Simple Pleasures

The turnout was incredibly heavy today. Almost all the members showed up this morning. Whether this had anything to do with the launch of the Lonavala Slideshow (alongside) yesterday is hard to say. But surely, when Shekhawat-ji announced that Kishor-bhai would be making a presentation of the snaps on his laptop tomorrow morning, the excitement of all present was palpable.
It is these simple pleasures of life most of us take for granted that often bring the biggest joy. The Internet, digital photography, uploading, blogging, surfing, etc. have become part of our everyday existence like the air we breathe. But for many members – especially for elderly ladies who do not have direct access to a computer at home – the chance of seeing themselves on a monitor screen presents a different kind of thrill altogether. Khatoon Baig’s outburst (in English!), “Thank you so much” was indicative of how eagerly she is looking forward to tomorrow’s slideshow.
Even otherwise, the joy of watching the pictures together in a group is not the same as seeing them all alone. This would be like reliving the Lonavala experience once again. Oddly enough, many members still cannot believe that the pics/slideshow can also be viewed independently at home. For them, this is like a film show, or at best, a TV programme (as one gentleman put it) which can be viewed only on Kishor-bhai’s laptop. When told that anybody, anywhere in the world can log in and watch the “programme” any time, 24 hours a day, they felt this was some kind of joke!
Well, to open their eyes to the magic of the Internet, is by itself, an exciting prospect. There was some talk of celebrating the occasion with phapra-jalebi tomorrow morning. The idea hasn't been totally dismissed. Nor has it been unanimously accepted. Watch this space.

Renu Babani says:
Yes, tomorrow looks like it is time to show everyone the slide show. Those who didn't attend the picnic will realise how much fun we had. The rest who attended, will recall the good times. Yes, we enjoy being together, especially after the exercise sessions are over and everyone talks amongst themselves before heading home. These are the fun times!
--Renu

“All Humbug!”

Our members are not all Ho-Ho and hot air. They are serious citizens with strong views on politics and issues of national concern. This became evident as many regulars like Yusuf Rassiwala, Geeta Sandana, Kishor-Renu and Dilip Babani did not show up this morning. Even Hari Singh Shekhawat and Monthi Serrao came in late.
“Everybody seems to be in a holiday mood,” observed Tara Chand. “All schools and colleges are closed for two days because of the Ayodhya verdict tomorrow.”
“Do you think anything will come of it?” asked Motwani.
“The verdict will go in their favour,” butted in Rane.
“Who cares,” commented Pratap Bhatt. “Either way, nobody is bothered if there ever was a temple or a masjid at that Ayodhya site. The issue has lost its relevance today – just that some mischief-makers want to draw political mileage out of it.”
The conversation veered around present-day youngsters who are least bothered over what the dispute is all about. Many young adults, born around the time the disputed structure was pulled down in 1992, do not even know in which state Ayodhya is, let alone take sides on the issue, according to news reports yesterday. "And they are India's future," opined Bhatt.
“But we can expect trouble tomorrow,” insisted Motwani, grimly. “No matter which way the verdict goes, the trouble makers will have a field day.”
“It’s all humbug!” declared Srichand Arora (left), abruptly putting an end to the conversation. "Kuchh hona-wona nahin hai...", he added and walked away with his music system.

Renu Babani says:
Let us not get embroiled into this political turmoil. Yes, it is good to be updated, but honestly, does it make a difference what we think? Whatever the outcome, it will happen. No one can change the situation. It is best to have a positive attitude and assure ourselves that nothing bad will happen. In the end, we are all humans, and as Mumbaikers, we always come out stronger.
The slide show of the Lonavala Picnic looks great. Anyone seeing it will not believe that anyone is timid or shy!
--Renu

Picnic Hangover

It has been more than 36 hours since we returned from Lonavala, but the aftertaste of that trip is yet to leave many of us. The buzz this morning was all about who did what and when and how and where... the ones who couldn’t go being naturally curious. As a result, many incidents tend to get blown out of proportion, the narrator being understandably keen to make everybody else feel deprived. Such is human nature.
Nevertheless, the general consensus is that we couldn’t have asked for a more enjoyable or better organized excursion and that Lonavala shall stand out in our collective memory as the benchmark for all future picnics. Now, who should take the credit for this is open to question. Of course, Shekhawat-ji took the initiative by tossing the idea at us, organizing the bus and stay, collecting cash, drawing up the itinerary, etc. He is one person we could lean on right through the trip and sure enough, he pulled it off in style, leaving no room for anybody to complain.
But then, if it were not for Kishor-bhai who came up with the information on our place of stay, would we have gone to Lonavala? In fact, at one stage, the idea was being abandoned when some people tried to play spoilsport. But Kishor, along with Shekhawat, revived the plans after making a few telephone calls. Yet, again, would they have gone this far, if it were not for Hari Nariyani to have ‘discovered’ this place for starters? He and Kishor had even done a recce of the place, a couple of weeks before we landed there. So mustn’t we be grateful to Hari-bhai as well?
You may put these thoughts in a pipe and smoke. Meanwhile, here’s congratulating Vasudev Bhatheja for turning nana. He distributed laddoos this morning to celebrate his daughter (who is based in London) giving birth to a girl child. Our good wishes go to the family.

Renu Babani says:
Yes, looks like the main topic for weeks to come will be the Lonavala Picnic. I don't think everyone thought they would have so much fun! We are back to our routine out here, but those good memories will always remain, etched in our minds forever. The joke of this morning came from Dilip. He said, "I have worn two different shoes!" No one would have noticed hadn't he mentioned it. We all had a good laugh ending the exercise on a high note!
--Renu

PICNIC AT LONAVALA

Lonavala was resplendent in its post-monsoon glory – the swirling mists lifting occasionally to reveal the lush greenery as it glistened in the intermittent drizzle with little rivulets snaking down the verdant hill slopes. The climate was simply divine, even as the temperature dropped sharply at night.
But that was not why we were there. After all, who hasn’t seen Bushi Dam or Tiger Point earlier? Who hasn’t stopped here en-route Pune to pick up Maganlal ckikkis and fudge? Many of us had also seen Rajmachhi Point and the other sights. So what’s left?
Well, where will you ever get to see Yusuf Rassiwala leading his wife to the dance floor and jiving like a carefree 20-year-old? Or Hari Singh Shekhawat and his wife striking a pose like coochy-kooing lovebirds? Where will you see Renu Babani breaking into a frenetic twist on that crazy Pritam Chakraborty number, ‘Let’s Twist’? Or a stern-looking Nahid Khan letting her hair down and cavorting with the rest? And Bhaswati Bose collapsing into an embarrassing heap while negotiating a chair? Or Dilip Babani galloping into the mist on a camel, his wife desperately clinging to him for dear life? Many of them would never do any of these things in the company of family members or even close friends.
This is what the Club picnic does to you. To be your unguarded self. There were also some sobering moments, such as the time an elderly paraplegic (a complete stranger) joined us with a soulful Hemant Kumar song, standing on his crutches. It was also big-time bonding time – whether it was with the usually reserved like Santosh Tyagi, Tara Chand Seth and Geeta Sandana, or at the other extreme, with the Babanis, Boses and Shekhawat chilling out over the stolen pleasures of drinking in Dilip-bhai’s room.
And then, who can forget Yusuf-bhai’s expression when he emerged triumphant in the Musical Chair round? Or how Kishor, Bhaswati and Shekhawat monopolized the Housie rounds. Arun Patil was livid at Rehana (right) for not being attentive enough when he already held a full house. Thereafter, it was a sight to behold as Rehana kept pleading with Yusuf-bhai in the next round for calling out the numbers she needed. “Kya taqleef hota hai 15 bolney se?” she demanded.
This lady is a natural wit. And she doesn’t even realize when she’s funny, be it with her one-liners, imitating a Dharmendra or Jeetendra jig, doing a Salman Khan from Dabangg or while singing 'Chaand chhupa badal mein' in a quaint anglicised accent during the Antakshari round. She was the most energetic and voluble among us, although she has been advised strictly against dancing because of her spinal injury. But who can stop Rehana Shaikh!?!
Anything could have gone wrong during the two-day trip. Nothing untoward happened. What’s more, money was refunded, thus bringing down the excursion cost to a mere Rs 830 per head. What mattered most though was the joy this picnic brought us, which no amount of money can ever buy. And finally, for the anti-climax: The chap who drove us all the way to Lonavala and back did not possess a driving license. Naturally, the cops stopped our bus – at Juhu Circle, a couple of kilometres away from home turf. But then, that was also part of all the fun and games!

