Hands that Serve, Hearts that Believe

- Celebrating the Timeless Bond Between Generations

- Ms. Richa Singh

"The love of grandparents is where family roots grow deep and hearts learn to believe."

There are few relationships as pure, reassuring, and enduring as that between grandparents and grandchildren. To celebrate this extraordinary bond, Don Bosco Primary School, Matunga, hosted a heart-warming Grandparents' Day programme on 25th July 2026 at Fr. Joseph Casti Hall (Primary Building). Centred around the inspiring theme, "Hands that Serve, Hearts that Believe," the event was a heartfelt tribute to the unwavering love, gentle guidance, and timeless wisdom that grandparents so generously bestow upon every family.

The dance performances were choreographed by Ms. Mary Fernandes and Ms. Nerissa Gonsalves, while the mime enactment was prepared under the guidance of Ms. Richa Singh, Ms. Mary Fernandes, and a supportive parent. The melodious Welcome Song and Thank You Song were trained by the school's music teacher, Mr. Frazer Vaz. The programme was gracefully compered by Ms. Richa Singh and Ms. Blossy D'Silva, whose warmth, confidence, and enthusiasm added charm to the occasion.

To ensure that every child had the opportunity to honour their grandparents, the programme was thoughtfully conducted in four sessions, each dedicated to one grade from Std. I to Std. IV. This arrangement enabled every class to present meaningful and personalised performances, making the occasion intimate, engaging, and memorable for every family.

The event was graced by the esteemed presence of Rev. Fr. Godfrey D'Souza, Rector; Rev. Fr. Flovi D'Souza, Principal; Rev. Fr. Orville Coutinho, School Administrator; and Mrs. Griselda Fernandes, Primary School Head Teacher, along with teachers, PTA Executive Members, parents, and the beloved grandparents whose presence transformed the school into a home filled with love, laughter, gratitude, and cherished memories.

The morning commenced with a melodious Welcome Song, creating an atmosphere of warmth and reverence. This was followed by a heartfelt Welcome Address by the School Vice-Captain, Master Asher Reibero, who eloquently expressed the students' gratitude for the immeasurable love, encouragement, and values that grandparents continue to impart.

The ceremonial Lighting of the Lamp, led by the Rev. Fathers, the Head Teacher, and a few grandparents, symbolised the light of faith, wisdom, hope, and love that continues to illuminate every generation. The solemnity of the occasion was further enriched by a prayer invoking God's abundant blessings upon all grandparents, reverently led by Master Cadyn Lewis.

The cultural programme that followed delighted the audience with a colourful array of dances, songs, and presentations. Every performance reflected the innocence, gratitude, and affection with which children cherish their grandparents. The students' confidence, vibrant expressions, and joyful enthusiasm earned resounding applause, filling the hall with warmth and celebration.

Adding to the festive spirit were lively spot-prize rounds, during which grandparents enthusiastically displayed their wit and cheerful spirit. The much-awaited Grandparents' Dance soon became one of the most memorable highlights of the day. Watching grandparents take centre stage with boundless energy and radiant smiles was a delightful reminder that age is merely a number when the heart is filled with happiness.

A touching mime presentation beautifully portrayed the quiet sacrifices, unconditional love, and steadfast support that grandparents offer throughout their lives. The heartfelt performance left the audience deeply moved and reinforced the day's message of gratitude, love, and respect.

Interactive games specially curated for each grade added an exciting element of fun and participation. From "Head, Shoulders, Knees" for Std. I and "Passing the Hats" for Std. II to "Passing the Hoops" for Std. III and the thrilling "Bombing the City" for Std. IV, every activity echoed with laughter, applause, and cheerful encouragement, strengthening the joyful bond between grandparents and their grandchildren.

One of the most meaningful moments of the programme was the Grandparents' Sharing Session, during which grandparents lovingly shared treasured memories, valuable life lessons, and heartfelt blessings with the children. Their words served as a gentle reminder that faith, values, and traditions are among the greatest legacies passed from one generation to the next.

The gathering was further enriched by the inspiring messages of Rev. Fr. Godfrey

D'Souza, Rev. Fr. Flovi D'Souza, and Rev. Fr. Orville Coutinho. They spoke eloquently about the irreplaceable role grandparents play in nurturing faith, shaping character, and preserving family values. They encouraged every child to treasure the time spent with their grandparents, to honour them with love and respect, and to remain grateful for their countless sacrifices and unwavering support. Their heartfelt words beautifully echoed the spirit of the day's theme.

The students concluded the cultural segment with a soulful Thank You Song, expressing heartfelt appreciation for the countless sacrifices, prayers, and unconditional love that grandparents shower upon their families. The programme concluded with a sincere Vote of Thanks proposed by the School Captain, Master Siddhant Chauhan, who expressed gratitude to the Rev. Fathers, grandparents, parents, teachers, PTA Executive Members, and everyone whose dedicated efforts contributed to the success of the event.

The programme was meticulously planned and organised under the able guidance of Mrs. Griselda Fernandes, Primary School Head Teacher, whose vision, encouragement, and unwavering commitment inspired the staff to create a truly memorable occasion. Her dedicated leadership, together with the wholehearted efforts of the teaching and non-teaching staff, ensured that every aspect of the programme reflected excellence and the true spirit of the Salesian family.

A special note of appreciation is also extended to the PTA Executive Members, whose seamless coordination and constant assistance throughout the programme contributed immensely to its grand success. Their enthusiastic involvement exemplified the strong partnership between the school and parents in creating meaningful experiences for the children and their families.

Grandparents' Day 2026 was far more than a cultural programme—it was a beautiful celebration of love, gratitude, faith, and togetherness. It reminded everyone present that while time may change many things, the comforting embrace, gentle wisdom, and unconditional blessings of grandparents remain life's greatest treasures. The smiles that lit up the hall, the blessings showered upon the children, and the precious memories created on this special day will remain etched in every heart for years to come, beautifully reflecting the spirit of the theme—"Hands that Serve, Hearts that Believe."