1. religion and spirituality
2. buddhism

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www.delhigymkhana.org.in
April 2015 • Vol. 4 • No. 19
A monthly inhouse newsletter
Delhi Gymkhana Club, 2, Safdarjung Road,New Delhi 110011
From the
President’s
Desk
for private circulation only
the crowd of over 2700 spellbound, in the pristine environs
of the Centenary Lawn. For those Members who missed
out on this very interesting event, the live webcast can be
accessed on “YouTube”, where all such major events of the
Club are being uploaded for posterity.
Dear Members,
March 2015 saw a flurry of activities at the Delhi
Gymkhana Club. The weather Gods were extremely kind,
and the extended spell of pleasant weather helped in no
small measure.
There were a series of outstanding presentations organised
by the Knowledge Club during the month starting with
Saeed Naqvi’s assessment of the politico social genesis and
insight of the ISIS. This was followed by release of Col.
N. Kumar’s book on Mountaineering in the Himalayas.
Equally interesting were the presentations made by Capt.
Kohli who led the first Indian Expedition to Everest, Brig.
Darshan Khullar and Major HPS Ahluwalia all renowned
mountaineers in their own right. Then followed Gen.
Bikram Singh’s presentation on “Challenges for the
Indian Army in the Next Decade”, which covered a vast
range of issues, both during the presentation, as also the
very participative question-answer session that followed
thereafter.
The event of the month was undoubtedly the visit of His
Holiness The Dalai Lama to the Club and the munificent
blessings that he bestowed on the congregation. I do not
recall such a large turn-out at the Club in recent years.
Kudos to the Club staff for handling the unprecedented
rush with calm and finesse. His Holiness touched upon
various issues related to “Ethics and Happiness” and kept
That same evening, the Entertainment Sub-Committee
organised an exquisite dance drama performance by
Kathak Guru Padma Shri Shovana Narayan and the
Asavari repertory. This was an enthralling and artistic
presentation, once again extending the theme of rightversus-wrong. In essence, it was an extension of the Dalai
Lama’s message delivered earlier that day.
Similarly, the presentation by Padma Shri Dr. P.K.
Chowbey on “Diabetes and Obesity, is it curable?”, as well
as his illustration of new advances in endoscopy surgery,
was well received by all Members.
Last but not the least in the series of Knowledge Club events
was Mr. JL Singh’s "Romance of the Indian Railways”,
which touched upon several facets of the Indian Railways
unknown to most members. The presence of Shri Suresh
Prabhu, Minister for Railways only added lustre to the
event, and it was heartening to see the presence of a large
number of Railwaymen who are members of the Club
turning up for the event and sharing anecdotes while
reminiscing about their years in service. The Knowledge
Club should perhaps organise more such service-oriented
events, capturing the evolution of different organised
services, over the last 100 years.
Sports activities have picked up once again with the
grass-courts coming alive with the Indo-British Tennis
Matches. The “Sir Harcourt Butler Trophy” was wrested
by the Gymkhana Team for the second time in succession.
Members will be happy to note that the clay-courts after
renovation are back in use and are reportedly in excellent
condition. The Club is ready to receive the budding tennis
players who would be using these refurbished courts as
part of “Rendezvous A Roland - Garros”, an Indo-French
collaboration commencing in early April. The Sports
Committee is also coming up with an all-weather gym
which will be located between the tennis courts and the
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April 2015
adjacent footpath. I would urge Members to make full use
of these outdoor facilities as often as possible.
The General Committee will be implementing from April
onwards the decision to levy a composite Sports Fee of
Rs.100 per month. With this, the earlier system of monthly
sports charges levied for each sport will be discontinued.
Separate charges for using the facility of markers / guests
charges, will however, continue as hithertofore.
The renovation of the Pool and Changing Room is
progressing well and should be up and running by the
middle of April 2015. We therefore intend to organise the
Sports Dinner in the last week of April 2015, as planned.
The New Infrastructure Project has received the final
clearance from the Heritage Conservation Committee
and the process of inviting tenders is underway. We hope
to organise the Foundation Laying Ceremony of the
new complex at the earliest. Separately, the project for
sewage treatment and solid waste management has been
finalised at a cost under Rs.120 lakhs and the work will
be commencing shortly. All external wiring in the Club
has been taken down and replaced with underground
cables in an effort to give a neat look to the Club premises.
Recarpeting of the internal roads has been authorised and
will be taken up in the week commencing 30th March
2015. Members are requested to kindly bear with the
temporary inconvenience for about one week.
As in previous years, the Earth Hour was observed in the
Club on 25th March 2015.
The General Committee felicitated our veteran Members
together with their spouses by hosting the “Golden
Moments” event on 22 March 2015. It was heartening to
meet the 23 Couples who could make it for lunch, which
was full of fun and nostalgia.
