Happy Reunion

FULL HOUSE: Happy days are here again!

Today was the first day of the exercises after Ramzaan–Eid. And what a sight it was! The Garden had magically transformed into a beautiful fairyland of colors, buzzing with laughter and easy bonhomie as we reveled in the cool aftermath of an overnight shower.

Exercises under an overcast sky

There were 15 of us today – the ladies, most of them turning up in their festive best for what was to be a happy reunion of sorts.
This was in sharp contrast to the desultory and distressful spell of oppressive heat and humidity during which just four or five (at best six) used to show up for the exercises.

Banoo Apa is not well

Our friends, returning from their Ramzaan break, have obviously ushered in the good times with them.
The month-long fasting and prayers seems to have done them a world of good as well. Nahid Khan has recovered fully from the nasty fall which had impeded the movement of her right arm. Yusuf Rassiwalla looked unusually fit and trimmed down for his years. Likewise, Naheed Siddiqui showed no signs of fatigue or listlessness, even reporting for the exercises early.
The most discernible change though, could be seen in Khatoon Baig. Many went up to compliment her for looking exceptionally ‘healthy and happy’ – a huge improvement from the drowsy, disoriented and stressed out person we had seen a month back. Obviously used to such adulation, she said she would now be staying with her folks in Dadar whenever she needed to recoup her health.
Sadly, Banoo Apa was the only exception. She came limping slowly into the Garden, holding her back in obvious pain and unable to talk properly. She was not her usual self. Turns out she had taken up a major spring-cleaning work at home (in place of a help who ditched her at the eleventh hour) and hurt herself badly. She could as well have taken rest today, but came to the Garden mainly to touch base with old friends -- such is her attachment with the Club. We wish her a speedy recovery.

Lt Col Angad Singh (retd):
It is good that members are making efforts to come regularly for the exercises and laughter. The fasting is useful and always beneficial for health. I hope Banoo Apa is fit soon.

Bihari Milwani:
Even Lord Varun, the rain god was happy with our reunion today. He did not disturb our exercises.