Mumbai: D Y Patil International School, Worli transformed its grounds into a center for environmental advocacy by organizing the #NowForClimate Tree Plantation Drive. Led by Dr. Ajeenkya D Y Patil and Ish Patil, in collaboration with the Bhamla Foundation, the initiative served as the cornerstone of the school’s World Environment Day 2026 campaign. Stepping outside the traditional classroom setting, students worked alongside faculty members and distinguished guests to take part in hands-on conservation work.
Dr. Ajeenkya D Y Patil, Chairman of the Ajeenkya D Y Patil Group, was present at the drive, highlighting the institution’s dedication to a holistic educational model that pairs academic rigor with character development. The project exemplifies a wider teaching philosophy aimed at motivating students to address social and ecological issues through practical, meaningful action.
Ish Patil was instrumental in the day’s proceedings, bringing a contemporary and progressive perspective to the D Y Patil educational framework. Her participation highlighted the importance of developing school programs that tackle urgent topics for the next generation, including climate consciousness, social duty, and active community engagement.
The occasion also saw the return of DYPIS, Worli alumna Saher Bhamla, who visited her alma mater to champion the environmental work of the Bhamla Foundation. Her attendance bridged the school’s history with its present-day goals, bringing together past graduates and current students in a shared commitment to protecting the planet.
Actor and wellness advocate Shilpa Shetty was among the prominent figures who lent their support to the cause. The gathering attracted a wide array of guests from the worlds of media, entertainment, wellness, and public service, such as Faye D'Souza, Yasmin Karachiwala, Kanika Kapoor, Neeti Mohan, Pankaja Munde, Jaykumar Rawal, Lakshmi Manchu, Chhaya Momaya and Humaira Kaazi.
For DYPIS, Worli, this tree planting initiative illustrates how schools can utilize campus events to expose students to essential social causes. In a metropolis like Mumbai, where challenges such as increasing temperatures, air quality issues, and the loss of green cover are significant, the program provided students with a practical, experiential lesson on the value of environmental stewardship.
The day included sapling planting, chances for students to interact with guests, and a variety of activities focused on the #NowForClimate campaign. Ultimately, the event highlighted the vital role that schools play in developing students who are not just academically capable, but also keenly aware of the civic and environmental obstacles the world faces today.
Guided by the leadership of Dr. Ajeenkya D Y Patil and Ish Patil, the event showcased DYPIS, Worli’s commitment to building student awareness through direct and active involvement. The presence of Saher Bhamla served as a strong reminder that the values taught during school years endure well beyond graduation, as demonstrated by the continued contributions of alumni to the wider community.