Vincentian March 09

Vincentian March 2009

From The Principal's Desk Tuesday, January 20th 2009 was a historic day for the entire world. It marked the official swearing in of the 44th President of the United States of America at the Capitol Building. An estimated three million people converged on the Washington Mall for the ceremony, undeterred by the freezing cold and the unprecedented security. Breaking away completely from tradition, an African-American child from a broken home became the US President. It was Barack Obama's date with history. Obama's inauguration as President was indeed a defining moment in the country's history. He stands out as a singular event in American history. The world was watching as a great democracy engages in a peaceful transition of power.

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The theme slogan of Obama's election campaign was 'Yes We Can'. By winning the Presidential election, he has sent a strong message of hope to the whole world, to all of us and especially to you my dear boys. Martin Luther King in his famous speech 'I have a Dream' dreamt of a day when every American would enjoy freedom and equality……… Barack Obama's election to the Presidency has made this dream come true. Obama has shown us that nothing is impossible. Like him, we need to dream big, see the big picture, have clear-cut goals set before us and with courage and determination work hard to achieve our goal. There is no short-cut or mantra for success. But yes we can.

To all our boys, especially the outgoing students of Grades XII & X, Obama's election comes with a message of optimism and hope that we all can. We all have the ability and potential in us to reach the top. As you leave the portals of this hallowed institution, I hope that Jesuit education will make you truly ' men for others'. In the words of Rev. Fr. Peter-Hans Kolvenbach, S.J., former Superior General of the Society of Jesus may you be 'men of competence, courage, compassion and commitment'. To you and the rest of our boys, I wish you good luck and success in your examination and pray that you may come out in flying colours. As the saying goes, "Successful people understand that

no one makes it to the top in a single bound. What truly sets them apart is their willingness to keep putting one step in front of the other, no matter how tough the terrain." I wish you our dear Staff and Students and my dear Parents Happy Easter and Happy Holidays in anticipation. Have fun! Blessings,

Fr. Mario Fernandes, S.J. Principal

St. Vincent's High School, Vincentian Old Boys Association & Parent Teacher Association of St. Vincent's School Congratulate our Alumni

Prof. Thomas Kailath (Prof. Emeritus Stanford University) on being awarded the Padmabhusan by the Government of India

Professor Thomas Kailath awarded the Padma Bhushan Professor Thomas Kailath, an ex-student of St. Vincent's High School, was recently awarded the Padma Bhushan for his contribution to science. For the US based Scientist, Pune holds a special place in his heart and of which he has the fondest memories. Prof. Kailath who is an alumnus of St. Vincent's High School, is Hitachi American Professor of Engineering, Emeritus of Stanford University and has supervised around 80 PhD theses. Recalling his days in the 1950's and 1960's, Prof. Kailath said that though the classes were much shorter the students were exposed to good training in Mathematics and English by the Swish, German and Italian Jesuit Priests at St. Vincent's. He recalls in particular the contribution of Fr. Oesch and his Mathematics teacher Mr. G.M. Joshi. All his classmates remember him as a very studious and humble student who was a topper throughout his schooling career. A stint at the College of Engineering, Pune and enrollment in one of the then newly introduced programmes in Telecom Engineering fetched him offers from Harward and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Dr. Kailath got his Master's Degree in 1959 and his Doctorate in 1961, both from MIT. He was a first Indian-born scientist to receive a doctorate in Electrical Engineering from the MIT. A well known electrical engineer, information theorist and entrepreneur, Dr. Kailath has authored several books, including Linear Systems, that rank as one of the most reputed books in the field. We at St. Vincent's extend our hearty congratulations to Prof. Kailath for being awarded the Padma Bhushan by the Government of India. All of us Vincentians are immensely proud of your achievements. (Prof. Kailath made a handsome contribution of around Rs. 12 lakhs for the Junior College computer lab and a 40KV genset for the entire school campus. Many thanks once again Dr. Kailath.) Fr. Mario Fernandes, SJ. Principal

Jason Martrys addressed the school on Republic Day - 26th January, 2009 The last 62 years have been years of progress in several fields like social, economic, political, scientific and technological. Even our mission Chandrayan has proved a success to the astrological department, creating history for India.

Honourable Chief Guest, Dr. Rohit and Dr. Mrs. Sangeeta Deshpande, Reverend Fr. Principal, VicePrincipal, teachers and my fellow students. It is a great honour and pleasure to express my thoughts on such an important occasion - our Republic Day.

Celebrating our achievements we must never be complacent. The road ahead is a long one and we must remain determined to achieve eradication of poverty, illiteracy and poor health from this land.

This day, the 26th of January, has a special significance in the history of our country. During our freedom struggle, it was observed as Independence Day. It was on the 26th of January, 1950 that we adopted our constitution and became a sovereign, democratic republic. This is why we celebrate it as Republic Day.

The patriotic fervour of the people on this day brings the whole country together even in essential diversity. Every part of the country is represented at this occasion, which makes Republic Day the most popular of all national events in India.

Justice, liberty, equality, fraternity were promised to all citizens of India from this day onwards. These values must be reflected in every thought and act of us citizens.

But is it enough to bask in the glory of our past leaders? Should we also not try to achieve greatness to some extent at least?

The Republic Day parade is held every year as a special grand event in Delhi. In the parade you can see a display of India’s life and culture, progress and achievement and the strength and spirit of our defence forces.

Let us students pledge together then, to grow into worthy and noble citizens of the future, who would make India a stronger, greater and happier nation of the world.

Many great Indians are felicitated by the President of India on this day. This event is telecast all over India and in many parts of the world.

To sum it up, I will quote a verse from a poem by Rabindranath Tagore ....

It is important on this day that we recall the sacrifices made by our freedom fighters and martyrs. We stand on the free soil of our motherland because of their noble selfless deeds. May I salute them and pay my highest tribute to them.

Where the mind is without fear And the head is held high Where knowledge is free Where the world has not been broken up into fragments by narrow domestic walls. I love my country, we all do. JAI HIND!

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Listening to the News

The Solace

While my father would nod over the news being read over the television, despite my brave attempts to keep awake, I would be glued to the screen. The news reader never read her news in vain. Even as a young child I had an uncanny affinity to the sound of the jingle that preceded the evening news. I would hang onto my father’s armchair and listen raptly to the events of the day as they were unravelled over the air. It was comforting to say the least. That monotone however was the cause of my father drifting off to nodland each time he sat down in his favourite chair.

Dry, torn and brown, A leaf fell down, And someone to me did call With amusement was filled my heart, When spoke to me that old tree tall, ‘So many I lose, so many each year, So close to me, so loved, so dear But yet I rise, hope still so strong Spring is sure some day to come. Sadness is here, but assured I am These days are not many, just only some.’

I realized that I had become an addict. I would wait impatiently for the day to end, so I could join my father for the best time of the day - the news. How I would savour the jingle that would send shivers of anticipation down my spine. I was about to meet the greats of the world. I saw places, visited forests, deserts, islands, mountains and soared over the skies with pilots at breathtaking speed.

When spring came, The tree bloomed, New leaves, so green and fresh it seemed! Once again it spoke to me ‘These moments of happiness, joy and spring Are seeds of strength, comfort and hope, That so take root and solace me, In moments dark, times difficult to cope.!’

As time wore on, so did the news. It changed with time, choices, fashion and the quirks of the people. Very soon, sensationalism, violence and Bollywood news did the rounds. “That is what sells” is what I was told when I searched desperately for news of substance that my addiction sought. Then war and terrorism joined the ranks of the so-called news reports. Now, each time I hear the familiar jingle, I cringe. I have nightmares at the very thought of the impending after-dinner time from which I had no idea how to escape. The good old newspaper offers no solace either. It repeats the words I have heard the previous evening over the television. Where is that thing that was once read over the television what used to be called news?

I just then thought, What a message of life, How true the old tree spoke. Life is just full of ups and downs! Moments come, when dark it seems, Life seems to have stood still, But yet again let’s get up! Stand again with a new strong will! Let’s then with a smile each difficulty face For only the inner brightness of the soul, Acts in moments such - A TRUE SOLACE!

Luke Kale XII B

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Rohit Suresh Patil X-A

No Dream Is Too Big

dream to achieve something in life and once our dream is set, we must go out and give it our best shot, because “NO DREAM IS TOO BIG!!!”

There are many people in this world who we refer to as ‘great personalities’ because of the feats they have achieved. Difficulties obstruct everybody’s lives, but the ones who overcome these hurdles, are the only ones who are successful in life. A ‘DREAM’ is the passport to the destination: SUCCESS. Each and every path to success starts with a dream.

Ashwyn Udapikar X-A

There is an extraordinary example of the Indian scientists achieving one of their biggest dreams. The Indian scientists at Sriharikota, successfully kick-started their first ever unmanned mission to the moon. And the cherry on the cake was the fact that they did not take any assistance from the western scientists, and that too, with a cost-effective budget of $88 million which was nearly half the budget of previous moon-achievers like Japan and China. The moral of this example is that though launching an unmanned mission to the moon was one of the toughest hurdles, India dreamt of crossing it with the view that no dream was stronger than their will power. This is just a single example and there are many more examples which we will come across. We must also

My Home Away From Home - A tribute to my beloved school Not so long ago, in the middle of July, At the turn of the millennium, under the cloud-filled sky, A brazen face that glowed atop two shivering brazen knees, The newcomer was welcomed and he likes what he sees. As some of you may remember then, I was barely two feet tall, At this unfortunate altitude, the classroom looked like the hall! Outside the window, bloomed undisturbed foliage, easily centuries old, The sun ne’er shone irritably, but glistened like Mayan gold. 3

A field, which then seemed acres wide, a sea of pastel green, Streams of powdered chalk as boundaries, such symmetry I had never seen. A gentle tap on the shoulder, stirs me from that avid scene, “Why would someone I don’t know, prohibit me from such pristine?”

This Georgian Palace of stone, St.Vincent’s, seemed like some fortress of some king, Oozing out knowledge in royal amounts, to every eager child who asks, Through the medium of the wisest teachers, in the light of knowledge he basks. I’ll never forget that constant fear, as a child that I would hide, “So they know I broke the window pane? Do they know it was me who lied?” As I stand at your doorstep, in a fresh batch of men, all ready to depart, Towards my teachers I’d like to express immense gratitude which fills my heart.

“We just thought you’d need some help, what with you being new and all ...” “Why thank you, but if I needed help ...” “Arre, you haven’t written at all!” And before I could protest any further, they told me what to do, Despite me being so crude, they help me!! I didn’t have a clue.

And to those who I may have angered, all teachers and students alike, All I can do is ask for forgiveness, for this mischievous little tyke. Hopefully, when I succeed in life, I swear I’ll owe it all to you. And if I take a pauper’s place, I’ll know there was nothing you could do.

Made a few friends so generous, to help me they played their parts, No sooner did I realize - the vastness of that cloudfilled sky took refuge in their hearts. Did not feel the need to return to that scene, from that first day onwards, The classroom’s whispers, sounded to me, just like the chirping of those birds.

I’ll always enjoy the way people praise me, when I mention the name of my school, The world’s a witness, to what you’ve beautifully sculpted out of such an arrogant fool. In this house of opportunities, I take pride, I take pride in my kith, my kin, I’m facing the world, my laurels stay with me, getting ready to Dare, Do and Win!!!

The field that then seemed acres wide, was replaced by the limitless board, Academics became my new forte, I was, the “newcomer” who brilliantly scored. By then I had become one of them, a member of their brethren, Wherever the “leader” went he was to be followed by his men.