Bhaswati Bose says:
Hey, I fell down while attempting to take my seat in the Musical Chair round and I was not embarrassed as I lasted till the final four. What a picnic! The most carefree and fun-filled time we ever had.
--Bhaswati

Renu Babani says:
Yes, most definitely, the interaction was so much fun and interesting. Great to see everyone just enjoying every minute of their time spent together. The feedback the following day was filled with non-stop praises from start to finish. It must have been the atmosphere for sure because everyone got on so well. It was amazing. The ladies were happy as they got a holiday from the kitchen, which is so rare, and they made the most of it for sure. A huge thank you to all the organisers who ensured that everything went smoothly. This goes to show one can have fun no matter where, as long as we are together and ensure that we look after one another as well. Mr Shekhawat is being asked in regards to the next trip but of course, not so soon.
--Renu

Lonavala Beckons

Eight helpless gentlemen led by 21 determined and able-bodied women, set out on a two-day excursion of Lonavala at 8:30 this morning. Sadly, Sitaram Hirvekar could not make it. And happily, Kajal Babani could. But still, the ratio worked out to roughly one man for every three women on the trip!
Predictably, the two-hour journey took four hours, with pit stops at Chembur (to collect bottles of aerated water) and Khopoli (for a much-needed tea break). Breakfast had come in boxes from Vyanjan, courtesy six ‘sponsors’ who do not wish to be named. Music in the bus was suitably upbeat with the Munni badnaam hui song from Dabangg played ad nauseum – mainly to get Hari Singh Shekhawat and Fehmida Khan into doing their little number in the running bus. Before long, parodies were being sung, simply to provoke the two to put up a repeat performance.
But as with all good things, the best was reserved for the end. The place we had booked turned out to be a modest, two-storeyed structure – unpretentious from the outside but surprisingly spick-'n'-span and hospitable inside. Maintained by Hargobind Trust, a Sindhi charitable organization, it houses 24 rooms, 15 of which were reserved for us. Every room is meant for twin-sharing – well-ventilated and spacious with a spotlessly clean toilet-bath attached, freshly washed bed linen, wardrobe, dressing table... the works comparable to any no-frills lodge anywhere in Europe or America. You’d have to try very hard to find a speck of dirt here. And if that’s not enough, you’d be served the most sumptuous vegetarian lunch and dinner imaginable, breakfast and evening snacks, wake-up tea in the morning... all coming from a super-hygeinic kitchen open to inspection. The daily package for food and lodging comes to Rs 300 per head! What more do you want?
Incidentally, should anybody be interested in visiting this place, do call the manager, Mr Kishan Shahani on 91-2114-271674. He is one helluva nice gentleman. The complete address is B/4 Valvan (behind Valvan Village Resort), Lonavala, Maharashtra – 410401 (India).
to be continued...

Renu Babani says:
Well, kudos to the men for coming to the picnic with so many women in tow! A challenge for sure to be able to handle all these strong, determined women, when handling one at home seems a task. Waiting to see the slide show and photos of the picnic. For those who didn't make it, you missed a wonderful opportunity of interacting at close quarters with everyone. We had a blast!
--Renu

Aerial Attack!

The principal of a school or college is always a soft target for unsavory remarks, playful taunts and behind-the-back comments from students. It is an occupational hazard. As de facto principal of our Club, Srichand Arora today realized the vulnerability of his position in the face of fierce onslaughts from a very unlikely quarter.
The mosquitoes of the Garden simply took his case. They buzzed above his head, swooped on the nape of his neck, stung him mercilessly on his exposed legs… There were others including Shekhawat and Bose who, like him, had also turned out in shorts. They were all spared. It was only Arora-sah’b the mosquitoes had targeted with a vengeance.
The very same Arora-sah’b had, a few days back, turned around Nana Patekar’s famous filmy comment into “Machchar aadmi ko nachata hai!” Clearly, the machchars had taken offence to this ‘insensitive’ statement from a senior and responsible member of the Club and were determined to make the man dance this morning. They succeeded in no small measure.
As a stickler for discipline and orderly behaviour, Arora-sah’b is often unthinking when he pulls someone up for taking liberties during the exercises. But we have learnt to take it in our stride. Even those who conduct exercises are not spared his tongue lashing whenever they go wrong. Little wonder, many were petrified at yesterday’s Eid party, lest he flared up on finding anybody’s behaviour inappropriate.
But you have to give it to him that there is not a mean bone in this gentleman's body. He is completely selfless and means well for everybody, even as he could be reprimanding in his approach. Most importantly, he has a terrific sense of humour. So when Geeta Sandana sympathized over how the mosquitoes were only after his blood, Arora was quick to retort: “Doosron ko nahin kaat-tey kyonki unke bibi unke khoon choos letey.”
Poor Arora-sah’b, he had to abandon his exercises midway for the first time today and like a lost child, loitered around aimlessly so that the mosquitoes did not settle on him. After a while, he was seen all alone, exercising by himself on the Garden pathway where the aerial attacks were not so intense.

