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From the Governor's desk…
Dear Leaders-in-ac on,
Undoubtedly, Anandotsav (DISCON 2019) was an inspiring event, and the credit goes to each one of you. Thanks to the never-say-no a tude to give me and talent, the nothing-is-impossible spirit of posi vity, and the always-at-Rotary-service humility of my core team members, we all experienced a joy unparalleled at Anandotsav.
It's me to move on.
Interna onal Women's Day is fast approaching. This is a wake-up call to tell us that we need to make huge strides for our women to be and feel equal. Women spend 90 percent of their income on their families and upli ing them is upli ing our society.
Three major issues – a) lack of water supply, b) lack of sanita on facility in schools and c) lack of menstrual protec on – deprive Indian women of educa on, gainful employment and healthy living. What is it that our Rotary Clubs (RC) in Rotary District 3141 has done this year to address these three pressing issues?
To address water scarcity issues, RC Bombay kick-started this year with 'Jal Jeevan', a project to provide safe drinking water to slums, hospitals, schools and jails. They have done two other Water Projects, one in associa on with the Paani Founda on, headed by Aamir Khan, supported by Reliance Founda on, Ajay Piramal, Bajaj family, Tata Trusts, H T Parekh Founda on, HDFC Bank, Bhara ya Jain Sanghatana, and the Government of Maharashtra and the other project is with WOTR Founda on.
The total expense on these is around 10 crores. RC Borivali has carried out about 5 lakhs worth projects benefi ng 30 villages, about 325 families. RC Dahisar has done projects worth 1.50 lakhs in 3 villages, benefi ng 150 families. RC Palghar is installing 30 RO plants at about Rs.1.6 lakhs to benefit students of 30 villages. RC Powai is carrying out 10 water projects at about 14 lakhs to benefit 1500 school kids in 3 schools, and 35 families from water carts. About 700 families will benefit from their 6 upcoming projects.
RC Midwest built storage tank and water connec on pipes at Taki-Chi-Wadi- a village in Shahpur at 50K. RC Chembur completed 3 projects in 1 village benefi ng 150 families, at a cost of 3 lakhs.
In the area of sanita on, RC Bombay West has constructed Wash Sta ons, 158 toilets and 300 taps in schools at Rs. 1.90 crores. RC Midwest built at a cost of about Rs.3 lakhs wash sta ons and 4 toilets at Khu al School, WADA, benefi ng about 200 students. RC Dahisar is building 2 toilets at the cost of Rs.80K. Many more clubs have yet to carry out or report their contribu on in this area.
In the area of menstrual protec on, RC Bombay, District 3141 and Johnson & Johnson's leading sanitary napkin brand 'Stayfree' have come together through FREEDOM FOR GIRLS – Project KHUSHI, to reach out to girls in the tribal and slum areas of Jawahar, Palghar, Dahanu, Shahapur and in the slum areas of Mumbai. One year's supply of highquality, low cost sanitary pads will be donated to them so they can experience the benefits of safe hygienic sanita on and protec on.
Friends, the United Na ons is calling on everyone to accelerate the 2030 Agenda of bringing about gender parity. Rotary members are suppor ng this in a huge way. Above are just a few examples of the many projects and ini a ves members of District 3141 have undertaken this year to empower women in India.
Yes friends, Interna onal Women's Day is also the me to celebrate the contribu on we have made for facilita ng women's empowerment, and to call for con nued ac on.
Rtn. Shashi Sharma District Governor
GML 2018-19 - February Edition Content to be submitted to email: [email protected] 1 Miration District 3141
You Read it – You Connected – You Energised
Rtn Kamlesh Kharade (Chief Group Avenue Head – Interna onal Service) writes; Dear Rtn. Vinay Khetawat. I enjoy receiving “MIRATION” to my home every month. I would like to compliment you and en re team for fantas c compila on of informa on on Rotary, within RID 3141 and interna onally. Miracle DG Shashi Sharma has appropriately selected you all for this mega task which you are doing it successfully. You must cover special topics of Rotary Family Exchange, Rotary Youth Exchange and New Genera on Student Exchange in future. Looking forward to receive next “MIRATION”. Keep doing the good work.
Rtn Arun Bhargava (Chief Coordinator) writes; Dear Vinay & Team, Having myself been involved in publica on of GML during Peak Year, 2015-16, I know the amount of efforts it requires to bring out each issue, that too on me. My compliments. It is such a great pleasure to have MIRATION in hand. You are prin ng it on a rich thick special paper, which gives it a very corporate look. The prin ng quality of world class, which is rightly expected from miracle governor's team. The contents, including ar cles, district program coverage and club project reports are, all presented in a well laid out format, which makes MIRATION at par with main line media publica ons. I am sure; recipients of these magazines will collect and preserve them forever.
