The 81st Foundation Day of Achamma Bhavan as part of the 150th Anniversary of YWCA of Bombay, was celebrated at Byculla. An interesting PowerPoint presentation, to showcase the history and the working of the Achamma Bhavan Hostel was presented. The entertainment programme was the cynosure of all eyes. The SHGs captured the imagination of the guests, many of whom made a beeline to the stalls displayed with purses, handbags, jewellery and knick-knacks.
The Lady Willingdon Hostel celebrated 125 years of its foundation as part of the 150th Anniversary of the YWCA of Bombay on 24 April. The UNESCO awarded Neo-classical style heritage building was beautifully illuminated for the occasion.
The Chairperson of the hostel, Dr. Anuradha Patil welcomed all present and drew attention to the Foundation Stone laid in 1900 with the inscription “The Gift of God”. Indeed, as the first hostel for working women in the city of Bombay, LWH has been the Gift of God to countless women who come to our commercial capital in search of a job and more importantly to find a “Home away from Home”. Hence this event was themed “Hats off to Women Trailblazers”.
Dr. Pheroza Godrej, a PhD in Ancient Indian Culture and a renowned art historian and environmentalist was the Chief Guest. Mr. Vilas Dilawari, the well-known conservation architect was the Guest Speaker, gave a Power Point Presentation on the restoration and renovation of LWH.
The grand Finale of the event was undoubtedly the Elvish performance of Special guest Mr. Mehmood Curmally, who set the stage on fire with his singing of the good old Elvis songs, which rocked the Heritage Hall and had all the ladies regardless of age dancing to his beat!!
The World YWCA Day was celebrated on 24 April at LWH, Fort.
Blessy Babychan presented an insightful overview of YWCA and shared thoughts on the theme ‘Intergenerational Leadership’ emphasizing the important role of members as volunteers. She inspired everyone to actively contribute towards the mission and vision of the organization.
A special felicitation ceremony was held to welcome new members, where they were presented with YWCA ID cards and potted plants as tokens of appreciation and encouragement.
The highlight of the day was the Oath Ceremony by Shama Chatterjee where members expressed their commitment to the YWCA
Sacred Music was held on 12 April at Lady Willingdon Hostel (LWH), Fort, with 110 attendees. The theme ‘Elements of the Cross’.
The old rugged Cross hymn was followed by area-wise performances, each focusing on symbolic elements from the Passion of Christ: Sacred Music
The following were the sub-themes:
All areas presented a moving performance.
Asha Kiran celebrated its 26th Annual Day as part of the 150th Anniversary of YWCA of Bombay on 5th April at Asha Kiran Complex, Andheri. Chief Guest was Ms. Prachee Shah Paandya, Kathak Exponent and Actor. Senior members, NGOs, and staff were honoured and cultural programmes were showcased, followed by a grand mela.
YWCA of Bombay celebrated Annual Sports Day on 22nd March at the Jhula Maidan Agripada, as it completes 150 years of dedicated and uplifting service, touching lives in many ways. The Chief Guest Mr. Amulraj, Senior Secretary YMCA opened the meet and addressed the athletes. The local leader Shri Rohidas Lokhande addressed the gathering. A total of 200 actively participated in the marble and spoon, three-legged and potato race. Simultaneously limited overs cricket and kho-kho was conducted with as many as 8 teams competing. The event concluded with the prize distribution.
The inauguration of the 35th Anugraha Foundation Day commenced with a jamun (love apple) tree being planted by President Pavana Anchees on 15th March. It was attended by 80 members and staff. A slide show on ‘Trip down memory lane’ was shared. Some senior members were felicitated and cultural programmes were presented.
The EKTA Cum International Women’s Day Programme was held on 8th March at LWH Fort. The theme was ‘Women Making an Impact: Fighting Air Pollution.’ A powerful speech on EKTA was delivered by President Pavana Anchees, emphasizing unity and collective action. The highlight of the event was the area-wise performances, where each group creatively addressed the theme of air pollution through skits, songs, dances, and presentations, delivering a strong message on environment.