Renu Babani says:
Looks like the mosquitoes had a field day today, and a full breakfast, leaving the victim helpless! It does get so irritating and somehow one wishes something can be done to get rid of these pests that decide to attack at the wrong times. Just a small reminder in regards to the picnic tomorrow, for those reading this blog tonight. Please bring a pen with you, as we may play bingo, if we get the permission.
See all of you there in the morning, be on time!
--Renu

Afternoon Blast

As indicated in yesterday’s post, it was Sitaram Hirvekar who set the ball rolling for a boisterous afternoon of unbridled entertainment marked by non-stop laughter, songs and dances, skits, good food, stale jokes, shero-shayari and sharp repartees – just that Rehana Shaikh could not take him on his Ae Meri Zohrazabeen number this time. She came in late.
The Eid party also lived up to character in throwing up unknown talent, the surprise discovery today being Sadanand Pawar. That he has a superb sense of rhythm, be it on a tabla, dhapli or by simply tapping the table, was noticed during the picnics earlier. But whoever knew that he can be such a wonderful mimic as well? His skit on a housewife singing a popular Marathi song while combing her hair shall remain one of the memorable highlights of the afternoon.
There were of course, others too. Who can forget Razia Khan’s shayari, delivered with aplomb and ease – not to mention, Kishor Babani’s wise cracks for added effect? Or Nafisa Syed’s inimitable rendering of that Lata Mangeshkar ditty, Ae jaane wafa yeh zulm na kar? Or Vasudev Bhatheja dedicating a Mukesh gem, Mere toote huey dil se koi toh aaj yeh poochhe to (of all the people), Dilip Babani? Or the ultimate scene stealer: the comic sight of Shekhawat-ji playing Munni badnaam hui on his cell-phone (left) while trying to match steps with a dancing Fehmida Khan?
The magic of these moments cannot be described in words, nor can they ever be recreated in future. Those who missed them this afternoon can only be repenting now. Those who were part of the enjoyment and celebration have mainly Yusuf Rassiwala and Razia Khan to thank for making it all happen.

Bhaswati Bose says:
Good food, lots of fun and entertainment. Enjoyed every moment. A big THANK YOU to our wonderful hosts who ensured that we all had a great time. Those of you who did not attend, all I can say is the loss is yours. Just remember the old Kishore Kumar song: Kal kya hoga kisko pata, abhi zindagi ka le lo maza!
--Bhaswati

Renu Babani says:
Well done to all those who took the time and effort to make this Eid party a huge success. The hosts played their part to the T and everyone was made to feel special. An afternoon worth remembering, thanks to the organisers. Yes, the talent was surprising, and yet highly amusing. Crazy remarks and jokes were the order of the day and everyone was left completely satiated in regards to the appetizing food and entertainment. Good job all of you! Next on the agenda...Lonavala Picnic!
--Renu

Eid Lunch

The post-Ramzan Eid party is turning out to be an annual feature for the Club. Yusuf Rassiwala (left) and Razia Khan announced that like last year, it would be held at the Shabri restaurant (down SAB TV lane), between 1.00 pm and 4.00 pm on September 23, i.e. TOMORROW. All members are invited.
Apart from Yusuf-bhai and Razia Khan, those playing host for this luncheon bash include Khatoon Baig, Nahid Khan, Rehana Shaikh and Nafisa Syed, among others.
If last year’s Eid party is anything to go by, do expect some sumptuous rounds of hot, crispy starters before the buffet spread, followed by gulab jamuns and kulfi for dessert. But more important, be prepared for the entertainment led by Sitaram-ji and his “Tumko dekha toh, yeh khayaal aaya” number. And should he get into the “Ae Meri Zohrazabeen” mood with Rehana joining in with her hilarious “Oh-tteri!” “Oh-tteri!” interjections (much to his annoyance), it is bound be an out-of-the-world experience.
There’s of course, more singing talent, particularly among the ladies – Nafisa, Mumtaz , Razia Khan... which we do not normally get to hear or see. In that sense, this Eid get-together becomes an occasion to not just chill out, but also get to discover and learn about one another more.
Surely, not to be missed!

Renu Babani says:
Hopefully everyone will attend the lunch tomorrow, as it always turns out to be filled with lots of fun and laughter. Everyone goes home in high spirits and it is definitely a time to interact with each other. Yes, we ladies do have the habit of passing crazy remarks about some singing talent, although we ourselves cannot sing for nuts! Hoping to see all of you and let's have a blast like we usually do.
--Renu

Young At Heart

Who does not want to look young, feel young, think young… behave young? We all do. We all want to get back our youth and live longer, much as the flesh may not be willing while the spirit is. A balance needs to be struck somewhere. The sooner we get to realize this, the easier it is to be at peace with ourselves.
Somehow, this basic truth about life has escaped many of our members. So this morning, when Shekhawat-ji went around asking everybody his/her age, the responses he got were uproariously funny. Forget the ones who were lying through their teeth. That’s common. But what would you say when someone asks upfront, “Kya, asli age bataaoon?” and after much hesitation, settles for 52?
Shekhawat-ji needed to know everybody’s age, as it has to be submitted to the transporter from whom the bus is being chartered for the Lonavala trip. The guest house we would be lodged in also requires the passengers’ manifest with the age details. Since it is being run for the welfare of senior citizens, it makes more sense to state our real age (if not raise it) in order to avail of the subsidized accommodation.
While the men understood this and truthfully mentioned their age, the ladies were initially not as accommodating. In effect, an embarrassingly huge age gap showed up between husband and wife in some cases. Once again, the figures had to be fibbed such that we now have a contingent with an age variance from 51 to 79 years. Tara Chand Seth is the senior-most, followed by Sitaram Hirvekar at 72 years and Shekhawat-ji at 67 years.
Sadly, the youngest member of the Club is not coming. Kajal Babani (right), we understand, will have to be home-bound as her daughter is down with viral fever. Her husband, Dilip, is coming though. Both Dilip and Kajal have always been the life force of all our picnics earlier. There’s still a few more days to go for this one. Lets hope by then the girl recovers so that both her parents can join us, without a worry.

Renu Babani says:
Seriously, why lie about one's age, because the truth does come out eventually. It is normal that many people would like to be younger perhaps, especially when they see their children all grown up, settled down and busy with their routines. I guess watching them, makes these people recall their youth. There is a child in everyone it is said, but looks like youth never really leaves us as well. Or rather, we do not want to admit that we are growing old!
--Renu

Member Bereaved

Sandhya Narang (right) has lost her husband. The news came in rather late as she had not been attending the Club regularly during the past few weeks. Little did we know that all along she was required to be by the bedside of her ailing husband, who had been admitted to the Tata Memorial hospital. He breathed his last on Thursday, September 16. He was only 57.
Mr Krishan Narang, a restaurateur by profession, was with the well known Copper Chimney chain for a quarter century. According to some members who called on the bereaved family, he developed complications in his colon (large intestine) about a year back and had to undergo surgery. Tragically, the infection turned out to be malignant and before long, had spread to other organs of the body. He has since been undergoing treatment with Tata Memorial, even as doctors had given up hope for a complete recovery.
Last Monday, he developed fever and was rushed to the hospital in a “critical state” by an ambulance. Soon after admission, he drifted into coma from which he never recovered. “The irony of the situation is that it had to happen during the Ganesh festival,” Mrs Narang lamented. “We were having Ganesh Puja at home…”
We can only commiserate with her and her two equally brave children in their hour of trial. May the Almighty give them the strength and fortitude to cope with the tragedy and face the challenges of the future with confidence and grace. Our good wishes shall always be with them.
Renu Babani says:
Heartfelt condolences on Sandhya Narang's loss. I never knew her personally, but it is never easy and only time will heal the pain. Regarding the picnic, everyone has their own reasoning and it is best to be respected. No one can be forced. So best leave everyone to their own beliefs and whatever makes them happy. Those attending the picnic, rest assured it will be fun and a great outing. Let's make the most of it and hold no grudges against the rest.
--Renu
Neha Pai says:
I just read about your husband's demise. Sorry about your loss. He must have suffered a lot. May his soul rest in peace. Sorry, I did not write earlier as I just checked your article on the blog. I am in the States and I used to visit Copper Chimney when your husband was working there. So when I went for dinner there last year, I heard from someone that he had passed away. Do take care of yourself.