Farewell - thanks for everything. Faizan Ansari X-C

And that is how, this fertile mind was dragged on to the field, Those milk-white streams I’d noticed before now acted as a shield. “You can’t go back unless the game is over, haha, you are no more superior, You’ve studied your bit, now kick the ball, how tough is that exterior?” As years passed, I discovered every passageway, every miniscule thing,

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‘ Womancipation ’

where no one can see or hear her?

Goddess, mother, sister, daughter, colleague, friend, wife, lover - who is she? What is she in the early mornings, when she stretches her arms with a sleepy half-smile to prepare for another day? Who is she in the night, when she retires after a heavy day’s routine and looks down at her lap, the translucent bulb above drawing long spears on her cheeks with the shadows of her eyelashes? Who is she, when alone in an elevator buzzing up the shaft,

How liberated is the urban Indian woman today? Is she still on the journey to that destination, that goal which still eludes her where she dreams to be treated equally at par with the opposite gender? The modern urban woman today is opening up, breaking the shackles of classic traditionality and slowly emerging out of her shell, emancipated, liberated and free. She has started to assert herself in the highly resistant areas which were once solely a man’s domain. Physical, emotional and financial freedom are all very important for her. She has at last broken free from the shackles of bondage and now has the conviction to pursue her own dreams and listen to the music in her heart. We searched for her relentlessly. We have found her! She has at last arrived! Mrs. Malavika Chakravarty (Staff Member)

Terrorism Recalling the recent instances of terrorism, it has become a word which has embedded fear in the core of our hearts. It is the result of just the misguidance of the powers of the brain in the negative sense. The terrorists thrive on their determination more than their strength. A group of disoriented people are transformed into heartless and fearless devils. Destruction becomes their sole objective. However, now, the common man has become more bold, fearless and is ready to face any obstacle posed by the terrorists. Time and experience has taught him invaluable lessons to counter terrorism. The recent 5

tragic incident which occurred in Mumbai was a huge shock, however, it had a silver lining. Of course, it brought to the fore the dark side of human nature, but it also threw light on many positive aspects. The police force, the NSG commanders who all came together as a team and wholeheartedly fought to free Mumbai from the clutches of terror. The emotions of brotherhood and love have strengthened. This sense of unity we owe to the unrelentless efforts of our police force. We wish to pay a heartfelt tribute to the ones who sacrificed their invaluable lives for the safety of the human race. Kaustubh Nadkarni XI-B

God’s Blessings on Mankind God created man. He bestowed him with all his creations. He gifted mankind the world and differentiated man as a superior intellect, so he may grow and contribute to the world. But man is man after all. Prone to lust and greed, he engaged in war right from the beginning of civilization. If initially wars were fought using the infantry and cavalry, the two world wars took the battle to the seas and skies. The last century has witnessed mind-boggling developments in the field of defence. A missile launched two thousand kms away in an enemy country can zero in on its target in another country, having disastrous consequences, if the warhead used is nuclear or chemical. The sole intention being to kill or cause mass destruction. Is this why God created mankind? The answer is a resounding NO. Every step in defence technology is a step towards annihilation. How does it all start? Country ‘X’ under the garb of protecting its territorial frontiers, invests in defence. The 6

neighbouring country ‘Y’ gets alarmed and seeks to increase its d e f e n c e expenditure to counter the threat of ‘X’, albeit both countries have a peace treaty signed on paper yet indulging more and more military might in mock drill exercises. It takes the tiniest of altercations to commence a war, the outcome being an officially and internationally accepted massacre of innocent citizens.

or is it a mere shifting of man-made boundaries? I would like to also state my personal thoughts. Man is interested in engaging his intellectual power to the fullest. But aren’t there sufficient fields waiting to be conquered by man, rather than focusing on destructive technologies? The world eagerly awaits the cure for many life-threatening ailments like cancer, or eco-friendly alternatives to timber and petroleum. The world waits for answers on issues like poverty, global warming, the everincreasing economic crisis and most significantly the much wanted Peace. As said, For it isn’t enough to talk about peace One must believe in it And it isn’t enough to believe in it One must work at it.

Who then prospers from this hideous war? Certainly not the citizens of ‘X’ and ‘Y’ countries who have perished. How can they reap the harvest when they pay with their lives and blood? On another dimension, what is achieved by war? Is there a generation of more living land for civilization

Shalom J. Cohen XII-B

My Last Farewell silly issues ... but one thing we realized was that our time was limited and we would soon be saying “Farewell”. Farewell? How final that sounds. Even though the send-off was close to the H.S.C. examinations, we knew for sure that this was probably the last time we would be together, in such a mood, free from the stress of the upcoming examinations or the sorrow of us missing each other later. It played at the back of all our minds, and we knew we would have to face it.

Today, on the eve of Std.XII farewell function, the last but grand culminating event prior to our examinations, I am filled with an array of memories of the two years I have spent in the lap of St.Vincent’s Junior College. Some are bitter and some are sweet ... some are blessings and some are lessons. My mind is saturated with mixed feelings; the happiness of finishing one crucial stage of life and going onto another, but the sadness of saying ‘hasta manana’ to the ones in whose company I have spent these two fruitful years.

The evening of 30th January, 2009 saw the boys of Std.XII suddenly transformed into young gentlemen, dressed in their Sunday best, assembling with mixed feelings outside the Gulati Hall. The evening

Whatever we boys did, we did together, together as brothers, friends and confidants! We cherished each others company and trust. We fought no doubt, over 7

commenced at about 5:45 p.m. with a very special prayer service which was efficiently conducted by our Std.XI juniors, the concept of which was ingeniously designed by Ms. H. Figuiredo. The service took us deep into reflection on the days to come. We asked the Lord for blessings to go through the upcoming examinations successfully through several intercessory prayers and two beautiful hymns ‘Shepherd of my Soul’ and ‘In Moments like these’. The beauty of the service was enhanced with lit candles, each signifying a student the light of tomorrow.

song. With choked ‘goodbyes’ and ‘good lucks’ we went away, pondering on days to come. ‘Time like an ever rolling stream ... bears all its sons away’ that’s exactly how our two years at St. Vincent’s have been ... rapid but fruitful. Armed with the values and knowledge which we received during these memorable years at St. Vincent’s, we are confident that it shall always hold us in good stead, and guide us towards our destiny, as each one of us follows our dreams, looking to make our lives more enriching, more meaningful, more productive and more fulfilling.

To break the solemnity of the evening, Std.XI boys arranged a ‘Mr. Vincentian’ pageant for the gathering. The fun and laughter was endless as each participant made up his own version of the famous ‘cat walk’ and presented it before the jury - Fr. Mario, Fr. Andrew and Mrs. M. Chakravarty. The thunderous applause that met the pageant was rather rewarding.

Thank you Fr. Mario! Thank you dear teachers! Indeed it is God’s work that you do! At the end of such a beautiful tenure at St. Vincent’s, I leave you with one message: Value and cherish what you have now and live life to its fullest because these days are limited! Take each situation and experience and grow up by learning from it.

No sooner did the pageant end ... than ... Lo! The school hall was suddenly transformed into a dazzling dance floor. The boys rocked to the beat of the DJ in attendance, which played several all-time favourites.

Thank you St. Vincent’s ... We shall never forget the values and ideals you stand for! Wish us luck in all future endeavours!

With this note, came the time for our ‘last’ supper together. Rev. Fr. Andrew Fernandes SJ led us into a beautiful grace before dinner.

Good Bye ... God Bless our school and all she holds. Vincenti Dabitur!

As the end of the evening drew near, the cameras came out and flashes went off. The farewell finally culminated with the boys proudly singing the school

Dean Lobo XII-B (Class of 2008-2009) 8

Good Friday All over the world Christians observe this day as a day of mourning, fast and penance.

only speak of values but showed us how to put them into practice.

Good Friday is supposed to be a a dark Friday, as Jesus gave up his life to save mankind.

Today, Christians all over the world can proudly say that they are happy, thanks to Jesus Christ. However, with each great teacher, people follow like shadows, hungry for power and fame. There therefore arise many Judases who try to thwart one’s good deeds. However the power of Christ is divine. It is the power of his holiness and nothingness. Christ wants to make a transformation in our life. Whosoever knows this truth are no more interested in materialistic things but something more than power and fame. It is only in putting our heart and life into the hands of Jesus Christ that we will have a powerful victorious Christian life, as we pass through this materialistic ungodly world. Glory to Jesus Christ and a Happy Good Friday. Dominic Fernandes XI-A

Good Friday is a day of mourning in the church, and during the services, Christians meditate on Jesus’ suffering and death on the cross. Thus the two most important events in Christianity are the death and later resurrection of Jesus Christ, the Jewish prophet, who Christians believe is the Son of God. Whatever be the case, Good Friday is called good because on this day, Jesus was crucified for the redemption of our sins. Good Friday is also referred to as ‘Holy Friday’ by some and ‘Friday of Mourning” to others. But is it really a day of mourning? It is, but for humanity, a day of great sacrifice. On this day we learn how Jesus gave himself up on the cross so that the entire mankind could be saved. He paved a path for us which could lead us straight to God our Father. He did not

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My Poetic Fantasies

Council. There an instructor asked us to make a diary and write a page of any subject that came to our minds. This assignment helped me recollect the past memories, and I started to write poetry again. I had ample time again.

If one spends all one’s time on work or study, life will become boring. After work or study, the mind gets tired and the body seeks some relaxation. Merely doing nothing does not relax the mind or the body. Some other activities are required that fill the mind with pleasure and satisfaction. One needs a hobby for fun and relaxation.

I usually write a lot about nature. It fascinates me. My house also has a small garden. It is interesting to sit there and watch the flock of birds flying in the morning, the sunset, birds retiring to the nests. I love watching these lovely things. I usually write poems when I am happy. But when I am displeased or angry, I like to forget the world and escape to a more beautiful realm, which I often find only in poems. One of my best poems is :

Life Life is a word very difficult to define, But life is very beautiful Cherish it. Learn how to appreciate it, Life has its moments full of fun and laughter, Yet it’s not just a bed Strewn with roses. It’s sometimes hard, cruel and demanding. Learn how to face it.

Different people pursue different hobbies - drawing, painting, reading, music, dancing, acting, photography, stamp collecting and some other common hobbies. My hobby is writing poetry. When I was ten, I started collecting poems. I had a huge collection. Then my mother suggested that I should try my hand at poetry writing. First I took it as a joke, but then I started questioning myself “Can I really do it?” I decided to give it a try. Then I started it at the age of twelve. It took me time. I took help from the dictionary and of course from my mother too. When I succeeded, my mother suggested that I show it to my class teacher Mrs. Barboza who also taught me English. She shared this with Mrs. Gharat, my fifth standard class teacher who encouraged me and inspired me to write more and more.

Be not self-centred or rude Be humble, polite and upright In whatever you do. Climb the ladder of success, Travel through the long road of life,

As years passed by, studies increased and I had no time to spare for my poetry writing. The book I had made was untouched and later misplaced.

With thoughtfulness and intelligence

Then during my tenth standard vacation, I had joined a vocational class in Mumbai at the British

And love is life.