Rtn Jagmohan Katakia (PDG DIst.3040 – Baroda) writes; Dear Rotarian Vinay. Congratula ons for another addi on of the MIRATION. The manner in which have incorporated new features with cartoons making your GML more interes ng read and covering all the events of district at the same me is amazing for which my hats off to you. Kindly keep it up as you are doing wonderful!
MIRATION Jan. Edi on Launched on 23rd Feb., 2019 during the DISCON inaugural session at Renaissance
GML 2018-19 - February Edition Content to be submitted to email: [email protected] 2 Miration District 3141
FROM THE EDITORS DESK
Dear Friends;
Steve Maraboli said and I quote “The Empowered woman is powerful beyond measure and beau ful beyond descrip on”. So true..
The February (#8) edi on of the MIRATION is our 'Women Empowerment Special'. This issue not only covers various ar cles and our take on the subject but also has a wide coverage of the recently held district conference - Anandotsav (The Miracle DISCON). It also carries our regular pages and features. Hope you like it.
Personally for me, this issue would be incomplete if I failed to men on the few women in my life. My Mother, My Wife, My Daughters and because of them all, my thoughts on the India women go thus; “An Indian Women is an epitome of idealism. Soothing her children and coping with her man, walking gracefully a symbol of love and pa ence. With her though ul truth, she makes an interna onal reputa on.” This issue thus, is dedicated to the celebra on of the spirit of womanhood.
Do stay connected with me on [email protected] and keep sharing your feedback, valuable sugges ons, club projects and other Rotary relevant informa on. Happy reading…
रोटरी म आपका अपना “नारी तझु पर ससारं गिव ता, तन चचलां - मन िनम ला रोटे रयन िवनय खेतावत यवहार कशलाु - भाषा कोमला - सदैव समिप ता | Associate Editor & Production In-Charge निदया सा चलना - सागर से िमलना, खदु को भलाकरु भी MIRATION (GML 2018-19) – District Publications अपना अि त व सभालनां - रौशन अि मता | सि ृ क जननी - ेम प धा रणी, शि सहा रणी THE PEOPLE BEHIND MIRATION : सबल काय का रणी - अ नपणाू अिप ता | Rtn. Shashi Sharma Editor-in-Chief मरतू ममता - चडं मता - मािणत िवधायक Rtn. Dilip Mulay Counselor सौज य िवनायक - अखडं सहनशीलता | आज का यगु तेरा प रणीता, नारी तझु पर ससारं सदा गिव ता |” Rtn. Arun Bhargava Counselor Rtn. Manish Gyani Managing Editor
Rtn. Vinay Khetawat Associate Editor & Production Incharge COVER STORY CONCEPT: For Rtn. Girijaa Deshhpande Associate Editor centuries women have been mere puppets. Several strings Rtn. Mamatha Shetty Content Editor controlled them - bias, customs, rituals, tradi ons, religion, Rtn. Abhishek Pradhan Printing Coordinator condi oning, threats, laws, Rtn. Aslam Merchant Editorial Co-Chair policies. Stop binding her, and then there is no stopping her. Rtn. K V Premraj Editorial Co-Chair Just let her be. She will find and establish her own iden ty. Rtn. Sampath Iyengar Chief Visibility Officer Already you see it happening. Rtn. Prakash Patel Coordinator Social Media
Compiled and Published by: Rtn. Vinay Khetawat / Printed by: Right Click Print Services for DG Shashi Sharma, RI District 3141, Mumbai For Private Circula on Only. All Editorial and Adver sing material should be submi ed on email;[email protected] Next (March) Issue is 'Interna onal Special'
GML 2018-19 - February Edition Content to be submitted to email: [email protected] 3 Miration District 3141
The First Lady speaks (Essence of women power)
March 8th being Interna onal Womens Day, who be er could we find, than the first lady Rtn Rita Sharma (w/o DG Shashi Sharma) to narrate her Rotary experience and her thoughts on women empowerment. One fine Sunday morning, Rtn Aparna Tamhankar spoke to her. The excerpts from the interview thus..
I have been a Rotarian for the past 25 years. When my husband, Shashi Kumar Sharma became the District Governor of District 3141, I did not know I would gain so much love and respect not only from fellow Rotarians but from everywhere as First Lady. My dream to help society in making necessary changes by helping the needy and downtrodden came true.
As First Lady, I travelled with the DG to most of the installa on events within the city and remote villages. This way I learnt so much. I became more confident, mee ng with eminent professionals: doctors, lawyers, business people, etc. who were commi ed to Rotary and its challenges to help Society.
I took part in ac vi es rela ng to women empowerment and eradica ng socials evils such as child labor. I took part with other Rotarians helping villagers deal with water shortage, clean drinking water and related issues such as the greening of environment by providing recycled water to fields. I helped with village school educa on in par cular with educa on for girls.
