Don Bosco Lonavla, has its own roots as this institution was set up as an aspirantate for the boys of the Bombay and Goa Regions. During the initial years, the aspirantate was set up in one of the bungalows in Lonavla belonging to Mr. D. C. Nazir. Under the able leadership of Fr. Joseph Murphy, the first rector of the house, the academic year began on June 28, 1962. Two years later, the aspirantate shifted to its present premises with Fr. Mauro Casarotti as its new Rector.
Over the past year, there have been numerous activities to commemorate this special milestone, which culminated with the visit of the Rector Major. The entire day was filled with activities and cultural programmes prepared by the aspirants and the school students, who showcased their talents in singing, dancing and playing a number of band pieces. Singing to the tune of ‘Radiate Salesian Life’ the aspirants, under the guidance of Mr. Joey Mendoza, the composer, expressed the reason why Salesian life is so precious and unique to the Church and the world. The Bosco Brass of Lonavala, performed Ludwig Beethoven’s ‘Ode to Joy’ bringing the celebration to life with the grandeur and richness of the whole piece itself.
Arriving in Lonavla, the Rector Major was felicitated and welcomed by the aspirants, teachers and the community by way of a welcome song prepared specially for the occasion. During his homily, the Rector Major spoke about having a heart that is grateful, generous and warm-hearted, that can lend itself in the service of others. This, according to him, is the way to express gratitude to God for all the blessings one has received.
The cultural program brought in a fitting finale to the Diamond Jubilee celebrations. Apart from the various performances done, a few outstanding individuals were also honoured for their various contributions to the mission of the house.
Mrs. Sonali Shinde was presented with a token of appreciation by the Rector Major for her exceptional contribution in the field of migrant and tribal ministry in Lonavla. Mrs. Shinu Jose, a member of the Vocation team in Gujarat, released her new book “O Happy Fault” in the presence of the Rector Major. In response, Fr. Ángel surprised and entertained the gathering by performing two Spanish songs. It was indeed a memorable moment in the history of Don Bosco Lonavla, to have been blessed by the tenth successor of Don Bosco on the occasion of the diamond jubilee.