Then, life is beauty Beauty is love

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Muffaddul Poonawalla XII-B

Muharram Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar. It is held to be the most sacred of all the months excluding Ramazan. Some Muslims fast during these days. The tenth day of Muharram is called YamulAshurah meaning the tenth day and it is a day of voluntary fasting. Muslims stop eating and drinking during sunlight hours and do not eat until the evening.

the forces of Yazid. The Umayyad Caliph Hussain bin Ali’s group consisted of notable members of Muhammad’s close relatives, around 72 men of which some were either very old or very young. Hussain and some

of

the

members of his group

were

accompanied by some

of

women

the and

children from their families. On

The word Muharram is often considered synonymous with the event of Ashura. Ashura which literally means ‘tenth’ in Arabic, refers to the tenth day of Muharram. The date is important for all Muslims since Hussain bin Ali was killed on this day.

the opposite side the armed forces of Yazid were led by Umar ibn Saad

and

contained at least 40,000 men. It is stated that Imam died to

resurrect

Islam. The battlefield was a desert region located beside one of the branches of the Euphrates river. The battle

On 1 Muharram, the Islamic New Year is observed by Muslims. On this day, Shia Muslims begin the observance of the commemoration of Muharram which marks the anniversary of the Battle of Karbala and the day that Hussain bin Ali entered Karbala.

resulted in the military defeat of Hussain bin Ali’s

On 7th Muharram access to water was banned on Hussain by Yazid’s order, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad in the year 61 AH (October 10, 680 AD).

The battle of Hussain bin Ali is commemorated

group, the death of almost all of his men and the captivity of all women and children. This battle also had significant effects on formation of subsequent revolts against the Umayyad dynasty.

during an annual 10 day period held every Muharram culminating on its tenth day ‘ASHURA’.

In the battle of Karbala, on one side were supporters and relatives of Muhammad’s grandson Hussain bin Ali. On the other side was a military detachment from

Murtaza Mithaiwala XI-B

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Farewell Speech to the Students of Class X on the back, their comforting words at a moment of sadness, epitomize the love that our teachers stand for. Our teachers taught us these ideas and it is up to us to remember them and continue to judge right from wrong.

Today is arguably one of the most important days in your lives. Today is your day, you are the Chief Guests, the Guests of Honour. You are here with mixed feelings ... happy to finish your schooling and all set to start a new chapter in your lives ... and then on the other hand, you feel sad that you may not continue at this wonderful institution. Henceforward your teachers, who have been your guides, mentors and even like parents to you and have helped you to change your bad habits and inculcated good values in you, will take you through life after you pass the threshold of school. They will no longer be a part of your everyday lives. But what you carry with you are the fond memories of the days gone by - the experiences you had during your formative years.

Now let us recall our friends. It is believed that a man is judged by the company he keeps. I feel that friends have a bigger impact on the psyche of students than teachers/even parents. Some of you have known each other for ten years and some others for fewer. This bond of friendship is invaluable. I remember, when I joined St. Vincent’s, I’d cry every day, in the first month of my first standard. Then one day, I spotted a familiar face on the play ground. He was a friend from my preprimary nursery, a year ahead of me though. I was happy to find a friend in my new school. I continue to be good friends with him even today. It is so important to stay in touch after one passes out of the school. I find it so amazing that my grandmother still regularly meets her school friends, even though they finished schooling more than 65 years ago.

So today let us recall all the people or things that have had an impact on your lives these past years, beginning with teachers. As you have spent so much of your childhood in school, you may have seen your teachers more than your own parents. When I was about five years old, teachers would fill me with dread, but now I know that they have the biggest role in moulding our personalities. They are the ones who saw our milk teeth fall, the ones who comforted us when we felt homesick back in class I. The occasional bruise and tummy ache have been soothed by the care of our teachers. The most important lessons of life, taught with a little rebuke, the punishments, mixed with the encouragements, a pat

I have many friends among you. We have shared tiffins, played together, competed for our school in sports and debates. I would like to wish you the very best for the Board exams. Several years from now, you will be in high professional positions. Do visit your school and teachers and bring back laurels and contribute to the betterment of our school. One year later, I will be in your place, awaiting my turn to pass out. And now that I look at it with introspection, I realize that I have only one precious year left. Then I will be on my own. I sincerely hope that we can carry the Vincentian spirit of Dare, Do and Win forward. I would like to conclude with an anonymous quotation ‘Education is obviously of two types. One teaches you how to make a living and the other teaches you how to live’. I would like to wish you good luck and good health. Thank you, Kaustubh Wagh IX-B 12

Farewell Dear Friends

St. Vincent’s has given us a lot - care from teachers, love from friends and respect from juniors. St. Vincent’s has been more than just a school to us. The amount our teachers have done for us is not possibly quantifiable.

Respected Fr. Mario, Vice Principal, my loving teachers and my fellow Vincentians, Words don’t come easy to me when it comes to speaking on an occasion like this. Throughout our school life, we have seen batches of students being bade farewell to, and in all those times we have feared the day when we will be among those stepping out of this institution forever. Today, the time has come for us too, to make a transition from the present to history.

All our teachers have done so much for us. They don’t just impart knowledge from books. They also help raising us by teaching us the right values of life. This is the perfect day to let our teachers know that we do care about all the things that they have done for us, and thank them from the very bottom of our heart. I am wondering if we would get lonely at college, since we are so used to leaning on the rock solid shoulders of St. Vincent’s. The base for moulding our personality has been this institution and the continuous support of all our teachers. On behalf of all the students, I thank you.

I don’t know if you realize how difficult it is for a student who has spent ten years of his life, in fact more than half his life so far, in a school, to step out of it. Perhaps what makes it more difficult is the fact that you’re leaving behind the care and guidance of your dear teachers, the love from friends - only to find everything shrunk to a handful of memories.

This day as we prepare to leave, I’d like to thank the Principal, all our loving teachers, our fellow Vincentians for all your love and care. We would also like to thank the office staff and the school peons for all their help and support.

An episode of our life is over, and perhaps the most important one, but the greatest happiness lies in the fact that it couldn’t have been more memorable. Today, as we are here to bid farewell to our Alma Mater, I’d like to share a few of my experiences with you.

The only message I have for our juniors is that if our batch has done something good - learn from us, and if we had our faults, discard them. Even though students must come and go, St. Vincent’s and the Vincentian spirit must remain forever - shining and smiling in the hearts of all its members.

I was in IInd Std. and was told that I had won a prize. Like we have now, we used to have rehearsals for prize giving. A teacher was acting as the Chief Guest. I was given the school calendar. I thought it was the prize and started walking away with it when the teacher came running after me and took the calendar away.

It’s hard to put onto words all that we feel, but some day, we are going to look back to these days and feel ‘GREAT’.

On the Prize Distribution day, the Chief Guest handed over the prize to me. I remembered the day of the rehearsal and handed the prize back to the surprised Chief Guest.

Before we leave, here’s a well-known sher for you

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There have been various other memorable moments. Years passed like a quick roll of drums and soon we were in Class X. I know we couldn’t bring about very many changes. Perhaps there wasn’t a need. But what greatly satisfies me is that we didn’t face any major problems, not even a single one. The students of St. Vincent’s proved to be much more disciplined that what I was prepared to give them credit for.

St. Vincent’s, we will miss you a lot. Yash Rajani (Prefect) X-A 13

A Fond Farewell to Francis Borde

Farewell Subhaya

Anthony Borde worked in St. Vincent’s High School for 40 years. His son Francis Borde will be completing an astounding 40 years too this year. At the age of 60, he is still up and about. He has worked for 35 years as lab assistant in the Physics lab and for five years in the school office.

Well-known to all of us ‘Subhaya’ will be retiring this year. It has been twenty four years since he started his splendid service to this school. He worked in the school office all these years.

When he was asked how the job affected his life he says, “The good Principals, Staff and students made it a wonderful experience and it has affected my life in a good way.” He has worked under the guidance of Principals like Fr. Schoch, Fr. Romuald, Fr. Tuscano. Fr. Salvi, Fr. Misquitta, Fr. D’lima and last but not least Fr. Mario. “I have the highest respect for all the principals. Fr. Schoch, the first Principal I worked with was a very good man” says a happy Francis. When asked about his close companions he had one name on his lips even before the question was out of my mouth - “Subhaya”. Subhaya will also be retiring his year. “I feel good about serving the school for so many years. After all it was the best time of my life. But now it is time for me to be at home and help around with household chores” says Francis while deep in thought. He will miss the school buildings, the ground and everything about the school. He shares something special with us. “I feel really good because I have never caught anyone cheating in the Physics lab.” And he is even more delighted as many of our students have appeared in the merit list. He will miss the study of Physics the most and feels that St. Vincent’s school is the best.

It was twenty four years ago that Subhaya came to Poona from Andhra Pradesh, where he carried on farming. His brother helped him to get the job at St. Vincent’s High School. Though his salary was insufficient, he and his family survived and managed with whatever little they had. Soon after that, he got married. He first worked with Fr. Clement who put him to work in this glorious institution. He has served this institution wholeheartedly and one would not mind saying “His birth is for the institution, his life is for its progress”. He served under the guidance of Fr. Recklin, Fr. Edmund D’souza, Fr. Abraham and many others. But one of them who was a student when he started working, and soon became his high official, was a very special person. It is our very own Fr. Mario! When asked about the principals and the staff members he worked with he says “Everyone was very good. I have no complaints about anyone.” The special ones who helped him in his ups and downs were the Chopra family. Mrs. A. Chopra was a teacher in our school and her husband who is a doctor, helped Subhaya and his family with funds, furniture and medicines. Subhaya wants to thank them specially as they cured his wife and him. The helpful staff of St. Vincent’s is just like a family who cares and nurtures its members. Subhaya now has a well settled life. His elder son has a government job and the other is a student. He wishes that all the students are successful and achieve greatness in their lives. After retirement he wants to continue farming in his village. When asked about Subhaya, Mr. Gulhane says emotionally, “He is a good person. He has always been a good senior. We will miss him.” For such a person who served our school and worked hard for it, it is really difficult to bid farewell.

Anand Deshpande who retired four years ago worked in the Physics lab and Francis liked him the most. Our very own Mr. Naik is his favourite among all the secondary staff ! Mohammed Ali Chherawalla IX-B (News Reporter) 14

Shishir Kurhade IX-B (News Reporter)

With You in Your Moments of Grief

Subashchandra Bose

There are times when everyone has to traverse the path of sorrow. At such times we are with you.

Subashchandra Bose made efforts to secure the help of the German Government for the liberation of India. He tried to organise the Indians in Europe. He started the Azad Hind Radio Centre in Berlin. He appealed to the Indians to take up arms against the British for India’s freedom, the through speeches he made from the radio station from time to time. Subashchandra Bose, after travelling thousands of kilometres across the seas from Germany reached Tokyo. There he accepted the leadership of the Indian National Army. The Azan Hind Sarkar was set up under the presidentship of Netaji Subashchandra Bose. The Government was recognized by countries like Japan, Germany and Italy. In order to liberate India, the Indian National Army set out with their slogan ‘Chalo Delhi’. It proceeded towards India. On entering the provinces of Arakhan and Kohima in India, the INA gave a tough fight to the British army. But it became impossible for them to continue their campaign. It began to rain heavily. It also became difficult to get help from the Japanese. Due to these difficulties the INA had to retreat. On 18th August 1945, the plane carrying Netaji Subashchandra Bose crashed and he died in the crash.

With heartfelt wishes for a hope filled tomorrow. In sincere and deepest sympathy 1)

Vidth Palresha of Std.IV-C at the loss of your father Vinod Palresha.

2)

Johnson Lijo of Std.VI-C at the loss of your dear mother Cisily Johnson.

