The 5th ‘Panjo Taano’ an eagerly awaited annual get together of Bhatias, organized by Global Bhatia Foundation was held on Sunday, 26th November 2017 at Jashoda Rang Mandir Grounds, Juhu, Mumbai.

The highlight of this glittering evening was not only the venue but the event itself. This year, GBF changed the theme of the program with the intention of making it interesting for all age groups. The solid crowd of Bhatias participated and cheered their friends and relatives in the Raas Garba competition. What we are most overjoyed about is that three generations of Bhatias of all ages ranging from 2 years to 90 years, not only attended but also rubbed shoulders with each other while dancing to the beats of Aum Shiv Sansthan, a cultural group from Bhavnagar. There were some surprise prizes announced by Smt Sushila Bhatia, Smt Kusum Swali and Shri Pratapbhai Ved to the delight of all. One lucky Bhatia took home a lucky draw prize and likewise 3 best dancers also took home a similar additional prize of stay at Regal hotel apart from the prize given by GBF, thanks to the large heartedness of Pratapbhai Ved.

Aum Shiv Sansthan performed traditional Garbi, Tipni dance, Tarnetar etc which revived old memories for the older generations and was innovative for the younger generations. This was followed by Garba/Dandiya by patrons who were all colourfully dressed for the occasion adding life and energy to the event. The 3 judges, Smt Sushila Bhatia, Smt Kusum Swali and Smt Bhavna Udeshi had a great time judging the competition choosing the prize winners from so many wonderful performers. And ofcourse the live singing only ended with the all time favorite ‘Sanedo’.

The Chief Guest , Hemant Morparia, a well known cartoonist and the Guest of Honour, Solicitor Tripty Kapadia inspired the youth with their short inspiring addrss. Darshna Rajda Kapadia as usual with her flawless Bhatia language talked about our culture and welcomed all. The meet and greet continued during dinner after which all departed with hope of meeting again next year for Panjo Taano – 2018.

GBF also thanks the patrons for their overwhelming response and taking time to give suggestions and feedback to help us further improve future events. The feedback chart proved a big encouragement for our young organizing team.

So Jai Shree Krishna until the next event.

Yashwant Sampat

GBF Guardian Trustee for Panjo Taano