DON BOSCO HIGH SCHOOL CELEBRATES INDEPENDENCE DAY WITH PATRIOTIC FERVOUR

Students showcase talent, discipline and love for the nation

– Mrs. Jasmine Samuel

Don Bosco High School, Matunga, celebrated India’s 80th Independence Day on August 15, 2026, with great enthusiasm and patriotic fervour. The celebration brought together the school family in a vibrant programme that beautifully reflected the values of freedom, unity, discipline and national pride.

The celebration began with the flag-hoisting ceremony, followed by the rendition of the National Anthem, accompanied by the school band led by Mr. Saby Franco and his students. Their presentation added a sense of pride and grandeur to the occasion.

The gathering was graced by the Chief Guests, Mr. and Mrs. Gole, proud parents of Sai Gole, the SSC Topper of our school along with members of the school Management, including Rector Rev.Fr. Godfrey D'souza ,Principal Rev. Fr. Flovi D’souza, Administrator Rev. Fr. Orville Coutinho, AHM Mrs. Christina Mascarenhas, Primary Head Teacher Mrs. Griselda Fernandes, Pre-Primary Co-ordinator Mrs. Rochelle D’souza, and Secondary Supervisors Mrs. Daksha Tandel, Ms. Pauline Vallado and Mrs. Janet D’Souza, as well as the dedicated teaching staff, parents and students.

The Primary Section programme unfolded with a spirit of patriotism, pride and celebration. The young student anchors warmly welcomed the gathering, greeting the distinguished guests, teachers, parents and students with confidence and enthusiasm. Their clear voices, cheerful expressions and poised stage presence set a pleasant tone for the programme.

The celebration began with the auspicious lighting of the traditional lamp, symbolising the dispelling of darkness and the spreading of knowledge, hope and wisdom. The ceremony was graced by the presence of Rector – Rev. Fr. Godfrey D’Souza; Principal – Rev. Fr. Flovi D’Souza; Administrator – Rev. Fr. Orville Coutinho; Rev. Fr. Augustine Pereira; Br. Savio D’Mello; Head Teacher – Mrs. Griselda Fernandes; and PTA Vice-President – Mrs. Millie Joseph.

The programme continued with a meaningful poem recitation, followed by an inspiring address by Rector – Rev. Fr. Godfrey D’Souza. Addressing the students, he encouraged them to value the freedom they enjoy, fulfil their responsibilities as young citizens and nurture love and respect for their country. His thoughtful words added significance to the celebration.

The spirit of patriotism came alive through a vibrant patriotic dance presented by the students. Their energetic movements, confident expressions and excellent coordination beautifully reflected their love for the nation. This was followed by a speech in Hindi, which added another meaningful dimension to the programme. The melodious sounds of the keyboard performance further enriched the celebration and showcased the students’ musical talent.

The students then presented a colourful dance representing different states of India. Through their varied costumes, graceful movements and lively performances, they beautifully portrayed the rich cultural diversity and unity of the nation. The presentation received an enthusiastic response from the audience.

Principal – Rev. Fr. Flovi D’Souza then addressed the gathering and encouraged the students to remain disciplined, dedicated and committed to their education while growing into responsible and compassionate citizens. His words of encouragement inspired the students to understand that the true spirit of freedom lies in using it wisely and responsibly.

A particularly meaningful segment of the programme was the recognition of the Adult Learners under the Navbharat Saksharta Programme. The learners were felicitated and presented with certificates in appreciation of their dedication, perseverance and commitment towards education and literacy. Their achievement served as a powerful reminder that the pursuit of knowledge has no age limit and that every step towards learning is a step towards empowerment.

The programme concluded with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks delivered by a student, expressing gratitude to the Management, guests, teachers, parents and students for their presence and support.

The success of the Primary Section presentation was the result of careful planning, dedicated preparation and teamwork. Ms. Mary Fernandes and Mrs. Jasmine Samuel diligently trained and guided the students for their respective performances, while Head Teacher – Mrs. Griselda Fernandes closely coordinated the practices, monitored the preparations and ensured the smooth flow and overall coordination of the programme. Their collective efforts and constant guidance contributed greatly to making the celebration a well-organised, meaningful and memorable occasion.

The Secondary Section further heightened the patriotic spirit with a march past by the NCC cadets, Scouts and RSP contingent. Their discipline, synchronisation and teamwork demonstrated the importance of dedication, responsibility and service to the nation.

A special highlight of the celebration was the dedicated efforts of the PT teachers, Ms. Jui Dadarkar, Mr. Nehal Salunkhe and Mr. Melwin Fernandes, who meticulously organised and conducted the entire programme for the Secondary Section. Their creativity, planning and coordination brought the celebration to life. They also presented a powerful skit and a patriotic dance depicting the courage, sacrifice and valour of our brave soldiers, which deeply touched the audience and added a strong patriotic spirit to the celebration. Their wholehearted efforts ensured the smooth and successful execution of the programme, effectively bringing to life the profound message of the day: “Their Sacrifice, Our Celebration”.

Addressing the gathering, Rev.Fr. Godfrey D'souza spoke about the significance of independence and the sacrifices made by India’s freedom fighters. He urged the students to uphold the values of freedom, unity and integrity and encouraged them to play a meaningful role in shaping the nation’s future. Fr. Godfrey helped the students understand that patriotism can be practised every day through simple yet meaningful acts.

The Chief Guests, Mr. and Mrs. Gole, were felicitated as a token of appreciation for their presence. Mrs. Lakshmi Krishna and Mrs. Perpetual Nazareth distributed prizes to the SSC batch prize grade winners and recipients of various Scholarships, recognising their efforts and achievements.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Principal Rev. Fr. Flovi D’Souza, who expressed gratitude to the Chief Guests, dignitaries, teachers, parents and students for their valuable contribution to the success of the celebration.

Ms. Reshma Belgaonkar took the Anti-Drug Pledge, reaffirming the school`s commitment to promoting a drug-free society and spreading awareness about the harmful effects of drug abuse.

The Independence Day celebration was more than a cultural programme; it was a celebration of freedom, unity and responsibility. The enthusiastic participation of all the students made the occasion truly memorable. The event left the audience with a renewed sense of pride and gratitude for the sacrifices of the freedom fighters and a reminder of the responsibility of every citizen to contribute towards building a stronger and brighter India.

Click Here to View Pic's

Facebook.com/media/set?vanity=DBMatunga&set=a.4475817676030763