3)

Tanish Pereire of VII C who lost his father Edgar

4)

Constanza Mitchel of Std.IX-A and Godspride Mitchel of Std.XI-A at the loss of your dear father Hilary Mitchel.

5)

Sally Anthony at the loss of your mother Sheela Swaminathan.

6)

Sanjay Sangle at the loss of your father Paul R. Sangle.

7)

Fr. Robert Das (Ex Vice Principal) at the loss of your dear father Joseph Anthony Das.

8)

Avita Raj (Ex teacher, Primary Section) who lost her dad Ossie Menesis.

9)

Subhaya who lost his mother Guramma.

May it comfort you to know that your loved ones are with God, and his love is eternal and immeasurable. The Vincentian Family

Yash D. Sontakke V-A

15

Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar

Shiv Jayanti

Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar - Doctor Babasaheb Ambedkar was a learned son of India. Throughout his life, he struggled hard and worked to improve the miserable living conditions of the poor and the downtrodden. Right from his childhood, he had a liking for books and reading. He felt that books were more valuable than close friends. He did not accept that education was only a means for getting a job. He believed that education should be used for the happiness of the common man.

Shiv Jayanti means Chattrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s Jayanti. He was born on the auspicious day of the Phalgun Vadya Tritiya, in the year 1551 of the Shaka era, that is on 19th February 1630. On the twelfth day of his birth, with an appropriate ceremony, the child was named ‘Shivaji’ after the goddess Shivaidevi whose temple was in the Shivaneri fort. His mother’s name was Jijabai, who passed away twelve days after Shivaji’s coronation. His father Shahaji died in a battle. Shivaji became the king in the year 1674. We celebrate his birth anniversary with great pomp and reverence. Shivaji Maharaj established swaraj in Maharashtra. Swaraj means self-government, our own rule. He passed away on 3rd April, 1680 at twelve noon. Abdulaleem Heroli V-A

The Sports Day Programme ‘All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy’. This is true. Sports not only helps us to build our physique but also strengthens our thinking and intellectual skills. We also imbibe values like co-operation, unity etc. Thus sports lays the foundation of a better person. St. Vincent’s school has correctly understood the importance of sports. The Annual Sports Day for the secondary section was held on 29th November 2008. Mr. and Mrs. Laxmikant Deshmukh were the Chief Guests. The programme started with a march-past of the Army, Navy and Air Force. The Chief Guest took the initiative to unfurl the school flag. There was a variety of races. Students who were excellent players all round the year were given awards. The programme ended with the School Song and National Anthem. Each Vincentian went home happily with the true spirit of sportsmanship and satisfaction. Satyajeet Jadhavrao V-D 16

A Blind Boy’s Story Who is My Friend Shibi, who stays near my house, is blind. We are good friends. Shibi goes to a school which is specially for the blind. He reads Braille (a book for the blind) very well and has even taught it to me. His mother and father died in an accident when he was just 3 years old. From then on, his grandparents are looking after him. He is just excellent in Maths. He can calculate mentally faster than I can do them on paper. He even helps me with my school homework. Most of the time I just see him playing the flute. Shibi plays the flute very well and does so at local functions such as Ganesh Chaturthi or Navratri celebrations. He is a very popular person. No function goes by without Shibi being asked

to give a performance. We feel very sad when he is ill. I have rarely seen Shibi sad, due to his blindness. He is always cheerful and even joins us when we go for picnics. By looking at him, no one will imagine that he is blind. Shibi is an inspiration to all of us. He has taught us that one can perform well in spite of serious handicaps. He also speaks very politely and sings very beautifully. All of us in the society love Shibi very much.

Holi

playing Holi sit in the balcony and watch everyone playing. Some of them get attracted to this and they too start playing with them. But some are afraid of the synthetic colours. The best thing is that one should fill water in a bucket and should pour the water down on someone who is playing Holi. To have a safe and happy Holi, we should try to use organic colours. Really Holi is a festival of joy and happiness bringing people together to celebrate this festival joyfully.

Mohnish Narayan VI-B

Holi is a festival which is all about expressing happiness through varied hues. Every year we celebrate this festival. Holi is celebrated for two days. The first day of Holi is celebrated by lighting a bonfire at night and performing ‘pooja’. The couples go around the bonfire by continuously pouring water around the bonfire. A coconut is broken into pieces first and then it is distributed as ‘prasad’.

Kirtisagar K. Sharmaa VII-A

The next day is celebrated with great fun and joy. Children buy water-balloons, pichkaris, colours etc before celebrating Holi. People make a lot of preparations before playing Holi. In the morning children fill the buckets by keeping balloons and colours in water. People in societies go to each and every house and apply colour to their faces and wish them by saying ‘Happy Holi’. Some people who are not interested in

17

Fireflies

My Unforgettable Experience at the Public Speaking Class

In the woods by the lake I stand, In the darkness of the night, Like thousand stars come down on earth, The small little fireflies shine bright.

I participated in the class-wise elocution competition and stood second. I was sad as I wanted to win the first prize. But soon God gave me a chance. I joined the Public Speaking Class.

Everywhere they go they spread their light, Like candles in mid-air, And every traveller lost in the woods, Can find his way in its glare. Just like this little firefly, Who so willingly gives her light, Through our good deeds and selflessness, In darkness we can shine bright.

The classes were held on Saturday. We were instructed on correct posture, having a goal, clear speech and overcoming the fear of speaking in front of a large crowd.

Darius Manuel VIII-A

Easter

I paid attention to whatever was taught. I practiced a lot. My hard work and my teacher’s effort, helped me come out with flying colours, as I won the first prize at the Elocution Competition organised by the Public Speaking class. I thank all my teachers for helping me achieve my aim of winning the first prize.

Christmas and Easter are Christian festivals. Christmas is celebrated on the day when Jesus Christ was born. Easter is celebrated on the day Jesus rose from the dead. Christ was crucified or nailed to a cross by some people who blamed him for things he had not done. When he died, the people who believed in Him were very sad. So He rose from the dead on Easter, to give them hope. Eggs stand for a new life. On Easter, chocolate eggs and hardboiled painted eggs are given as presents. Easter is celebrated with great enthusiasm by all Christians.

Faizaan K. IV-C

Our Helpers We need many things in our everyday life. It is not possible for us to do everything ourselves. So we need helpers to make our life rosy and comfortable. The milkman brings us milk. The postman brings us letters. The baker bakes our bread and buns. The cobbler mends our shoes. The doctor makes us well, when we are ill. Teacher teaches us our lessons. Parth Vitekar I-A

Darshit Lalit Jain VIII-A 18

Sports Day in my School

Our Helpers at School

The Sports Day in my school was held on 19th December, 2008 in the morning. It was my first Sports Day in St. Vincent’s High School. I was excited as our parents were also invited.

In our school there are many people who help us. They do many things for us. Our Principal manages the school in a proper way. Teachers help us to learn many things and also guide us. The librarian provides different kinds of books which increase our knowledge. Gardeners maintain the garden beautifully. Helpers try to keep the surroundings of the school clean. Peons at the gate maintain the security and the drivers help us to reach the school safely.

Our Chief Guest Dr.(Mrs) Sangeeta Wagh and our dear Principal Fr. M. Fernandes inaugurated the Sports Day function.

We must thank them all for helping us. Various drills were performed by boys wearing colourful outfits. Races, relays and other sports activities were held in which I took part and won too. The events were managed by all the staff members of the Primary Section. I was very happy and my parents enjoyed it very much.

Indra Kiran Sigicharla I-C

My Class Picnic It was Thursday 22nd January, 2009. I was very excited when my mother woke me up early in the morning. It was the day of my class picnic.

Digvijaysinh Thube I-B

My classmates and I gathered in school and went by the school bus to Lakewood Resort. Oh! What a lovely place it was! Everything there was very beautiful, the tall trees, the green grass and the beautiful lake. My friends and I were very happy. We played a lot of games but I enjoyed playing on the swing very much. We all enjoyed the magic show. The magician there showed us a lot of wonderful tricks.

My School Bus I go to school by the St. Vincent’s school bus. It is yellow in colour. Every morning I wait for it to pick me up from my house. It is always on time. The driver Anil and the conductor take good care of me and all the other boys in the bus. They take us to school and also bring us back home safely. I enjoy going to school by our school bus.

My class teacher and my computer teacher who accompanied us took good care of us. They also played with us and made us very happy. It was such a lovely picnic. In the evening all returned to school and from there we went home. I still feel very happy when I remember my class picnic. It was just great.

Taj I-B

Kevin J. D’souza II-A

19

Around this time on 13th of January, Punjabis celebrate Lohri with a huge bonfire and offer rice and sweets, while the Tamilians celebrate Pongal by making different types of rice preparations. ‘Uttarayan’ also marks the change of winds. In Gujarat the skies are filled with colourful kites. The rooftops and terraces are filled with the young and old participating in kite flying competitions. When a kite is cut, loud cheers fill the air.

Our Class Picnic This year our class went for a picnic to Lakewood Resort. The teachers of II-A,B,C and the computer teacher accompanied us. Lakewood Resort is a clean and beautiful place. We enjoyed the idli and chutney served to us for breakfast. We had a wonderful bullockcart ride. Many of us loved the rain dance. In the afternoon we were delighted to see the magic show, followed by the delicious hakka noodles for lunch. After lunch we played on the swings and with our rubber balls. Very soon it was time to return. Some of my friends fell asleep in the bus, while others enjoyed singing songs and clapping to the tunes of the song. We really had a lovely picnic.

This festival falls during winter. The feast includes milk, jowar, jaggery and til ladoos made from pure ghee to produce heat and keep the body healthy throughout the winter.

Mervyn D’sa II-C

In Maharashtra, we celebrate Sankranti by distributing ‘tilgul’. Elders give tilgul to young people who touch their feet in respect. ‘Til’ symbolizes love and ‘gul’ sweetness. Thus Sankranti advises us to have sweet and loving relations with everybody.

Makar Sankranti Kites fluttering in the skies, bullfights and bonfires.

Karan Kulkarni III-A

Makar Sankranti always falls on the 14th of January. Since it is a solar event this festival matches the English calendar. On this day the sun travels from the Tropic of Cancer to the Tropic of Capricorn. This movement of the sun is called Uttarayan and it is considered an auspicious time.

20

The Moment I Shall Always Treasure

Facts Are Fun

On the 19th of December, I woke up very excited. It was my Annual Sports Day. I quickly dressed as my parents gave me some words of advice. ‘It is not important that you win, it is more important that you take part. Do your best and leave the rest to God.’ These words of wisdom were ringing in my ears as I made my way to school. I decided that I would do my best and make my teachers and parents proud. As the race began I could feel the butterflies in my stomach. Would I be able to win? As I raced down the track my heart was beating faster and faster. The only thing I could see was the finish line. I had done it. I had won the gold. I could hear everyone cheer.

Forget earbuds. Did you know that giraffes clean their ears with their tongues that are 21 inches long? Try as you might you just cannot lick your elbows. Try it!! Camels have three eyelids to protect themselves from the blowing sands in the desert. Did you know that a Joey (a baby kangaroo) is as small as a coffee bean? Mohammed Atheor Rangila III-C

How Many Words Can You Find ?

