Sanity Restored

Arun Patil's turn to conduct the exercises

Mallika Kagzi got her own back on Arun Patil over yesterday’s drama. It helped that none of the regular ‘teachers’ (including Srichand Arora and Razia Khan) were present today. So, just as the laughter round was getting over, she summoned Arun with one finger and directed him to take charge in the middle. Obediently Arun stepped in and got cracking without a murmur.
It was extremely sporting of Arun to conduct the exercises from start to finish – literally on one foot, as he hasn’t quite adjusted to his artificial leg yet.

Mallika congratulates Arun

Owing to certain technical problems, it has turned wobbly and there is always the risk of him losing balance and falling flat on his face (as it happened once). In fact, many suggested that he better take his walking stick or a chair for support, but he dismissed the idea with the vehemence of one on a singular mission to prove a point to Mallika Kagzi.
Funnily, this unusual display of bravado had the desired effect. Mallika did not expect Arun to so easily respond to her ‘challenge’ and then, last through the exercises without turning a casualty. Initially though, she heckled him saying, “Awaaz Tez” (Raise your voice), but as the exercises progressed, she became quiet and restrained – as though in silent admiration of his resilience and staying power. And in the end, when the exercises were over, she was the first to walk to the middle of the circle and congratulate Arun by shaking his hands. All was forgiven and sanity restored.
Lt Col Angad Singh (retd) from Mohali:
Congratulations Arun-ji for becoming Leader of the Day and conducting the class in a befitting manner. It proves the point that a man with grit and determination can overcome any hurdle. Arun is now differently-abled and certainly, the boldest one among us!