"THE LEGEND THAT WAS" ST.MARYS SCHOOL MT.ABU

Platinum Jubilee week
Brother Keane on stage-Platinum Jubilee

Brother Keane's dream come true

Brother Keane was undoubtedly a legendary figure among the Irish Christian Brothers who served at the only Christian Brothers school in Rajasthan. “St.Mary’s High School, Mount Abu”. He was the Principal from 1964 to 1968; I was there during his tenure, and what a period it was for us students. I still recall his profound yet simple words uttered on various occasions, “Jesus, meek and humble of heart, make my heart like unto Thine”. In class, I’m sure all who have studied under him will recall his famous “Country born, country-bred, broad in the shoulders and thick in the head.” The profound yet simple words of this extraordinary teacher were drafted to jolt us into an awareness of our imaginative personalities. I knew his terse but persuasive sayings for their ability to render the stoutest and most hard-core student to break down at this juncture. Brother Keane rarely ever resorted to the cane. I can only recall the one and only time he used the cane to discipline some impish students who were made a public spectacle to show that the institution would tolerate no half-larks. Brothers Keane’s profound wisdom and ability to manoeuvre students, parents and people in authority to bend towards has touched many his will.

Brother Keane was a stern disciplinarian, cutting to the core and wasting little effort on inessentials. I recall he could control all the students at large just with those piercing eyes of his. His very being and presence were held in awe by all the students. He was, as far as I recall, a very religious and God-fearing man. I have seen this outstanding personality praying for hours on end into the wee hours of the night. He proved a keen observer of boys and, like a gardener, groomed the students under him to bring out their utmost potential. It would be wishful thinking on my part to feel that all the students had very high regard for this austere and dedicated man. I know I had my share of tiffs with him. I used to be reminded on many an occasion when I broke bounds that I would be given a one-way ticket home.

My greatest teachers in life have been my parents, who taught me the virtues of questioning and making my own choices in life. Keane played a crucial role in bringing out both the best and the worst in me. I know a host of ex-students would not agree with what a large majority of us Marians have with this dominating individual. He had a penchant for changing lives. I am grateful for having had him as my mentor who brought the best out in me to look at my shortfalls face life with my chest out and look the world in the eye.

Throughout Keane’s tenure as principal of the school, he strived for the betterment of the school. I remember him digging the first sod for the new block that would expand the school. It was a momentous and exceptional moment in his life, his whole being radiated a glowing aura of positive vibes amongst all present that day. His actions and his constant concern for the welfare of the school and students inspired us towards fresh paths, toward something that elevated our lives from boring to meaningful.

I did miss him in my final year as my mentor. He got transferred, and another beacon of light, Brother Judge, was there for us in my final year. God rest the soul of these two marvellous men who have given so much and have asked nothing in return, except we become good and responsible citizens of this world.

Brother Keane came back to the school as principal for another 5 years from 1976 to 1981. I did meet him once or twice when I returned in the eighties and then for the last time when he came to celebrate the Platinum Jubilee of the school. Students who have will always feel his influence had the good fortune of studying under him. The quote by 'Henry Brooks Adams sums up the achievements of this unforgettable brother; May his soul rest in peace.

A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops. ~Henry Brooks Adams