73-75 Batch Get-Together Celebrated at Mahabalipuram

Sanjeev Pande & Lalit Manaktala

Photos from this link…please take around 25 photos…no repeat.
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Our colleagues of the 1973-75 batch of the TS Rajendra were blessed, once again, to be able to celebrate life together, at a resort in Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu.

Out of the 117 who passed out, our batch today is down to 102 gents. Sadly, 15 of our batch have passed on over the years. The 29 of us fortunate ones who managed to attend this celebration, spent a few moments in their silent remembrance. Many thanks to the Sherpa of our batch, Rajesh Tandon, who once again delivered a smooth and hassle-free experience; ably assisted by Hemadri Ray. The venue was idyllic. Warm to hot. Making the swimming pool a favourite place to relax in. And early morning walks along the nearby beach. The excitement was long in the build-up.

Some, despite their best laid plans couldn’t make it at the last minute. The first day was that of arrivals. The flocks from Delhi, Mumbai formed the majority. With the rest from Chennai, Kolkata and other parts of India. There were quite a few folk from abroad too – the US, Canada and Dubai. “I counted eleven guys whom I’m meeting after 50 years!” – exclaimed LS Sidhu, who came all the way from the US… and nearly all of us were meeting at least two or three batch mates after 50 long years.

It was a day of hearty greetings and meetings. A lovely high tea was set up for us in the afternoon with an array of snacks and a variety of teas and coffees. One could hardly start telling an anecdote before being slapped on the back and spun around for a huge hug by a ‘long lost’ friend. The official photographer had a great time too, there were so many opportunities! Although the unofficial picture taking had begun well before. Everyone was so eagerly anticipating the get together that photos began arriving on our group from taxis and vehicles while still on the way to the various airports of departure! The revelry really started in the evening and the well stocked bar was a magnet for parched throats. The Master of Ceremonies (our own Tandon/R) gave a rousing welcome speech and then the singing started… and the lubrication too. Well oiled, and passionate conversations were heard all around at the various tables. New singing stars emerged and Rompy, Pinky, Sujata and the newest addition to our family Radhika’s singing was a revelation. The Usual Suspect was in fine voice of course, belting out Kishore Kumar hits. This was followed by a fully participated Antakshari with Geeta, Radhika and Pinky being the stars.

It was great to see the enthusiasm of all the wives. Their own bonding contributed so much to the good bonhomie visible throughout our time together. We actually became one large family. The strong bonds between the batchmates ourselves were a given but even these close bonds were enhanced by the closeness of the beautiful ladies, all 22 of them. The next day, the 4th Oct, breakfast was in “gym rig” – orange for the boys and magenta for the ladies (suggested by Sujata Panda). The colours were perfect and stood out smartly.

The arrangements at the resort were excellent. It was great that we could share our mealtimes together as we would do on the Rajendra (with some huge and important differences though)! The meals were interspersed with many local sightseeing trips. 4th evening was DJ night where we all shook a leg and enjoyed the seafood barbecue.

Ethnic gala event the next night saw everyone dressed in their finest dhotis and kurta pyjamas, ladies looking resplendent in their sarees and Indian dresses.

During all the hullabaloo, 5 of our brethren took time out to visit the nearby HIMT pre-sea training Institute at the invitation of Mr. Sanjeev Vakil. “It was refreshing to meet and speak with the young seafarers who were keen to know what the future held for them… compliments to the Institute and its entire team for grooming the seafarers of tomorrow!” – said Vineet Nirula

It was with a heavy heart that we all dispersed to our various destinations the next day. For many of us the celebration continued as mini getaways were planned in smaller groups. Goodbyes are always sad but when we heard talk of the planning for the next get together, the sadness was mitigated and a cheerfulness permeated our farewells. So long, farewell, until we meet again. Adieu Adieu.

-Marex Media