Lastly, the Food and Catering Sub-Committee, taking a
cue perhaps from the Budget Session, has recommended
rationalisation of rates of some of the fast-moving items.
I am sure that Members will welcome the relief in prices,
along with improvement in quality that is visible to all.
With Best Wishes !
Bhai Vijay Chhibber,
President
The Night of the Mountaineers
Credo of those who dare
The difficult takes a little time
When the going gets tough
The IMPOSSIBLE a little longer
The tough get going
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April 2015
Vishu
Editorial
Bihu
Mere punjab di mitti jad wee
Mainu vajaan maar bulandi hai,
Har din mere dil vich
Ik navin vaisakhi aandi hai
- internet
W
hat
a
momentous
experience!
We
had
anticipated that being a working
day, and the proceedings
scheduled in the afternoon
of an advancing summer, the
attendance for the visit of HH
the Dalai Lama would be around
1100. In the event it turned out to
be around 2700. Steeplechasing
through traffic snarls, and with
cars jostling three abreast to
enter the club, I ran, coat in hand,
through the Out Gate to the Centenary Lawns arriving just
in time. Hours of intense preparations in the past two days
had paid off. The Centenary Lawns were all dressed up in
their finery, and packed to capacity.
There was an ecstatic atmosphere as His Holiness
arrived and slowly but steadily made his way through the
throng of admirers, to the tastefully decorated stage. The
commencement, when Mrs. Reena Chhibber and young
Akshita welcomed His Holiness on behalf of all members
of the club. The moment that will forever be etched in our
memory is when His Holiness blessed the Gymkhana family
and our Second Home, the Gymkhana Club. The talk by His
Holiness was heard with rapt attention by an appreciative
audience and the answers to questions at the end of the talk
together with his omnipresent smile left everyone spellbound.
Our dedicated, responsive Gymkhana Club staff rose to
the occasion (as they always do), and ran the proceedings
seamlessly. Kudos to them.
We were fortunate to have a series of the very top speakers
such as Gen Bikram Singh, former Army Chief, Harish
Salve and Saaed Naqvi address our members. ‘The Night of
the Mountaineers’ showcased the valour and courage of our
club members who have achieved world records. The well
attended, interesting talk on the Railways also witnessed the
presence of the Railway Minister. This was rounded off by a
talk on health care by Dr Chowbey, a Padamshree and one of
the leading lights of the medical profession in India.
As I sink into thought and analyse, a very interesting aspect
strikes me. Very few institutions in the country have the
degree, variety and depth of knowledge, experience and
talent that is embedded in our Club. We have members who
have reached the very top of their profession in a vast arena,
covering almost every vocation of significance. Can we utilize
this vast pool of knowledge and experience for the betterment
of society and the nation at large? Some members have even
suggested ‘Think Tanks’. All volunteers of course. Any views?
Do write to us.
We at the ‘knowledge club’ and ‘Club Life’ are both humbled
and elated at the response that continues to pour in from
members across the spectrum.
With respect to the Knowledge Club. Keeping in mind
the level of intellect amongst our fraternity, it has been
our constant endeavour to match the same, by bringing
in speakers of repute to address issues of importance,
knowledge and relevance. Along with this, we strive to create
an administrative environment which is in keeping with
the elite status of our club; to enable us to take pride in the
standards set by our Institution, even as we share it with
family and friends. In April, talks have been scheduled for
Ms Meira Kumar, erswhile speaker of the Loksabha and Mr
Ram Jethmalani, renowned Lawyer. As regards ‘Club Life’ it
is your inputs in terms of articles, thoughts and ideas which
form the backbone of your magazine. Do keep contributing
to it.
A request. We do wish that you have a delightful evening
with your guests at the club. May we also appeal to members
that guests be acquainted with the club rules and decorum
such as, appropriate dress (both for ladies and gentlemen),
questions to be framed in polite language, and to desist from
reserving chairs for those who are not present. Guests arriving
late are easily accommodated at the back, where adequate
arrangements exist in terms of seating, audio equipment and
screens.
Till we meet again.
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GS UBAN
[email protected] • + 91 98 100 76770
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Sub Committee Reports
Food & Catering Sub Committee
Come March, the food festivals, family
lunches bring up the ambience and setting of
the Kashmir lawns to its best. During such
festivals,special arrangements were in place
for the club elders and differently-abled. Such
members were provided with table service
by our catering staff. Apart from sincere
appreciation it also cemented a new relationship between the
members and the staff. I think the good days are here again
in the life of the club. Let us sustain it with dignity and enjoy
the ambience of our Second Home.
The club having won the cases of Service Tax in the tribunal,
the contingency charges levied on all food and beverages
bills will be dropped soon as confirmed by the Finance Sub
Committee. Approval for revision of rates for snacks and fast
moving food items has since been received and I am happy to
inform you that the new revised rates have come into effect
from 21st March 2015 for the following items:Tea, Pastry, Bread, Omelettes, Veg Pakora, Samosa, Chicken
Sandwich, Chicken Tikka, Chicken Patty, Chicken Tandori
and Chocolate Truffle Cake.
