GOLDEN JUBILEE OF HSC 1975 BATCH
OF HADAS HIGH SCHOOL, NAGPUR
GET TO GETHER OF CLASSMATES
HELD AT PENCH TIGER RESERVE
ON 26TH AND 27TH SEPTEMBER 2024
The Golden Jubilee Reunion of the 1975 HSC batch of Hadas High School, Nagpur, was more than just a gathering; it was a nostalgic journey back to the golden days. Held on the 26th and 27th of September 2024, at the breathtaking Pench Tiger Reserve near Nagpur, the event brought together old friends and classmates in a setting that was as adventurous as it was serene.
The prelude to the reunion began a few days earlier, starting on the 22nd of September with classmates arriving in Nagpur from Thane, Mumbai, Pune, Jaipur, New Delhi. Some were accompanied by their spouses, while others made the trip alone, all eager to reconnect with old friends and reminisce about their shared past.
On the morning of the 26th of September, as planned, all the batchmates gathered near Gorakshan in Dhantoli, Nagpur, at 8:00 o’clock in the morning. The excitement was evident as they formed a convoy of ten cars and began their journey to Pench, with the breakfast packets handed over to everyone, which they had at a restaurant just outside the city limits.
Meanwhile, a dedicated group of organisers comprising Ashutosh and Sucheta Chitaley, Sanjay and Sangita Girdhar, and Hitendra and Medha Pande had already set off earlier to ensure that all arrangements were perfectly in place at the Riverwood Resort in Pench.
As the convoy made its way through the dense forest flanking the Nagpur-Jabalpur highway, the lush greenery provided a scenic backdrop. However, near Totladoh, they encountered a spell of heavy rain that delayed their arrival at Pench until around noon.
Upon their arrival at the picturesque Riverwood Resort, every participant was welcomed warmly by the organizers with rose buds and beaming smiles. The resort, with its expansive campus and abundant natural beauty, offered spacious and comfortable accommodation, exuding a cozy, nature-immersed charm. Positioned along a relentlessly flowing river and surrounded by a variety of trees teeming with monkeys and birds, the resort was truly a paradise.
After a brief rest to recover from the three-hour journey, the classmates gathered for lunch at the resort’s canteen hall. The hall, decorated with wooden planks and with an open space overlooking the river, provided a picturesque setting. The aroma of wild flora and fauna further enhanced the ambiance, making the meal an experience in itself. Over an eight-course lunch, laughter and conversations flowed as everyone shared stories and memories from their school days.
The air was thick with joy and nostalgia as time seemed to stand still. The classmates, some meeting after 25 years and others after a staggering 50, felt rejuvenated, almost as if they were back in their old classrooms.
Post-lunch, an introduction session was held where each participant, along with their spouse, briefly shared their life’s journey since leaving the school. This session was followed by high tea and a short break, allowing everyone to freshen up.
The spouses of the batchmates were deeply moved to witness the emotions and affection shared among the classmates. Though meeting for the first time, they quickly developed close ties with each other, participating actively in all the events and immensely enjoyed all the programmes.
The evening brought with it an engaging session of Antakshari steered by Hitendra Pande, Rajiv Parkhi, and Smita Vidwans. The participants, divided into groups, showed spirited involvement, rekindling the playful competitiveness of their school years.
The sun had started dipping below the horizon, casting a golden hue over the picturesque Pench Tiger Reserve. The HSC 1975 batch gathered around the resort’s canteen area which was dimly lit. The moonlit open space added a touch of romance to the evening, overlaying a day filled with camaraderie and joy. It was as if, a candlelight dinner was on the house which everyone enjoyed.
With an announcement of a forest safari next morning, everyone dispersed for a good night’s sleep in their respective rooms.
Early next morning, at the crack of the dawn, the group reunited, their excitement profound and visible. Six safari jeeps awaited them, and as planned, they hopped onto their allotted jeeps. At the forest’s entrance, a short halt at the check post allowed forest guides to join each vehicle. The morning was damp and misty with the rain adding a touch of enchantment to the dense forest.
The scent of the wet earth, the lush green meadows, and the melodious sounds of raindrops created an eerie atmosphere. The drivers, with deft hands and keen eyes, navigated the winding forest roads, sharing intriguing stories of spotting tigers and of other animals as they navigated through the curving roads, making the safari as thrilling as the destination.
Despite continuous rain, which dimmed the chances of spotting wildlife, the sheer beauty of the forest captivated everyone. Streams gushed alongside the paths, birds chirped harmoniously and every twist and turn revealed a new marvel.
At another check post, they decided to halt for breakfast. The guides and drivers laid out a feast of alu parathas, sandwiches, boiled eggs, apples, and bananas on the jeep’s bonnet. Photos were clicked, and memories were captured. However, the elusive wildlife remained hidden due to rains pouring down.
