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Chhotaudepur

Don Bosco Chhotaudepur Celebrates 50 Years of Service

4 February 2026

Anniversary,

News written by: Fr Selvin D’Mello

Don Bosco Chhotaudepur marked a historic milestone on January 31, 2026, with the grand culmination of its Golden Jubilee celebrations, drawing together clergy, religious, collaborators, past pupils, and well-wishers in a spirit of thanksgiving. The day unfolded as a threefold celebration: the Feast of St. John Bosco, the Golden Jubilee of the Don Bosco institution at Chhotaudepur, and the Golden Jubilee of the First Religious Profession of Fr George Carlos—a confluence of faith, memory, and mission.

The celebrations began with a solemn Eucharistic celebration presided over by Rev. Sebastião Mascarenhas, Bishop of the Diocese of Baroda. In his homily, Bishop Mascarenhas expressed deep appreciation for the Salesians of Don Bosco and their tireless service over the past five decades. He highlighted their pivotal role in uplifting the Rathwa tribal community through education and holistic development, noting that such milestones are not merely commemorative but call for renewed missionary zeal and deeper commitment to serving the young and the marginalized.

Following the liturgy, a felicitation programme honoured veteran missionaries and jubilarians whose dedication has shaped the growth and mission of Don Bosco Chhotaudepur. They were presented with tokens of appreciation in recognition of their years of selfless service. Village officials from areas served by the institution were also honoured, acknowledging their collaboration and sustained support for outreach initiatives.

True to the Salesian spirit of family and communion, the celebration concluded with a fellowship meal that fostered bonds across generations. As a gesture of gratitude and remembrance, all priests and religious received souvenir kits, while participants received commemorative mementos—lasting reminders of 50 years of faithful service and a renewed commitment to the mission ahead.

Good to Know:

The Rathwa are a major Scheduled Tribe, numbering over 642,300 in 2011, primarily residing in the hilly, forested regions of Chhota Udaipur, Vadodara, and Panchmahal in eastern Gujarat. Known for their rich cultural heritage, they are famous for the vibrant 'Pithora' wall paintings and the 'Gher' dance. Closely related to the Bhilala, they follow a folk religion with elements of Hinduism. For more...

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