Dust Settles

The dust has eventually settled over the Lonavala Picnic date. Shekhawat-ji announced today that September 25 it will be and come what may, there will be no further change of plans. The bus will leave the Garden at 8.00 a.m. sharp and sandwiches will be served on the way for breakfast. The expected time of reaching Lonavala is around 12:30 p.m. when lunch will be waiting for us at the guest house. If this arrangement does not suit anybody, s/he is welcome to opt out and money, if paid, would be refunded.
Promptly Ved Prakash Grover took back his money as the picnic would clash with the Rajasthani cultural programme at Shanmukhanand Hall, which he cannot afford to miss. Hari Narayani excused himself on the plea that he had been to Lonavala twice in the recent past and another visit would be three much. Srichand Arora tactfully put the ball in his wife’s court as she holds his purse strings and he would require her approval for going on the picnic. Razia Khan has a wedding to attend…
Gradually, the real reasons for backing out became clear. By and large, they fall into three stupid categories:
One, the room sharing idea is giving the heebeejibies to members who’d come without their spouses. Since every room is furnished with two beds, Shekhawat-ji will have to pair them in a manner he thinks best. (Obviously, this does not apply to married couples – or does it?) Spending a full night with an incompatible partner in an alien place, that too at a late stage in life, is not a very welcoming prospect for many.
The second reason is what an elderly member described as “narrow-mindedness” of some people. Whether or not he has an axe to grind with somebody is none of our business, but this sentiment of not finding others broadminded enough appears to be shared by quite a few. How this feeling has gained ground, is a mystery. For, if it were not for the group being liberal-minded and fun-loving, the very idea of a two-day picnic would not have come up. What more does anybody want?
The third and most unfortunate reason is the venue. The fact that the guest house is run by a Hindu charitable trust (and there happens to be a temple in the premises) has not gone down well with some members. Mercifully, this has not led to a communal divide, but the undercurrent of displeasure is apparent. The unspoken taunt is: “How would it feel were you made to stay on a picnic in a charity home run by an Islamic or Christian trust?”
It is sad that such views should surface. But then, those who want to fault others would do so any way. No matter how much you do and how excited everybody is, there will always be some sourpusses around who would play wet blanket. What can you do about them?

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Utter Confusion!

The picnic plans for Lonavala have gone haywire. Shekhawat-ji (right) informed this morning that the bus which was to take us to Sion on September 25 for the Rajasthani cultural programme (see yesterday’s post) at Shanmukhananda Hall has been overbooked. It seems another bus was arranged, but that too is full. It is up to us now how we’d like to reach Sion, should we be still interested.
Shekhawat-ji is of course, interested. Anything concerning his home state excites him. And here, the chief minister is supposed to be coming. So on his own Shekhawat-ji pushed the picnic date for Lonavala from September 25 to the following week-end and booked a bigger 40-seater bus for Rs 15,000 (the earlier one was a 20-seater for Rs 10,000). Now he realizes that by mistake, he had booked the bus for October 1, instead of October 2. All along, he was under the impression that October 1 would be a Saturday – till Nahid Khan corrected him this morning.
Caught in a double-bind, Shekhawat-ji is at a loss as to what he must do. The bus issue can be somehow sorted out, but he does not know whether to go for a 40-seater or a 20-seater and more importantly, what date he must now give. He wants to go for the Rajasthani programme also on September 25… if only his friend Jagmohan (who had organized the trip) did not let him down. He even suggested that everybody take the Harbour Line local train from Andheri for King’s Circle station. The idea was promptly shot down. Bundling members into separate cars was also found impractical.
As of now, the initial plan for the Lonavala trip on September 25 stands. How Shekhawat-ji ties up the loose ends remains to be seen. He is a past master at this. Bigger issues have cropped up in earlier picnics and somehow, he gets to resolve all of them at the eleventh hour. Everything falls into place miraculously and nobody gets to know that there ever was a problem. That’s where organizing skills count!

Bhaswati Bose says:
I hope we make it to Lonavla on the 25th. If Shekhawat-ji's home state excites him, so does mine. And I will be visiting MY home state in the first week of October. I cannot cancel my airtickets. So count me out if the trip is postponed.
--Bhaswati

Renu Babani says:
I understand what you say, Mrs Bose. The final decision is that we are going on the 25th, as planned. These hitches do occur, but everything falls into place eventually. Mr Shekawat has the experience of handling any situation and somehow deals with it!
--Renu

Dabangg

The Lokhandwala Laughing Club descended on Cinemax this morning to watch Salman Khan in Dabangg – with a double ‘g’. In a scene reminiscent of One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest (remember when Jack Nicholson took the inmates of the asylum on a day out?), Yusuf Rassiwala could be seen around 11.00 a.m. herding the members, old and not-so-old, into the glitzy multiplex for what was to be their first big day out together at the movies.
The movie was inconsequential. A mindless potboiler about a corrupt cop with the heart of Robin Hood, it elicited the right responses, including all the claps and seeties from those it was meant for. But our members were above the front-benchers (literally). Tara Chand, Grover, Razia Khan and others watched in dignified silence, appreciating the finer nuances of film craft and emerged wiser and well-entertained. The only voluble response came from Rehana who clapped along with the Munni badnam hui number.
Regardless of the merits (or otherwise) of Dabangg, an occasional outing of this nature has its benefits for senior citizens. It was an opportunity to break out of the humdrum of their daily existence. The movie had given them a reason to step out of their homes at an odd hour. If it were not for Yusuf-bhai’s (right) initiative, many would probably have not got to see Dabangg. Watching a movie with one's peers is always different from sitting through in the presence of family members.
The other big news of the day was Shekhawat-ji postponing the Lonavala picnic by another week – to October 2. It seems that for September 25, there’s an invite to hitch a bus ride to Shanmukhananda Hall, Sion, where a Rajasthani cultural show would be staged. Some political dignitaries and film stars are likely to be present. If that does not sound enticing enough, well, there’s dinner on the house.
Effectively, Lonavala can wait till Bapuji’s birthday!

Renu Babani says:
The picnic somehow gets postponed for certain reasons. Hopefully we do go for it in the end... that is the question! Yes, outings like this are fun, in regards to going for the movie this morning, because you are in the group and can enjoy each other's company as well. I had seen the movie before, otherwise would have joined in as well. Maybe next time. The movie is basically just for entertainment and if one goes to question certain scenes, no one will ever watch movies. The downpour this morning made us do our exercises at the Chinese Hut once more, but hopefully tomorrow will be another day!
--Renu

Bhaswati Bose says:
I really enjoyed watching Dabangg. All you have to do is leave your brains at home. Am looking forward to more such "mindless potboilers" organised by Yusuf-bhai. Salman Khan zindabad! Watching a movie with a group is always more enjoyable. You can laugh, cry, clap and even whistle and dance in your seats together. So all you couples who make a dash for the Friday first show, please rethink!
--Bhaswati