Incidently the month of March is also the time for your Sub
Committee to engage itself in finalising the tenders for the
fresh supplies. I assure you that your Sub Committee will not
leave any stone unturned to ensure that the procurement prices
are kept as low as possible through protracted negotiations so
that there is no/ negligible hike in the food item rates of the
club.
Last but not the least, I, on behalf of the catering fraternity
extend our condolences on the sad and sudden demise of
Ms. Sangeeta Anand w/o Dr. Rajiv Anand who has been a
source of inspiration and motivation behind many Biryani
Festivals in our club. We pray to God almighty that her
soul rest in peace and give strength and courage to her near
and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.
Finance Sub Committee
Brig Bikram C Rana
The Good News of the spring season was
passed on to you last month. The Corollary
to that would be that we will stop charging
Service Tax on all your bills very shortly. Of
course, this is subject to the Tribunal decision
not being challenged by the Department in
the Supreme Court.
Our new Internal Auditors, M/s KPMG have started their
work at the Club. They shall be studying the functioning and
financial prudence of various sections of the club. We shall
keep updating you with their relevant reports.
Rupinder Anand
April 2015
Outdoor Sports Sub Committee
The Annual Sports Dinner will be held on
24th April 2015 at 8.30 pm. Details later.
The Sir Harcourt Butler fixture against the
British High Commission on 22 March 2015
was a grand success. As expected, the Delhi
Gymkhana team won by a large margin. This
is a social event and was captained and organised by Mr CM
Sharma.
The club shall be upgrading the lighting for the hard courts.
The club will be organising a tournament for our ball boys.
Forthcoming events:
The' Road to Rolland Garros' is being held on the clay courts
from 1-4 April. This is an AITA fixture and the India winner
will compete for a wild card to the French Open. The finals
will be held on 4 April and members are welcome to watch
the matches.
A tennis clinic will be conducted for our Juniors on 9 April
2015 by Tim Henman on behalf of the 'Road to Wimbledon,
on the grass courts.
Outdoor Gymnasium
We are installing some select outdoor equipment on a trial
basis to supplement more specific workout for our walkers!
So heres to a healthy and fit outdoor life.
Arjun Sawhny
Entertainment Sub Committee
It has been the endeavour of your
Entertainment Committee to present to you a
variety of programmes. In the month of April
there we will be two exciting events - the first
one on 11th April is a Qawwali Muqabala- an
entertaining programme where the versatile
Baby Naaz Warsi and world famous Nizami
Brothers will compete with one another. On 25th april we
will be presenting to you a hilarious play titled " Taj Mahal
Ka Udghatan" which is a sequel to the famous play called
"Taj Mahal Ka Tender".
It was heartening to see the response for "Aadhaar" card from
Club as well as Staff members. Keeping in view the demand
we will conduct another one in the month of May / June
2015.
SP Rawal
O Lord please bless me.
Give me coffee in the morning
To change the things I can.
And whiskey in the evening
To accept the things I cannot change!!
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Introduction to Army life
O
n first commissioning, I was posted to
the Regiment of Artillery. Here I was
deeply involved in imbibing Regimental
and Army customs and traditions with ‘Josh
and Gusto’, when I was asked to attend my
first Officers Mess General Body meeting.
These were held to discuss various issues
concerning the Officer’s Mess, as also to
elect members for various assignments to
ensure the efficient running of the Mess.
During the meeting, as a young officer I was sitting quite
relaxed paying scant attention to the goings on when I heard
someone take my name, stating that I had volunteered to
take on the assignment of Garden Member. Lo and behold
this was promptly seconded, and after a speedy voting I was
declared elected. 'Why me, I asked myself. I have not an iota
of knowledge of gardening. I could not even differentiate
between a weed and a seed'. With a grumpy and downcast
face I went in for lunch.
A fortnight later I was told that the Commanding Officer had
decided to carry out an inspection of the Officers Mess Garden.
All of them are sadists I muttered to myself, and with these
thoughts I left my other Regimental Duties, went straight to
the Head Gardener beseeching him to give me a quick half an
hour concentrated capsule on gardening, flowers, bushes and
what have you. I took this briefing seriously (albeit in Bhojpuri
hindi) and hoped that I had learnt adequately enough not to
make an ass of myself during the Co’s inspection.
With concocted self confidence I was ready to brief the
Commanding Officer the next morning. The CO pointed
towards a flower and asked me its name. I proudly stated
‘Kuta Phool’. He looked away and then pointed at another
one which I promptly called ‘Billy Phool’.