At a fund raising event, it was such a pleasure to raise over Rs. One Lakh by selling used clothing which would go towards Pediatric heart surgery. Recently, we also organised a Car Rally, Bombay to Goa, called HAMSAFAR to raise awareness for Diabetes, Organ and Skin dona on. This won laurels for our district and a place in the Guinness Book of World Records, that too for the first me. We are commi ed to have more such events.
Rotary made me more aware of the social problems exis ng in our society, especially in villages where more needs to be done.
Rotary gave me a pla orm to perform my du es. I am so proud and thank Rotary for all this and giving me the honorable status as First Lady. Interviewed by Rtn Rita Sharma Rtn Aparna Tamhankar
GML 2018-19 - February Edition Content to be submitted to email: [email protected] 4 Miration District 3141
A Warm Welcome to Sir, Ron D Burton and Madam Jetta
Ron D Burton, the Trustee Chair for the year 2018-19 was hosted by District 3141 during his visit to India. Late evening on 9th March 2019, he landed in Mumbai along with his gracious wife Je a. He was welcomed by a high-powered team comprising of TRF Trustee PDG Gulam Vahanvaty, District Governor Shashi Sharma, Chief Group Avenue Head – Club Service Virendra Widge and AKS Director Kanderp Khandwala. During his two day hec c visit, he visited three polio immuniza on centres at Andheri East, Vile Parle East and Bandra Terminus. He also had a high powered mee ng with one of the top philanthropists, Smt. Rajashree Birla. During the course of the mee ng with Smt Rajashree Birla, she announced a contribu on of US $ 1 Million to TRF in the Rotary Year 2018-19. On the cards was also a visit to Kokilaben Ambani Hospital Andheri to have a look at the Children Heart centre for project 'Touching Li le Hearts'. The thought process of the visit was to deliver the point of enhancing the Endowment to a level that would ensure that the World Fund had resources to bankroll Founda on programs on a con nuous basis. Ron Burton's passing message was working in tandem; we can make our Founda on stronger to enable us to do be er in the world around us. Do check the full coverage of this high profile visit in the next edi on of the MIRATION (March Issue) which is our Interna onal Special.
GML 2018-19 - February Edition Content to be submitted to email: [email protected] 5 Miration District 3141
दो िदन का उ सव - आनंदो सव ( DISCON - 2019 )
The District Conference of Rotary District 3141, under the leadership of District Governor Rotarian Shashikumar Sharma was held at Renaissance Conven on Centre, Powai on February 23 and 24, 2019. This event, called Miracle DISCON 2019 – Anandhotsav, was a ended by about 1000 delegates. The event hosted by the home club of the District Governor, Rotary Club of Bombay East, was a thumping success. Re red Chief Jus ce Dipak Misra graced the occasion and gave away the cita ons. His speech on the fundamental principles of jus ce was very inspiring.
Rotarian Ashwin She y, as the Convenor had done a marvellous job looking into every minute arrangement. Speakers were selected and curated by a team of Rotarians led by Rtn. Jhankar Ghadkari.
GML 2018-19 - February Edition Content to be submitted to email: [email protected] 6 Miration District 3141
दो िदन का उ सव - आनंदो सव ( DISCON - 2019 )
DISTRICT CONFERENCE (DISCON) is an annual event organized by Rotary to bring people together, share the good work done, and energize and inspire them to think and do bigger, be er and bolder work by honouring achievers in various fields of life and invi ng them to share their experiences. Role models who have donated more than 250000 USD for humanitarian causes receive awards.
Speaking to the 1000 and odd dignitaries about the significance of this pla orm, Rotary District Governor Rtn. Shashikumar Sharma said “DISCON on February 23 and 24, 2019 at Renaissance, Mumbai was me culously designed to be a constella on of the brightest stars of the universe. When we par cipated in the District Conference, experienced the engaging energy of speakers, and immersed ourselves in the pulsa ng passion that propelled them to achieve what they did in spite of the trying circumstances they faced, our heads bow in respect; hearts melt at the hardships they faced; then, hope swells that if they did it, we too can. People who were in this electrifying space - full of light, energy, pride, humility, achievements, compassion - li ing us up, energizing us and taking us to highest realms of possibili es, will certainly achieve greater heights in personal, social and professional life.”
“Delighted to be one of the awardees from the Rotary, such a pres gious organiza on known for its integrity and transparency, and it is also a privilege to be a speaker among so many achievers,” said Mr. Robin Banerjee, Managing Director of Caprihans.
Ajay Chaturvedi, honoured with the tle: 'Making the World Happening Award' a pioneer of cost-effec ve innova on added “This award is very valuable to me as it comes from Rotary, an organiza on that I hold in high esteem. It is a great pla orm to share your thoughts, Rotarians being thought leaders.
