52nd Anniversary!

Today was Hari Singh Shekhawat’s big day; his 52nd wedding anniversary – to the date. Last Saturday, he and his wife joined five February-borns (see post) from the Club for a mega celebration in the Chinese Hut. But he had mentioned then that he would also be having an exclusive “surprise party” on Tuesday. Those near and dear to him knew exactly what his excitement was about. After all, how many couples are as blessed as to be able to celebrate more than half-a-century of togetherness with such enthusiasm?
So this morning, when Shekhawat was seen repeatedly wandering away and making phone calls during the exercises, nobody was surprised. Many were in fact, amused as one by one, 36 people showed up at the Garden and later, wished him. Even Dilip Babani, who had missed the February 28 bash, responded to his phone call.
Only Nafisa Sayyad was not to be seen. When Shekhawat enquired about her whereabouts, Razia Khan’s reply was that she was in another world – “doosri duniya”. Yusuf Rassiwala promptly picked on the expression and sought a clarification: whether she meant “the world of dreams” or someplace else? From nowhere Tara Chand Seth piped in, offering to take Yusuf-bhai along to check: “Chalo, ho aatey hain!”
It was in this atmosphere of light-heartedness, deliberate leg-pulling and tomfoolery, and amidst much backslapping and warm hugs that Shekhawat’s wedding anniversary was celebrated. All along, he was beaming with joy. Once again, we wish him and his wife lots of laughter together, excellent health and continued bliss in years to come.