Our Legacy
“The best form of charity is to provide not subsistence but the means of obtaining subsistence.”
This guiding philosophy is the foundation on which the J. N. Petit legacy stands.
The history of the Petit family is deeply intertwined with the history of philanthropy in Bombay and Pune. The establishment of this institution is owed entirely to their remarkable vision, generosity and commitment to building opportunities for others.
How It Began
In 1785, Nusserwanji Cawasji moved from Surat to Bombay, beginning his career as a shipping agent and dubash. His business foresight led to extraordinary success in trade with France, earning him the affectionate title “Le Petit Parsi” — the small Parsi.
His son, Maneckji, took charge of the family business at just 17 after the sudden passing of his father. His rise was swift and impactful; he soon owned his own ship for trade between India and China.
Maneckji had two sons — Sir Dinshaw Petit, who was knighted in 1887 as the first Baronet, and Nusserwanji Petit.
The Birth of the Institution
The origin of the school lies in a profound act of love. Nusserwanji’s son, Jamshedji, passed away at the young age of 32. It was his dream to build an institution for destitute Parsi boys. Determined to honour this dream, Nusserwanji and his wife Dinbai established the J. N. Petit Parsee Orphanage at Lalbaug, Bombay.
On 19th October 1888, the doors of the institution opened for the first time, marking the beginning of a movement rooted in compassion and community service.
The first Principal, Mr. Navroji Cooper, B.A., served for an extraordinary 24 years. The Managing Committee comprised some of the era’s most respected Parsi leaders — baronets, doctors, engineers, lawyers, educationalists and businessmen.
A Unique Educational Approach
To fulfil the founder’s vision, the Committee adopted a curriculum that combined academics with practical skills. Training was offered in shorthand, typewriting, bookkeeping, carpentry, printing, tailoring, shoemaking, cabinet-making, cane-weaving, cooking and more — making the institution far ahead of its time in holistic education.
The entire Petit family contributed generously, turning the initiative into a powerful movement of love, compassion and responsibility.
After Nusserwanji’s passing in 1891, his brother, Sir Dinshaw Petit, and his descendants continued leading the institution with dedication.
Moving to Pune
In 1948, the school shifted to its permanent campus in Pune. Until 1962, it remained an orphanage exclusively for Parsi boys. Recognising the vast potential of its facilities, the School opened its doors to boys of all communities as day-scholars since 1962, expanding its reach and enriching its cultural fabric.
Our Motto
“CONSEQUITOR-QUOD-CUNQUE-PETIT”
He obtains whatever he seeks.
This motto, taken from the Petit family crest, continues to guide us as we help every child discover their potential, pursue excellence and shape their future with purpose.