There was still a greater surprise waiting for me. As I was getting myself dressed I suddenly heard my name being announced. Was I dreaming? My name was announced again. I jumped up to my feet and ran to the victory stand. I could not believe my eyes. I had won the award for the Best Athlete for Std.III. This is a moment which I will always remember as the best moment in my life. I will do my best in the years to come and live up to the motto of St. Vincent’s to ‘Dare, Do and Win’. Vincenti Dabitur! Ansel Mendonca III-C

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Clues 1) The Lord my saviour ...... 2) Easter is famous for the chocolate .... 3) The midnight prayer service is called Easter ..... 4) Easter always falls on a ....... 5) .... is the number of readings at the Easter service. 6) Easter ...... is beautifully decorated. 7) ....., ....., ..... are blessed at the Easter service. 8) Easter is the celebration of Lord’s ..... 9) .... Sunday is the Sunday before Easter. 10) ..... is the season of sacrifice before Easter. Anand Mascarenhas IV-A 21

Republic Day

Facts

Republic Day is celebrated on 26th January. India became a republic on this day in 1950. The constitution of India was drafted by a committee headed by Dr. Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar.

A tiger’s roar can be heard as far as 2 km away!

There is a grand march-past in New Delhi at the India Gate. The preparation for this starts months in advance. All the participants of this march-past assemble in Delhi one month in advance and practice daily. The Army, Navy and Air Force display their latest weapons on this day. In the morning the President is received by the Defence Minister. The President accepts the salute of each platoon.

A rhinoceros’ horn is made up of keratin, the same material our hair is made up of!

A blue whale weighs 150 tons! A kangaroo can jump 25 ft. high!

The smallest bird in the world is the humming bird, 2.5 cm. long! The black mamba is the most poisonous snake in the world! The name of Pluto’s moon is Charus!

After that, there are cultural programs. There is heavy security for this program. The President awards eminent persons from the civil and the defence services. He also gives away awards for extraordinary bravery. All the expenditure of this program is borne by the Government of India. Republic Day is a symbol of national pride, reverence and self-confidence.

Abrik Fernandes IV-C

Faizaan K. IV-C

Primary School Sports Day The Primary School Sports, an event much looked forward to at St. Vincent’s Primary School, was held on 19th December, 2008. The school stands were full of the excited participants, their fellow classmates and the equally excited parents, who were present in large numbers to cheer and encourage the little ones in their sporting endeavours. With the arrival of the Chief Guest, Dr. Mrs. Sangeeta Wagh, the torch bearers, started their lap round the massive school grounds and finally handed over the torch to be lit by Dr. Mrs. Wagh. An oath pledging the spirit of sportsmanship was taken by the young athletes and the Sports Meet was then declared open by the Chief Guest.

Dr. Mrs. S. Wagh, Chief Guest

The Meet was kicked off with a Yoga Drill and we were then led through a series of colourful, entertaining 22

and impressive drills such as the Umbrella Drill, the Tango Twist and the Rainbow Dance. The highlight of the morning was the ‘Charlie Chaplin Drill’ performed by the youngest of them all - Std.I. The drills were interspersed with interesting races like ‘Look Before You Leap’, ‘Jumping Jack’ and ‘Helping Hands’. Of course there were the traditional never-to-be-missed sprits, relays, hurdles and obstacle races too. The proud winners were presented with certificates and medals.

number of years, first through her late husband and now her sons. Her moving words left us without a doubt on our choice of institution for the education of our boys. The sports meet culminated with the distribution of some special sports prizes. The prestigious “Most Promising Athlete in the Primary Section” was bagged by Sean Pereira of Std.IV. It was definitely a morning well spent as we watched our little boys learning to participate in the true spirit of sportsmanship and the grounds being laid for further sporting prowess as they move on to High School. It was definitely a reaffirmation that with St. Vincent’s we can expect nothing but “All-Round Personalities”!!

This was followed by a speech by the Principal Fr. Mario Fernandes who updated us on the various sporting events the school had participated in and won. Everyone cheered loudly as he announced that St. Vincent’s was the leading school at the Pune School Athletics Meet for the 61st year in succession. We were then taken down memory lane by a nostalgic Dr. Mrs. Wagh who has been associated with the school for a

Mrs. F. Fernandes Mother of Shane Fernandes IV-C

Holi Of all the Hindu festivals, Holi is perhaps the most colourful festival. Coloured powders offered to God are then smeared on one another’s faces by the devotees. The legend connected with Holi which actually lends it the very name it bears is that relating to the demoness, Holika. She was the sister of the demon-king Hiranyakashipu, who, defeating the Gods, proclaimed his own supremacy over everyone else in the Universe. His son Prahlad was a true devotee of Lord Vishnu, the Supreme God who pervades and transcends the Universe. Holika who was reputed to be immune to any damage from fire, herself carried Prahlad into the fire to make sure that he was burnt to death. By the divine intervention, it was Holika that got destroyed by fire and it was Prahlad who survived the terrible test. Holi celebrates this burning and cremation of the evil Holika. Thus Holi celebrates the triumph of good over evil. With the annual recurrence of Holi, the lesson of spiritual and social harmony is brought home to us more and more profoundly. Noel Paul IV-D 23

Easter Day

Another World is Possible

Good Friday is the day Jesus Christ died on the cross. Christians all over the world spend this day in fasting and prayer. Then, on Sunday, which is called Easter Sunday, Christians believe that on this day Jesus Christ rose from the dead and went straight up to heaven.

A World where Human Rights of all of us are ad-

On Easter Sunday, many children wake up to see if the imaginary rabbit called the Easter Bunny has left them baskets of candies or Easter eggs.

munal tension, racial discrimination and other atroci-

hered to. Not a day passes without news on the radio, T.V. or the newspapers about acts of violence, terrorism, com-

ties being committed, where innocent lives are snuffed out and the perpetrators of this violence are not brought to the court of justice.

Aayush Sikehi IV-D

We were very fortunate to have Mr. Neeraj Jain, an active member of LOKAYAT, A Forum For A New World

My Favourite Game

and Prof. Ram Puniyani, who is actively involved with EKTA – Committee For Communal Amity, to conduct

Football is my favourite sport. I like playing it because it is a game with a lot of activity. It provides me with exercise and makes me healthy and fit. The best part of this game is that it teaches me the values of team spirit and sportsmanship.

a seminar on ‘Human Rights Education in Schools’ for the Principal and Staff members of the school on the 10th February, 2009.

My class has a football team named ‘Northern Rock United’. We are a team of sixteen players and I am the defender. This sport requires a lot of co-ordination among all the players, so we have our practice every day in the morning before school, under the guidance of Mr. Wilson, our coach.

Mr. Neeraj Jain, gave an introduction to this seminar, emphasising the difficult times we are passing through, the crisis looming before us, the cancer of communalism, terrorism, religious fundamentalism, globalisation – all spreading their tentacles far and wide uncontrol-

I love to watch the football matches on television. My best teams are Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal. My favourite player is Christina Ronaldo, because I like his football skills, passes and shoots.

lably. He urged us to be vigilant against ‘rumour-mongering’, engage in cultural interaction, build closer social ties across communities and respect cultural diversities in the world. How best can we achieve this but in

On Saturdays my dad and myself sit on the couch and watch these football matches with a bowl of popcorn. I will never give up playing football.

our classrooms and schools after all.

The seminar focused on three issues -

Murtaza Harnesswala V-D



Majors Problems of Society.



Have we chosen our Religion?



Our relationship as Indians – Its Democratic and Secular Values.

24

The three interactive, open house

nomena, opened our hearts and

sessions were held in close horse-

minds, and awakened us from our

shoe formation, where Prof. Ram

deep slumber of indifference to the

Puniyani elicited the answers from

violation of Human Rights to the

the teachers. Each session was en-

World.

lightening, informative and lively – drawn from the school syllabus

We thank Rev. Fr. Joy Thomas

comprising of History, Politics, Eco-

SVD, Director Ishvani Kendra for

nomics, Geography, Moral Values,

initiating this programme in our

History, Civics and Administration,

schools in Pune.

Statistics and others. These discus- Ms. Elizabeth Coutinho

sions blew away all the cob-webs from our minds, clarified many misconceptions and myths, deepened our understanding of such phe-

The Head-Boy’s Speech Respected Principal, teachers, members of the nonteaching staff and my dear friends,

Boy. The past year has provided me with bountiful experiences and lessons that will last me for a lifetime.

As I stand here probably for the last time before you all, I hold mixed feelings in my heart. I certainly am excited to enter the brave new world, but I feel intense sadness to depart from a home - like school. I will no more experience the pride which I used to, in our school uniform. However, I am comforted with the feeling that I’ll be a ‘Vincentian Forever’.

I will never forget the contribution of my teachers. Their tough words mingled with the rather friendly approach will warm the cockles of my heart. I wholeheartedly thank all the teachers for their dedication and hard labour. I also take this opportunity to thank all my fellow students and prefects for the helping hand they lent. A special thanks to the Principal, the staff members and the members of the non-teaching staff.

Despite being associated with St. Vincent’s for a short time, I have gained many things which usually take a longer period. I wish I were here right from the primary classes.

On behalf of all my classmates of class twelve, I wish to thank you all for your whole-hearted co-operation. I take this opportunity to beg pardon from those whom I may have hurt unknowingly.

The very first day, I entered this college with a trembling heart, with fear about the completely new environment. Today as I step out once again, my heart trembles, this time however not with fear but with a nagging doubt whether I’ll ever get such an excellent, warm and loving family.

May St. Vincent’s School grow from strength to strength, this is my humble prayer. Vincenti Dabitur!

I’ll forever remain grateful to all those who gave me an opportunity to lead the student fraternity as Head-

Master Abhijeet Patil XII-B 25

aIZo Ho$ hoVw go h_ 26 OZdar H$mo "JUV§Ì {Xdg' Ho$ ê$n _| _ZmVo h¢&

JUV§Ì {Xdg

{_Ìm| 26 OZdar 1950 go bm|Jm| H$m emgZ àma§^ hþAm& MwZmd hþE bmoJ MwZH$a AmVo aho - gaH$mao ~ZVr ahr, Xoe {dH$mg hmoVm ahm& Xoe Ho$ H$U©Ymam|Zo Xoe H$m gdmªJrU {dH$mg H$aZo Ho$ à`mg {H$`o& Hw$N> H$U©Yma g\$b aho Vmo Hw$N> {d\$b& h_ _mZVo h¡ {H$ Xoe Zo {dkmZ, dm{UÁ`, A§V[aj ajm {M{H$Ëgm Am{X joÌm| _o C„oIZr` H$m`© {H$`m h¡& {\$a ^r AmO `{X h_ ^maV H$s dV©_mZ pñWVr na Ñï>r S>mb| Vmo bJVm h¡ JUV§Ì Ho$ Zm_ no AamOH$Vm _Mr hþB© h¡& AmV§H$dmX, ~oamoOJmar, ^«ï>mMma Zo Xoe H$mo ImoIbm H$a {X`m h¡& JUV§Ì ì`dñWm Ho$ Zm_ na hr bmoJ Xoe H$mo H$_Omoa ~Zm aho h¡& bJVm h¡ {H$ AmO Xoe Ho$ à{V h_mao _Z _| AmË_r`Vm Am¡a Jm¡ad H$m ^md KQ>Vm Om ahm h¡& h_ AnZo H$V©ì`m| H$mo ^ybVo Om aho h¡& ^mfm, àm§V, ñdmW© Y_©, Om{V Ho$ Zm_ na Vm§S>d Mb ahm h¡&

26 OZdar 2009 Ho$ Adga na "C_§J Xoenm§S>'o 10 A H$m {dÚmWu AnZo {dMma àH$Q> H$aVo hþE-

{_Ìmo .... O~ VH$ Bg H«y$aVm, ^«ï>mMma AmV§H$dmX H$mo h_ EH$OwQ> hmoH$a g_má Zht H$a|Jo V~ VH$ gƒo AW© _| JUV§Ì H$mo _ZmZo H$m h_| H$moB© A{YH$ma Zhr h¢&

h_ bmE| h¡ Vy\$mZ go H$íVr {ZH$mbHo$ Bg Xoe H$mo aIZm _oao ~ƒm| g§^maboH$ H${d H$s BZ n§{º$`m| _| Jm§YrOr Ho$ {dMma ì`º$ hþE h¡& Bg Xoe H$s Zmd ñdV§ÌVm Ho$ {H$Zmao na AmH$a bJr h¡ Am¡a h_| BgH$s ñdV§ÌVm Ho$ {H$Zmao na AmH$a bJr h¡ Am¡a h_| BgH$s ñdV§ÌVm H$mo AI§{S>V ~ZmH$a aIZm h¡ AWm©V Bg Xoe _| h_| ghr AW© _| ñdamÁ` Am¡a gwamÁ` ~ZmZm h¡&

AmBE .... h_ g~ g§H$ën H$a|... AmV§H$dmX Am¡a ~oB©_mZr Ho$ g§Kf© _| JUV§Ì h_mam Zmam h¡& O`qhX!

