A Teachers’ Day Special on the Inspiring Journey of Fr. A. Christu Savarirajan, S.J., Principal, St. Michael’s High School, Patna,
As a mentor who moulds lives, develops character, and enlightens minds, a teacher is highly esteemed all across the globe and frequently given more respect than the supreme and divine. On this Teacher’s Day, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to Fr. A. Christu Savarirajan, S.J., the Principal of St. Michael’s High School in Patna, a leader who embodies the values of instruction, service, and leadership.
Roots in Nature’s Lap
Born in 1975 in the lush green village of Ottan Kaduvetti, Villupuram District, Tamil Nadu, India, Young Christu’s childhood was greatly influenced by rivers, mountains, butterflies, monsoon rains, and the simple joys of rural and rustic life.
He developed a strong bond with nature during his early years which he spent playing in the mud and fishing by the river. His values and faith initially took root in the simple early village schooling he received, followed by his formative years in a church-run institution.
Drawn to the Priesthood
The calming and serene demeanour of revered priests in white cassocks captivated Young Christu. He was deeply inspired by their radiance, kindness, and persistent devotion. By the time he was in middle school, Christu had already heard the quiet stirrings of his vocation — a resolute call to devote his life completely in the name of God and to the service of humanity.
What followed was an arduous yet grace-filled 17-year journey of Jesuit formation, where discipline became his strength, prayer his refuge, and service his mission. Through these years of moulding, forming, and discernment, he took to heart with conviction the sacred vows of poverty, obedience, and celibacy — an attestation to his selfless surrender and unwavering faith.
Academic and Professional Journey
Fr. Christu’s academic and professional journey is proof of both his intellectual brilliance and his unshakable commitment to education. Nurturing a deep love for science, he began with a B.Sc. in Physics from St. Joseph’s College, Tiruchirappalli (2000), and went on to earn his Master’s in Physics from Loyola College, Chennai (2005).
In his current capacity as the Principal of St. Michael’s High School, Patna, he is a glistening example of academic vision, Jesuit values, and transformative leadership. His career reflects steady progress — from shaping young minds at St. Ignatius High School, Aurangabad, to heading institutions in various leadership roles at St. Thomas High School, Ratanpurva, Bagaha, and St. Xavier’s High School, Patna. He is currently pursuing a Doctorate from Don Bosco University, Guwahati, continuing to push the boundaries of knowledge.
Embracing Bihar with Heart
When Fr. Christu was assigned to the Patna Province, Bihar, his family was concerned about the distance and unfamiliar culture. However, he encountered warmth and love from people, the vibrancy of traditions, and the richness of diversity instead of loneliness.
He joyfully and openly learnt Hindi and regional languages while immersing himself in the lively energy of markets and the laughter that filled the schoolyards. Eventually, Bihar evolved from being a workplace to an inseparable part of him, and he now proudly calls it his second home.
St. Michael’s High School – A Glorious Legacy
Established in 1858 and entrusted to the Patna Jesuit Society in 1968, St. Michael’s High School has long stood as an epitome of quality education. Under the dynamic leadership of Fr. A. Christu Savarirajan, S.J., the institution has grown into a vibrant blend of tradition and innovation — introducing smart classrooms and digital learning, nurturing talent through sports and extracurricular activities, preparing students for a global future, and extending inclusive support to the underprivileged.
His vision has borne remarkable fruit:
Consistently outstanding CBSE Board results
Student achievements at national and international platforms
Establishment of modern laboratories and a resource-rich library
A world-class sports complex Scholarship and student aid programs ensuring that every deserving child finds opportunity and hope within the hallowed portals of St. Michael’s.
Beyond the Principal’s Desk
An artist by heart, a musician by passion, and a true sports enthusiast, FrChristu embodies the belief that education must nurture creativity as much as intellect. His paintings, often inspired by the beauty of nature, reflect his vision of harmony and balance — the very values he seeks to cultivate in the young minds under his care.
Guiding Philosophy
“A teacher’s role is not confined to exams and grades. It is about igniting confidence, leadership, and compassion — preparing students not just for careers, but for life.”
— Fr. A. Christu Savarirajan, S.J.
A Teacher’s Day Inspiration
As India celebrates Teachers’ Day on September 5 in honour of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, Fr. Christu’s life and work shine as an embodiment of the transformative power of education. His journey affirms that when guided by faith, vision, and compassion, education becomes more than the sharing of knowledge — it becomes the lighting of countless lamps of literacy, wisdom, and hope.
Echoing Tagore’s dream of a world “where the mind is without fear and the head is held high,” Fr. Christu dedicates himself each day to nurturing fearless, compassionate, and empowered young people.
On this Teacher’s Day, he stands tall not merely as the Principal of St. Michael’s High School, Patna, but as a true architect of the future carrying forward a noble legacy of knowledge, values, and service to God.
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