October is here.
As he monsoons recede and give way Autumn and better weather, the spirits also soar
Now one can sit on the terrace and enjoy the morning cuppa of tea without sweating in the earlier hot and humid weather
The month has always been special to me.For one I was born in Oct and also found my soulmate in Oct when I got married way back in 1974.
Over a period of the past 68 odd years I have had various birthday celebrations,with family,friends at different places all over the world where I had been posted with Air India during my career spanning 35 years
I would like to share one such celebration today
I was posted as Manager Natal,Durban South Africa from 1993 to 1997.The Miss World contest was held on 19 Nov 1994 in Sun City South Africa on the outskirts of Johannesburg .Aishwarya Rai aged 21 was representing India at this event.
As part of the pre function preparations all participants were at the Wild Coast Sun on the outskirts of Durban for a weekend on 26 and 27 Oct .The resort, a part of the Sun International Chain,is a 4 hour drive from Durban.
At that time Casinos and gambling was not allowed in South Africa and hence these casinos and resorts were set up outside South Africa and within drivable distances from the major cities like Durban,Johannesburg and Capetown
Air India had sponsored the opening of a new Indian Restaurant ,opening at the resort and as was fitting Aishwarya was to inaugurate the same
AI was a part of the proposed opening and had given away free tickets through a lucky draw. As Manager of AI I was present at the opening .I along with my wife had the opportunity to interact with Aishwarya as she along with the other contestants were staying at the resort as guests of Sun International. Sun International was the major sponsor of the event and the main function was being held at their resort in Sun City
Aishwarya one must confess was an ethereal beauty and carried herself elegantly .All types of dresses suited her .Though poised and confident outwardly.one could sense her nervousness when one spoke to her at a personal level/She was of course happy to see an Indian Family and interact with us
At the dinner on 26th Oct ,a Saturday,Aishwarya walked up to a Lady journalist and pecked ger on the cheek wishing her a happy birthday on 27th Oct .We were also on the same table and I loudly told her that since it was also my birthday on 27th Oct I also deserved the same
However she shrugged it off calling it a farce
Next day my friends from Durban had arranged a surprise Champagne Breakfast for me
As I cut the cake and all present burst out in Happy birthday song,I looked at Aishwarya,who was also present there, reminding her of last nights conversation.She simply grinned and looked away sheepishly.This was at a function to honour Amitabh Bachchan by the British High Commission.
I happened to get a few moments with all the three Bachchans .I reminded Amitabh our two meetings in Durban during my stay .He was very polite and graceful .However when I reminded Aishwarya about our meeting in Durban and how she was nervous before the event, she skirted the conversation.
So much for personalities
In conclusion would like to wish all of you a happy Diwali and hope the festive season brings fulfillment of your dreams. peace and happiness
Stay safe and stay happy
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