St. Mary's school in Mount Abu scrapped St. Patrick's holiday.

 St. Patrick's Day, a major cultural festival observed by Christian brother institutions in India, has been terminated.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

I learned today through the grapevine that the current head at Saint Mary’s School in Mount Abu has canceled the traditional holiday celebration of St. Patrick’s Day on March 17th. This decision marks the end of a cherished tradition, one that harks back to the days when Irish Christian Brothers brought their customs and teachings to our school. With their departure, not only have we bid farewell to these dedicated educators, but their vibrant Irish traditions are also fading away. What a bittersweet moment to witness the closing of such a memorable chapter.

As we progress, the next generation will create its own legacy. But for us, the memories of St. Patrick’s Day at St. Mary’s will forever hold a special place in our hearts. Allow me to take you, my fellow ex-Marians, on a nostalgic journey back to those cherished times.

Let’s rewind to the St. Patrick’s Days of yesteryear. Unlike conventional celebrations, the Irish Christian Brothers had their own unique way of marking the occasion. They organized an event we called “Jungle Warfare.” For us, Marians, it wasn’t just an event—it was an adventure we had awaited all year. The school wove this tradition into its fabric, making it an integral part of its history and culture. I’m sure every ex-Marian holds treasured memories of participating in Jungle Warfare, reliving those moments of excitement, camaraderie, and discovery in the heart of the Aravalli forest.

For us students, St. Patrick’s Day wasn’t a holiday; it was a day that infused our dreams and aspirations with a sense of wonder. Exploring the Aravalli forest during Jungle Warfare sparked our imaginations and deepened our connection to nature and each other.

While St. Patrick’s Day celebrations may evolve, I can't imagine this important cultural and religious festival disappearing. In many parts of the world, within European communities and Christian Brothers schools, the traditions of St. Patrick’s Day are ingrained and continue to thrive. Perhaps, in fresh forms and with fresh energy, these celebrations will endure, even if they are no longer part of the Saint Mary’s experience.

So here’s a heartfelt goodbye to the St. Patrick’s Day we knew and loved. As the Irish saying goes:

“May your troubles be less, And your blessings be more, And nothing but happiness come through your door.”

Happy St. Patrick’s Day to all, near and far. May the spirit of Paddy’s Day live on in our hearts and memories.

“Bye-bye, Bye Paddy.”

Spring time woes a time of both renewal and survival Mount Abu

 Red-wattled lapwings fend off potential predators.

Daman fleeing from the mobbing of Red-wattled Lapwing

Red-wattled Lapwing - Vanellus indicus nest with eggs

Daman fleeing from the mobbing of Red-wattled Lapwing.mp4

Indeed, springtime can be a time of both renewal and survival. As the weather warms up and plants begin to bloom, it creates opportunities for new life to emerge. Animals awaken from their winter slumber and begin to mate, lay eggs, and give birth to offspring.

However, with new life comes new challenges. The competition for resources becomes fierce as animals vie for food, territory, and mates. Predators are also more active during this time, seeking prey to feed themselves or their young.

It's a reminder that while springtime may be a time of beauty and new beginnings, it is also a time of struggle and competition. The natural world is not always kind, and survival is often a matter of being the strongest, fastest, or most innovative.

As watchers, we may appreciate the beauty and magic of spring while simultaneously acknowledging the problems and difficulties that it brings. It reminds us that nature is breathtaking and ruthless, and all living beings must adapt and grow to survive. The strong protectiveness of Red-winged Lapwings towards their young is incredible. It confirms their will and instinct to live in the wild.

As much as we may feel tempted to intervene and protect them, it's important to let nature take its course and not interfere with the natural processes. Observing how these birds use their skills to fend off potential predators and keep their offspring safe is fascinating.

It's also a reminder of how unpredictable and dangerous the wild can be. While the lapwings have won this round, there is no guarantee that the remaining eggs will survive. The lapwings must stay alert in safeguarding their offspring, as it's a harsh truth of the natural world.

It's a privilege to witness these moments in nature and to appreciate the resilience and determination of the animals that call it home. 

 It is painful to watch the Red-wattled lapwings fighting to save their eggs at the cost of almost losing their lives. It's doubtful this batch of eggs will survive the onslaught of the various predators around. I'll keep you posted as the drama unfolds.

Oh Spring! Nature awakens to your beckoning Mount Abu

 Spring Time in the Abode of the Gods.

Springtime in the Aravalli range, a transformation from arid trees scorched by winter's freeze. 

Mount Abu winter ravages

A time of change. The hills are awash with vibrant hues of blooming flowers and morning dews. They dressed the trees in shades of green, a sight unlike any we've seen. As nature wakes from its winter sleep, fragrant scents fill the air.

Bees and butterflies flit and fly as nature wakes up and comes alive. The birds join in with their sweet song and nature's chorus continues on and on. Hills are alive with rustling leaves and gentle whispers in the breeze. As her spirit stirs from her winter rest, she reminds us all that we are blessed.

So let us take a moment to pause and marvel at nature's wondrous cause. Spring in the Aravalli range is a time of magic, a time of change. As the reborn leaves appear, they bring with them a sense of hope and renewal, reminding us that there is always an upcoming season on the horizon. Evergreen trees are a sign of strength and flexibility because they hold on to their leaves all year, waiting until winter to let them go.

It's a beautiful time to be outdoors and enjoy the beauty of nature as it transitions from one season to the next. Witnessing spring and new life return is unique, whether strolling through a park or enjoying the view from a ledge.

Oh, Spring!