Grand Party

BANOO KHAN (in turquoise blue): HOSTESS OF THE MOSTEST

* That was one khatarnak nashta!”
* “I managed three helpings of gajar-ka-halwa!!”
* “Those who did not come today would be cursing their luck!!!”
These were snatches of comments from various guests who attended Banoo Apa’s grand party this morning. It was in celebration of her daughter, Rakshanda Khan being blessed with a baby girl, Anaya. And from all accounts, it was not mother, but the ‘grandmother’ of all parties we have ever had in the Garden.
From vada-pao and samosas to jalebis, dhokla, fried spring rolls, dry kachori, at least four different types of crispy, saboo-dana chips and rounded off with gajar-ka-halwa for dessert, it seemed as though Banoo Apa had raided a few confectionery shops in Lokhandwala to come up with such a lavish spread. Only someone with a whale’s appetite could have polished all of it together.

Helping hands

Section of guests

And on top, there was a choice of orange drink and tea. Little wonder, everyone was seen carrying ‘dog bags’ of whatever could not be consumed – that too provided by Banoo Apa.
In between, word got around that the breakfast bash would be followed by lunch at 1:00 p.m. sharp in the China Hut. Many took it seriously, wondering aloud whether to stick around till then or rush home, deposit their ‘loot’, freshen up and trudge back in time for a potential ‘great-grandmother’ of all fiestas.

Many THANKS!

Dividing the loot?

Fortunately wise counsel prevailed and restraint got the better of greed.
In all this abundance, if there was anything missing, it was the presence of Rakshanda and her wonderful hubby Sachin Tyagi. (We were at their wedding). Of course, it would have been too much to expect Anaya also to be out on a chilly January morning in the Garden. But all our blessings go to her as our good wishes shall remain with her proud parents. And Banoo Apa, words are inadequate to express our gratitude. It was really too much of a good thing.
Jagmohan Papneja:
I feel event management companies should have been present to understand what a perfect and enjoyable party can be all about. Thanks once again for such a grand party. May God bless Anaya, her parents and grand parents.
Lt Col Angad Singh (retd):
Indeed it was a sumptuous party. There were plenty of eats and of good quality. Most of the members carried the sweets home. A remarkable feast. I pray for the good health of the child, her parents and grand parents. The graceful and elegant hostess, Mrs Banoo really took a lot of trouble in arranging such a grant treat to be remembered for a long time. Incumbent Chairman, please note.
Kiran Prakash:
Thank you very much, Banoo. We all love you, Anaya. God bless you. A word of caution: We all should get our home kitchens CLOSED for the day if any such occasion arises in future. Once again, thank you Banoo. We are overwhelmed.