On this event Swaroop Sampat, pioneer in using drama to teach children with learning disabili es, says: “I am very happy to be associated with Rotary as I have seen the way Rotarians work. My father was a Rotarian. This is the best pla orm for me, as Rotarians throughout the country do great work with schools. If I want to reach every nook and corner of the country, Rotary is the best medium to do so. Rotary is a trusted, resourceful organiza on with commi ed people. I enjoyed being there and look forward to many projects reaching out to the needy”.
GML 2018-19 - February Edition Content to be submitted to email: [email protected] 7 दो िदन का उ सव - आनंदो सव ( DISCON - 2019 )
8 Miration District 3141
दो िदन का उ सव - आनंदो सव ( DISCON - 2019 )
Ankit Agarwal, an environmental innovator who was named in the Forbes India 30 Under 30 list and received the pres gious United Na ons Young leader for Sustainable development Goals award 2018, The Unilever Young Entrepreneur Awards 2017 and GSG Millennial Honour 2018.
Bhajju Shyam, an ar st of interna onal recogni on for his book The London Jungle Book (2004), one who popularized the art of Gond, recipient of Padma Shri
Dr Bharat Vatwani, one of the two Indians to be awarded the Ramon Magsaysay award, a person who has made it his mission to locate mentally ill people on the streets, take care of them and restoring them back to their families.
Colonel Christopher Rego, the founder of Sunbird Trust, who inves ng his own gratuity, has built schools in Assam, Manipur where due to insurgency and poverty youth turn to terrorism. In his schools now 2800 children study.
Dilip Chhabria, a rage of the youth and connoisseurs of cars, who transformed an everyday automobile to a work of art
Dr. Ganesh Rakh, a doctor who does not charge a paise when a girl is born in a country where female infan cide is rampant
Ekta Sodha, the Founder of a chain of schools in Gujarat, ranked fi h in Gujarat for providing quality educa on at low cost, by one of Asia's leading educa on magazines 'Digital Learning'
Kar k Jhaveri, an expert in crea ng new, interes ng, workable & customized investment solu ons, someone who helps you protect & mul ply wealth manifold, enjoy life without compromises and make a meaningful contribu on
Pramit Jhaveri, who was the longest-serving head of India's largest mul na onal bank in whose tenure net profit rose from Rs. 860 crores to Rs 3,403 crores in just four years, and he is now the Vice Chairman of Ci group Asia-Pacific
Robin Banerjee, a senior professional execu ve with over 35 years experience in several large mul na onal corpora ons in more than 20 countries, recipient of the pres gious Rotary Interna onal's Ethical Prac ces Award
Devadasis system who started Mahila Abhivrudhi Ma u Samrakshana Samsthe
Dr Shubhash Dalal, 90 years and a month old, winner of more than 20 coveted awards, headed and governed more than15 renowned medical ins tu ons, s ll con nuing to save young lives
Sonal Holland, the first Indian to have been bestowed with this pres gious global tle of Master of Wine in a na on of one billion people!
GML 2018-19 - February Edition Content to be submitted to email: [email protected] 9 Miration District 3141
दो िदन का उ सव - आनंदो सव ( DISCON - 2019 )
Sanjaya Baru, who was Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's media advisor and chief spokesperson for four years, who penned the book 'Accidental Prime Minister' on which the path-breaking film by the same name
Sanjeev Sanyal, the Principal Economic Adviser to the Indian government, a Rhodes Scholar and Eisenhower Fellow, he was named "Young Global Leader 2010" by the World Economic Forum at Davos
Shashank R. Joshi, an Indian endocrinologist, diabetologist and medical researcher, honoured by the Government of India with Padma Shri
Sunil Alagh, recognized thought provocateur, who enables teams to realize their full poten al and partners with them to build sustainable and profitable business models
Dr. Thimappa Hegde, Founder and Director - Narayana Ins tute of Neurosciences, is renowned for being a mul faceted personality with many accomplishments to his name.
Rotary District 3141 also honoured with beau ful cita on the following generous donors for becoming benefactors and members of The Rotary Founda on's highest er of donors Arch Klumph Society's Trustees Circle by contribu ng 2.5 lakhs USD: Archana and Amit Chandra / Vijay Laxmi Poddar / Rtn. Taizoon and Edith Khorakhiwala / Dilip and Shalini Piramal Rajendra R and Shubha Laxmi Chhapwale / Kishorilal Jhunjhunwala / Nihchal Israni
GML 2018-19 - February Edition Content to be submitted to email: [email protected] 10 Miration District 3141
दो िदन का उ सव - आनंदो सव ( DISCON - 2019 )
Three panel discussions - conducted by Rotarians Jhankar Gadkari, Gul Kripalani and Habil Khorakhiwala were very thought- provoking sessions
GML 2018-19 - February Edition Content to be submitted to email: [email protected] 11 Miration District 3141
दो िदन का उ सव - आनंदो सव ( DISCON - 2019 )
The high point of the DISCON was Rotarian Roop Betala's successful comple on of the Blind-fold Marathon for promo ng Eye Dona on.
