The Founder's Desk
I still remember the cold and wet day thirty years ago when I came to Panchgani to admit my
son to a boarding school. I never knew it was the beginning of a new life for me. I was so
enchanted by the beauty and serenity of this place that I decided to stay here. Soon, I knew
this was an ideal place to run a hostel. There were many students who could not adjust to the
system of boarding school and needed personal care and a homely atmosphere. That was the
birth of Sweet Memories Hostel – in 1986, with just three students. Within years, the strength
grew to 56, which was the limit.
What made Sweet Memories unique was the personal attention I could give to each student.
With a well-balanced timetable of study hours and games, under constant supervision in a
disciplined atmosphere, the children showed incredible improvement from failure in Gujarati
medium to first-class and distinction in English medium. Some of our inmates were as young
as two-year-olds. Family compulsions had forced parents to leave them under my care. Now, I
find it difficult to hide my misty eyes when they come to meet me – all grown up, tall, and
handsome young men!
Soon, we found it difficult to get the desired results when the children were sent to different
schools with different socio-cultural backgrounds. Thus, Sweet Memories School was born on
17th June 1996. Now, there was the same ambience in the hostel and school – an ambience my
students were familiar with, which made them feel at home and helped them develop their
hidden qualities. One major milestone was the purchase of the property for the school and
hostel buildings. Now, we can provide ample space and convenience to the students without
any constraints.
For all the progress and achievements, I should thank one great soul, the most inspiring person in my life – my father, Mr. Murjibhai Nandu, who was always by my side, right from the beginning, with guidance and support. Similarly, I can’t forget the driving force of all our trustees in our achievements. The greatest strength in my life has always been my two precious children, Dhawal and Ami, who had to sacrifice the joys of their childhood to build up this institution with me. They were always with me, providing physical and moral support, doing innumerable dreary tasks, foregoing their leisure and holidays. By God’s blessings, both of them are prosperous, happy, and well-settled in their lives..
Spiritual development of a person is an essential factor for accomplishing the targets of life. I
am very much blessed by being the disciple of Shri Sai Kaka Guruji, who is like an
enlightening lamp in my life. His yearly Satsang Shibhir is a refreshing spiritual experience
for all of us. I always feel his presence near me as a solace and encouragement. I am very lucky to have a staff with devotion and sincerity, without whom it was impossible to attain this
growth and result. We in Sweet Memories are members of one family, with a lot of love and affection for each other and I hope this institution continues to flourish with the blessings of my Guruji and Goddess Saraswati.