(Un)holy Trinity

Monthi Serrao escaped. Being a lady, she was spared the many barbs and jibes the three Birthday Boys had to face this morning from members. From “Brahma-Vishnu-Mahesh” to “Amar-Akbar-Anthony”, every conceivable innuendo relating to assorted trinities – holy and unholy – were directed at Kishor-bhai, Bhatt-sah’b and Bose.
But it was all in good humour and nobody took offence; only that the allusions kept changing every five minutes. If Kishor was Lord Brahma for the Silent Laughter round, he became Mahesh for the Hai Mera Dil round. By then, Bhatt would have graduated from Vishnu to Anthony and Bose would become Mahesh or some such during the Kissa Kursi Ka round. At times, Bhatt was being variously addressed by multiple names by Tara Chand and Dilip-bhai alternatively.
Otherwise, the celebration went without an incident, thanks to Shekhawat-ji being over-vigilant towards gatecrashers. At least two gentlemen were bluntly asked to make room for the members. “Only after you attend the Club for three months at a stretch and your name appears in the membership list can you be invited for our parties,” he said. Yet, one man pretended not to have heard him and did not budge.
There was of course, no birthday cake today. But sure enough, the icing came at the end. We were walking out of the gate when Rehana came running in breathlessly with Arun Patil. “Kisska birthday, kisska birthday,” she was enquiring. Kishor was in front. Without much ado, Rehana gave him a bear hug, almost crushing him to pulp.
His brother, Dilip was standing close-by, watching in amusement. The wicked brat that he is (hats off to his presence of mind!), took his chance: “Mera bhi birthday hai!” he said, raising his hand. Instantly, he was rewarded with another big hug. Kajal and Renu went red in the face. Bhatt was whimpering at a distance. Bose momentarily dodged his way out, but returned to exchange a warm handshake with Rehana.
Moments like this make a birthday memorable.

Renu Babani says:
It was highly amusing to watch Kishor and Dilip being wished so warmly and Mr Bose was the one who escaped the 'bear hug', and settled for a handshake! Mr Bhatt must have been too afraid in case his turn came in next. Guess Rehana knew where to draw the line!
Yes, the party went really well with everyone in high spirits and joking around as usual. Some members didn't turn up despite knowing, but maybe they had other plans for the morning. The members were glad that boxes were distributed, making less of a mess and there were no hassles or issues on hand. We know how to have fun... just wait and watch out for the Lonavala Picnic update!
--Renu

Happy Times

Happy days are here again. Or so it would seem, as the weather gods have finally relented, bringing an end to the long and dreary spell of incessant rainfall in the city. The Garden was bathed in bright sunshine with its old familiar buzz – the everyday sights and sounds of walkers going through their early morning paces. In the Club, it was also a full house with a lot of sunny faces and smiles.
Razia Khan and Nafisa Syed were back, adding to the brightness around. An unusually sprightly Rane tried to emulate a leaping frog when he was to flail his arms (in the Udh jao panchhi exercise) like everybody else. Shekhawat too was extra-ebullient as he playfully trained his pointer fingers like mock pistols at the ladies during the slow-and-fast laughter round. And with Kishor-bhai’s cell-phone playing music at full volume, Nafisa had to comment on the possibility of a snake being drawn by the Naagin number. Clearly, there was electricity in the air – a rare energy that galvanises everybody into going berserk and letting their hair down.
It is this spirit of bonhomie that we had been missing for a long time. Attendance was low and everybody felt dull and sluggish during the rains. Probably, the onset of the festive season has also contributed to the change of mood. Besides, there are two events coming up. The first is the Lonavala picnic on the 25th, for which Shekhawat-ji has already started the countdown. He has set September 20 as the last date of paying up for the bookings.
The other upcoming event is the birthday party tomorrow, being jointly hosted by Pratap Bhatt, Kishor-bhai, Monthi-ji and Bose. On their behalf, Shekhawat-ji requested all members to stay on /be present at the Chinese Hut around 7:45 a.m. (after the exercises) for a small celebration.
In the pic: Rane Bhau and Hari Singh Shekhawat

Renu Babani says:
Yes, everyone is looking forward to the picnic as this is the first time it will be an overnight stay. I am sure it will be great bonding big time with each other, and hopefully there will be a good turnout. The weather is holding up but one thing amiss is the Garden cat. Last I overheard someone say it has been killed or died, and that was the foul smell a few days ago. Hopefully, everyone will show up for the party on Wednesday, and it will be just like old times!
--Renu

They Also Serve

Ramzan is over. Eid came and went. And yet, the believers who were expected to rejoin the Club this morning, did not show up. Only Nahid Khan, Khatoon Baig and Yusuf Rassiwala were there. But then, they’ve been coming in any case all these days.
Khatoon (left) deserves special mention. She is one of those low-profile members who appears extra-serious about her exercises and rarely takes a day off. Even during the Ramzan fasts, she had been attending regularly. It seems she had taken ill midway through the holy month and could not continue with her roza. But she has been religiously keeping her appointment with the Club all through.
It is from members like Khatoon that the Club derives its character. There are very few of them – the silent, dedicated sorts who go through their morning routine, workman-like without drawing attention unto themselves. Consequently, we tend to either overlook them, or else take their presence for granted.
Ved Prakash Grover (right) is one such. A relatively recent entrant, he has followed his son to Mumbai after his superannuation from the Central Government and found his way into the Club. You neither hear him nor hear of him, but you know he’s around. Even during the peak monsoon he had been coming (15 minutes before time) doing his rounds of the Garden, before joining in the ‘Ram Ram Bol’ chant. A stickler for energy conservation, you cannot have the fans and lights on for no purpose in his presence. He will promptly switch them off!
Kiran Sajjan (left) is another. Discreet and inconspicuous – to the point of being self-effacing – she comes driving in her car, does her exercises and drives away. The only reason we notice her is that she turns up invariably late. But attend she does and participates in all the activities of the Club, including picnics with her hyper-exuberant husband.
Others who may not be regular, but mean a lot to us include members like Kiran Arora, Sandhya Narang, Ram Shankar Shukla, the Garg couple and Sushma Gupta. Many of them have been with the Club since its inception and it is when they stop coming that their presence is missed. For, in many ways, they also serve.

Renu Babani says:
Every individual is important in their own way and definitely missed when not around. Yes, everyone was expected to return this morning, but hopefully we shall see them tomorrow. The question that arose was how many members will be present for the party on the 15th. Prompt came the reply that Shekwat will start his networking right away, and lo and behold, the members will definitely make their presence felt. So I am certain the party will be a success and fun too.
--Renu

Ganesh Chaturthi

Today’s the birthday of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati’s son, Ganesh – the god of good tidings, remover of obstacles and the harbinger of wellness. Let us invoke his blessings for bringing peace and happiness to all members, both collectively and individually.
Tomorrow’s the birthday of another Virgo – our resident guru, Kishor Babani. Let us wish him good cheer, great health and long life – not to mention greater wisdom to share with us, both collectively and individually.
Come to think of it, there are too many Virgos we know whose birthdays are falling one after another. We have already celebrated the birthday of Lord Krishna on September 2, followed closely by Mother Mary’s (and Monthi Serrao’s) on September 8 and now it is Lord Ganesh’s. The day-after, on September 13 (soon after Kishor bhai’s birthday), it would be Harish Wadhwa’s.
As if all these Virgos were not enough, Bose and Bhatt are not just sharing their birthday, but it happens to also coincide with Radha Ashtami on September 15. And then on September 19, comes another big one: the birthday of Vaman Deva, the dwarf incarnation of Lord Vishnu. So we are all in charmed, if not august (sorry, september) company.
It can of course, be argued that unlike the gods, we mortals are not guided by the lunatic calendar and this year, even as Bose may share his birthday with that of Lord Krishna’s consort, next year he may not be as lucky. For by then, Radha may cease to even be a Virgo – as might Lord Krishna, Lord Ganesh and Lord Vaman. He would have to court a new set of gods for shared glory. This is the problem of being governed by a solar calendar.
Meanwhile, as Renu Babani had indicated yesterday, Shekhawat-ji has indeed pulled a rabbit out of his hat. The picnic would be at Lonavala, but the date has been moved by a week to September 25-26. And it would cost us much less – Rs 300 per head for an overnight stay, thanks to the guest house run by a religious trust that Kishor-bhai has identified. Together with actuals on transport, the damages should not exceed Rs 1,000.
Now, it is for the nitpickers to get into their act!

