44th Anniversary

Fehmida and hubby Rashid Khan flanked by well-wishers on their anniversary celebration in the Garden today

“Today we have completed 44 years of our journey together,” announced Fehmida Khan’s husband, Ustad Rashid Khan, thus setting off their wedding anniversary celebration this morning in the Garden.
When asked how eventful the ‘journey’ has been, Fehmida promptly retorted: “Don’t ask.

Shekhawat salutes and presents a bouquet

Husband 'n' wife cut the anniversary cake

Just ask how I have endured this man all along!”
“I can only say that everybody should get a wife like her,” the genial banjo exponent declared. “We wish we could have this celebration more often, but this occasion comes but once in the year. Thank you all for being here and making it so special for us.”
Taking the cue from this light-hearted banter, Shekhawat stepped up, clicked his heels and pulled off a smart salute before presenting a bouquet of flowers to the Khan couple on behalf of the Club. Instantly, everyone broke into a loud chorus, clapping and singing, “Congratulations… and celebrations!!!”

The couple share the 'first bite'

Fehmida distributes sealed packs of sheera

Earlier in the morning, we raised the customary fourth laugh at the end of the exercises. Fehmida had ensured a sizeable turnout, having personally invited her friends for the occasion. (But where was Banoo Apa anyway?) Fehmida had also burned the midnight oil to prepare sealed packets of sheera for all invitees as takeaways.
The most heartwarming moment though was when husband-‘n’-wife jointly cut the Anniversary Cake amid another round of applause. Fehmida gave Rashid Miyan the first bite and the latter reciprocated in like manner. Only thereafter could we devour the cake -- wiping off the remains in minutes!
Indeed, we could do very well with the celebration more often.