Tasting the land of strawberries
Tasting the land of strawberries
The Fellowship Committee meticulously orchestrated a delightful fellowship trip to Mahabaleshwar, spanning from January 18th to 21st, 2024. A contingent of 38 Rotarians, accompanied by their partners, enthusiastically engaged in the fellowship. The majority of the group lodged at the 140-year-old heritage establishment, The Club Mahabaleshwar, immersing themselves in the charming colonial ambiance.
The Committee thoughtfully planned activities catering to diverse age groups and interests. The fellowship commenced with a warm welcome dinner at Brightlands Hotel, where we relished a diverse selection of appetisers and dinner. The event took place on the enchanting terrace amidst brisk weather, accompanied by lively music and singing from some of our members.
Each morning witnessed a group of energetic members embarking on invigorating forest walks and treks. Exploring the local market and indulging in strawberry picking at Green Valley Farms added a delightful touch to our days.
Our visit to the historic Morarji Castle, the ancestral home of Rtn. Jaidev Merchant’s maternal grandfather, provided a glimpse into a century-old colonial residence steeped in history. The room where Gandhiji had stayed remains preserved, along with a Gaumukh supplying pure water from the hills for over a century.
The pinnacle of the trip comprised two fellowships graciously hosted by our members in their splendid Mahabaleshwar homes. Barchester, the exquisite heritage home of Rtn. Jimmy and Rtn. Ptn. Avaan Vakharia, hosted a fabulous lunch and an afternoon of enjoyment. Zinia Lawyer organised an elegant high tea at her charming residence, Villa Zeenia, where our customary group photo was captured on the stairs. Both hosts shared anecdotes about their heritage properties, originally built by the British in the late 1800s. The warm hospitality of our hosts left a lasting impression on the members, and President Manoj Patodia expressed gratitude on behalf of the group.
An evening of drinks and dinner at The Club featured a talk on “Mahabaleshwar – then and now” by long-term Mahabaleshwar resident, Jaisinh Mariwala.
President Manoj extended heartfelt thanks to the Fellowship Committee, led by Rotarians Anar Shah and Arvind Agarwal, for their remarkable efforts in organising this fellowship. Special appreciation was accorded to Arvind, who spearheaded the trip, and acknowledgment was given to the assistance provided by Rotarians Ashok Minawala, Avaan Vakharia, and Rajeev Narvekar, contributing to a truly memorable experience for all.