Renu Babani says:
Welcome Virgos! Party time once more as usual, and it always ends up as fun. Well, apart from the regular comments, criticism, the following day everyone makes it a point to attend and make it special for those celebrating. So, let's take it in our stride.
Regarding the picnic, what fun! Without the 'nitpickers', the planning would be so mundane. After all everyone is entitled to what they think, albeit nobody really pays attention. This picnic is something many are really eagerly awaiting. So what is all the fuss about anyway?
--Renu

Eid Mubarak!

As the holy month of Ramzan comes to an end, it is time, once again, to reinforce the bonds of love and amity with our Muslim brothers and sisters. Those going by the sighting of the moon have evidently postponed their Eid celebrations by a day. But for all others, including government establishments, banks and the corporate sector, it is Eid ul Fitr today.
Yusuf Rassiwala ( below), who made a surprise appearance today, explained that those governed by the Islamic calendar (like him) have broken their month-long penance and fasting this morning. So it is already time for biryani and phirni, among other delicacies for them. For the best malpua, he advised us to go to Bhendi Bazaar.
Meanwhile, Shekhawat-ji announced that the Lonavala picnic plans have run into a spot of trouble. The hotel being negotiated insists that the room tariff it had quoted earlier applies to a minimum of a two-night stay (and not just for a Saturday night as we desire). So the options we have now are (a) to identify another hotel at reasonable rates/ better terms and (b) to consider another picnic spot that allows for overnight stay at decent rates.
Kishor-bhai seems to have already done some groundwork on the possibilities in Lonavala and has drawn a blank. “All the hotel rates are higher,” he declared. This leaves us with option (b). The names that were thrown up were Matheran, Mahabaleshwar and Alibaug (with probably Murud Janjira thrown in).
All these places have their pluses and minuses in terms of logistics, proximity, travel time, etc. But with a price-sensitive group like ours, what would eventually determine the participation of members is the damage per head.
There is really no point having a Club picnic if a majority of the members get left out for financial reasons. Perhaps, we need to fix a budget in advance (say, Rs 1,500 or Rs 2,000 per person), get majority-approval and then work around it. That most members would like to come with a family member or two, also needs to be factored. We cannot afford to over-burden our members just because some of us want a fun week-end out.
Think about it and post your comments.

Renu Babani says:
Our evening meeting was fruitful today. You shall know the outcome in the morning. Everyone who knows Mr Shekawat knows that he never gives up and always proves to be a winner. Yea, I know, lazee bum again! I do apologise, but no excuses this time. Eid Mubarak to everyone who is celebrating and I am sure all will enjoy the fun as well!
--Renu

Maddening Mosquitoes

We were back to our old stomping ground in the middle of the Garden, much to the consternation of Dilip-bhai, Bhaswati, Sunita-ji (right) and others. Mosquitoes made a meal of us. Even the normally restrained Nahid Khan looked alarmed. “These are dengue mosquitoes,” she warned. “Let’s get back to the Chinese Hut.”
But today, we were stuck between a rock and a hard place. There could be no going back. The Hut was stinking to high heavens and nobody could figure out where it was coming from. It was the stereophonic stink of a rotting carcass, coming from all directions. Even the green patch outside the Chinese Hut had become out-of-bounds – so foul was the smell.
Rather than investigate, we decided to abandon the area, only to be faced with the maddening mosquito menace.
At one stage, Sunita-ji got so worked up that she wanted to perform the exercises standing on a Garden bench (as though the mosquitoes would not attack her there). Tucking her saree between the legs was obviously not helping her enough and after a while, she just sat on a bench, cursing her fate. An ever-helpful Dilip-bhai advised her to wear stockings from tomorrow.
Not that Dilip-bhai (left) was in any way better placed. He was in his track pants and tee, but every time he had to laugh out loud, he ended up swatting mosquitoes trying to get into his mouth. Yet, he had a ready piece of advice for everybody: Don’t wear dark clothes because they attract mosquitoes, don’t stand there because there are insects, don’t stand here because there are ants… Geeta-ji once walked straight into him, hoping to find some relief closeby.
The only person above all this was Hari-bhai. Arora-ji was doing his little one-legged numbers, hitting mosquitoes at random and muttering, “Ek machchar aadmi ko kaisa nachata hai”. But Hari-bhai was already transported to another realm, blissfully singing along with the music system: “O duniya ke rakhwale, sun dard bhare mere naale…”

Renu Babani says:
Seriously, the Garden needs a complete clean-up. I know about the stench as it was there in the evening as well. Yes the grass is being cut, but other than that, there is no hygiene or cleaniless and it is rather depressing at times. Exercising in such an atmosphere does elevate anyone's fear of being bitten by an infected mosquito and falling sick. Despite all the complaints, grumblings and muttering under one's breath, we return each day because where else do we go? Where can we meet like this and enjoy as well? Maybe another petition is in order!
--Renu

Laughter Unlimited

Monthi Serrao (right) missed out on one of the most lively and fun-filled mornings at the Club. Today is her birthday. If only she had come, she would have been witness to some rare mischief and leg-pulling by the ladies in the Chinese Hut – a wonderful way to start her day’s celebrations.
The chief agent provocateur was Bhaswati Bose, aided and abetted by Kajal Babani and Geeta Sandana with Mrs Harbans Singh and Santosh-ji lending support. They made for a riotous combination, not sparing anybody – from Hari-bhai to Arora-ji to the resident cat, almost everybody had become the butt of a silly joke or playful jibe. The place looked like a classroom of unruly kids playing the fool and laughing their heads off. They were simply unstoppable.
Nahid Khan (who was conducting the exercises) tried in vain to restore some order. All she could do was shout “Discipline, Discipline”, only to be greeted by sharp retorts, “Teacher ko badlo”! The grouse was that for three years, she has been teaching the same exercises. “What can be expected of students who have been failed year after year in the same class?” commented Mrs Singh.
“Teacher, teacher, Ek bachcha so raha hai,” interjected Bhaswati (left), pointing at Hari-bhai who was sitting on the side platform, dozing off while the exercises were on. Not far away, the cat was also taking a nap. Somebody suggested complaining to the principal – meaning Arora-ji, who had moved to the other section of the Hut to attend to his music system.
“Kya faida? Principal sah’b gana sun rahe hain, student yahan so rahein hain…” observed Geeta-ji.
“Discipline!” shouted Nahid Khan again.
“Teacher ko badlo,” countered Kajal.
It was in this spirit of masti and mazak that the exercises were conducted today. The jokes flowed free and fast, the men occasionally cracking up every time they could overhear a witticism or one-liner from the other side. Shekhawat became red in the face, laughing himself silly. In the end, one had to give it to the ladies: Nobody can match their sense of humour once they get in the mood.
Much as Monthi-ji missed all this, we look forward to more enjoyable mornings when she is back. In the meanwhile, let us wish her every happiness, great health and many, many happy returns of the day.