Commanding Officers in those days were demi Gods. Based
on my educated responses, he made it clear to me that in his
entire service, this was the first time he had come across a
moron, a nincompoop and a dunce, all rolled into one. A few
days later, the Second in Command, aware of my predicament
and to forestall any further humiliation suggested that I
volunteer to switch over assignments with the existing Wine
Member of the mess. A dignified sacking what?
Wine Member
I asked the Mess Abdar to open the wine cellar and to my
utter amazement found the cellar bursting at its seams with
a large variety of wines, numerous varieties of whiskey, and
liqueurs galore. The British had left recently leaving the cellar
fully replenished; and what a collection!! After one of the daily
formal Dinner Nights I decided to open up one of these weird
sounding liqueurs and poured a small peg for taste. I ended up
relishing it no end. I continued this ritual every evening for the
next five days opening a new bottle each night, after dinner.
On Monday morning the Mess Havildar informed me that
the Second in Command of the Regiment had sent for me. I
hesitatingly entered his office, where he angrily asked me to
explain as to why on earth I had opened five different expensive
bottles of liqueurs. Did I not know that if these bottles were
left unconsumed over a period of time they would have to be
destroyed having exceeded their shelf life? As a punishment
he decided that I would pay for each of these bottles over the
next six months or so, till I liquidated my debts. It was early
in the morning and in spite of no wine in me I felt dazed
and glazed. And then an idea struck me. I would run ‘Liqueur
Tasting Classes’ for my colleagues. Two days later I decided to
start a short course for the young officers after dinner every
night. That evening I placed on the Mess Notice Board details
of the classes. All they had to pay was for the drinks they took
and of course an unannounced, small peg as ‘Guru Dakshina’
each night for their unsought guru. To my amazement I had
ten willing participants. We enjoyed ourselves in boisterous
merriment night after night, and before the month was over
I had liquidated my debts to the Officers Mess. The President
of the Mess Committee was stunned and disappointed. I was
now summoned once again and told that he would charge me
for ‘an act unbecoming an officer and a gentleman’, in that, I
was encouraging drunkenness amongst the young officers of
the Regiment. Of course he gave me an option. Could I as a
Wine Member tell him how many Large pegs were there in
a 75ml bottle of whisky and what was the Abdar allowed as
spillage? Search me if I knew. Because of this lapse I was to
take over additional charge as the Regimental Sanitary and
Anti Malaria Officer. As a young officer do what you will but
you are always wrong!!
Regimental Sanitary and Anti Malaria Officer
For the next few months during Off Parade hours I was to
accompany the Head Sweeper and the Sanitary Havaldar, and
ensure no mosquitoes dared to sing their sopranos in or out of
tune. The beauty of this job was that I became a much sought
after entity by the married officers, and with the help of the
‘Fatigue Party’ at my command, ended up having their digs
spotlessly clean. .
Much later I learnt from an experienced soldier who advised
me never to walk behind a mule because it was liable to kick
and never, never in front of a senior officer as he would without
question ‘BITE’. In later years it dawned on me that there was
scant difference between these two. Both were past masters at
kicking and biting with equal gusto.
Maj Gen NC Khanna (Retd) (P 0632)
'Children', have respect for your parents.
They passed school without google.
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April 2015
Knowledge Club - Shri Saeed Naqvi
Knowledge Club - Gen Bikram Singh
Knowledge Club -Shri JL Singh
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April 2015
HH The Dalai Lama leaves a lasting impression on the
Delhi Gymkhana Club
T
here is a very old saying, "All
roads lead to Rome." On the
23rd of March that saying could very
aptly be changed to" All roads lead to
the Delhi Gymkhana Club as there
was an unprecedented crowd to hear
His Holiness the Dalai Lama address
members of the club.
Organised by the Knowledge Club of
the DGC, this was a one of a kind opportunity to hear
the Dalai Lama and I really can't recall seeing such a
large and well attended function at the Delhi Gymkhana
till date!The decor was fantastic and the buzz in the
audience was palpable. While the event was scheduled
for 2 pm, the crowd had started assembling from 1230
and by the time we managed to get in by 1.20 pm, the
seats were almost all taken.
His Holiness, the Dalai Lama is the spiritual leader of the
Tibetan people who frequently states that his life is guided
by three major commitments- the promotion of basic human
values or secular ethics in the interest of human happiness, the
fostering of inter-religious harmony and the preservation of
Tibet's Buddhist culture, a culture of peace and non-violence.
Despite the fact that it was a hot afternoon, the Dalai
Lama received an enthusiastic welcome at the Gymkhana
Club where he spoke about the need to foster both warmheartedness and intelligence. He told the audience-“All our
knowledge came from India. One great Tibetan master in the
early 15th century remarked that although Tibet is nominally
bright with snow, until the light of knowledge came from
India, Tibet had remained in the dark."
“You Indians are our gurus and we are the disciples, but I
think we have proved to be reliable disciples because we have
well preserved the knowledge we gained from you.”
