Testimonials

We are so glad to be a part of Priyadarshini Family! From Day 1 of the lockdown period, this school has given us the best possible from their end. Priyadarshini Montessori has always had a uniqueness in teaching methodology. They have always told us how important the Montessori period for kids is, as they are in their formative phase and are rapid learners. They have stood strong on their principles and kept the learning process on amidst the COVID-19 situation. The institute has taken a lot of efforts to make sure our kid enjoys learning just like in Montessori. They have never encouraged online/screen time for kids. The teachers are absolutely fantastic and they keep guiding us, curating activities on a daily basis, correcting any mistakes in teaching methodology.

Priyadarshini Montessori has been running successfully since 25+ years now under the guidance of Swaroop Devaiah ma’am, so of course, it’s not a surprise that they have mastered the skills of teaching these young kids. But what surprises me is the efforts they have taken during this period of time, while many institutes promote online teaching, also extract extra payment on the same, Priyadarshini Montessori has provided us with what we need to homeschool our kids! I am forever grateful to this school. There are always people who point and laugh at the fact of sending kids so young to playgroup, or engage him/her in homeschooling. I too may not have believed in this system, but I now know how important it is to engage kids in learning activities as much as possible. Once again, my heartfelt gratitude to Swaroop ma’am and all the teaching staff of Priyadarshini Montessori!

Sudeeksha Kiran Suvarna, Parent of Naksh Suvarna (2020)

When I was searching for a Montessori School for my son, Priyadarshini came as a great recommendation. All my friends said PMHOC offers the best foundation for early education. I must say, that is completely true! Swaroop ma’am and her team of teachers do a wonderful job in moulding the young minds. The one to one attention given by teachers is simply amazing.

My husband was very keen that our son should learn to read at an early age and we are so happy that our son is capable of reading books on his own now. This school helps in developing reading skills even before writing. My son completed his Montessori in 2019 and joined mainstream school but he still misses Priyadarshini, Swaroop ma’am and his teachers.

Andrea Pinto, Parent of Damien Pinto (2016)

Both my kids studied at Priyadarshini and they still recall the happy moments spent here. They never felt that it’s a school. It is just home away from home. The location of the place is very peaceful and beautiful with greenery around and a beautiful garden inside the school. The classrooms are very bright and spread out. The teachers and the helpers are all very warm, welcoming and caring, which is very important at this tender stage for the kids as that’s the first time they are getting out of their comfort zone.

They make each child feel special! The materials and the concepts used while teaching helps the child in different stages of their lives. This place gives you a strong foundation in every aspect of life and it is not just limited to their formative years. Although my kids are 12 and 8 now, they still recall concepts and apply them even now. My younger kid who was a late beginner was gathering all the concepts during Montessori days that have been getting applied now in school!! This is not just the best place for the child but also for young anxious parents as well. Once you send your child here, you can rest assured that you’ve done the right thing!

Nidhi Adyanthayya, Parent of Laxmi Sorake (2010) and Shiv Sorake (2014)

Great school, the best headmistress and wonderful teachers—that’s what comes to my mind when I think of Priyadarshini. I personally recommend this school to everyone I know. My elder daughter is doing so well, credit goes to Priyadarshini which was the base. I did not think twice when I put my younger one there. Priyadarshini teaches the child to think and to be independent. My shy daughter who did not talk is now the MC of most of the programs in school and wins the elocution competitions. Thank you Swaroop and the Priyadarshini team.

Pamela Dsouza, Parent of Sasha Dsouza (2003) and Esther Dsouza (2012)

I am delighted to understand that Priyadarshini Montessori House of Children has completed 25 years of praiseworthy contribution towards children’s education. Two of my grandchildren had the privilege of having pre-school education at Priyadarshini Montessori House of Children and they have developed an excellent aptitude to excel in the field of learning.

I wish Mrs Swaroop all the best in her endeavours and I am sure she will train thousands of children to have their pre-school education. I wish the management of Priyadarshini Montessori House of Children all the best!

N. Vinaya Hegde — Chancellor, NITTE University
Grandparent of Viren Hegde (2005) and Vaishnavi Hegde (2011)

No words can express the gratitude we owe to Ms. Swaroop and Priyadarshini Montessori. The way the school nurtured both my kids – who are extremely different from each other in their nature and calibre – to each of their potential, is proof of the safe hands that they are in once they are at Priyadarshini. Wishing the school many more years of success! Good luck in continuing to make a difference in our kids’ lives!

Faiza Anjum, Parent of Raedh Fazli (2010)

The happiest and the most spunky kids in Mangalore are the ones that have begun their schooling at Priyadarshini. Both my daughters did their Montessori schooling there and even though they are 16 years and 14 years old now, they still think of the wonderful time they spent there and miss it immensely. They used to look forward to going to school every single morning. Classes were lively, playful and full of fun. The teaching staff and the helpers are extremely affectionate. Swaroop is not only an excellent teacher, but she is also a person who inculcates deep values in children that last a lifetime. Deeply knowledgeable about a child’s psyche, she handles each child differently and according to its need.

