Bai Virbaijee Supariwala is one of the most famous, competitive, and high-caliber schools. While going to 'peela school' in Karachi, it was one of my wishlists. Following is an interesting write-up on its foundation and founder.
SHAPURJI SOPARIVALA PARSI SUFI 1890
(In the telling of this tale I take no help from Google but write it as I heard it from his own kin).
One night I met Dinoo, his granddaughter who also served as Principal, at a party. After dinner, we sat in a quiet corner jand the topic of her grandfather came up. This is her tale as she told it:
Coming from a middle-class family, in his lifestyle, he showed no Mystic tendencies. One morning he went to work and never came back. Search availed nothing.
After a few years, they reconciled to his loss and moved on. Twelve years passed, and one morning there he was in a mendicants robe, with a long staff, at the door, seeking permission to enter.
He was robust, even vibrant, at 60. He spoke little and ate less. He never spoke of his absence. Presently he began speaking of “doing lasting good”, which when spelled out, became, “I will build a school for boys”.
One day he sought an interview with the British Viceroy, got it, went in his robe and slippers, and returned with a Grant of the land on which the school stands.
By the same token contributions came in and the foundation was dug. The rest is history, except he asked the school be named after his wife, Virbaijee. Hence the name Bai Virbaijee Sopariwala Parsi High School, or BVS Parsi High School, is open to all communities.
I have left out details given by a granddaughter as these are sacred.
The School stands firm, sturdy, now about 125 years old. Protect it, it is your heritage.
(Homi Jehahngirji Kaikobad)
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