He spoke of the need to promote ethics in a secular way,
clearly indicating that all human beings.are the same.If we
are honest, truthful and transparent it will lead to trust and
trust yields friendship. For social animals like us, friendship is
very important. Taking a more ethical approach in this very
life will bring self-confidence and inner peace.”
The animated talk was followed by a Question answer session
where the Dalai Lama talked about the Buddha giving his
followers the liberty to question his teachings and examine
them with reason. He pointed out that the Buddha had given
different explanations on different occasions according to
the dispositions of those listening to him. With regard to
emptiness of intrinsic existence, it doesn’t mean that things
don’t exist at all. He cited an 11th century master who said,
"The hand is empty, fire is empty and burning is empty, but if
you put your hand in the fire there will be pain.”
When questioned about 'karma' the Dalai Lama said that the
word 'karma' meant action. While some people blame what
happens to them on ‘their karma’, they really don’t stop to ask
who created this karma? Was it themselves? In response to
doubts about the presence of ancient values in contemporary
society, he was clear - there was a distinct need to make an
effort to preserve positive traditional values in the community.
To close the event, the Club Managing Committee thanked
His Holiness for coming, praising him as a man of peace and
a rare human being, and the members who thronged the path
to catch a closer glimpse of him as he left, couldn't agree more!
My Take on the Dalai Lama-Highly articulate with a wealth
of knowledge, witty, a firm believer in secularism, a great
respect for all religions.
As for that afternoon, in a word, unforgettable!
Sunaina Serna Ahluwalia (P 4407S)
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April 2015
His Holiness The Dalai
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April 2015
Lama - 23 March 2015
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April 2015
The Regimental Spirit
T
here was this telephone call that
came in, off and on, every few days,
from AK’s Regiment: ‘Is there anything
we can do ma’am? Are you all right
ma’am?’.
The Indian Army always had us
‘civilians’ in awe of them through our
younger days. Words like ‘Battalion’
and ‘Regiment’ overwhelmed us… little
did I know how closely I would come to
engage with it all.
After our marriage, AK would talk of his
Regiment, the 57 Engineer Regiment,
with pride. It seemed to be a living
breathing entity. There’d be a faraway
look in his eyes when he spoke of it,
always with deep respect, and a sense
of belonging, as if it was sacrosanct–
its sanctity not negotiable at any cost.
He could speak for hours, over days,
about the great time he had had during
his first posting as commissioned 2nd
Lieutenant to the Regiment, in the
forward Himalayan areas of Sikkim.
Of how every day brought a challenge,
a danger often to life and limb, and
their numerous novel experiences.
Most stories had adventure beyond the
normal but he and his friends seemed
to take it all in their stride.
This was true even when they partook
in a gruelling ‘khud race’ in high altitude
areas, each man weighed down by
more than twenty kilos in weapon,
ammunitions, equipment and food,
over the 30 kilometres circuit, ranging
from 9,000 feet above mean sea level,
slithering and goat-hopping down
to 3,000 feet, before reverting uphill
to climb through passes, over spurs,
circumventing abysses, streams and
gorges, to climb up to 14,500 feet,
and then descending back to 9,000.
It was a race in which the Paltan’s
(Regiment’s) izzat (honour) was all that
mattered. During a khud race a soldier
could cough blood and collapse dead
before any assistance could reach him.
The miniscule and insignificant man
plodding up and down the ethereal
peaks–most revered as incarnations
of the Gods–tested human endurance
to its limits even as he experienced
the sheer exalted grandeur of it. The
advantage of the slight insanity that
sometimes
accompanies
youthful
vibrancy and energy, has made him as
much part of the lofty heights and its
rarified mountain air.
I was not to get to know the "haloed"
57 Engineer Regiment till after AK’s
amputation, and his return from
his voyage around the world. He
volunteered–in fact insisted against
the advice of his superiors–to be
posted back to the Regiment. Being
an above-knee amputee, he had had
to sign a bond indemnifying the army
against anything that may happen to
him upon joining his Regiment which
was then operating in the rugged and
insurgency affected areas of Nagaland.
He was warned that the areas were not
for ‘disables’.
I soon learnt that for soldiers and
officers alike, the Regimental bond
was magical. Together, they were men
transformed. The brotherhood was at
first difficult to comprehend. After all,
what was it that held them together?
That they would never let each other
down even at the cost of the family
or their own self ?!?! Why? For a wife,
it could be often inexplicable and
exasperating. What was it really?
All I can say is that I have, over time,
changed sides and become as much a
part of the Regiment as them. It has
begun to mean almost as much to me,
as it does to them. And yet it remains
a phenomenon easier experienced and
understood, than explained logically.