Shamang Entertainment presented for both the days extremely vibrant dances on the six focus areas of Rotary and also folk dances Ghoomar and Lavani dances. On February 23 Avddhut Rege and his troupe presented an evening medley of patrio c songs, and classic foot tapping numbers. A er an en re day of learning and listening to several presenta ons, Rotarians were up on their feet dancing with gusto. On the second d ay eve n i n g Ya a d e i n G ro u p presented an evening of music and melody which drew a wonderful response from the audience..
The event was truly Anandhotsav. Every person in the auditorium listened spell bound to the tales of miracles achieved by doctors, social reformers, entrepreneurs, though leaders, financial analysts, ar sts and even vic ms of regressive prac ces, and poverty. Every person realized that we don't have to wait for miracles, we are the miracle. We can wipe tears, bring relief, provide employment, make people self- reliant, unite families, restore health. Everyone went back highly mo vated to be the miracle. Everyone went back loaded with ideas of projects they could take up. As people from 90 clubs and some from outside the District mingled, lots of new ideas, and partnerships emerged. The District Governor in his closing address men oned that the day Rotary becomes redundant is when all the problems of society are wiped away and there is no need for such an organiza on. Un l then everyone needs to stay connected to community needs and keep working day and night to make that miracle a reality. There was an unprecedented lucky draw where many gi s and goodies including a Mercedes, Renault cars, Sony Experia cell phones and gold coins. Rotarians enjoyed in each other's luck and there was joy and bonhomie in the air.
GML 2018-19 - February Edition Content to be submitted to email: [email protected] 12 Miration District 3141
The Charisma of a Great Leader..
In 2011-12, when Rtn. Kalyan Banerjee was the President of Rotary International, RC Bombay West initiated this 'Kalyan Banerjee Leadership Lecture' Series after seeking his blessings to do so. The lecture series was named after him as a mark of respect to his leadership skills, having been appointed to the highest ofce in the Rotary World – and being only the third Indian to be so honoured in the over 100 years history of Rotary.The purpose of the annual lecture is to contribute to the public debate about contemporary issues in economics, business and nance. The lecturer is normally either a distinguished academic, businessman or a policy maker, and the speakers are chosen on the basis of their ability to illuminate some large and important topic which has wide relevance for policy makers, academics, and business people.
The purpose of the annual lecture is to contribute to the public debate about contemporary issues in economics, business and finance. The lecturer is normally either a dis nguished academic, businessman or a policy maker, and the speakers are chosen on the basis of their ability to illuminate some large and important topic which has wide relevance for policy makers, academics, and business people. And this year, the ora on under the series was delivered by Shri P.K.Laheri, IAS (Retd.) and former Chief Secretary of Gujarat Government in presence of PRIP & Past Trustee Chair TRF, Rtn. Kalyan Banerjee as Chief Guest and DG Shashi Sharma as Guest of Honor.
Shri Laheri praised the leadership quali es of past leaders like Sardar Patel and Mahatma Gandhi. Today, by and large, people don't trust bureaucrats due to widespread corrup on, lethargic decision-making and general iner a in the rank and file as well as lack of accountability. For be er governance, the poli cal leaders and bureaucrats should develop trust in each other and work together for na on's good. This alone would restore public's faith in bureaucracy. Shri Laheri's impressive talk received a standing ova on and a long round of applause from the audience. Earlier, Shri Pravinbhai Kanubhai Laheri was conferred with Kalyan Banerjee Change Maker Award 2018-19 by President Anand Gupta and Ex-Sheriff of Bombay and PP Dr. Mohanbhai Patel.
Rtn. Aslam Merchant
SANGHAMITRAM – The Inner Wheel District Conference
The Inner Wheel District 314 held its annual District Conference ' Sanghamitram' on 3rd January, 2019 at La tude, Mumbai which was a ended by a galaxy of dignitaries including Smitaji Pingale, Inner Wheel Associa on President, Past Interna onal Inner Wheel President Dr.Pallavi Shah, Past Associa on President Pushpa Suryamurthy and many luminous Past District Chairmen. Rotary Interna onal District 3141 District Governor, Rtn.Shashi Sharma and Rotary Interna onal District 3142 District Governor Rtn.Ashes Ganguly graced the occasion.
Ms.Seema Rao, Commando Trainer in Indian Army and Ms. Triveni Acharya, Social Worker were bestowed by the Indomitable Women Award. Also, one Inner Wheel Member from each of the six zones was recognized and conferred the Faceless Faces Award for their selfless service and immense contribu on to the society through their community work. Past Associa on President Pushpa Suryamurthy was bestowed with the highest Inner Wheel Award – The Margare e Golding Award for her commitment and dedica on to the Inner Wheel's objec ves. Past District Chairman Indira Kotak too was honored for her noble services to the humanity.
