Firing Line

Zarina Khan (from l), Khatoon Baig and Nahid Siddiqui accost Shekhawat

After the rollicking birthday celebration yesterday, Shekhawat found himself again in the firing line today (ref post of April 26).
“What kind of a birthday party was that?” questioned Zarina Khan, who led an all-woman attack on him after the exercises. “You think you can get away by giving us just biscuits and chocolates?”
“You think we are school children?” Nahid Siddiqui interjected. “Even in schools, they don’t celebrate birthdays with biscuits and chocolates these days. We demand another party – a proper party with namkeen and sweets and tea or cold drinks... There are so many nice things you can get from the market!”
Shekhawat was apparently enjoying all the female attention and made no effort to defend himself. On the contrary, he tried to provoke the ladies by arguing that it was a very “healthy treat” he had given and that everyone ought to follow his example. “Left to myself, I would have thrown a champagne

Fahmida and Shekhawat get into a scuffle

party yesterday,” he announced, eyes twinkling with mischief.
“Keep the champagne to yourself,” the ladies chorused and a hitherto quiet Khatoon Baig joined in.

Bijoy Gupta (file photo)

“Look at yourself,” she charged. “For days on end, you kept reminding us in advance to be present on your birthday. And this was what you had to offer – biscuits and chocolates? What sort of party was that?”
“We don’t accept it was a party,” said Fahmida Khan, appearing out of nowhere and suddenly taking matters in her own hands. She boxed Shekhawat straight on his chest and before she could land another sock, the two got into a scuffle. “Why didn’t you phone me before you gave the party yesterday? You better organize another party, or else...”
Earlier in the morning, Bijoy Gupta made a hasty exit from the Garden, holding his chest with both hands. He looked breathless. “I told him to keep his heart medicines handy,” informed Shekhawat, with whom Gupta had a quick word before leaving. “He was complaining of chest pain. Let’s hope it is nothing serious.”
Inquiries later revealed that it was not a heart condition, but acute dehydration. Gupta has been advised bed rest.

Lt Col Angad Singh (retd):
* One can see 'woman power' at its best in the Garden. The women in the Club have come of age and have become dauntless. They will bull charge at minimum provocation. Good show!
* During summer, we should be extra-careful. Consume liquids frequently. It may be in small quantities. Aam panna and lemon juice are the best. We are lucky in the Club to have two members who are very well versed in the care and maintenance of the heart. They should educate others on how to take care of heart problems. This will ease the issues and make us all relaxed.

Bihari Milwani:
Shekhawat’s wedding anniversary party is also overdue. He was at his native place at that time.