legacy of humility, dedication and loving service will remain alive in the hearts of generations of students and members of the Don Bosco family.