Some felt a tinge of disappointment, but reports from other groups about sightings of some animals reignited their hopes. As the rain ceased, the forest revealed its wonders. Animals such as chitals, Barasingas, a lone Peacock, a herd of wild Boars, Parakeets, and a couple of Neelgais graced their presence, sparking joy and excitement among the group. Although the king of the jungle remained unseen, the safari experience was nothing short of magical.
Throughout the safari, sighting a tiger was every one’s priority. Though the big cat eluded us, it seemingly conveyed a touching message from the wilderness –
“Though you didn’t see me, I am here, as a silent guardian of the wild.
You folks had a great reunion and I was truly moved to see you enjoy spending time together at the Riverwood, Pench. I could not believe that you all met after 25 years and some of you after 50 long years. Truly an incredible gathering!
I feel that you are getting younger and younger. Your upcoming congregation is going to be a roaring success!!
Please remember a small message from me – “Respect the forest, cherish its beauty, and protect its secrets. Remember, the true essence of the wilderness lies not in what you see, but in what you feel and preserve.”
Eagerly waiting to see you again during your next adventure.”🐅
After the exhilarating safari, the group returned to the resort, freshened up, and gathered for lunch. The delicious spread was accompanied by animated conversations, recounting the morning’s forest adventures. With hearts full and spirits high, they celebrated their reunion amidst the enchanting surroundings of Pench Tiger Reserve.
As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the picturesque Pench Tiger Reserve, the HSC 1975 batch gathered in the Resort’s cozy Conference Hall. The energy in the air was intense as they kicked off their post-lunch session of fun games. Rajiv Parkhi, Hitendra Pande, and Vishwas Vidwans led a lively game of the Housie, filling the room with laughter and excitement. Cadbury chocolates were awarded to the winners, adding a sweet touch to the friendly competition. Sucheta Chitaley and Dinesh Bhrushundi recited some poems composed by them which were appreciated by one and all.
The atmosphere soon turned musical as Rajiv Parkhi started the Marathi song, “Jayostute, jayostute,” with everyone joining in chorus. The joy of singing together brought back a flood of cherished memories. Rajiv and Sandhya Parande then mesmerized the audience with their duet, “Kuhu, kuhu bole koyaliya,” complemented by Sandhya’s excellent harmonium accompaniment. She followed it up with the beautiful Marathi song “Chafa bolena,” which left everyone in awe.
The musical extravaganza continued with performances by Hitendra Pande, Megha Pande, Alka Bhrushundi, Mukund Ghate, Sangita Girdhar, Jayendra Motghare, Kumar Ghate and Dhananjay Parande, who entertained everyone with Bollywood melodies.
Adding to the joy, Overseas classmates Narendra Deshpande from the UK and Girish Salpekar from the USA keenly interacted with everyone over a video call, promising to join the next reunion in person.
On this occasion, attractive gifts were given to each participant by Shrikant Sagdeo and Ashutosh Chitaley (colourful mugs and Diwali Diyas made out of clay) to all batchmates. Jayendra Motghare presented specially designed Gold Medal to every classmate (with his / her name inscribed on it). These gifts were given to all the classmates including those who could not attend the reunion at Pench.
The cultural program concluded with a parting song by Rajiv Parkhi, leaving everyone in high spirits. As the evening progressed, most classmates mingled, sharing moments of joy and reliving the innocence of their school days. Some quietly slipped back to their rooms for a pre-dinner drink, while others continued to rejoice the friendship.
Dinner was a gala event, filled with delicious food and lively conversations. By now, the classmates were fully immersed in the nostalgia and renewed bonds of childhood alliance.
The two days at Riverwood Resort seemed to have flown by in a flash, but the memories created were timeless. The golden jubilee reunion was more than a nostalgic retreat, it was a celebration of enduring friendships and cherished memories, set against the enchanting backdrop of the Pench Tiger Reserve. After breakfast on the third day, they checked out and headed back to Nagpur, each carrying a treasure trove of happy memories. With a promise to reunite next year at yet another attractive destination, they parted ways, hearts full and spirits high.
In retrospect, the idea of organizing and celebrating the golden jubilee reunion emerged during one of the monthly meetings of batchmates from Nagpur at the Hotel Shruti. After a few rounds of discussions and having contacted outstation friends, a suitable date and venue (Pench Tiger Reserve) were finalized. The events for the reunion were organized by Ashutosh Chitaley, Avinash Dani, Sanjay Girdhar, Shrinivas Parkhi and friends. Every minute detail of travel, stay, food, forest safari etc. were considered for ensuring that the event was smooth and successful and every participant was taken care of satisfactorily. The cultural programme was conceived by Vishwas Vidwans, Hitendra Pande, Rajiv Parkhi and Shrikant Sagdeo. All the events were conducted by them in a professional manner. The Jungle Safari was well arranged by Sanjay Girdhar. Indeed, because of immaculate planning and efficient organisation, the Golden Jubilee Reunion was thoroughly enjoyed by one and all at the Pench Tiger Reserve.
“The Golden Jubilee Reunion at Pench Tiger Reserve was indeed a celebration of cherished friendships and unforgettable moments!”
- Dhananjay Parande