Renu Babani says:
I wish I was witness to the unending banter this morning. Yes, ladies definitely rule hands down, especially when they gang up and decide to take over. However, everyone knows it is taken in good fun and how boring it would be without all this chatter and laughter. We aren't called Laughing Club for nothing!
--Renu

Picnic Prelude

Hari Singh Shekhawat (left) is back at doing what he does best – organizing picnics. Nobody else in the Club can match his organizational skills, right from mobilizing the members and collecting money to fixing the transport, getting the best rates, keeping accounts and ensuring that everybody has a good time.
This time the destination is Lonavala and for a change, it would be an overnight stay. The hotel has been identified and the date fixed is for September 18-19 (next week-end). “It would cost us roughly Rs 500 per head for the night stay,” he announced. “Depending on the number of people who join, we will decide on whether to hire a small bus or big bus. But this much I want to specify right now: Money once paid will not be returned.”
“Why should we be staying in this hotel?” somebody asked. “There is another hotel there which charges less. But we might have to pay a donation.”
“But Kishor-bhai has already stayed in this hotel last week. He says it is very good.”
More discordant voices, not too difficult to identify:
“Bhai, the hotel room should be clean. I am used to sleeping on freshly ironed, white bed sheets. That’s the way I am.”
“Please make sure the bus is comfortable. I want comfortable seats!”
“Do the charges include breakfast and lunch also?”
“What would the total cost work out to per person?”
And then the final spanner in the works: “It would be Ganapati Visarjan day. There will be terrible traffic problems on the way. Besides, why do we need to have a picnic so soon? We just had one in June. Let the next one be in December?”
Such discouraging noises are routinely heard during the planning of every picnic and to a major extent, it goes to Shekhawat-ji’s credit how he handles these wet blankets with patience and humour. Nobody else can. For ultimately, this is a thankless task. Mr Garg (right), on one of his rare visits, watched the tamasha from a distance with an amused smile before setting out on his rounds of the Garden.

Renu Babani says:
Hats off to Mr Shekhawat! He has to constantly listen to everyone but takes it in his stride. Regarding the picnic at Lonavala, the best is not to force anyone. Whoever is interested pays the money and comes for the picnic. These constant discussions will never end. So what is the point? Let everyone decide for themselves so that no one has to hear any complaints later on.
--Renu

Snake Scare

Have we become such a wild lot as to be attracting only the wild in our midst? Just the other day, a monkey tried to befriend us. Earlier, a crow nearly laid down its life while seeking entry into the Club. These days we see a cat who has endeared itself so successfully with some members that it has become a permanent resident of the Chinese Hut. Correspondingly, not a single human being has sought admission to the Club in the past couple of months or so.
There’s news now of a snake making a fervent bid to gain entry. Yes, a regular, full-grown, live snake wants to join us!
Since morning everybody has been talking about this, but nobody claims to have seen the snake. “Pata nahin, suna toh aise hai,” Tara Chand-ji said, suggesting that it could well be a rumour. Grover was more committal: “Kaiyon ne saap ko dekha,” he said. “Magar main ne nahin dekha.” Nahid Khan was downright dismissive: “Saap? Kahan saap!”
When Shekhawat came to start the exercises, the ladies refused to step out of the Chinese Hut. “Nahin, wahan pe saap hai,” Sunita-ji protested.
Instead of being alarmed, Shekhawat-ji simply laughed it away as the ladies’ prerogative to decide where to exercise – thereby deepening the mystery. Was it his way of wanting to appear chivalrous? Or was it out of concern, not to create panic, that he readily agreed to exercising in the Chinese Hut?
During the exercises, he playfully drew attention to a tiny centipede on the floor that was in danger of being trampled by Rane. The latter kicked it to a side, but it crawled back close to Rane’s feet again. Bose had to pick it up and toss it outside, before the exercises could resume. Surely, this centipede could not have been mistaken for a snake!
And then the mystery was resolved. A snake had indeed come visiting day-before (on Saturday, after our exercises) and settled at the far end of the Chinese Hut. Santosh-ji was the first to notice it – all coiled up in a corner and confabulating with our resident cat, perched high on a ledge. Santosh-ji raised an alarm and a crowd gathered.
“The watchman came running with a rod – the kind used to mop the floor – to hit the snake,” she narrated. “Ultimately, it just uncoiled itself and slithered away into the dense undergrowth towards the nullah.”
So that’s the truth about the snake. Santosh-ji won’t lie. But watch this space!

Renu Babani says:
I second Santosh-ji. I saw the snake playing games with the garden cat that evening. Interesting to watch as the cat made an advance and the snake slithered away just a bit, before making an advance causing the cat to withdraw instantly. This went on for a while as the watchman watched attentively like the rest and pondered how to get rid of it. Finally, I walked away and didn't pay heed to what was decided regarding the snake. However, it is kind of scary to think of having a snake in our midst. We seem to be having too many visitors who are interested in becoming members, which makes for hilarious conversation.
--Renu

Rail Ka Dabba!

At times, the Chinese Hut resembles the chaalu dabba of a railway train. Whoever gets in, occupies whatever space he/she gets. With every station, new faces show up and a few old passengers get off. Likewise, with every passing day, some new people come in, and a few old ones drop off. And so, life goes on.
Yesterday, Shekhawat did not come, but Bhatt did. Today, Shekhawat came, but Kishor disappeared. Sitaram has started coming, but Arora is not to be seen for the past couple of days. Hari-bhai shows up almost every day, but was not present today. Instead, Neelam Garg (right pic) made an appearance – after a long time. And so, the Chinese Hut remains suitably crowded.
Significantly, it is here, that a lot of action takes place after the exercises. While many loiter away (either home or to circumambulate the Garden) there are some who habitually hang around till the yoga session begins. The reason is, this is when they get to connect with their Club mates – confide in them, share their anxieties and woes, seek advice and if nothing else, find a sounding board.
Much of what is discussed in these little huddles eventually gets known to everybody. (But this blog is not a platform to bring up personal or domestic issues.) The fun part is how some of us have taken upon ourselves to play Agony Uncle (or Agony Aunt) to sundry bleeding hearts who want quick fix solutions to every crisis in life. Just observe how, in the picture above, an animated Motwani finds solace in unburdening himself on Sitaram, who gives him a patient hearing. Rane watches, chipping in with polite noises at intervals.
This is what life is all about – of hope and despair, celebrating happiness and counseling those in distress, of sharing what cannot be discussed at home… So maybe, the Chinese Hut is not a rail ka dabba after all. It is here that we witness life in a microcosm. But again, isn’t a railway compartment also about the drama of life played out – of meeting, knowing, sharing, experiencing and most importantly, of comings and goings?
Think about it!

