“The spirit of Scouting is not taught, it is caught.”

The Central Mumbai Bharat Scouts and Guides, District Association, Dadar (Mumbai), organized a one-day Beginners’ Course for Scouting and Guiding, especially for Cubs and Bulbuls. The course was held on 11^th October, 2025

The programme began with a prayer and flag song, followed by the flag hoisting by the Scout Master and a lamp-lighting ceremony. The dignitaries were warmly welcomed by the organizing team.

Dignitaries Present

Mr. Subroto – Leader Trainer (Workshop Head)

Mr. Santosh – District Training Commissioner (Scout)

Mr. Vivek – District Headquarters Commissioner

Mr. Mehta – Cub Master

Mrs. Megha – Flock Leader & Principal, Abhinav Primary School, Dadar

Mrs. Aruna – District Organizer (Guide)

Mr. Subroto began the session by asking participants to write down their objectives for attending the course. At the end of the day, he revisited these points to ensure all expectations were fulfilled.

He explained the origin and growth of the Scouting Movement, founded by Lord Baden-Powell, who believed in developing discipline, service and leadership through outdoor activities. A short video on Scouting for Boys helped participants understand how the movement inspires teamwork and character building.He then explained the different sections of Scouts and Guides — Bunny, Cub/Bulbul, Scout/Guide and Rover/Ranger — along with their mottos:

• Bunny – Keep Smiling

• Cub/Bulbul – Do Your Best

• Scout/Guide – Be Prepared

• Rover/Ranger – Service

Mr. Subroto also spoke about the importance of cleanliness — starting with oneself, then extending to home, school and society. He encouraged teachers to form small groups among students, assign leaders and name the groups by colours to promote teamwork, independence and responsibility.

Mrs. Megha conducted a lively and engaging action song session that filled the hall with enthusiasm. She also shared the Cubs syllabus and explained the importance of cleanliness in daily life. Mr. Santosh taught participants the Cubs’ greetings, salute and the left-hand handshake. Participants enjoyed learning the Sher Khan and Balu dances — simple rhythmic movements that can be used to engage young Cubs and Bulbuls. Various useful knots such as the reef knot, clove hitch and sheet bend were demonstrated and practised.

The Scout/Guide Sign is made by raising the right hand to shoulder level, palm facing forward, with three fingers stretched together and the thumb closing over the little finger. The Salute is a mark of respect and goodwill, offered by raising the right arm smartly to shoulder level.The course concluded with the distribution of certificates to all participants, followed by the National Anthem. The one-day workshop was informative, interactive and inspiring. It gave teachers valuable insights into Scouting and Guiding principles and motivated them to guide their young Cubs and Bulbuls with dedication, discipline and enthusiasm.