DG Shashi Sharma, in his address to the audience, lauded the harmonious synergy between Rotary and Inner Wheel movements. DG Ashes Ganguly appreciated the honorable projects being executed by Inner Wheel year a er year, bringing smiles on the less fortunate and making a huge difference in their lives. DG Ashes Ganguly and Associa on President Smitaji were given the privilege of releasing the District Newsle er with a lot of fan-fare.
Overall it was a scin lla ng and successful District Conference which was enthusias cally a ended by members and guests alike.
GML 2018-19 - February Edition Content to be submitted to email: [email protected] 13 Miration District 3141
He Ran BLIND to OPEN our EYES
Exactly at 11.30 am on Feb. 25, 2019 history was made. Roop Betala, ran blind-folded 89.1 miles star ng on 23rd Feb. 2019 at 4.00 pm from Gateway of India and reached The Renaissance, Powai on 24th Morning at 11.30 am, where Rotary District (3141) conference was going on. He was received with much fanfare. One could see people crying and laughing as he was being received with flower petals showered on him, and as tradi onal welcome was accorded with Aar and Haldi Kumkum.
The eye dona on scene in India is very grim. If sta s cs are to be believed, of the 45 million blind people across the world, 15 million live in India. The sad fact is that 75% of these cases are of preventable blindness, but thanks to the na on's acute shortage of donors, most of the cases either go untreated or inadequately treated. Lack of awareness among general public, tradi onal believes coupled with infrastructural barriers make this noble act an uphill ba le. The myths associated with eye dona on are s ll holding back many from contribu ng to the cause. Most people in India are aware of eye dona on; they don't know the exact procedure to go about it. Lack of mo va on and cultural s gmas prevent many from even making an a empt.
To promote eye dona on in par cular and organ dona on in general, Rtn. Roop Betala (RC Mumbai MidCity) ran 89.1 Km Blind Folded (Along with Three pacers Mr. Manoj Soni, Advocate Amar Bha , Mr.Dipesh Gindra and one only lady Nisha Gada) covering 89 Heritage and Historic sites of Mumbai.
DG Shashikumar Sharma says: “Roop Betala voluntarily came up with this idea. With no expecta ons or demands of any kind, he has commi ed himself to this cause, and to Rotary. I salute his selfless spirit and feel grateful for devo ng his me, energy and toil for this event. I thank all marathon runners, students, aspiring athletes, Rotaractors and Interactors who joined him for any distance in the run. I genuinely feel this was one great step for a young India with clear vision.”
Aravind Narvekar (Head of Department of NAB - Na onal Associa on for the Blind) who along with 5 blind students had gone to Gateway of India to the event said “This is a very noble ini a ve. NAB is happy to support this effort. We see every day the untold sufferings of the blind. For every one person who comes to our ins tu on to learn a skill and become independent, there are ten out there who do not come over. They either do not know about this organiza on or they do not have the confidence to approach us. If there is anything that can reduce the number of blind people or their plight, we will be happy to do that”.
About the event Roop Betala, the marathon runner says: “Marathons inspire the youth and if we have to garner the support of youth for any cause, we need to first do what appeals to them. Eye dona on is a cause that I feel very strongly about. If the youth begin to realize its importance and understand how easy and hassle-free the procedure is, they will encourage and support their parents to donate their eyes and they will set an example by doing it themselves. Youth are like tsunami. Once they believe in something, they become unstoppable. I have worked relessly and prac ced regularly for hours for this run. I look forward to the youth of the country to support this.”
The running route of 89.1KM blind folded was duly cer fied by Associa on of Interna onal Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS) which works together with Interna onal Associa on of Athle c Federa ons (IAAF) to ensure that its running races are measured accurately. This Run was an a empt for world record. Hence this effort is worthy to be appreciated, applauded, sponsored and supported.
GML 2018-19 - February Edition Content to be submitted to email: [email protected] 14 Miration District 3141
Saving Lives is a way of life at Seacoast..
It is es mated that the failure to administer life-saving defibrilla on within 4 to 6 minutes of suffering cardiac arrest is a major factor for 95 per cent of sudden cardiac deaths. Emergency services in India unfortunately are known to take way more me than they should, and therefore, first-aid tools have crucial role to play for saving lives.
In the absence of a trained medical professional, Automated External Defibrillator or AED can be used by an ordinary educated person, as it is equipped by simple audio and visual commands. AEDs are portable electronic medical devices to detect life-threatening cardiac ac vity such as irregular heartbeats and pulseless-ness, and revive the heart by defibrilla on or applica on of electricity to restore effec ve cardiac rhythm.