Renu Babani says:
Yes, I totally agree. This is one of the reasons everyone comes to the Garden. Talking amongst each other, sharing our joys and sorrows and being in one another's company. We are fortunate to have each other, to be able to share our thoughts and know that there is a commpassionate ear listening attentively and trying to help out. Once the discussion/topic is over, everything seems fine and each one goes about with their routine. Aren't we lucky?
--Renu

Highs and Lows

The highpoint of this morning was Pratap Bhatt’s return (pic left) to the Club after more than a month. He was away in Gujarat, visiting family and friends at his ancestral village. Upon his return to Mumbai, on August 20, he contracted herpes and has since been under treatment. He claims to be better now.
The other major highpoint was the absence of the big daddies -- including Shekhawat-ji and Arora-ji. So it was phunti-day for most. And for the rest who did show up, it was a case of the mice at play when the cat is away. Quite clearly, the Janmashtami hangover hasn’t yet worn off, but for one minor detail: Nobody’s staying hungry and going out to feed the cows at gou-shalas today!
The lowpoint of the day was Hari Naraiyani turning off-key – to the extent of neither talking nor taking part in the exercises. An unusually chirpy person for his age, he was at his talkative best yesterday, philosophizing on life and advising Nahid Khan not to worry too much. “Everybody has his share of happiness and sadness at all times,” he was heard telling her in his high-pitched voice. “Nobody can claim to be 100 per cent happy, just as nobody can be completely sad.”
Today, Hari-bhai was a study in contrast. He kept to himself, sitting all alone in a corner and staring into space. Midway through the exercises when he was invited to join us, he brusquely waved his hand, suggesting he was not feeling up to it.
Now, this seems to be a serious issue, afflicting many members. They take the trouble to wake up early, come to the Garden, but do not participate in the exercises. For three days on, Tara Chand-ji (left) had been coming at his usual time, doing two rounds of the Garden and just before the exercises, he’d take a garden chair and watch us from a distance. When asked if anything was wrong, his reply was, “Nahin, bas youn hi!” Only today, did he resume exercising with us.
It is hard to explain this state of ennui. Or are these mood swings? Maybe, it has something to do with advancing age. Whatever it is, these are not healthy signs. You could perhaps throw some light on this.

Renu Babani says:
I can just think of one thing in regards to these moods: Male Menopause. Rest assured, it is just a phase and everything will get back to normal again. Yea, lazy bum that I am, didn't come to the Garden and will return after the weekend hopefully. By the way, saw We are Family and it was good. But I had more expectations!
--Renu

Janamashtami

Krishna with flute. Krishna with Radha. Krishna with cow. Krishna on top of a serpent. Krishna the maakhan chor. Krishna the charioteer. Krishna reaching out for a dahi hundi… Among all the images traditionally associated with Janmashtami, one which is perhaps the most evocative is that of the Lord encircled by his gopis.
Visions of that divine raas-leela played out in parts as we encircled Arora-sah’b (rt pic) this morning for the laughter round on the little green patch outside the Chinese Hut. After a long time, we were having sunshine and with a gentle breeze blowing across, the mood was upbeat. Everybody looked bright and colourful – Arora-sah’b in particular, in his scarlet T-shirt, grey shorts and sporty white shoes to match. As the smart man in the middle, he was very much in charge. Suddenly, he went up to the hedge, plucked a shoe flower and gallantly presented it to Sunita-ji!
What was the provocation behind this act, we shall never know. Perhaps a rose would have been more appropriate. Even then, it looked nice and in the fitness of things – very much in keeping with the mood of the occasion. There were some cheesy comments exchanged, but those were inconsequential. With strains of Anup Jalota’s bhajans on Govinda Gopala playing on the music system, it was only natural that we should all be in a state of the madhur bhava associated with Lord Krishna.
Sitaram-ji spoke at length on the variance of dates this year for celebrating Janamashtami across the country. According to him, the choice of date is entirely yours, depending on whether you want to recognize Krishna’s birth at Mathura as THE date, or if his appearance 18 km away at Gokul the following day means more to you. Among Maharashtrians, it seems the latter holds true.
Ramila-ben narrated how, in her village, blobs of freshly churned butter is chucked about by devotees as prasad to mark the festivities. Shekhawat-ji was keen to announce that he would take an off tomorrow, since he’d be observing fast today and only after midnight would he be served dinner. So the choice of whether to come tomorrow or do a phunti, is entirely yours!

Renu Babani says:
Yea, the weather was great and atmosphere filled with fun. Strange, how just exercising for less than an hour can boost one's energy for the entire day. Being in each other's company and passing crazy comments on simple and petty things can cheer up everyone, making it a great morning. I guess that is what makes us keep coming back each morning, just to spend that time together and enjoy every moment of it. Here's to being together for a long time to come!
--Renu

Skid Row

Looks like the oil spill off Mumbai coast has washed in from the Arabian Sea to the Garden, rendering the pathway from the Gate to the Chinese Hut a treacherous stretch. Geeta Sandana nearly slipped and fell while coming in for the exercises this morning. By some coincidence, at that moment we were clearing our lungs with a loud “Ha Ha Ha” and she thought we were laughing at her. “Hansne ki baat nahin hai,” she said reproachfully.
Indeed, skidding on that slippery stretch is no laughing matter. Last week, while it was drizzling, an elderly lady in yellow printed saree fell in a heap at that very spot. She had a little girl accompanying her who helped the lady get back on her feet. But by then her umbrella had blown away in the breeze and it took another lady to retrieve it.
A few days earlier, at the very same spot, Bose lost his balance while lugging the plastic chairs into the Hut. Luckily, Tara Chand-ji was nearby and helped him recover his step. But the two watchmen in uniform, posted nearby, were not as lucky while playfully chasing one another a couple of mornings later. The inevitable happened. Both slipped, one after another and lay sprawled in the slime, laughing their guts out.
With Subbu, the mad Madrasi (who greets people with a poke in the ribs), it was a different story. The other day, he was found sitting on the slippery stretch, legs extended, waiting for someone to pull him up. He looked completely dazed. Nobody had seen when and how he had skidded and landed on his backside. He was himself puzzled at his own predicament. Since that morning, we haven’t seen him.
Shekhawat-ji’s solution for this problem is to sprinkle DDT over that notorious stretch. Maybe, it would work – provided the rains don’t wash it away. Meanwhile, he can be assured of constant reminders from Geeta-ji. She tends to be concerned about everybody and wouldn’t like an accident to befall anyone. Today, for instance, she appeared worried about the way Motwani -ji was performing his breathing exercises. Unknown to him, she was the one to observe that he had been combining anulom-vilom with kapalbhatti and wanted someone to correct him.
That nobody did, is another matter. What matters is this sense of fellow-feeling shared between members that makes this Club so special.

Renu Babani says:
Hopefully the weather gets better and the turnout will increase in regards to the members. Yes, the slime is really scary. Walking the pathway is treacherous and at one's own risk. However, if the rains stop the pathway will dry up slowly and that will make things easier. Mr Arora arrived a bit late, sans the tape recorder. However, everyone seemed in high spirits today. So perhaps the music was not missed. Hopefully, at some point, our sweet music returns in the morning to make it a more pleasant atmosphere during the exercises.
--Renu