Pre-Platinum Jubilee

Next year, on this day, Srichand Arora shall be celebrating the platinum jubilee of his life. Today, on his 74th birthday, we got a foretaste of the celebration in the China Hut with the entire Club and his friends and acquaintances in the Garden jostling about to wish him on the occasion.

Greeting the guests

Memento from Bihari Milwani

Arora turned out in a smart belted black-on-black combo towards the end of the exercises, but just in time to be greeted by the fourth laughter -- customarily reserved for the birthday boy. He was late today, having been on a shopping spree of phapda-jalebi and dhokla -- his favorite treat whenever he has to celebrate. Bihari Milwani was already there, waiting with a beautiful laminated memento, specially crafted for the birthday. Mallika Kagzi brought flaskfuls of tea, but Arun Patil had separately placed orders with a popular chai shop in Goregaon.

Kajal Babani stuffs a dhokla

Playing the hospitable host

And since Arora had over-estimated the guest list, once again it was a matter of over abundance – of too much too soon. Even the watchman and the gardener and the milkman and their fathers and great grandfathers partook in the eats and tea.
Pity, his wife, Kiran Arora could not be there to witness all this. Yesterday, she had taken a strong cortisone shot for her arthritic knee and was in no condition to stir out of home. Usually the first two or three days of taking the injection are excruciatingly painful. As Arora disclosed later, she “was feeling quite guilty for not coming” this morning. Nothing can make him happier now should she recover fully from her pain and is back on her feet. That shall be the best birthday gift for Srichand Arora.
Kiran Prakash:
It was really a founder's birthday show. The enthusiasm of members greeting Arora-ji clearly spoke of the love and admiration he commands. I too, Arora-ji, once again wish you a healthy, happy and long life. And may you continue to serve humanity. I find it difficult not to mention Arun Patil here. During all such occasions he has been there to assist in every possible way and make an event memorable. We love you Arun.
Jagmohan Papneja:
Well, Arora-ji, you are another year older and have not changed one bit. That's great because you are perfect as ever in all respects. Wishing you good health, wealth, happiness and just about everything you desire. Happy Birthday, my great friend.
Harish Wadhwa:
Happy Budday, Arora-ji. Hope you have a blast tonight and may you have many healthy and wonderful years ahead. Treat toh hum kabhi bhi le lenge, aakhir hum bhi Badmaash Company wale hain!
Dilip Babani:
Happy Birthday, dearest Arora-ji. God bless you. Good nasta and chai!
Lt Col Angad Singh (retd):
Dear Arora-ji, wishing you again a very happy, healthy and enjoyable year ahead. It was an enjoyable treat. Waiting for the Platnium Jubilee. Some members who have joined after completion of the platinum year of age may also be considered - although belatedly.