The children who begin their schooling at Priyadarshini always stand out in a crowd, thanks to the confidence they exhibit. They are self-assured, respectful, independent and excel in academics because of the strong basic foundation they receive here. I feel extremely fortunate that I had the privilege and the opportunity to send my children to Priyadarshini. My children have turned out to be wonderful young ladies and a lot of the credit goes to the time they spent at Priyadarshini. I would strongly recommend Priyadarshini Montessori to every parent who desires nothing but the best for their children.

Anita Nayak, Parent of Ansha Nayak (2007) and Deshna Nayak (2008)

This for me was more of a home than school, a place where I built the foundation to who I am today. Playing in the sand pit and climbing the guava tree are some memories that I cherish. In my recent visit to PMHOC, I realized that my articulation of speech and thought started from here. It’s here that I discovered that there is much more to explore and learn in this world, rather than just getting into the rat race. I attribute my decision-making skills to this wonderful unconventional home of learning. I am yet to come across a teacher like Swaroop ma’am and not to forget her dedicated team – I remain indebted to them.

Supreeth (2004)

We are happy to inform you that my son, Prakhyaath D Ullal, student of Priyadarshini during 2003-2005, scored 98.4% in ICSE- X (2016) exams and stood 2nd in Karnataka State! It was the Scientific Method adopted by your institution which enabled him to achieve this. I am certain that all your students would and will have benefited from your method of teaching and achieve greater heights in days to come. We especially thank ma’am Swaroop Devaiah, as well as all the teachers and staff members for the support showered on all the students. Thank you all at Priyadarshini once again!

Devraj R Ullal, Parent of Prakhyaath D Ullal (2003)

A great place to learn! Wonderful staff. It’s so nice to see the growth of this wonderful institution. Priyadarshini Montessori house of children has taught me 3 fundamental values — be honest, be humble and never forget those who have helped you throughout your life. Even till date I love to go and visit this place. Here the environment is like a family and I have had the privilege of studying in this great institution. Parents, are you interested to put your child here? Go for it. But there is one fundamental rule. As much interest the institution takes to shape your child, you too must take interest in training your child.

Gavin Abner Pinto (2003)

Priyadarshini Montessori House of Children is indeed the best institution! It’s a place that has taught me not only to succeed in academics but also be a better person. Priyadarshini has got the best staff who keep the children entertained and at the same time, see to it that at the end of the day they carry back home amazing memories as well as the lessons taught. Being a student of Priyadarshini, I never recall a day of tears or sad memories. It has taught me to be independent, humble, respectful and above all, a good human being. I request every parent to admit their children to this wonderful institution so that they get a chance to witness their saplings grow into a beautiful plant and shine throughout!

Allison Fernandes (2003)

I joined as a kindergarten student here nearly 17 to 18 years ago, and I have to say that the techniques used to stimulate minds of young kids do pay well in the long run. I have some beautiful memories of being at Priyadarshini, and I often wonder if it was right out of a dream. Lots of love to Swaroop ma’am, for being the positive energetic impulse in the formative years of so many children.

Ananya Muguli (2002)

Some of my fondest childhood memories would definitely have to be of Priyadarshini. Looking back, I know for a fact that Priyadarshini has played an integral role in shaping me into becoming the person I am today. It wasn’t just a Montessori, it was my second home!

Reha Ashraf (1999)

I was privileged to be a part of the first Montessori batch at Priyadarshini and I have the most vivid and precious memories of the years. Truly formative and extremely crucial in shaping the path of my personality and education. Swaroop aunty will always be an extremely important factor in my life and I am so grateful for having the opportunity to be moulded by her!

Aisha Zeba (1994)

Priyadarshini school is definitely a jewel in the crown of education in Mangalore. It’s delightful to meet, interact and teach the students who have passed out from under Swaroop ‘s grooming and guidance. The entire credit goes to Swaroop and your awesome teachers. Keep shining always and be the beacon of light that we know you to be.

Nidhi Agarwal, Teacher, Cambridge School

The school is an important milestone for our city. As far as I know, the concept of Montessori was pioneered and popularised by Mrs Swaroop Deviah in Mangalore. Many of my patients have informed me that children get one-to-one attention from a highly qualified and professional teacher and mentor. From what I know, Mrs Deviah has resisted the temptation to expand the school into a large commercial enterprise and this may partly explain the reputation for a genuine child-friendly atmosphere. I believe our country needs such institutions to shape the minds of our future citizens. I wish the school and it’s promoters many more years of success!

