Big Boss

Mallika Kagzi

If proof be required of ‘the boss’ of Big Laaf, it was there in ample measure at the meeting called by the club president this morning. In a startling assertion of presidential authority, the otherwise mild-mannered Mallika Kagzi threw her weight around

Swati Punjabi gets a dressing down

in order to enforce discipline and set a few ground rules for our daily exercises.
She picked on members known for turning up late, being irregular and indulging in disruptive behaviour during the exercises and urged them to get serious or else, leave the Club. She did not spare Shekhawat even. “You are setting a bad example,” she warned him. “Watching you, others are turning unruly. Better improve yourself, or get out!”
Mallika was joined by Yusuf Rassiwala who was equally critical of the constant banter and tomfoolery during the exercises.

Yusuf  Rassiwala (l) and Kiran Prakash

“You do not realise how distracting all that can be,” he explained. “Such behaviour cannot be tolerated.”
The reprimand was heard in pin-drop silence, more so because Mallika admitted to being equally guilty of indiscipline at times.
But what won her the admiration and respect of all present was when she declared that we were one family and that nobody deserves to suffer for the misbehaviour of one or two members. “You are not alone,” she emphasised. “If someone insults or makes an insinuation, speak up. I am with you. We are in this together.”
In an unrelated development, Yusuf R has adopted Kiran Prakash as his younger brother. He has even christened the latter, “Chhutkan” – a name that has gained currency over the past few days. This happened after the two exchanged birth dates and Yusuf R discovered he was older to Prakash by a couple of years. But Chhutkan?!?
“That’s a name you give to a very small chap, a baby you can possibly carry in your lap,” said Prakash, visibly exasperated. “You’d have to first lift me in your arms before calling me Chhutkan!”
But the name has already stuck. Even Kajal Babani, the youngest member of the Club, is saying Chhutkan nowadays!
Kiran Prakash:
We have now a President who means business, does not tolerate nonsense and is not prepared to spare anybody, including herself. All this and much more with grace and respect to one and all. That makes Mallika different. Thanks to Yusuf Bhai for his affection towards me and the new name he has given. Those interested in calling me 'Chhutkan' can certainly do so. Just lift me in your lap with love and then call me 'Chhutkan'.
Kiran Prakash adds:
On going through the blog once again, I feel that sometimes I do not convey my feelings well. I was not at all exasperated. Rather, I was delighted. Where else, other than in this Garden, somebody with my height and age will be given such a lovely name -- 'Chhutkan'. Thank you Yusuf Bhai. I love you for rediscovering me.
Lt Col Angad Singh (from Mohali):
Lessons in discipline can be taught at any time. The President being a MOM, chose the pre-Mom Day to chastise all under her care. A motherly scolding along with chai-nashta is heartily welcome.