ñdamÁ` H$m AW© h¡ AnZm amÁ`& BgrH$mo h_ JUV§Ì H$hVo h¡& JUV§Ì H$m AW© h¡ - bmoJm| Ho$ {b`o bmoJm| H$m Am¡a bmoJm| X²dmam Mbm`m OmZodbm amÁ`& JU H$m AW© bmoJ Am¡a V§Ì H$m AW© ì`dñWm h¡& bmoJ {Og amÁ` ì`dñWm H$mo Mbmbo h¡, Cgo JUV§Ì H$hVo h¡& emgZ ì`dñVm H$mo MbmZo Ho$ {b`o H$mZyZ Ed_² {Z`_m| H$s Amdí`H$Vm hmoVr h¡& BgrH$mo h_ g§{dYmZ AWm©V Constitution H$hVo h¡& h_Zo 26 OZdar 1950 H$mo g§{dYmZ Ho$ AZwgma bmoJm| H$s emgZ ì`dñWm H$mo MbmZm àma§^ {H$`m& Bg{bE 26 OZdar h_ JUV§Ì {Xdg Ho$ ê$n _o _ZmVo h¡& na§V 26 OZdar H$mo hr h_ `h {XZ Š`m| _ZmVo h¢? {_Ìm| BgH$m CÎma h_| B{Vhmg n‹T>Zo go {_boJm& gZ 1930 _| hþE H$m±Jgo« Ho$ A{YdoeZ _o n§. Odmhabmb Zohê$ Zo nyU© ñdamÁ` H$s _m±J H$aVo hþEo ^maVr`m| go AmhdmZ {H$`m Wm {H$ do 26 OZdar Xoe Ho$ ñdV§Ì {Xdg Ho$ ê$n _| _ZmE±& ñdV§ÌVm {Xdg h_ 15 AJñV H$mo _ZmVo h¡ na§Vw B{Vhmg H$s Cg àoaUmXm`r `mX H$mo Or{dV 26

nmnm go {nQ>dm`m& ì`mH$aU Zo h_H$mo EH$ gmb gVm`m, Bg{bE {ejH$m| Zo h_| Xmo gmb nT>m`m V~ Hw$N> g_P _| Am`m& ì`mH$aU Ho$ eãXm| H$mo _ohZV go gOm`m, V~ Om Ho$ H¡$go nmg hmo nm`&

OrV O~ _wpíH$b hr a§J bmVr h¡& ZmOwH$ go [aíVo {~N>S>Vo h¡& O~ AmgmZr h±gr bmVr h¡& H${R>Z gr OrV {_bVr h¡&

[af^ ^§S>mar 6 "~'

`o h¡ Hw$N> Eogm Omo g~ H$mo Zht {_bVm `hr h¡ Cg OrV H$m amO Omo ha _Zwî` h¡ Ty>±T>Vm

hmobr h_mao Xoe _| AZoH$ Ë`mohma _ZmE OmVo h¡& CZ g~ a§Jm|_| H$m Ë`mohma hmobr _wPo ~hþV {à` h¡& hmobr H$m Ë`mohma \$mJwZ _hrZo H$s nyZ_ H$mo _Zm`m OmVm h¡&

G${fHo$e gwd} 7~

ì`mH$aU

hmobr dg§V G$Vw H$m a§Jrbm Ë`mohma h¡& \$mJwZ _| JmE OmZodmbo hmobr Ho$ JrVm| H$m "\$mJ' H$hVo h¢& \$mJwZ H$m _hrZm bJVo hr \$mJ ewê$ hmo OmVm h¡& T>mb o H$ Am¡a _±Oram| Ho$ g§JrV Ho$ gmW `o JrV gwZZo _| ~S>m _Om AmVm h¡&

ì`mH$aU - ì`mH$aU - ì`mH$aU H¡$gm `h ì`mH$aU ì`mH$aU ~ZmVm h¡, H¡$go -{H$ggo? ì`mH$aU& N>mÌm| H$mo ~hþV gVmVm& ha ~mV Bgrgo ~ZVr h¡, ha gmO Bgrgo gOVm h¡& Omo Z nT>mJo o Vw_ `h _§Va Vmo hmo OmAmoJo ~§Xa& ì`mH$aU& {XZ ^a nT>m, amV ^a nT>m, {\$a ^r {X_mJ _| Z MT>m& {bIZm MmhmoJo "{nVm' Vmo {bI XmoJo Vw_"nrVm' H$aZr MmhmoJo qMVm Obm S>mbmoJo {MVm& g§km Am¡a gd©Zm_ h_H$mo H$jm _| H$aVo h¡ ~XZm_& ì`mH$aU gmb ^a hmo J`m, "g_mg' g_P _| Z Am`m& g§{Y Zo h_H$mo,

hmobr Amngr n«_o H$m Ë`mohma h¡& nhbo {XZ em_ H$mo hmobr ObmZo H$m [admO h¡& Eogm _mZm OmVm h¡ {H$ hmobr ObmZo Ho$ gmW Amngr bS>mB© PJS>o ^r Ob OmVo h¡& hmobr H$mo ObmZo go dmVmdaU ewÕ hmo OmVm h¡& hmobr Ho$ Xygao {XZ H$mo "Ywb|Sr' H$hVo h¡& Ywb|S>r Vmo a§Jm| H$m hr {XZ h¡& Bg {XZ g~oao hr NmoQ>o - ~S>o EH$ Xÿgao na a§J {N>S>H$Zo {ZH$b nS>Vo h¢& A~ra Jwbmb go bmoJ Va hmo OmVo h¡& hmobr Ho$ a§Jm| _| gmao ^oX ^md IË_ hmo OmVo h¡& gM_wM, hmobr H$m Ë`mohma h_| AmZ§X Am¡a EH$Vm H$m g§Xe o XoVm h¡& àUd Hw$bH$Uu 6~

27

{H$aU gyaO O~ CJVm h¡& Z`m amñVm bmVm h¡& em_ O~ T>bZo bJo, V~ do amñVo {~N>S>Vo h¡& gwX§ a gr Xþ{Z`m, \y$b gm Mm±X& O~ ~m[ae H$s ~y±Xo {JaVr h¡ Am¡a {H$aUo {_bVr h¡, V~ B§ÐYZwf H$m a§J {XIVm h¡&

Z¥Ë` H$s ~hma h¡& AmH$me dmUr Ho$ X²dmam Bgr {XZ EH$ A{Ib ^maVr` H${dg§_b o Z H$m Am`moOZ hmoVm h¡& Xoe H$s {d{dY ^mfmAm| H$s H${dVmE± VWm CZH$m qhXr AZwdmX àgm[aV {H$`o OmVo h¡&

G${fHo$e gwd 7~

JUV§Ì {XZ

g^r ~S>o eham| _| Bg {XZ g~oao g¡{ZH$ H$dm`V| hmoVr h¡& {d_mZm| H$s H$bm~mOr Am¡a Vmonm|H$s JS>JS>mhQ> go ZOmam JyO± CR>Vm h¡& ""BpÊS>`m JoQ>'' na amï´>nVr amï´>ÜdO H$m A{^dmXZ H$aVo h¡& h_mao VrZm| goZmAm| H$s ^ì` naoS> hmoVr h¡ Am¡a amï´>nVr CZH$s gbm_r boVo h¡& naoS> _o {d{^Þ àXoem| H$s gm§ñH¥${VH$ Pm°{H$`m àñVwV H$s OmVr h¡& {H$ÝVw26 OZdar H$m Agbr AmZ§X Vmo gaH$mar _H$mZm| na VWm AÝ` à{gX²Y B_maVm| na hmoZo dmbr amoeZr H$s N>Q>m _| {XImB© nS>Vm h¡&

gw~h hþB© Zht H$s nyam eha Jmd {Va§Jo ÜdOm| go gO JE& CËgmh ^ao ~ƒo AnZo ñHy$bm| H$s Am¡a Xm¡S>Zo bJo& OJh OJh ÜdOd§XZ H$s V`m[a`m± hmoZo bJt& gmam dmVmdaU Cëhmg go ^a J`m& hm `h Cëhmg Am¡a AmZ§X Š`m|Z hmo? AmO 26 OZdar Omo h¡& AmO Ho$ {XZ g¡H$S>m| dfm| Ho$ ~mX ^maV H$s OZVm Zo OZV§Ì Ho$ ê$n _o gƒr ñdV§ÌVm Ho$ Xe©Z {H$`o Wo& 15 AJñV gZ² 1947 Ho$ {XZ ^maV H$mo ñdV§ÌVm {_br, bo{H$Z 26 OZdar gZ² 1950 Ho$ ñWmZ na ^maV Ho$ Z`o g§{dYmZ H$m lr JUoe hþAm& Bg àH$ma AmO H$m {XZ h_mao JUV§Ì H$m OÝ_{XZ h¡&

gM_wM 26 OZdar ^maV H$m gwZham nd© h¡& A^r VH$ h_ Xrdmbr H$mo àH$me nd© H$hVo h¡& Wo, na A~ Vmo 26 OZdar amoeZr H$s amZr ~Z J`r h¡& JUV§Ì H$m {XZ amï´>r` ^mdZm Am¡a AmZ§X go ^anya Eo{Vhm{gH$ nd© h¡& gM_wM `h {XZ h_mao Xoe Ho$ Jm¡ad Am¡a ñdm{^_mZ H$m à{VH$ h¡&

ñHy$bm| Am¡a H$m°bOo m| _o Vmo JUV§Ì {XZ H$s emZ {Zambr hmoVr h¡& CËgmh ^ao AÜ`mnH$ Am¡a CZg| XþJZo AmZ§X ^ao ~ƒo JUV§Ì {Xdg H$mo _mZmZo Ho$ {bE EH$Ì hmoVo h¡& _Zmoa§OZ H$m`©H«$_m| Ho$ AmZ§X H$m Vmo H$hZm hr Š`m? EH$ Amoa ZmQ>H$m| H$s Yy_ _Mr h¡, Vmo Xÿgar Amoa g§JrV Am¡a 28

[af^ Amogdmb 6 (~)

_mPm AmdS>Vm {_Ì

{X_mJ h¡... Vmo Cn`moJ H$amo

1) BÝgmZ {H$gHo$ AmJo PwH$Vm h¡& 2) dh H$m¡Z gr ~rZ h¡, Omo \y§$H$_maZo go Zhr ~OVr h¡? 3) dh Š`m MrO h¡, {Oggo g^r {MT>Vo h¡ na {\$a ^r Jbo go bJmZo H$mo ~oVm~ ahVo h¡& 4) nmZr ~hZm N>moS>, bwT>H$Vm H$~ h¡? Odm~ 1) ZmB© 2) Xÿa~rZ 3) hma 4) ~\©$ ~ZZo na

_mPm AmdS>Vm {_Ì dËgb Amho. Amåhr XmoKo EH$mM emioV {eH$Vmo. Amåhr XmoKo EH$mM dJm©V Amhmo. Amåhr EH$_oH$m§Mr _XV H$aVmo. embm gwQ>ë`mda Amåhr XmoKo Kar MmbV-MmbV OmVmo. Ë`mMo Ka _mÂ`m KamÀ`m ~mOybm Amho. Amåhr g§Ü`mH$mir EH$Ì IoiVmo. emioÀ`m _Yë`m gwÅ>rV Amåhr EH$_oH$m§Mm S>~m ImVmo. H$emMr JaO Agë`mg Vmo _bm bJoM _XV H$aVmo.

