89 Class Artificers and the ‘Get-Together Saga’ - Part 4- 89 - Growing Memories

 

89 Class Artificers and the ‘Get-Together Saga’ - Part 4 - Growing Memories

31 Aug – 2^nd Day!

Woke up early, thanks to Sanjay Prasad Gairola’s relentless calls. With a slight drizzle, it was a perfect time for a morning walk and explore the countryside of Arakku neighborhood. After a roadside morning coffee, we, along with PB Sushildas, walked across the railway line  to the paddy fields, soaked in the morning freshness and breathed some pure air.

The day was going to be filled with hectic activities as per the plans. After the typically relishing Andhra breakfast with idli, sambhar, chutney vada and pongal everyone started gathering in the dining and reception area, wearing the newly designed personalized T shirts and 89 shorts. Everyone was busy taking photos with each other, chatting with long lost friends and getting updates about their respective families, children and their studies and jobs etc.

Arakku PInery

Later we all boarded the bus to another location, Arakku PInery, where 89 have organized something out of the ordinary – an emotionally charged function!

Reaching this location, I felt, this was the perfect location for a sentimental function - very serene, scenic, peaceful, and tranquilizing place! The weather Gods have been kind enough to bless the ceremony – drizzle had stayed away. 

Bright sunshine have peeped through the clouds and reflected on the mountains at the background. We could hear the breeze rustling through the beautiful pine trees and nothing else!

Forever in Our Hearts- A Green Tribute to our Friends!

As mentioned in, Part 1 of this blog series, 89 have lost 11 of their beloved classmates since 1989 onwards. It was the brainchild of GS to plant saplings in memory of these departed souls during this get together. This act provides an opportunity for remembering their presence with us and creating a lasting tribute that honors their life, love and legacy.

As part of the planning,  our host Gaarus, have coordinated with the AP Forest Department Officials and Araku Pinary management who wholeheartedly supported this initiative. We also have carried the name printed placards for posting adjacent to the saplings – an indication of attention to details during the planning.

The function commenced with an emotional speech by SPS, touching the nerves of everyone. His heartfelt words resonated deeply and reminded us of the lasting memories of our lost friends.  The speech not only honored the past but also inspired hope and togetherness for the future.

One by one, we planted 11 saplings, each symbolizing growth, strength, and the essence of life. Before planting each one, we took a moment to recall the individual character, charm, personalities, abilities, and the specific moments of joy and fun we shared with each of our beloved friends—some memories brought smiles, while others brought tears. Many refrained from speaking, fearing they would break down. 

(Instead of explaining the scenario further in words, I will be placing a video here, which will vividly deliver the emotions and significance of the moment better)

As the situation was getting emotionally drenching, Tikkam Singh Rana, the natural leader in 89 lightened the situation with a funny story associated with late Rajendra Kumar Yadav, happened in 1990! Everyone burst out laughing – probably, joined by the soul of RKY!

Rana’s presence of mind in sensing the mood of the situation and reacting to it deserves applause. Just prior to narrating the story, Rana also advised GS to switch off video  recording- that was such a sensible thing to do!

    

Thank You Jagdish Waghmare!

"मैं शून्य पे सवार हूं, 

Right after the planting ceremony, there was another moment of surprise and glory for 89, held in store for us by Salil Gupta. Surrounded by everyone, and still in the emotional mood, Salil recited the poem, "मैं शून्य पे सवार हूं, which transported all of us to another world!  There was a certain energy in his words—full of josh, punch, and vigor—that naturally drew everyone in. It felt as if his passion had sparked something in all of us, and without thinking, instinctively we all began to follow his lead - United in spirit and purpose!!

Thank You Salil Gupta

We left the location after planting the seeds of love and remembrance, which will eventually grow into a living tribute for our beloved classmates and a lasting legacy of the Class 89. 

Well-Done 89, for presenting this most memorable and priceless moment in our lives! 

After all, what is life but a collection of these cherished memories?!

Thanks...!

SAS

Next one - the Conclusion!