“If you find your task is hard, Try again,

Time will bring you your reward, Try again,

All that other folks can do

Why with patience, May not you?

Only keep this rule in view, Try again.”

– Jai Godrej

The centenary celebrations of Jai Godrej’s birth anniversary, hosted by the Godrej clan, took place on 24th March, 2017, at Udayachal High School, Mumbai, with family members, friends, teachers, students and well-wishers gracing the occasion to commemorate her life and inculcate the values taught by her. Endearing tributes poured in plenty as everyone close to the great lady had special memories to share.

Mother of Adi and Nadir Godrej, the humble and kind Jai Godrej, was an inspiration to many and a women with ideals way ahead of her times. She is remembered as a visionary educationist, wife, mother and friend. She believed in simple living and that everyone was accountable for their actions. She enjoyed poetry and philosophy as much as she excelled at teaching English and Math. She passionately championed equipping the future gen with tools to build a better world.

As a tribute to Jaiben Godrej, the students of Udayachal High School put up a charming entertainment program. Next, Adi Godrej reminisced his mother’s principles, enriching and touching the audiences. He recalled how she encouraged him to be independent right from the start, encouraging him to cross the road by himself and making him accountable for his school fees, books and all other expenses from the pocket money allotted to him. Adi Godrej went onto announce the yearly Jai Godrej Scholarships (Rs 20,000/- each) for two bright students and The Jai Godrej Award (Rs 25,000/-) for the Best Teachers of the three sections of the School.

Nadir Godrej came next to recite a poem he wrote, in memory of his mother, where he described all the special occasions of her life, for which he received a standing ovation.

A panel of old teacher colleagues and former students of Jai Godrej recalled fond memories spent with her. One of her students flew down from the USA just for this occasion. All speakers highlighted her caring nature and kind gestures.

An audio visual presentation on Jai Godrej’s life had numerous members of her family and close friends sharing endearing facts about this great personality. Granddaughter Tanya Dubash spoke on how her granny encouraged her to participate in the family business. She further added that Jai Godrej was a great story teller and all her grandchildren were in awe of her during family gatherings. Rati Godrej concluded the evening, giving a warm vote of thanks.