Mrs. Mary Pullambra, affectionately known as ‘Aunty’ at St. Joseph’s School in Khanusa, is a beacon of leadership, values, and principles. Born into a farmer’s family as the sixth child, Mary developed a profound bond with nature early on. This connection, coupled with her appreciation for modern farming techniques, allowed her to understand the harmonious relationship between nature and technology. These lessons profoundly impacted her and later guided her approach to education, inspiring thousands of young minds.

As a young girl, Mary was exposed to the principles of sustainability and stewardship, which became the cornerstone of her teachings. Her journey into education was solidified by her marriage to Mr. Peter Pullambra. Their union led them from Mt. Abu to Khanusa in Vijapur, where they laid the foundation of their lifelong dream, St. Joseph’s School. This institution quickly became a beacon of progressive and international education, celebrating an impressive 100% pass rate with its first batch of SSCE students. This achievement was a testament to Mary’s commitment to nurturing young minds and fostering a learning environment that prioritized both academic excellence and personal growth.

Mary’s role at St. Joseph’s extended far beyond her official duties as a teacher and head of the school. She became a nurturing presence and a mother figure to her students, who affectionately called her ‘Aunty.’ Mary’s warmth, mentorship, and care were felt in every corner of the school. In the boarding quarters, she was the go-to person for sick children, offering comfort, medical care, and specially prepared meals. Even in cases of contagious diseases, she was always there, ensuring that no child felt neglected or isolated. Her involvement wasn’t limited to health care; Mary played an integral role in the school’s various projects, including solar heating, rainwater harvesting, and the biogas plant. She was omnipresent in classrooms and beyond, consistently contributing to the holistic development of the school environment.

Alumni fondly recall her as a nurturing figure who made St. Joseph’s a home away from home. One alumnus beautifully summed up her impact, saying, “No matter how far we may have gone to spread our wings, home will always be St. Joseph’s School, and Aunty will always be a mother to us.” Students from decades past remember her unconditional love and support in all aspects of their lives, from academics to emotional well-being and moral growth. She ensured that the school felt like a family, where students’ needs and concerns were always addressed with care and affection.

Mary’s concern extended to the welfare of the staff and their families, making her a mother figure to both students and staff alike. Her values of duty and welfare permeated the entire school community, creating a nurturing and supportive environment. Together with her husband, Mary shared a vision of an educational institution that transcended the conventional boundaries of the classroom. At St. Joseph’s, values were nurtured, children grew close to nature, and essential life skills were imparted. Aunty, as she is fondly known, was the epicenter of this journey of excellence.

A fierce leader and gentle soul, Mary Pullambra continues to be the heart and soul of St. Joseph’s School, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of all who have passed through its doors. Her legacy of love, leadership, and learning will continue to inspire future generations, ensuring that St. Joseph’s remains a bastion of education and personal growth.

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