[af^ ^§S>mar 6~

{ViJwi g_ma§^ ZH$moM AgVmV hodXo mdo, ZH$moM AgVmV ê$gdo \w$Jdo EH$mM Vù`mVrb ~XHo$ AmnU, ZH$moM Hw$R>bo ~maH$mdo, JmoS> gU hm g§H$« m§VrMm, {_iyZ gmao EH$Ì `oD$, _r nUmMo gmoSy>Z ~§YZ, AmZ§XmMo PmS>M bmdy, ñZoh dmT>Vmo VrimVrimZo, gh^mJmZo \y$bVo OrdZ _bm dmQ>Vo `mgmR>rM g§H$« m§VrMo AgVo à`moOZ

Vmo _bm H$Yrhr ZmamO hmoD$ XoV Zmhr. emiobm gwÅ>r Agë`mda Amåhr XmoKo ~mhoa {\$am`bm OmVmo. nU OmñVrV OmñV Amåhr ~mJoVM OmVmo. {VWo Amåhr Iyn Iyn IoiVmo. Z§Va Amåhr ~mhoa Oodm`bm OmVmo. Ë`mMm AmdS>Vm a§J bmb Amho. Ë`mbm nwñVH$ dmMm`bm Iyn AmdS>VmV. Ë`mbm ^Or Im`bm Iyn AmdS>V.o Ë`mMm dJm©V n{hbm Z§~a AgVmo. Vmo Hw$Umbmhr _maV Zmhr. Xa e{Zdmar _r Ë`mÀ`m Kar H$m°åß`wQ>a Ioim`mbm OmVmo. _bm Amem Amho H$s Amåhr _moR>o hmoD$Z EH$_oH$m§Mr _XV H$ê$ _bm Ago dmQ>Vo H$s nwT>À`m OÝ_r nU Vmo _mPm {_Ì Agmdm. C‚db C§Xao 6 dr H$

Ðþ[db ehm 3ar H$ 29

26 OZdar (JUV§Ì - {Xdg)

ew^ Adga na bmoJ h±gr- Iwer Zm±MVo JmVo h¡& Vah-Vah Ho$ \y$bm| go ~{J`m± _hH$ CR>Vr h¡& hmobr Ho$ Ë`mohma Ho$ gmW EH$ nm¡am{UH$ H$Wm ^r OwS>r h¡& {haÊ`H$í`n amOm A{^_mZr Am¡a AË`mMmar Wm& CgH$m A{^_mZ Bg gr_m Va nhwM± MwH$m Wm {H$ dh AnZo - Amn H$mo ^JdmZ g_PZo bJ J`m Am¡a bmoJm| H$mo AnZr nyOm H$aZo Ho$ {bE ~mÜ` H$aZo bJm Wm& {H$ÝVw CgH$m ~oQ>m àëhmX à^w ^º$ Wm& dh AnZo {nVm H$mo ^JdmZ _mZZo H$mo V¡`ma Zhr Wm& {haÊ`H$í`n Zo àëhmX H$mo _maZo Ho$ ~hþV à`mg {H$`o {H$ÝVw Ag\$b ahm & CgH$s EH$ ~hZ Wr hmo{bH$m& hmo{bH$m H$mo EH$ dó daXmZ ñdê$n {_bm Wm& {OgVo AmoT>Zo go A{¾ Ho$ n«^md go ~Mm Om gH$Vm Wm& hmo{bH$m Zo EH$ {MVm gOmB© Am¡a daXmZ dmbm dó AmoT>H$a àëhmX Ho$ gmW ~¡R> JB© & CgH$m CÔoí` Wm àëhmX H$s hË`m _| AnZo ^mB© H$m gmW XoZm& {MVm H$mo AmJ bJmB© JB©& O¡go hr AmJ VoO hþB© hmo{bH$m H$m dó n«ëhmX na Am {Jam& hmo{bH$m ObH$a amI hmo JB© Am¡a àëhmX

15 AJñV , 1947 H$mo h_mam Xoe ñdV§Ì hþAm `m, na h_mao Xoe _| h_mam AnZm g§{dYmZ 26 OZdar 1950 H$mo bmJy {H$`m J`m& Bgr {XZ h_mao Xoe H$mo JUV§Ì amï´> Kmo{fV {H$`m J`m& V~ go ha gmb 26 OZdar h_ JUV§Ì - {Xdg Ho$ ê$n _| _ZmVo h¡& 26 OZdar H$mo Nw>Å>r hmoVr h¡& gw~h OJh-OJh "P§S>m d§XZ' Ho$ H$m`©H$« _ hmoVo h¡& amï´>JrV "OZ-JU-_Z' Jm`m OmVm h¡& ñHy$bm| Am¡a H$m°boOm| _| AZoH$ H$m`©H«$_ hmoVo h¡& amOYmZr {X„r _| Bg {XZ ^maVr` goZm H$s emZXma naoS> hmoVr h¡& naoS> _| H$B© àm§V H$s gwX§ a Pm±{H$`m {XImB© OmVr h¡& ^maV Ho$ amï´>n{V naoS> H$s gbm_r boVo h¡& {j{VO I§Xma 6~

hmobr

~M J`m& hmo{bH$m ~wamB© H$m àVrH$ Wr& ~wamB© Bgr Vah Zï> hmo OmVr h¡& hmobr Ho$ {XZ bmoJ EH$ Xÿgao H$ Jwbmb bJmVo A¡a Jbo {_bVo h¡& Jbo {_bZo go df© ~a H$m ~¡a Am¡a d¡_Zñ` g_má hmo OmVm h¡& eÌyVm {_ÌVm _o ~Xb OmVr h¡& K¥Um ào_ H$m ê$n bo boVr h¡& Eogo {_bZ na {_R>mB`m± ~m±Q>r OmVr h¡& hmobr H$m Ë`mohma ào_, gX²^mdZm, _¡Ìr Am¡a g_Vm go OwS>m h¡&

hmobr H$m Ë`mohma a§Jmo H$m Ë`mohma h¡& Bg {XZ bmoJ EH$ Xygao na a§J \|$H$Vo h¡, VWm Jwbmb bJmVo h¡& `h a§J hf© Am¡a Cëbmg, ñZoh Am¡a _mV¥^md H$m àVrH$ h¡& hmobr \$mëJwZ _hrZo _o _ZmB© OmVr h¡& `h Ë`mohma ~g§V G$Vw Ho$ AmJ_Z H$s gyMZm ^r XoVm h¡& hmobr Ho$

AmH$me nmQ>rb 5 dr (~) 30

_H$a g§H$« m§V

hmoir

_H$a g§H$« m§V hm gU Xa dfu 14 OmZodmar `m {Xder gmOam H$aÊ`mV `oVmo, H$maU `mM {Xder gy`© _H$a amerV àdog H$aVmo. gy`© _H$a amerV àdog H$aVmo Ë`m H$mimbm g§H$« _U H$mi Ago åhQ>bo OmVo d `m H$mbmV CËnÞ Pmboë`m eº$sbm g§H$« m§Vr Ago åhQ>bo OmVo.

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ST. VINCENT’S HIGH SCHOOL, PUNE. (X A - 2008 - 09)

ST. VINCENT’S HIGH SCHOOL, PUNE. (X B - 2008 - 09)

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ST. VINCENT’S HIGH SCHOOL, PUNE. (X C - 2008 - 09)

ST. VINCENT’S HIGH SCHOOL, PUNE. (X D - 2008 - 09)

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ST. VINCENT’S HIGH SCHOOL, PUNE. (XII A - 2008 - 09)

ST. VINCENT’S HIGH SCHOOL, PUNE. (XII B - 2008 - 09)

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Primary School Annual Sports Day

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Vincentian Old Boys Association ( VOBA) Alumni association of St.Vincent’s High School, Pune

A General Report Greetings from the Vincentian Old Boys Association, Pune, India (VOBA).You will be delighted to know that VOBA is a very vibrant and active alumni and we would like to update you about some key VOBA activities. Bonding  VOBA has got the entire member directory (with contact details) online on its website. (Our membership has passed 1510 members) We have also got the Roll Call list of passing out batches of Std. XI, X and XII students from the fifty’s till date on the website.  In order to have meaningful interaction among the Alumni, we organize a Contributory Dinner at the time of the Annual General Body Meeting.  We also organize Alumni Day. This year we had an attendance of around 250 ex-students & ex-teachers for the dinner held on 15th Nov.2008.  We facilitate reunions/get-togethers of batches. In the past two years, the 1958 and 1959 batches celebrated their Golden Jubilee, while the 1984 (12th) batch celebrated their Silver Jubilee of passing out, in the Gulati Hall.  Achievement Awards are also given to distinguished Alumni. Past winners include Mr. Dileep Padgaonkar, Business Director, Times of India, Padmabhushan Late Dr. (Mrs.) Banoo Coyaji  VOBA also has contact details of ex-teachers on the VOBA website and we often interact with them and invite them for some of our events.  Gives Book Awards to Toppers of Std. X and Std. XII Examinations.  Gives Christmas Hampers to deserving students of economically weaker section.  There are VOBA T-shirts/ Caps/ Ties/Bags available for sale, which foster a sense of brotherhood and comradeship.  We also hosted the 1st Pune Province meet of Jesuit Alumni in March 2008 and recently in Jan 09, participated in the 2nd Pune Province meet held at Sangamner. Fund raising  VOBA has a Teachers Fund and plans to utilize the same for the benefit of needy retired teachers of the school.  We have also been actively involved in raising resources for the Fr. Schoch and Fr. Oesch funds as well as for the multipurpose Sports cum Lunch Hall.  We organize a Family Musical Nite, with leading bands and the proceeds therefrom are shared between the school and VOBA.  We have facilitated the raising of funds by different batches for specific projects related to the school/exteachers. Sports  In keeping with the St. Vincent tradition of excellence in sports, VOBA sponsors the VOBA Football team comprising of ex-students. They participate in almost all major Football Tournaments organized by the Poona District Football Association (PDFA).  Organizes the K P Jadhav Football Tournament for PDFA (Pune District Football Association) Division I and Division II Clubs, where more than 90 teams take part. This year (2009) the tournament is in its 15th year.  VOBA is an affiliated Club member of the PDBA (Pune District Basketball Association) 37

