Aam Aadmi Picnic

Picnic planning

Jagmohan Papneja made an apt comment yesterday: "Hum Kisise Kam Nahi". We are less to none – the obvious reference being our friends currently traversing the backwaters of Kerala. Whereas they had paid anything between Rs10,000 and Rs15,000 per head, we are collecting Rs100 only from each member going on the Chhota Kashmir picnic this Saturday (see yesterday's post). Whereas they had been talking about air travel and train bookings, staying in star hotels and houseboat rides, we are planning simple autorickshaw rides. What remains now for us is to pick up some brooms (instead of fancy strolleys and suitcases) and march out in full strength.
Of course, the comparisons are specious – where a seven-day outstation trip and a one-day local picnic are concerned. But it is still a question of affordability. So today, when Dilip Babani proposed collecting Rs250 from every member to cover food and travel expenses, everyone agreed immediately. Later, this was a trimmed down to Rs100 as a nominal participation charge for snacks and refreshments while the lunch would largely be home-made and pot luck. The rest of the expenses, such as paddle boat rides would be individual and optional.
The idea is not to enforce anything on anyone, enjoy each other’s company and should there still be any cash left, we might donate it to the Club. Pity Papneja cannot be part of this ‘poor man’s picnic’. He has to leave for Chandigarh this evening for a family function.
Jagmohan Papneja:
Chhota Kashmir is the only place for Mumbai citizens to enjoy boating. Boating timings are from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Hope you all will not regret visiting this location. But I will miss everyone. Have a great picnic. Wish you all the best.