History of the School

Bai Ruttonbai F. D. Panday Girls’ High School stands as a lasting tribute to vision, compassion, and the pioneering spirit of women’s education in India.

On 5th November 1885, Sir Dinshaw Petit suffered the profound loss of his beloved daughter Ruttonbai Framji Panday, who passed away at the young age of 31 while giving birth to her fourth child, Meherbai. Meherbai later became the mother of two eminent personalities — Dr. Homi Jehangir Bhabha and Jamshed Bhabha.

To honour her memory and further the cause of girls’ education, Sir Dinshaw Petit laid the foundation stone of Bai Ruttonbai Panday Girls’ High School on 15th June 1893. The school building was formally declared open on 5th June 1898.

Early Vision and Establishment

During the late 19th century, education for girls—especially within the Parsi community— faced strong resistance. Nearly 90% of parents opposed sending their daughters to school.

Determined to change this mindset, Sir Dinshaw Petit envisioned a school within walking distance in Tardeo. On 7th November 1885, he set aside ₹22,100 to establish the school, forming the Garib Zarthostiona Rehethan Fund.

Infrastructure and Growth

The school was constructed at Gilder Lane, Marzban Colony, at a total cost of ₹21,754. In the same year, the Nibhav Fund was initiated with contributions totaling ₹34,600.

Educational Philosophy

• English and Gujarati languages
• Needlecraft, music, cookery, and laundry
• Arithmetic, art, and physical education
• Indoor games and Avesta prayers

Expansion and Milestones

• 1901: Additional classrooms constructed on the first floor
• 1928: Hirabai Petit Hall inaugurated
• 1966: Annexe building added for growing students
• 1975: School became cosmopolitan

Legacy and Pride

Dr. Homi Bhabha fondly referred to the institution as “my grandmother’s school.” Since 1898, the school has continued nurturing generations of confident and accomplished young women.