Dr Manjunath Kamath Ammembal

Both my kids are studying in Priyadarshini school. This school definitely lays a good foundation in the crucial early years of a child’s life not only in academics but also in other life skills. The kids enjoy learning and it never seems like a burden. The concept of phonics is taught in a systematic and clear way which helps the kids to read and learn English in an easy and better way. The way the child starts holding the pencil and writing looks very effortless because of the efforts put in by the teachers to help the child develop a good grasp. The teachers are very friendly , cooperative and give the kids personal attention and love, which the kids enjoy and hence they look forward to going to school everyday. I would highly recommend this school to each and every parent who wants an overall development of their child with memorable and cherishable preschool years .

Dr Sinchana Bhat, Parent of Adwika and Nivaan (2020)

As a doting parent, it was but natural for me to worry as to which school would be the best for my child, but after seeing my daughter transform in the few years she spent at PMHOC, I am convinced that this was the best decision I had made!

Over the years, the students are made to use implements which are fun to use but are essentially designed with the objective of development of abilities complementary to effective writing and learning. The academic pedagogy ranges from using the right tools (For example, to build a pincer grip) all the way up to enunciating words the right way to build the right diction. In addition to academics, there is a wide range of experiential learning – science experiments, show & tell, outbound visits — to name a few.

All in all, PMHOC is not “just another” school. This is a place where an effective all-round development of a child can be visibly seen. This development is not miraculous or overnight, it is with sheer patience and commitment by way of a high order of involvement in the child’s progress, both academic and non-academic. This high level of involvement undertaken by the team of capable faculty led by Swaroop Ma’am is simply admirable.

Mithun Bhat Kakunje, Parent of Tanisha Bhat Kakunje (2016)

Totally recommend this institution! My son had no problem with adapting to the international curriculum that was required for his admission in Qatar when we moved from Mangalore because Priyadarshini Montessori had a syllabus already in place that was up to date with the latest advancements in the methods employed to teach toddlers. The school also instils values like tolerance, respect and compassion. I would recommend this school for all parents who believe they want their kids to strive for excellence. It’s a stepping stone to discipline ourselves as parents too.

Sudipta Sorake, Parent of Rajveer (2014)

Having sent both my children to Priyadarshini, I must honestly declare the place as special — divine, even! There is no other school I know of that brings out the best in children with such competence, proficiency, know-how, and effectiveness without showing authority or throwing the book at you. And they do it by making the child self-reliant, by being able to draw upon its own cognitive and motor skills to learn and to progress. Also, I don’t know if it’s just me who has noticed but everything is so effortlessly homely and yet so clockwork. I genuinely feel Swaroop should be at the UN in charge of world peace!

Mahesh Kamath, Parent of Miarka Kamath (2011) and Neel Kamath (2014)

The best school that I have come across which catered to the all-round development of my child. A fun-filled place and a curriculum very meticulously curated by Swaroop. My son and daughter loved Priyadarshani! My son is 12 years old now and still fondly remembers this lovely school even today. The standard set by this school is difficult to meet by any other school. I only wish Swaroop could start a Primary School as well!

Maina Shet, Parent of Sanath S Shet (2011) Avanthika Shet (2013)

The love and affection that the management and teachers have towards children are amply shown in their approach to managing kids. The founder, Mrs Swaroop Devaiah, is a lady who is one among the few who walk the talk. She understands that every child has a different learning curve and does not bracket kids. She gives them their space to evolve and makes the curves that much easier to handle. The school has an excellent student-teacher ratio, where every child is given the necessary attention. Children are also guided to have a strong moral compass and stay ground on their convictions.

Leaving a three-year-old at school can be quite painful and worrying for a parent but Priyadarshini puts you at ease with its child-friendly and loving environment. Thank you for all that you are doing! I wish Mrs Swaroop Deviah and her team all the very best!

Varsha Shetty, Parent of Rishab Shetty (2012)

Priyadarshini – a name on every parent’s lips. I am no exception. Jay, my son, was admitted there, and we the parents had a stress-free Montessori. He loved the school, his teachers, his aunty Swaroop and the activities. He was far too overqualified for standard one and sailed through his first entrance exam. If he is doing well in school today, I should thank Team Priyadarshini.

Dhyan Coelho, Parent of Jay Adam Coelho (2010)

Here lies a little haven called Priyadarshini Montessori House of Children, amongst a chaos of other stereotypical pre-schools. What makes Priyadarshini stand out is the people that form the school who stand like huge pillars supporting a building.
This is a place where Montessori education is followed to the letter. The system encourages practical, experiential learning which moulds the child into an individual.
Children who have undergone this training are achieving great heights in their higher education, career and life. My son Abhinav and niece Gauthami are alumni of this great little school. They have enjoyed their three years here and now forging ahead in their chosen paths. The Priyadarshini School children come out as individuals who can communicate freely and think for themselves. We thank Madam Swaroop, the founder and Head of this place and all its teachers for the excellent education which they have given to the children. Congratulations on turning 25 this year. And wishing the institute a bright future!