General  We have our website at www.vobapune.com.  The VOBA Executive Committee meets on the second Sunday of the month at 10.30 am at the school library to chalk out plans for the month.  VOBA organized the JAAI West Zone Congress on the theme “Water We care” in Oct 2006 and actively participated in the West Zone Congress at Ahmedabad held in Oct 2008. The concept paper on the theme ‘Many Sparks –One Fire’ was contributed by our President - Bobby Jacob.  We have also participated in the National Congress in Jamshedpur 2003 and at Trivandrum Sept 2007.  A sign of our growing presence at the national level is the fact that our current President - Bobby Jacob, is National Vice President of JAAI and our current Secretary - Imtiaz Lokhandwalla, is President of West Zone JAAI.  Currently VOBA is sponsoring and maintaining the JAAI website www.jaaindia.org

Golden Jubilee Reunion of the 1959 batch Bobby, Imtiaz, Allen, Manoj Sanghvi, Raymond could attend the Golden Reunion of 1959 batch in Gulati Hall on 8th Jan 09. About 15 attended, many with their wives. Two came from US, one from Hong Kong, one from Chennai, two from Mumbai..... Many T-Shirts, Ties, Bags and Caps were purchased. Already 12 of this batch were VOBA members, and another 8 new members were enrolled. Vincentian Magazines, Footprints on Sands of Time, were freely distributed to attendees. There was dinner at Military Club - R.S.I. We were informed that a total of 27 attended these two get-togethers. This photo has 14 of them plus one teacher (Mr Patil) at extreme left, in Centre of Vincent's Quadrangle Raymond Rebello

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VOBA visit to the Jesuit run Dnyanmata School, Sangamner, in Jan 09 for the 2nd meeting of Alumni of Pune Province. Left to right : - Bernie, Joe, Richard, Imtiaz, Fr Robert, Bobby, Allen, Arthur, Vikram, Saifee, Raymond, Manoj, William.

VOBA attended the West Zone Congress at the Jesuit run St Xavier’s School, Ahmedabad, in Oct 08. From Left to Right are : Asha, Raymond, Fr James, Fr Mario, Arthur, Bobby, Allen, Saifee, Manoj, Richard, Diago, Joe, Fr Robert, Bernie, Joe D’Souza

Inter-school Taekwondo Tournament on Saturday, 14th February 2009 at the Fr. Oesch Hall, St.Vincent's High School, Pune. Students of St. Vincent's, St. Anne's,The Bishop's School Camp, The Bishop's Co-Ed School, and students from Vidya Valley School, St. Joseph's High School, Ghorpuri, and St. Helena's High School took part in this Tournament. The Chief Guest for the function was Rev. Fr. Mario Fernandes, S.J. Principal, of St. Vincent's High School.

Category 4 - Boys Gold : Swaraj Mehta, St.Vincent's High School of Std. VI-C The Rolling Trophy for the highest points was bagged by the Bishop's Co-Ed School, Kalyaninagar who scored 25 points, followed by Runners up St. Vincent's High School, with 17 points. Having won 2 - Gold/ 1- Silver. Details of Photograph : The proud Runners up, Team St. Vincent's High School with their Medals and Certificates. Along with the medal winners. Left To Right Moinuddin Kadiwala - Gold , Swaraj Mehta Gold , Samiraja Mandot - Silver.

The winners were as follows : Category 1 - Boys Gold : Moinuddin Kadiwala, St. Vincent's High School of Std. IV-C Silver : Samiraja Mandot, St. Vincent's High School of Std. IV-B 39

Photo from Lt to Rt : Sitting – Bobby Jacob, Fr Mario Fernandes, Fr Adolfo Nicholas, Fr Bertie Rosario, Imtiaz Lokhandwala. Middle row standing - Madhuram Ramnathan, Goretti Fernandes, Asha Jacob, Almas Lokhandwala, Leela Joshi, Bernie Rebello, Fiona Martyres, Tasneem Polishwalla, Andrea Kering. Back row standing – V Ramnathan, Farokh Irani, Sushama Rebello, Raymond Rebello, Manoj Joshi, Saifee Polishwalla, Richard Fernandes, Joe Rebello, Allen Martyres, Manoj Sanghvi, Diago D’Souza, Vikram Kering.

Rev Fr Adolfo Nicholas - Superior General of the Society of Jesus audience with the members of the VOBA Executive Committee and their wives on 3rd Mar ‘09 evening.

Fr. General visits St. Vincent’s Assembled in Rome for the General Congregation (meeting of the Provincials and Province Delegates), the Society of Jesus on 19th January 2008, elected Rev. Fr. Adolfo Nicholas, S.J. as the new Superior General of the Society of Jesus.

to each member of the EXCO who had the joy of shaking hands with him. Mr. Bobby Jacob, President of VOBA then addressed a few words to Fr. General. Very briefly Fr. General then addressed the EXCO members and their spouses gathered for the occasion. He stressed the important role of the alumni (and their spouses) in collaborating with the Society of Jesus in carrying out its mission. Fr. General was then felicitated with a bouquet of flowers presented to him by Mrs. Tasneem Polishwala. Fr. Mario Fernandes also presented him a gift on behalf of VOBA. Present on the occasion were also Fr. Bertie Rozario, Provincial of the Pune province who was felicitated with a bouquet presented by Mrs. Sushma Rebello. Also present was Fr. Thomas Ambrose, Manager of St. Vincent’s Night College and St. Joseph Night School.

Less than a year into his term as Superior General, Fr. Adolfo Nicholas made his first visit to India to attend the bi-annual meeting of the Jesuit Conference of South Asia (JCSA) which was held at Sanjeevan Ashram, Provincial headquarters of the Pune Province of the Society of Jesus. The meeting of the JCSA held from March 1st – 7th brought together all the twenty Major Superiors (Provincial and Regional Superiors) of the South Asian assistancy along with the General Counselor and Regional Assistant Fr. Lisbert D’Souza and both the old and the new Presidents of the Conference Frs. Hector D’Souza and Fr Edward Mudavassery. Besides attending the daylong meetings with the Provincials, Fr. General also made his official visit to the various communities and institutions of the Pune province.

Fr. Mario Fernandes then raised a vote of thanks to Fr. General for sparing his valuable time and giving us an audience with him. The VOBA EXCO members and their spouses were delighted to meet with Fr. General and will cherish happy memories of their brief encounter and acquaintance with him. Finally, we had a group photo with Fr. General. He then went up to the Jesuit Residence where he the joined the community and the Provincials to a sumptuous dinner. For the members of the Jesuit community, Fr. General’s visit was a moment of grace. We have been blessed with his visit. We wish Fr. General ‘Adios’ and a safe trip as he returns to Rome. Welcome once again Fr. General to the Pune province.

We, at St. Vincent’s, were blessed with the visit of Fr. General Adolfo Nicholas on 3rd March 2009. Though a very brief visit, Fr. General was accompanied by all the Provincials of South Asia. After meting the Jesuit community briefly, Fr. General spent a few precious moments with Executive Committee (EXCO) of the Vincentian Old Boys’ Association (VOBA). In his brief introduction, Fr. Mario Fernandes, Principal, welcomed Fr. General and introduced him to the audience. He was also introduced

Fr. Mario Fernandes, S.J. 40

He Did It For Me He was wounded for our transgressions, Crushed for our iniquities, The chastisement of our peace was upon him, And with his stripes we are healed. (Isaiah 53:5) There are times when we feel bogged down by life’s troubles. We may have failed to achieve something or we may have feared a particular happening ... or we may have been hurt by someone ... the list is endless. I too have had my doses of depression. There are times when I have felt like a ‘nobody’ ... someone who has achieved nothing but a big cipher. But then ... suddenly, my mind goes back into the past ... over 2000 years ago into the city of Jerusalem ... on that first Good Friday ... the day Jesus died. What makes that Friday a ‘good’ one? Considering that God’s only son sacrificed himself for us on that day, to call it a ‘good’ Friday seems rather unjust and contradictory. However, a deeper retrospection makes the entire idea crystal clear.

“The word became flesh ... and it dwelt amongst us” - what better way to describe the Christ? Jesus brought salvation for all. He healed the broken hearted and set the captives free ... he made the lame walk again and called the blind to see. He was so full of love and mercy, that tax-collectors and harlots found a special place in his heart even though they were the most hated and rejected in society then. Besides, there was a strange kind of dynamism in his voice, that he drew people in mammoth numbers from all over the country. It is no wonder that Jesus was so different, so dynamic and so revolutionary. He was the ‘only begotten son of God’ - very God of very God! Besides all this, Jesus came for a greater cause, a task which could be fulfilled by no other ... he came to die ... on the cross! The physical suffering he endured that fateful Friday, is simply beyond comprehension. When late Pope John Paul II viewed Mel Gibson’s ‘The Passion of the Christ’, he rightly said that, what he saw in the film was not even half of what Christ actually went through. It was an inhumane act ... an act of brutality. A brief illustration of the crucifixion will help you understand the above. The Romans adopted the ‘art’ of crucifixion from the Phoenicians who first used it. They preferred it to boiling the condemned in oil or even punishments like impalement, stoning, drowning and burning, which all proved too swift for their taste. The Romans wanted a form of execution that was slow as it was painful ... hence the cross. The ritual of crucifixion was rather gory. The cross beam was fitted beneath the prisoner’s shoulders and his arms were extended along its length. Soldiers held them in place while the executioner with his right hand probed the wrist for a little hollow spot where the so-called ‘life line’

Jesus turned the cross - a sign a shame, sin and death - into a sign of hope a n d n e w l i f e . HE DID IT FOR ME.

ended. Once he found it, his movements were swift and sure. Taking a five inch, square cut iron nail, he positioned it, and then he drove it into the hand and into the cross with a single blow. The same was repeated for the other arm. The soldiers then lifted the cross beam into place on the upright which was already planted in the ground. The timber was then lifted until the mortise could be fitted over, thus forming a rugged cross. Next, the executioner positioned the prisoner’s right foot over the left, being careful to make sure his legs were bent at the knee. With a measured blow, he drove the third spike through both the feet and into the cross. Death was painful and above all very slow. After nearly an hour of extreme torture, death came as inexorably as it must, usually in the form of asphyxiation. Was Jesus deserving of a death so painful and so full of shame? Was there no other way? However, Christ’s physical sufferings were pale in comparison with the plan his Father had in his death. God saw Christ’s death as the only way to redeem lost humanity. It was a price Jesus had to pay to redeem EACH one of us. He suffered the Father’s rejection that we might be reconciled to him. That’s how much he loves you and me! When I think of that first Good Friday, I don’t feel low and depressed anymore. In fact I feel rejuvenated with encouragement, victory and love ... because my saviour died especially for me!

I will never think of the cross the same way again ... it is a lesson for me ... an act of love and kindness. What message can we take from the Lord’s passion and death? It is very clear ... you are precious to God and that’s why he died for you. Take life in all its strife and move along the path of learning. Is there a man who has betrayed the trust of his children? Your debt is paid! Is there a man or a woman who has lot his or her virtue? Your debt is paid! Is there a son who has broken his mother’s heart, a daughter who has forsaken the teachings of her youth? Your debt is paid! Is there a junkie who has lost all hope? Your debt is paid! Is there a religious leader living a double life, a merchant trapped in crooked deals, a politician on the take? Your debt is paid! Your REDEEMER has paid your debt! “Though your sins are like scarlet ... they shall be white like snow. Though they are red as crimson ... they shall be like wool.” Dean Lobo XII-B