Occasionally, one would hear the terms,
‘civilian,’ ‘businessman’, ‘politician’,
spoken in a derogatory manner (‘bloody
civilian’ and so on). Hadn’t I too, once,
been a ‘bloody civilian? Was it not a
negative side of their regimentation?
Those days of youthful zest and
consequent extreme expressions are
over. I believe in the individual and
collective value system offered by the
great way of life that is the Army.
10 • www.delhigymkhana.org.in
And yet, the civilian and the military
can be equally exasperated and
uncomprehending of each other’s value
systems–these ‘bloody’ Army guys!
Mrs Asha Singh (wife of
Maj AK Singh)
(Maj AK Singh sailed the Oceans
of the world with one leg amputated
above the knee.)
The Living Buddha
A farmer's son barely two years old
was he
Imbued with uncanny wisdom and a
superior mind.
Surprise it was not to wise men who to
Dorkhum came
For they knew there was to be found, a
child, destiny's chosen kind.
In course, when four, he journeyed in
state to Lhasa.
Accompanied by leity and many lamas
in reverence buoyed.
Gleefuly enthroned was he at Potala as
the Fourteenth Dalai Lama.
Entire populace of Tibet and
Buddihsts of the world danced
overjoyed.
Smiling he always is, laughter in his
eyes ever behold.
Preaching patience, non violence and
faith that lives.
Spiritual pleasure derived from
religion, a crying human need.
Happiness therein resides; materialism
ephemeral pleasures only gives.
Long live Dalai Lama, an evolved
human, oh thou living buddha.
Thou art the enlightened one, striving
to bring peace to all.
Extracts from poem by
Col BK Chopra (P 0564)
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April 2015
DGC Retains Sir Harcourt Butler Tennis Trophy
T
he second edition of the trophy was held at the DGC
on 22nd March 2015. This championship was started
in 2014 when the trophy was instituted by the British High
Commission as part of the DGC Centenary Celebrations.
The BHC has a special relationship with the DGC as
this club was started in 1913 at the premises which is
the present residence of the British High Commissioner.
DGC later shifted it to its current location.
The BHC team, comprising of 8 gentlemen & 4 ladies,
was captained by Russell Abel. DGC was represented by
10 gentlemen & 4 ladies and captained by CM Sharma.
Team BHC: Russell Abel – Capt., Victor M., Andy
Stewart, Andy Cole, Nigel Eeles, Martin Neyland,
Jonathan Cook, Damien Racape, Ms. Alison Cole, Ms.
Nat Hurd, Ms. Eve Platt, Ms. Winne Neyland
Team DGC: C M Sharma – Capt, Gurpreet Singh, R
I Singh, V K Mathur, Deepak Kapoor, Vikram Anand,
Raveen Chaudhry, Rohit Sharma, Yogesh Prasad, Dinesh
Mathur, Ms. S. Badhwar, Ms. Sween, Mr. Fransje Just, Ms.
K. Kunzru.
18 matches of 1 set each were played and the DGC team
won 15 of the 18 matches. All sets were closely contested
and the ultimate result was 104 -48 games in favour of
DGC.
It has been decided that hosting of this event will be
alternated between BHC & DGC.
The prizes were distributed by Mrs. Rano Uban and
the trophy was awarded to the DGC Captain by Arjun
Sawhney, Chairman of DGC Sports Committee. The
prize distribution was followed by a High Tea.
For this event, Mr. Raveen Chaudhry of Amul India had
sponsored exotic ice-creams and energy drinks for the
players and guests.
11 • www.delhigymkhana.org.in
clublife
April 2015
This or That
I
remember when we were children our
Grandma was always around to tell us
to do this or that. And whenever we asked
her why, she always had a ready logic for
an answer. So we grew up on this life
Mantra – the Mantra of cause and effect
relationship. ‘Do good, reap good, ‘Work
hard, achieve success,’ etc. But while
growing up, somewhere down the line this
Mantra became more of an enigma, raising ‘whys’ but not
providing with reasons, the way our Granny did. So many
‘whys’ were left unanswered.
I found this disconnect between the cause and its effect
bothersome, especially the one I am going to quote now
– the disconnect between success and talent. One thinks
that it is logical for people to be successful when they use
their talent and skills zealously, creatively, intelligently in
a fiercely dedicated manner. But treading on this logic, we
see many a time persons, who can best be described as copy
cats with just average intelligence, snatching the glory from
the deserving ones who are loaded with extraordinary talent
and are working hard to reach the foothold of success.
Now why does this happen? Granny might have had the
answer; but I find it puzzling, baffling and confusing to
say the least. It does not fall into any logical framework in
which we grew. When we are not able to find any logic or
coherent reason, we end up by saying, ‘It is destiny’. And I
too thought this way till recently, and this is how it played
out.
