Two-in-One

Rukhsana Khan is at the centre (in pink) flanked by friends and well-wishers

Preparing for the party

Our annual Diwali bash was held on a grand scale this morning, courtesy Rukhsana Khan. She was the one to foot the bill, as it coincided with her birthday celebration. In an unusual turn of events, she had combined both occasions and we could partake in one party instead of two.
Actually, Rukhsana’s birthday is tomorrow. Since it happens to be a Sunday, she had planned to celebrate on Monday (“after I’d be born”, she said), thereby leaving today clear for the club’s Diwali party.
But then, it was felt that having two parties so close would be in excess – not to mention, incur

Rukhsana receives her birthday calendar

expenditure that is avoidable. Thus, at the

Guests spill out on the road

instance of Yusuf Rassiwala Rukhsana agreed to advance her birthday celebration and we ended up having a two-in-one party today.
Rukhsana had come to the Garden resplendent in a gorgeous salmon pink ensemble with dainty tone-on-tone embroidery, looking many years younger for her years. She playfully posed for photographs and at her behest, got Arun Patil to present her with the birthday calendar on behalf of the Club. All morning she was surrounded by friends and admirers, including personal invitees like Mallika Kagzi, Bunty and Vasudev Batheja.
Thanks to her, we could have a full house at the Garden this morning – something rather unusual these days.
Dilip Babani:
Happy Birthday, Rukhsana-ji.