Our colony traditionally celebrates Republic and Independence Day with deep emotions, as such occasions hold a special meaning for our residents that include very senior citizens and
armed forces personnel.
India’s 74th Republic day was no different as almost 100 enthusiastic residents/club members made it as point to be there at the club, braving the cold and windy weather.
The Chief Guest was Gen Vikram Dev Dogra, AVSM, Indian Army. Suman Chopra, the Club Subcommittee Chairperson, felicitated him and our Society President, Rajesh Chopra, welcomed him by sharing his illustrious pen picture. It was interesting to know that he is the only army General to complete the gruelling triathlon 3 times (this requires the participant to cover 3.8 kms Swimming, 180 kms Cycling and 42.2 kms Marathon without a break, within 17 hours). He is also a motivational speaker, who has appeared on TEDx talks on a number of occasions.
He left us with two key messages in his address. One was to maintain unity despite forces to the contrary. The second was to Die Empty, by giving all of oneself to the benefit of the wider world, leveraging our core talent, knowledge and wealth that we possess.
The program included wonderful live rendering of patriotic songs by our regular Ms Rekha Samuel, her son Anmol and Mr. Shiv Narayan and concluded with a serving of excellent chai, pakoda, sandwiches and sweets, besides a soup for the soul through the inspiring and meaningful address of General Dogra.
