Day 373

The guessing game over the “mystery man” of our July 24 (Day 360) post got a bit more intense as many turned up this morning just to know who he could be. “Result niklegi” was the refrain yesterday, particularly among the ladies who had pitched on people like Ved Prakash Grover and Dilip Babani. Geeta Sardana, a past winner, was most enthusiastic and in fact, even more confident about Srichand Arora being a “prime suspect”.
She was therefore quite disappointed when told that the contest was still open and the results would be declared only tomorrow (in this blog). Besides, it is highly probable that the “mystery man” could be someone who is at present not able to attend the Club due to ill-health. In the circumstances, it would be inappropriate that we should rejoice with a prize distribution -- at least till such time he remains absent.
This kept Geeta thinking. Arora was there in front of her eyes, looking hale and hearty. Her suspicion instantly shifted to Hari Singh Shekhawat and Grover, both known to be unwell. But ultimately, it goes to the lady’s credit that she stuck to her gut feeling and did not second-guess with another name.
In all this, we had overlooked the absence of Ramila Mistry (left, above), whose birthday it was today. Well, she is doing fine – just that she is pre-occupied with some overseas guests these days. We trust she will be having a wonderful celebration at home, and on our part, let us all wish her many happy returns of the day, good health, peace and prosperity.
Another member we will not be seeing for a while is Pratap Bhatt (above, right). He has left with his family to attend the Saawan Utsav at Pushkar. We wish him a safe and happy trip and look forward to his return on September 1.
Says RENU BABANI:
Today the constant chatter amongst certain ladies was quite a distraction. However, everyone somehow got involved and even the men seemed to be forgetting the routine. Actually it starts off with one or two ladies and slowly the rest join in. Then comes the blame game and no one wants to admit of starting the banter. I guess this is what we are all about. We just want to have fun and make the most of the morning. We have got so used to one another that if it gets too quiet, everyone wonders if things are alright. Do hope Mr Shekawat returns to the Garden soon. His will power and determination shall not keep him away and he'll be amongst us soon. Wishing Ramila a very happy birthday and God bless her always.
Says BHASWATI BOSE:
Janamdin Mubarak Ho, Ramila! Wish you a long and happy life.
Says HARISH WADHWA:
Happy Birthday "Smiling Face"!