Under "Save Your Heart" ini a ve, Rotary club of Bombay Seacoast has been undertaking awareness programs related to heart for last 8 years. In Miracle Year under the leadership of President Aria Ohri, Rotary Club of Bombay Seacoast has started a new ini a ve of making AEDs available and provides Cardiopulmonary Resuscita on (CPR) training at public places to teach common man on how they can provide the first aid to people suffering from cardiac arrest in the Golden hour un l the vic m receives paramedical help! This en re ini a ve has been driven by Past President and renowned Cardiologist Dr. Surendra Soneji.
With the CSR help received from Anurag Electronics Gujarat Pvt. Ltd. and dona ons received from the members, Rotary Club of Bombay Seacoast has installed 4 AED machines at following places:
1. Santacruz Police Sta on 2. Bandra Kurla Complex Sta on 3. Residen al Society in Andheri 4. Mahableshwar
On 9th March 2019, Rotary Club of Bombay Seacoast installed the 5th AED machine at DN Nagar Police Sta on at the hands of our donor Madhu Gupta and District Governor Shashi Sharma in presence of senior police staff, senior district officers and Seacoast Rotarians & Anns. A detailed demo was given by Dr. Soneji to the police force and sign board was put up outside the police sta on to indicate the availability of the AED machine (Courtesy Sunil Devnani).
More machines are in the process of being installed. Rtn. Aria Ohri
GML 2018-19 - February Edition Content to be submitted to email: [email protected] 15 GML 2018-19 - February Edition Content to be submitted to email: [email protected] 16 GML 2018-19 - February Edition Content to be submitted to email: [email protected] 17 Miration District 3141
She is young .. She is Smart .. She is, the Woman of Today.
Only Woman DRR in 3141
1) Why did you want to become DRR? I wanted to be a DRR because Rotaract has been my biggest passion since college days. Also In all my years of Rotaract I was always 1 girl in the team so this me I thought I should lead by serving the society. It also was a pla orm for me to know new people and communicate with them. Understand new mind sets and different human behaviors.
2) How do u spend your me other than Rotaract? Other than Rotaract I have always been working in an educa onal ins tute called ISME - school of management and Entrepreneurship as part of the outreach team. I am also working with the School of communica on where I handle outreach for adver sing and media and affiliated with the WPP group. I also spend me by studying for my PhD and researching on human minds and traits.
3) How do you feel being the First Lady DRR? Being the first lady DRR is definitely a pride and also pressure because being a girl expecta ons are high. Being the first lady for one of the best districts globally gives me immense pleasure and also teaches me a lot by being strong and level headed women.
4) How is it being the only girl and leading men on your core team? It's so much of fun leading a core of all men because all of them respect a girl leader and never thought that a girl was leading them. Being the only girl in the team makes me feel super strong and also Great Branding & Presentation mo vated always to do be er with my team!
5) 6 things of Hansika we all should know 1. Really strong headed 2. Loves being with children 3. Very friendly 4. Really sporty 5. Lives over events being a passion 6. Allergic to half the vegetables
6) Hansika who is your inspira on? My inspira on is definitely someone who really made me feel leadership is not a tle she is none other than Dr. Indu Shahani a lady who has always proved her leadership and empowered so many people and been empathic in life even a er being so successful she is my true inspira on and always will be.
Has Down to Earth Attitude
IPDRR Om Chawla
GML 2018-19 - February Edition Content to be submitted to email: [email protected] 18 Miration District 3141
The Quintessential Woman (Beautiful, Intelligent & Wise)
On the occasion of Interna onal Womens Day, Team MIRATION put up a ques on to few celebrated women for their views; Question:. We at Rotary are committed to service above self which is our motto. How do you think can one serve humanity through different vocations and what is your message to women who strive for excellence.
Ra Pandey is an actress and anchor known for her performances in TV shows like Porus, Hitler Didi, Miley Jab Hum Tum, Begusarai, Har Ghar Kuch Kehta Hai and Shaadi Street.
Ans.: The very premise within which the Rotary exist is in correla on with women hood i.e. Service before Self and if one observes a life of a women, you will find that in itself cons tutes different voca ons like a wife to a husband, mother to a child, daughter to in-laws. She is always striving for excellence on a daily basis thus crea ng be er and be er society. My message to women striving for excellence will be to be a be er mother because mother is the one who shapes the future of a child and a well groomed child will ul mately contribute to the growth of country thus helping in building a be er society which will have compassion for each other.
Debina Gurmeet Choudhary is a actress best known for her portrayal of Sita in the 2008 television series Ramayan. She also played Mayuri in the popular serial Chidiya Ghar.