I went to attend a function. It was a Book Launch function
of one of my classmates. Normally I avoid going to such
events, conferences or seminars which are not directly
related to my profession. I skip party Invites also unless the
host is very well known to me. But since my friend was
persistent I gave in. I was quite surprised when I read the
title of her book ‘Global Warming’. I recalled that in college
days she had never shown even a vague interest in such
issues. Nor had she revealed any inclination or ability or
interest in writing. Even her tutorials would be a copy paste
job from those of others who wrote them after research and
hard work. In fact I remembered her more for her habit of
cutting classes, sitting in coffee house chatting, gossiping
and making new friends while guzzling down cups of coffee.
She had to struggle hard to reach the minimum attendance
required to be eligible for sitting for the examination. Any
way past was past. I was happy for her.
The Chief Guest, a renowned personality, lauded nationally
for his deep understanding of environmental issues
congratulated the author for writing a book relevant to the
present times. He applauded her effort and made a passing
reference about her brilliant academic record. I gasped for
breath and wondered which brilliant academic record he
was referring to?
But that was not all! Next morning’s news papers carried her
picture with the Chief Guest holding the newly launched
book. To beat it, there were small write ups too. In fact one
of the papers carried rave views of the book. Wow! Here
comes the destiny, thought I, a dream come true situation.
I called her up to congratulate her. Said I, “Lucky you! Great
destiny. She giggled in her usual nonchalant style, “ Yaar,
what destiny. It happens. No big deal. Let us meet for a
coffee.”
We met. She was as chirpy as usual, full of tales about our
collage mates. I was amazed to know that she kept track of
most of us, including mine. I was wondering how she finds
time to chase us all and more importantly how she gets the
information about who is doing what? I almost choked when
she talked about the plays I had written. She said,” They are
really off-beat. Almost brilliant. You deserved lot of applause
and recognition and of course catchy media lines.” “ But
then it is all one’s destiny,” said I. She giggled,” Rubbish!
What destiny? All you need is a Jack. You have known
my style of writing during college days! I have followed
it consistently – cut and paste and throw in between your
own lines. That’s all.” She chuckled, “ You know the smart
thing is not the book, but its launch and that too by a well
known personality. The media covered the event because of
him, and, naturally they had to say something nice about the
book too. After all such an important person can’t launch an
ordinary humdrum book.” She was enjoying telling all this.
She looked most happy when she added with a grin, “ All
this helps book sale.”
All this sounded logical, but this was quite unlike Granny’s
logic. As I was trying to grasp this new wave logic, I was
reminded of my own experience. After having published my
so called off- beat plays, I had gone to invite a well known
theatre personality to be the Chief Guest on a seminar on
‘Contemporary Theatre’. I was rebuffed and my invitation
was declined promptly there and then; and here she is
managing successfully to rope in a person of renown for her
book launch! I was non-plus. I desperately wished Granny
was around to explain this baffling logic.
I went into a brooding mood. She leaned closer and
whispered as if she had read my thoughts, “ You know what
you call destiny, I call it networking. Take my advice. If you
want to take charge of your destiny like me, make it a habit
of attending all and sundry functions you are invited to. And
once you do that, you will be seen everywhere. The more you
are seen, the more you are invited. People say, ‘Oh! Ya, Ya;
I saw her the other day at the Taj and also at a function at
Habitat and also at..... etc., etc., so she should be in my guest
list too. And there you are. Without any effort you acquire a
12 • www.delhigymkhana.org.in
clublife
April 2015
sort of a celebrity status. And once that happens, everyone
seems to know you and you too seem to know everyone.
Your personal TRP is on the rise and so is your popularity.
All that you need to do is to invest in your wardrobe. And
that too is no problem. Just go on line. All foreign brands
are available.”
Now there was a serious note in her otherwise chirpy chatter,
“From now onwards don’t make the mistake of overlooking
an Invite, which has been your usual practice. Had that not
been so, we would have met earlier. You know in all these
parties or events or whatever you may call them, one comes
across important people who carry weight and are sought
after by media. I call them Jacks. And when you yourself
acquire the celebrity status, the host makes it a point to
introduce you to the Mr Jack present on the occasion.
Believe you me, once you start attending the events, you
will find one or the other Jack everywhere. Sometimes there
can be more than one Jack present at an event. This happens
when the event is organised by some Jack himself or herself.
Consider yourself lucky if you get an Invite for this kind of
event, whatever it may be.”
She ordered two more coffees as she was not done with as
yet. “Understand, these Jacks are like a quick-fix; instant
problem shooters. Their ego feels good when they can oblige
someone, especially if he or she happens to be sort of a
celebrity. Besides by being Chief Guests here and there and
everywhere their own status goes up. So they don’t mind
helping people get success whether they are deserving or
not.” Her parting shot was, “ Yaar, stop struggling with
your pen and paper all the time. Leave enough space for the
Invites in your life. Choose this or that.”
Before leaving she gifted me an Invitation Card and said, “
This one is a high profile. Don’t miss it. There will be many
Jacks there.”
