Established on Labh Pancham, Samvat Year 1972 (1915), Shri Hirji Bhojraj & Sons Cutchi Visha Oswal Jain Chhatralaya, known as Matunga Boarding, began in a rented space in Mumbai with two students. Inspired by Shri Velji Lakhamshi Napoo and other community leaders, it has since supported over 9,000 students, producing notable professionals in various fields.
In 1931, Shri Nanji Hirji Bhojraj and Shri Ratanshi Hirji Bhojraj donated Rs. 1,25,000 to the institution, adding their father’s name, making it known as Shri Hirji Bhojraj & Sons Cutchi Visha Oswal Jain Chhatralaya. The institution also received significant donations, including Rs. 1,30,000 kori from the Trustees of Sheth Ghelabhai Ganshi Smarak Fund in 1934, leading to the establishment of a branch in Durgapur, Kutch.
Today, we planned to go to Bhavesh Gangar's house in village Merau to extend an invitation. We had a lot of conversations with the family members. Many friends were remembered and all those who studied in boarding school were remembered and Bhavesh, who has some physical problems, is trying to join the program but he remembered everyone very fondly and Nikhil's resolution of going to this house and planning to invite them is giving everyone a good atmosphere. Maybe we will meet friends but also when we had emotional conversations with family members, a family feeling has arisen. Today when all the friends meet each other with their families to invite each other, I feel a strong feeling in my mind that this whole program will take four months and all the friends and family members are also very happy. So this whole program is moving forward with a very positive approach. Everyone is very eager that we all meet together soon. These beautiful and fun feelings and many things happened with Bhavesh Gangar today. Currently, Bhaveshbhai is active in various activities of Jiv Daya in my village and lives very happily with his family.
Dear Friends, The reunion of our hostel and school group gave me a chance to refresh old memories after 25 years. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to all the trustees, teachers, and Grahapatis, who played an important role in our culture and education. Also, a special thank you to the organizing team, who worked hard to make this gathering a success. Many sweet memories were refreshed during this reunion. Especially my passion for drawing and sketching was rekindled. Hansa ma'am, who inspired me in drawing, taught me and guided me to make a career in fine arts—all of that came to mind. The only regret is that I could not make that career. I had done a diploma in fashion designing, but did not progress in that field. However, I continued to practice sketching till 2008, but then due to work pressure, I gave up. This reunion and meeting you has brought back those old feelings, and inspired me to take up the art I love again. Today, on this special occasion, I am sharing some of my artworks with you. I hope you enjoy seeing them Thank you!
My second home is my school and chhatralaya. My second family is my teachers, grahpaties, and batchmates. When I remember these, tears come to my eyes and a smile appears on my face