Good Samaritan

Jagmohan Papneja

First things first: The contentious issue over replacing the lost mobile of a senior member (see yesterday’s post) was resolved this morning without a fuss. Jagmohan Papneja discreetly handed him a Nokia handset complete with its packaging, user’s manual and accessories. “It is an old, but unused piece lying at home,” Papneja said. “Take it, this is yours!”
We all have spare mobile phones lying around in our homes, but not one of us had cared to help the elderly gentleman in need.

Blessings and wishes for Ram Shankar Shukla

Instead, we made a song and dance on the gifting and here was Papneja (who wasn’t even in the loop) coming forward with a neat, unpacked set which took the old man by surprise. “How much do I pay for this?” was his first question. “Nothing, it’s yours,” repeated Papneja, in the true spirit of a samaritan. This shows his magnanimity – his compassion and largeness of heart -- something we all need to ‘learn’ desperately.
The other important event of the day was Ram Shankar Shukla’s 79th birthday. Doubled up, more out of a debilitating viral fever than age, he was at the Garden at Shekhawat’s behest but could barely stand.

Story session of the IPL match at Brabourne Stadium

He sat quietly on a bench, waiting for us to complete our exercises so that he could distribute some luddoos and return home. But by then his condition became so bad that Arun Patil had to drop him back by car.
Meanwhile, Srichand Arora had a captive audience clued to his recounting of the IPL playoff between CSK and Mumbai Indians at Brabourne Stadium last evening. He was there with Bhaswati Bose, right in the thick of action. Shekhawat informed he was seen “full tight” on TV, dancing around, but Arora insisted he had downed only three vodkas. Bhaswati mimicked his antics with the spectators and what a popular 'Uncle-ji' he had become to them. One "beautiful" (but mischievous) lady even compared him to Pollard, leaving Arora utterly confused over whether he had suddenly turned black in the stadium. Of course, drinks and food were unlimited and on the house, but more than anything, it was the electrifying atmosphere around that had left a lasting impact on the Club’s two hardcore cricket lovers.
Watch out for their photograph at the stadium this Sunday.
Jagmohan Papneja:
Congratulations, Shukla-ji on turning 79. Happy Birthday on this special day and wishing you continuous good health and happiness.
Bhaswati Bose:
* It's a nice gesture from Jagmohan-ji. We are lucky to have such a member in our club who believes in deeds rather than words.
* Shukla-ji, have a wonderful, happy and healthy birthday with many more to come!