Report on International Women’s Day Celebration for the Mata–Palak Groups

-          Ms. Vailena Dsouza

“The hand that rocks the cradle is the hand that rules the world"

-          William Ross Wallace

The above quote beautifully highlights the immense influence of mothers in shaping society. By nurturing, guiding, and instilling values in their children, mothers play a vital role in building the future, and it is this very sentiment that forms the foundation of the Mata Palak initiative.

The programme held in the Primary section of Don Bosco High School, Matunga on 9^th March,2026 commenced with a warm welcome extended to the mothers by the Head Teacher, Mrs Griselda Fernandes. Ms. Vailena Dsouza then addressed the gathering and spoke about the importance of the Mata–Palak Scheme, appreciating the dedicated efforts of the mothers who actively support their children through the weekly activities.

A few Mata–Palak leaders were then invited to share their experience as a Mata Palak Coordinator.  Ms. Gaell Rebello spoke about the joy of participating in the activities with her son, Jared. Although a bit challenging at times, she said, it was also immensely rewarding and would love to continue participating in this initiative even in the next academic year. The students who were invited to be a part of this program also eloquently expressed how much they enjoyed this special ‘me-time’ with their mothers while completing the Mata-Palak activities together. Mst. Hiransh Sakinal expressed his heartfelt gratitude towards his mother, through a Marathi poem, thus adding a touching element to the celebration.

To add a spirit of fun and entertainment, Ms Vailena D`souza had organised interesting spot prizes for the participants. Among the other activities planned by her, an engaging game was organised in which the mothers were divided into two groups and were given cut-outs of pictures that they had to assemble as a puzzle, identify the personality and speak a few lines about her. The pictures were of Jijabai and Savitribai Phule. The mothers participated enthusiastically in this creative game. They arranged the puzzles, identified the personalities and spoke lucidly about their inspiring contributions.

Small tokens of appreciation were then presented to the mothers for their valuable support and participation in the Mata–Palak initiative.

The celebration concluded on a joyful note as all the mothers uninhibitedly danced to the song - Dil Hai Chhota Sa, ably guided by Ms. Vailena, thus making the moment lively and memorable.

The programme ended with heartfelt words of appreciation for all the mothers whose dedication and involvement continue to support the learning and development of their children. The gathering dispersed with smiles, and hearts filled with gratitude marking a meaningful and joyous celebration of International Women’s Day here at Don Bosco, Matunga.