TIS THE SEASON!
There is no doubt about the joie-de-vivre surrounding us as we enjoy the nip in the air and the faint sounds of Christmas carols streaming through. It surely is la famille time and its no different for me. My family is down from different corners of the world and when we meet, we cant hear a word of what is being said. Every generation complains about the future generation labelling them X, Y or Zee! Well let me tell you, that a world without them would be basic or cringe (very boring). The beauty is that when we are together, a motley crew spanning many generations, the conversation, the banter and the vibe is always lively and friendly. The newer-generation is never shy of throwing their arms around you with abandon, planting soppy kisses on your cheek, or expecting presents like it is their birthright (as it is rightly so). They enjoy our company as much as we do theirs, and partying and doing lunches and dinners is a must (only if we are paying!). When the dust settles and they leave, there is a heaviness that hangs in the air. I miss the incessant talking, the messy house and the general vibe goes back to being normal very fast! Meera Malhotra, Anya & Rakhee Goel The jingbang is down (apparently it is a rizz phrase) and in-between coughs, colds and osteoporosis to deal with, Im a happy camper. We had a pre-Christmas melee at the Bangalore Club and copious amounts of food and ambrosia were polished off. As our friends and theirs joined the melee, the atmosphere became more raucous and different plans were made for different days. It was a fantastic amalgamation, as the missing generations were looped into video calls as they too, joined us in our celebrations. As their friends and ours imbibed more Madeira, secrets came spilling out which were best kept hidden! But all in good fun as we have made plans for a future wannalink or catch-a-vibe! Family time and friends-like-family time is contagious. My pals Aloma and David Lobo threw their annual Christmas shindig because their whole family (50 strong, bless them!) with uncles, aunts, children and grand-kids were coming in from the remotest corners of the world. The only person missing was good ol Saint Nick himself! No doubt the festivities began with a bang, and till we left, there were no signs of winding down. Aloma and David are friends I admire and respect deeply. The OGs of namma ooru, their contribution and commitment to our city is astounding. Well, so was their party; great food, a fantastic bar, music, friends and family. I just adore my friend Prashant Issar. He puts his money where his mouth is! His newly opened restaurant Ishaara (gesture) is a testament to his commitment to employ the hearing and speech impaired with grace and dignity. We had dinner with him and were so beautifully served by the staff with little sign cards thoughtfully kept on our place mats, so we could sign when we needed something. The restaurant in CBD is sensational, the dcor and the vibe, the intensely researched menu of progressive Indian cuisine and the truly innovative cocktails were just puuurfect! As I joke with my friend Prashant, Im so glad he became a serial entrepreneur and not other things associated with serial! Enjoy the music and dont listen to the sad lyrics! (The writers views are personal)
18 C
