GDSMS Alumni Reunion
" The BIG Reunion 3 "
SPOTTED A SCHOOL RIGHT ACROSS THE HOUSE by Bina Sethi
I shifted to Mumbai in 1975, after having sailed around the globe with my husband for seven years. Our daughter Nisha and son Nikhil were five and two respectively. I was 'gifted' my first home in Cuffe Parade and to my delight, spotted a school right across the house which became my second home in the years to follow. I was lucky to have found my mentor , Kumkum Somani, with whom I clicked from the word go! I became her assistant in Senior KG and she guided and nurtured me, till I was found fit and capable of handling a class of 36 beautiful children. I was overwhelmed with this amazing confidence she had in me and to date she remains my well wisher and my best friend!
Then, came another wonderful person in my life. She was no other than Mrs Deboo. She made me literally feel like a Mother Superior.... We could spend any amount of time talking shop....assorted problems one faced, new and revolutionary ideas for an idealistic school, how and where one could improve etc etc. I put my heart and soul into my work and it became a passion for me with Mrs Deboo's encouragement and appreciation. While most teachers left after working hours, my real work would start then. Children's work would go up on the soft boards and interesting charts to help their 3 R's and awareness of their beautiful world. I made sure that everyday something new awaited these little kids. I think I did succeed by taking away the dullness and making each day bright and happy. God bless this grand ole lady who gave her heart and soul to make the Kindergarten section of the school one of the best
GDSMS Senior KG from '76-'84
I cannot ever forget some of my colleagues. The hard working Panna Vakil, who disciplined her kids like no other teacher could. Vahabiz who most of us dreaded, but then were pleasantly surprised as one begun to know her better, that she was indeed a very helpful person who had great teaching skills and was a gem at heart! I spent few years with her in Ahmedabad where she is now happily settled. Our most lovable Lalita Thyagraj, who would pop into my class and have a bit of tet a tet, while her disciplined children would be seated diligently, completing their assignments. After school, she would invite us home to share a great spread from the previous night's party and sometimes South Indian Cuisine she had excelled in to prepare fresh for us. She visited me in London. BINA TODAY YOU ARE NOT ENTERING THE KITCHEN. I WILL MAKE INSTANT DOSAS FOR YOU. Although she handled her illness with amazing maturity and a positive attitude, she was unable to pursue the battle! LALITA YOU WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED!
I made many friends through the school, some directly that happened to be Parents, and some indirectly. They are still my close friends.
Thank you GD Somani for giving me some of the most wonderful and memorable years of my life!
