The Happy Home & School for the Blind (Worli, Mumbai) celebrated a remarkable milestone on 5^thNovember, 2025, marking 100 years of dedicated service in empowering visually challenged children. Over 250 alumni from across the country gathered at the school’s Annie Besant Road campuswhere Outstanding Alumni Achievers were honoured, in a grand centenary celebration.

Founded in 1925 with five blind orphans in a modest space on Lamington Road, the institution stood at the forefront of a pioneering idea when most believed that visually challenged individuals were suited only for traditional crafts. The late Coomi Sohrab Bharoocha, whose vision gave birth to the initiative, worked tirelessly to demonstrate that education could transform young lives. Early years were spent in cramped rooms atop the BDD Chawls, where classrooms by day doubled as dormitories at night.

In 1948, with support from the Blind Relief Association’s President – M N Chatrapati, the school strengthened its identity as ‘The Happy Home & School for the Blind’. By 1960, it had amassed 65 students, reaffirming the need for a larger, more supportive environment. The persistence of CoomiBharoocha and the generous assistance of donors helped secure land in Worli, and in 1971 the institution shifted to its present premises, designed by renowned architect IM Kadri.

Over the decades, The Happy Home & School for the Blindhas evolved into a vibrant campus offering holistic development via mainstream academics and specialised facilities suited to students with visual or multiple impairments. Its three-floor building houses a library, computer lab, music room and workshops for carpentry, pottery and textile work, including manual and machine weaving. These skills offer pathways to financial independence. A well-equipped gymnasium encourages mobility and confidence, helping students build physical strength that supports their day-to-day independence.

Director and Padma Shri awardee, Meher Banaji, emphasises the school’s core purpose: creating a nurturing atmosphere that allows visually challenged children to flourish. She recalled that the idea was considered bold a century ago, when blind children were largely restricted to weaving or basket-making. According to her, the founders believed these children deserved the same opportunities as all others, and the institution continues to uphold this belief by prioritising independence, dignity and equal participation.

Among the inspiring stories from the institution is that of music instructor Hiren Dave. A student of the school since 1985, he completed Class 10 in 2003, then pursued advanced training in Indian classical music, earning a Sangeet Visharad. Returning in 2010 to teach, he credits Happy Home for nurturing his talent, reflecting the enduring bond shared by many alumni who continue to mentor and support the school.

The school charges no compulsory fees and is supported by philanthropy. Students perform at prominent city venues during festivals, while exhibitions of their handcrafted work raise funds and build confidence. All students appear for the Maharashtra State Board Class 10 exam, enabling them to pursue further education or vocational paths.

The centenary celebrations brought together a proud and emotional community, as alumni revisited familiar corridors and classrooms, reconnected with teachers and celebrated their journeys. Outstanding achievers were felicitated, shining a light on the school’s success in building empowered, confident adults.

From its humble beginnings with five boys in a borrowed space, the Happy Home & School for the Blind has grown into a sanctuary of hope for 200 boys and girls who cross all barriers of discrimination to forge their paths. As the institution enters its second century, it continues to reinforce a powerful message: vision is not defined by sight, and every child, given the right support, can shape a future filled with dignity and purpose.

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