Rohit S Rao, Parent of Abhinav R Rao (2008)

Mrs. Swaroop Devaiah’s ’Priyadarshini Montessori House’ always has a special place in our hearts, as it was the first home away from home for our daughter Priya, at the age of 2. Our first meeting with Mrs. Swaroop is still fresh in our minds. Her understanding nature, knowledge of child psychology, care, concern and discipline impressed us the most. All the teachers were well trained and affectionate! Even the car driver and the other support staff were very nice people. Our daughter was really lucky to have got an opportunity to study at Priyadarshini ! Thank you very much dear Swaroop Madam!

Preetha Arun Shetty – Parent of Priya Shetty (2008)

Priyadarshini Montessori House of Children brings back so many wonderful memories of those impressive years in my children’s lives. Both my boys walked into the premises with inquisitive minds, watched, listened, absorbed as the environment triggered all their senses and grew up as happy children who enjoyed the whole process of learning by doing. Today my boys are 22 & 19 years old and still recall their mentors at Priyadarshini with the same affection and I see the same sparkle in their eyes when they talk about those days when learning was fun!

Thank you, Mrs Swaroop, & your team for treating every child as a unique being. I congratulate you for your efforts in the last 25 years in making learning for children so effortless. No stars are enough to rate your achievements. So many of your Stars are twinkling in the various careers they have taken up. Taare zameen par!

Anjana Yash, Parent of Anmol Yash (2001) and Aman Yash (2004)

Priyadarshini is a place myself and many others hold very closely to our hearts. It is a place where fun and learning go hand in hand, which in practice is a very difficult thing to accomplish. The difference in their approach towards the growth of their students compared to other schools is evident when looking at the very accomplished individuals that have passed out from there.

Even though over a decade has passed since my batch passed out from here, we cherish every opportunity we get to drop by to meet everyone and see how the place has improved since the last time. With such amazing staff and attention to every student’s needs, it is no wonder Priyadarshini has been running for 25 years at the top level. There is no reason for any parent to think twice before getting their children admitted here.

Ashwin Nair (2003)

I still reminisce with nothing but the fondest, nostalgic pangs of my days spent at Priyadarshini (I’m now twenty-six years old). What set it apart? It was the paragon of advanced learning made absolutely and utterly fun — when you are a child is there anything better? The whole set up is quite ingenious actually! I remember having knowledge seep into my being almost effortlessly as it was made to mimic playtime.

Savannah Sequeira (1996)

I get nostalgic when my thoughts travel back to my Angel’s first school. On day one, those tiny feet marching to school with eyes bedewed not willing to leave the mother behind! There was magic that mesmerised her and it was the motherly touch of Swaoop who loved, embraced, cajoled like a mother that my child looked forward to being at Priyadarshini and thoroughly enjoyed every moment. They were one with nature at the same time were phonetically good hence it was play and learning which made a difference in every child’s life. Being the first batch everything around was organic and felt like home away from home. My child’s sojourn for 3 years at Priyadharshini was blissful. May the omnipotent be benevolent on Swaroop and Priyadarshini.

Kripa Alva, Parent of Aakrithi Alva (1994)

I am very proud to say that Priyadarshini is my alma mater and I will forever be grateful that I learnt my ABC’s from there. The school and the teachers and the iconic and ever fabulous Swaroop aunty have made the biggest impact in my life. I owe the ability to write this review to them. This year as we celebrate 25 years of being a montessori, I could not be more pleased and proud that I am one of Swaroop aunty’s brats! She is forever my favourite teacher!

Tia Rampuram (1999)

I have heard so much about this school, which is known for shaping young minds & making an impact on their tender thinking process. This school was set up when I was still in Mangalore and I hear it’s now considered to be one of the finest schools in town for tiny-tots. No guesses where the excellence comes from — the patient, kind, loving, beautiful, delightful & determined Mrs. Swaroop Devaiah — the visionary behind the school, has been led by her passion for children, and her strength as a teacher in creating innovative methods for these little ones.

If you live in Mangalore & have a tiny baby, there is only one place you must think of schooling him/her at – Priyadarshini Montessori House of Children!

Aroona B Bhat, TedX Speaker, Columnist, Entrepreneur

Swaroop is one the educators I have known who is passionate about making a difference to the children she interacts with. Priyadarshini Montessori is her passion and mission to accomplish this in every sense. Value of respect, independence and staying focused to achieve your goals is evident in the school culture, children and team members alike!

Padma Kannan, Educationist, USA