Put to Test

Arun Patil narrates his harrowing experience

It’s not food, food… and more food that binds us together as a Club. There are obviously more compelling reasons, often quite inexplicable, that have sustained and strengthened our bonding over the years. It is only in times of adversity that this bonding is put to test. And it shows, as it did today.
Arun Patil returned to the Garden this morning, after 40 days. He was in prison, locked up on charges that smacked of a scandal but has not been proved.

Brother-Sisterly Love

Circumstances suggested that it was a frame up. So it was only a matter of time before the truth would be out and he’d be able to re-join us.
That moment dawned today. Arun was at pains to explain his innocence and the circumstances that led to his arrest.

Nahid Khan celebrates her WoY-2015 award

We listened to him in rapt attention for a good half-hour enabling him to give vent to his pent-up bile and frustration. No one interrupted him. No one interrogated him. We did not judge him. We gave him no assurance. We stood together, silently telling him that no matter what, we were one with him.
But more than this show of solidarity, what we can never forget was when Arun turned up for the exercises.

Tara Chand Seth

It was an awkward moment, taking us by surprise. For here was a man, bitter with the world -- broken in spirit, financially ruined, low in self-esteem and unsure of whether he would be accepted. Anywhere else, chances were he would be treated as a pariah.
Only Mallika Kagzi understood that. She abandoned the exercises, walked up straight to Arun and like a sister greets her long-lost brother, warmly welcomed him back in our midst. We froze in disbelief. It requires rare courage, strength of character and an absolutely pure heart for a lady to behave like that. Our raising a fourth laugh for Arun’s return was only a follow-up on the way Mallika had handled the situation with such maturity.
Later, Tara Chand Seth sent word that if he could be of any help to Arun, financially or otherwise, he would like to be informed – even if it were to be after he moves to Delhi next week. He said he would leave behind suitable instructions with his brother and son in Mumbai.
Kiran Prakash:
Arun continues to occupy the same place in our hearts where he was 40 days back and he will always remain there. There are certain events in life which cannot be explained and it is better to let it remain unexplained. Any amount of admiration will not be enough for Mallika's gesture. Many a life's lesson we have learnt in the Garden during the past three days. We are indeed blessed.
Srichand Arora:
Dear Arun, on behalf of BIG LAAF, I welcome you back in our group and also to a normal life. You must have observed that the entire group is with you at any time. We pray to God that soon you will be proved innocent and stand vindicated. With open arms, once again, we welcome you.
Lt Col Angad Singh (retd):
It is with an open heart that we welcome our old colleague Arun-ji. We have missed him for a considerable time. Everyone listened to him with rapt attention. We are sure that his stand will be vindicated soon. We wish him a very happy and enjoyable life. It is a very good gesture on the part of Tara Chand-ji to offer help without any strings. Such friends are rare.