The 31^st chapter of the Holiday Programme for Youth (HPY) marked the start of a new chapter in the lives of fifteen-year-old participants at the JB Vaccha High School, on 7^th May, 2017. The inauguration ceremony that commenced with a short prayer by Er. Rohinton Pavri, was attended by Chief Guest, Dr. Coomi Vevaina, internationally acclaimed author, educator, former head of the English department of the University of Mumbai and Guest of Honour, noted theatre actor, Danesh Irani. Mentor, Diana Marfatia took the dais and delivered an inspiring welcome address, followed by floral greetings to all the dignitaries present. Coordinator Azmin Vania delivered an introductory discourse on the 28 day journey, in the form of a poem, followed by a pep talk by Principal of Sir Cowasjee Jehangir High School, Mahrukh Daruwalla. HPY’s 2017 inaugural function had previous batch participant and the Best Literary Arts All-Rounder, Parena Sahukar, share her experiences with the enthusiastic youngsters, followed by the Organising Committee singing the ‘HPY song’.

Chairperson for the inauguration, Jimmy Mistry, unleashed a stimulating interaction with the participants after which he introduced Guest of Honour, Danesh Irani known for his fab humour, imparted a valuable lesson to ‘Just have fun’! Chief Guest Dr. Coomi Vevaina shared with the participants ‘The 9 priceless lessons of life’. The function concluded with a vote of thanks by Literary Arts and Social Service Supervisor, Ayesha Mehta, followed by the recital of the Zoroastrian and the National Anthem, leaving the participants to experience and enjoy HPY for the rest of the month!