Established in 1847 the Bombay Scottish School in Mahim Mumbai boasts a rich history. Initially founded as the Scottish Female Orphanage it educated the daughters of Scottish Presbyterian soldiers and Indian navy seamen. This humble beginning quickly expanded. A boys’ orphanage was established in 1857. The two institutions merged in 1859 becoming The Bombay Presbyterian Male and Female Orphanage. The name changed again in 1863 to the Bombay Scottish Orphanage.
The school’s growth was phenomenal. By 1878 a new boarding school was built in Mahim. It was a magnificent structure designed by D E Gostling and J Morris. Sir Richard Temple opened it. The orphanage’s children moved from Byculla to their new home. The school relied heavily on public donations for funding.
The Bombay Scottish School’s evolution continues. When the orphanage closed its 11th and 12th grades were discontinued. The school’s name was changed to The Bombay Scottish School. In 1935 student numbers reached 100. Initially catering only to Scottish children it later opened its doors to English and European children. Today it welcomes children from all communities. The Bombay Scottish School Powai opened in 1997 as a sister institution.
The Bombay Scottish School’s legacy lives on. Its motto Perseverantia et fide in Deo meaning Perseverance and faith in God embodies its spirit. The school’s shield displays the Cross of St Andrew patron saint of Scotland. Each of the four house colors blue green red and yellow is represented on the shield. Its cultural impact is profound. Christmas concerts inter-house competitions and sports meets are integral parts of school life.
The school has produced numerous notable alumni. Among them are actors such as Abhishek Bachchan Aamir Khan Aditya Chopra and Uday Chopra. Filmmakers Aditya Bhattacharya and Dharmesh Darshan are also alumni. Renowned poet art critic cultural theorist and independent curator Ranjit Hoskote attended. Cricketer Rohan Gavaskar also calls the Bombay Scottish School his alma mater. This illustrious list underscores the school’s enduring contribution to Indian society. The Bombay Scottish School’s story is one of persistence faith and the transformative power of education. It’s a remarkable journey that began as a small orphanage and grew into a leading educational institution.