Half Century!

Arora and Razia Khan welcome the Gulzar couple

Mohammad Gulzar and wife Tabassum joined the Big Laaf family today. Barely three days back, Mohar Singh filed his membership form. With their induction, the Club membership has hit the half century mark – all 50 admitted through due process and endorsed by the managing committee of the Club.
The induction of new blood has not only changed the complexion of Big Laaf, but altered its internal dynamics as well. A fresh vibrancy has set in. From a time when attendance used to be at 10 to 15 people on an average, we are now witnessing no less than 30 regulars cheerfully taking part in the exercises every morning. If there is one reason for this resurgence of interest, it is the Club registration. The build-up has been steady after Big Laaf became a registered body last November.
Many however, feel that there should be a cap on membership and from now on, we should be extremely selective on admitting anybody new.

Mumtaz Jahan is adamant: She wants to celebrate on March 3

Otherwise the numbers would soon become unmanageable. Already compromises are noticed on celebratory treats, particularly birthdays. Earlier, provision for 20 or 25 members would suffice; but not so now. Mumtaz Jahan for instance, had planned her birthday celebration on February 14 (like every year) and distributed choco-toffees during the bus ride to Gorai. For some reason she felt that was inadequate and announced she would celebrate on February 16.
That soon became February 17. Last evening “after consulting Shekhawat”, the date became February 21. This morning, she provided a spot of entertainment by announcing that she would rather celebrate on Zarina Khan’s birthday, i.e. March 3. No amount of Srichand Arora assuring her not to bother would convince Mumtaz Jahan. “I wanted to distribute food packets of Rs30 each, but together we shall be able to give Rs60 packets on March 3”, she kept repeating.
Her plaintive appeal was drowned in laughter. But there is an obvious problem we cannot be blind to. Birthday treats should not be an obligation – far less a burden on anyone.
Lt Col Angad Singh (retd):
Hurrah! It is difficult to attain a half-century. Now completing a century must not contaminate our laafter feeling. Also, a birthday treat should not be a burden. It should be an event to enjoy and not an occasion to outdo one another.