Mega Event

Yusuf Rassiwala (c) reminds everybody to bring their kids on X'mas Day

The Christmas programme planned for December 25 (ref post of December 16) is shaping up to be a mega spectacle. The countdown has already begun and Yusuf Rassiwala is making daily announcements asking members to ensure that their grandchildren are present in the Garden by 8:00 a.m. next Wednesday for the event.
On a rough count, no less than 15 kids are likely to show up. With an equal number of adults (if not more) /regular members present and a live Santa Claus in full festive gear presiding over the gathering, this promises to be one huge Christmas celebration in the Garden the club is yet to see.
Clearly, what was originally conceived as a routine children’s get-together

Banoo Apa (l) treats us to biscuits

has now grown in proportion in our estimate, replete with a lot of chatter, music, games, gifts and eats. Several suggestions have come up for keeping the kids entertained and showcasing their talent in say dance, declamation, even singing. A musical chairs programme is also on the cards.
A proposal to award the winners in various competitive events with trophies was however, vetoed by Bihari Milwani, Kiran Prakash and Bhaswati Bose – their argument being that it would needlessly drive a wedge among the contestants who are at an impressionable age. An extra chocolate would perhaps suffice instead of causing any heartburn.
The argument makes sense since the kids would be of all ages and there will always be a risk of creating ‘unfair competition’ between them. Moreover, pitting girls against boys is just as unfair. It was therefore decided after some deliberation to treat everybody on an equal footing rather than reward or disregard anyone in particular.
That can well be our preserve when we meet on Sports Day, scheduled on February 14, 2020.