I felt woolly headed. I wondered am I drunk over two
cups of coffee? Or am I feeling dizzy about my priorities?
Whatever. As I bent to pick up the Invitation Card before
leaving, I heard, “ Hello, Did I not see you at the book
launch the other day? Aren’t you the one who wrote..........”
I smiled to myself wondering, “Is he a Mr Jack?”
Shunyata
13 • www.delhigymkhana.org.in
Sheetal Sharma
clublife
April 2015
Achievement
Ms.Tejaswi Rawal grand daughter of SP
Rawal participated in SOF 5th International
English Olympiad and has stood FIRST in
the state, 36th in the whole world. She will be
given a cash prize of Rs. 5000/= + Gold Medal
+Merit Certificate + Gift Voucher + blessings
galore. What a pride - God bless her with
bountiful of happiness & to fulfill all her aspirations.
HH Dalai Lama with our club member Krishan Verma
Points to ponder
This refers to the March 2015 issue of Club life which I
received yesterday. I find that there have been many interesting
programmes including The Night of the Mountaineers on 17th
March, which I missed as I did not get the information in advance.
I therefore request you to please circulate the programmes for the
coming month in advance through email or send the monthly
bulletin in the first week of the month itself so that we do not
miss any important programme.
Locomotive made personally by Mr IM Sethi
Captain Swadesh Kumar (P-5484 S)
Health Talk
Sanjeev Kassal, Ramesh Krishnan, Amar Khosla & Anshul Bagai
at the Club courts
Bridge Results March 2015
TEAM OF FOUR
1st Mr Anand Virmani, Brig V K Sawhney,
Mr Arun Jain, and Mr Dilip Coehlo
2nd Brig Ravi Mehta, Mr Sunil Malhotra,
Mrs Anju Khanna, Mrs Sunita Singh
3rd Mr Sanjiv Bery, Dr R L Sanghi, Dr Vikram
Jain, Mr Vijit Bery, Mrs Veena Viswanathan
PAIRS
North-South
1st Mr P Rosha – Mr M P Agarwala
2ndMr A Virmani - Brig V K Sawhney
3rd Mr Jasjit Singh – Mr K P Jain
East-West
Mrs Meera Bakshi – Mr J S Bakshi
Mrs Urmila Agarwal - Mrs Beneeta Chandra
Mr S Behura – Mr Puneet Gangal
14 • www.delhigymkhana.org.in
clublife
April 2015
Golden Moments
Fire fighting drill
April Fools Day
Is only for the singles.
For the married, it is an anniversary.
Aadhaar Camp
Son: Why is First April celebrated as Fools Day?
Father: Because after paying all taxes upto 31st March, we start working
for the government again from 1st April.
15 • www.delhigymkhana.org.in
clublife
April 2015
Then ... ... and now
Forthcoming Events
Mrs Vijayalakshmi and Brig DS Vasudeva
Mrs Anuradha and Cdr Mukund B Kunte
Mrs Mira Khushalani and Mr HL Khushalani (23 March 1966-2015)
Our heartfelt condolences to the
families of the following members
who passed away. May their souls
Rest in Peace.
Office Staff
><
Thursday, 9 April 2015
7 pm to 8 pm
Strategic Imperatives of Andaman and
Nicobar Islands by Sanat Kaul
><
Saturday, 11 April 2015
7 pm to 8 pm
Qawali Muqabla by Baby Naaz Warsi
and Nizami Brothers
><
Tuesday, 14 April 2015
6 pm to 7 pm
Friendly Scrabble
><
Friday, 17 April 2015
6 pm to 7 pm
Highlights of my days in Parliament
by Ms Meira Kumar
erstwhile Speaker Loksabha
><
Friday, 24 April 2015
7 pm to 8 pm
Talk by Mr Ram Jethmalani
Details Later
8.30 pm
Annual Sports Dinner
><
Saturday, 25 April 2015
7.30 pm to 9.30 pm
Play Taj Mahal ka Udghatan
A hilarious political satire by
Rashmi Vaidialingam. Directed by
Chittaranjan Tripathy
Ms Aparajita Roy
L-1759
Mrs Sunanda Mitra
L-1311
Lt Gen K S Randhawa
P-0256
Mr Romesh Chandra Khanna P-0126
Mrs Dulari Singh
L-0984
Mr Amolak Ram Khosla
P-0120
Mr A K Bakshi
P-6399
Mrs Sangeeta Anand
P-3238S
The name of Gp Capt Amrit Lal Bery was
wrongly printed as Gp Capt Arvind Lal
Bery (P-0070) in the Obituary section of
the March issue of Club life. The error is
regretted.
Editor: GS Uban
[email protected]
+ 91 98 100 76770
Views expressed in the articles are
those of individual members and
not the official views of the Club.
16 • www.delhigymkhana.org.in
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