Orientation Programme and the Visit to the Ashram Shalas in Walvanda

By Cl. Makwane Ankush for BIS Mumbai

Two days of Orientation programme and the visit to the Ashram Shalas spread across the Jawhar, Mokhada, and Vikramagarah talukas of Maharashra’s Palghar District was an enriching experience for the Divyadaan brothers. On July 4, 2026, 27 brothers from Divyadaan, accompanied by Fr Jayaseelan, arrived at the Bosco Samajik Vikas Sansthan in Walvanda to attend the Sunday Apostolate orientation programme. The Brothers would continue assisting the Walvanda community with its School of Excellence initiative as they were doing for several years. As part of this programme, they will teach English and Mathematics in 14 Ashram Shalas in and around the Walvanda community.

 Coordinated by BSVS Project Coordinator Mr Krushna Shende, the evening session began at 7.30 p.m. on an organized and inspiring note. Mr Shende warmly welcomed the attendees, specially acknowledging Fr Jesu Robinson (Rector and Director of BSVS), Fr Jayaseelan, Fr Monty Rodrigues, Fr Francis Fernandes, and the Brothers. It was a testament to the collaborative leadership driving this mission. From the side of the staff, Mr Shende then provided a comprehensive overview of the region’s indigenous communities, detailing their vibrant traditions, arts, and educational progress. This cultural deep dive was crucial for the newly inducted brothers, reinforcing that effective teaching is rooted in a genuine respect for the community’s worldview. Ultimately, the session successfully bridged the cultural gap, equipping the brothers to connect meaningfully with the tribal youth they will serve.

 The event also highlighted the deeper, dual purpose behind the institution’s teaching tradition. Fr Jesu reflected on the years of dedication from the brothers who come to teach, emphasizing that this mission is vital not only for profoundly touching the students’ lives, but also for the personal and spiritual formation of the brothers themselves. Echoing this sentiment, Fr Jayaseelan spoke to the unique beauty of the initiative, noting that it provides a grounding opportunity for the brothers to get in touch with reality and fully immerse themselves in the authenticity of mission life.

 To end this enriching experience, the following morning the brothers visited their assigned schools, seamlessly bridging their recent reflections with on-the-ground reality. After conducting preliminary inspections along with the represented staff and holding productive dialogues with the principals and school in-charges, the group departed for Divyadaan. This marked a successful conclusion to this phase of their mission, leaving them ready to carry their renewed missionary zeal into the next steps of their journey.