A prayer meeting was organized by the Old Girtonians’ Association in the Girton High School on May 25, 2019 and attended by many former students, including Dilnavaz Engineer and I who spearheaded the meet. Planned by principal Ayesha Mistry, the meeting began with the lighting of candles and a slide show of photographs of its founder Bachoobai Moos followed by those of all the teachers who have passed away.
Jehangir Gai, chairman of the School trust pointed out that mere lip service does not suffice to express appreciation of the selfless service rendered by teachers. Many retired teachers become infirm and lonely in their sunset years. Their students should make a conscious effort to stay in touch and help to cheer them.
Retired principal Navaz Sanjana recalled the contributions made by headmistress Shera Wadia (pictured) and middle school teacher Khorshed Mistry, who served devotedly for 42 years. Strangely, both passed away within a span of four days. Wadia was an excellent teacher, a strict disciplinarian and always punctual. Smart and well dressed, she was particular about the correct posture and poise of her students. She was fondly known as "Girton’s glamor girl!” Special mention must be made of her devoted pupil Dr Armaity Amin who took Wadia into her own home to care for her in her final years.
Mistry was involved in the Red Cross and other extracurricular activities. Her daughter Meher, also an ex-student, looked after her bedridden mother with great love and care.
Many students reminisced fondly about their teachers. A condolence book was passed around in which everyone wrote loving tributes. The meeting ended with hymns and the School song, composed by former trustee and honorary principal Silla Ardeshir, in which all the ex-students joined.
ROSHANI SHENAZZ NADIRSHAH
roshanishenazz@sahh444.in