Ans.: When it comes to humanity, doing a small bit also helps. Something small like plan ng some trees to preserve the ecosystem and maybe the use of recyclable stuff and use of Conven onal sources of Saumya Tandon is an actress and energy for appliances or electricity every li le bit host. Currently playing the lead role counts thus taking a small step towards helping of Anita Bhabi in the series 'Bhabi Ji humanity. I myself am a big supporter to women Ghar Par Hai', she is also known for empowerment and I believe all are equal. I would hos ng shows like Dance India say work hard every day, give your best shot, be true Dance, Bournvita Quiz Contest etc. to yourself, learn from your mistakes and work on yourself each day towards the end goal. I'm sure one Ans.: Women are in every voca on will achieve what their goal is and will excel. now, and they have a different approach and way of handling things. Their voice and inclusion in every profession is impera ve for an all-round growth of society. I can talk about entertainment industry Sunidhi Chauhan is a well know playback f o r e x a m p l e , t h e w o m e n singer and also involved in various chari es filmmakers in India are doing and social causes. She has appeared 4 mes in excellent work, and in fact they 'Forbes' Celebrity 100 of India (2012-2015) portray emo ons and bring out a different point of view which was Ans.: Women are blessed with the innate missing for so many years. In fact capacity and quality to mul task. Through the best films in the last 5 years s h e e r d e d i c a o n , d i s c i p l i n e a n d have been mostly by women film determina on, women can walk all avenues by makers e.g. 'English Vinglish', keeping a balance between home and the 'Raazi', 'Barelly ki Barfi', 'Talwar', workplace. Any woman, with convic on, inner 'Dear Zindagi' etc. strength and willpower can definitely achieve her dreams.
GML 2018-19 - February Edition Content to be submitted to email: [email protected] 19 20 Miration District 3141
मिहला सशि करण ( Laws which women should know )
A woman in India can refuse to be arrested by a male police office between 6 PM to 6 AM. It is a procedural issue that a woman can be arrested between 6 PM & 6 AM, only if she is arrested by a woman officer and taken to an all-woman police sta on. If she is arrested by a male officer, it has to be proven that a woman officer was on duty at the me of arrest. She can be ques oned in the presence of police women.
Only in cases of dire emergency with the wri en permission of the Judicial Magistrate of the first class within whose local jurisdic on the offence is commi ed or the arrest is to be made such arrests should be made.
Sec on 160 of the Criminal Procedure Code provides Indian women the right of not being physically present at the police sta on for interroga on.
There is a provision for women for filing virtual complaints via e-mail, or wri ng her complaint and sending it to a police sta on from a registered postal address.
If the accused is a woman, any medical examina on procedure on her must be performed by -- or in the presence of -- another woman.
Under the Equal Remunera on Act, one cannot be discriminated on the basis of sex when it comes to salary, pay or wages.
Sec on 498 of the IPC has provisions to protect women against domes c violence.
Female sexual assault vic ms have the right to keep their iden ty anonymous.
Female rape vic ms have the right to get free legal aid or help from the Legal Services Authority.
To ensure women's safety at workplace, a legisla ve act in India that seeks to protect women from sexual harassment at their place of work, The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Preven on, Prohibi on and Redressal) Act, 2013 was enacted.
Women have a right against indecent representa on.
Women have a right against being stalked. Sec on 354D of the IPC has legal ac on which can be taken against an offender.
When people from different faiths and caste, diverse religions and caste choose to get married they do it under the Special Marriage Act.
Rtn. Adv. Suman Sharma
GML 2018-19 - February Edition Content to be submitted to email: [email protected] 21 हमारा िड कॉन - यारा िड कॉन ... यारा िड कॉन - दलाराु िड कॉन
The War Kills n the Smile Kills too. And the party begins The Pied Piper with the bandwalas Keep Smiling ( Credit Rtn Sampath Iyenger ) (Credit Rtn Mayank Desai) (Credit Girijaa Deshhpande)
A Rotarian in the making (Credit Annonymous)
The POUTMAN of DISCON (Credit Sampath Iyenger)
Bhai-Bhai Saath-Saath, Anandotsav ki hai Baat ( Credit Rtn Mayank Desai )
The colourful Elegance, Personified and Beautiful (Credit Rtn Milind Patil)
A Point to note ( Credit Rtn Rajesh Shroff ) हमारा िड कॉन - यारा िड कॉन ... यारा िड कॉन - दलाराु िड कॉन
The Power of Dahisar (Credit Rtn Mukesh Talreja) The fun is about to begin (Credit Rtn Suman Sharma)
The DISCON Dabbewala (Credit Rtn Satish Sharma)
The future DG holds the future International - Krishaang Kharade The Sargeants themselves - (Credit Rtn Kamlesh Kharade) In safer hands. (Credit Rtn Vinod Thakkar)
The Youngest Rotarian riding mumma Rotarian (Credit Rtn Suman Sharma)
Ever smiling DRRs - Power of the Nxt The Original with the exchange Gen ( Credit Rtn Rajesh Shroff ) (Credit Rtn Rajul Vora) Compiled by Rtn Prakash Patel Miration District 3141
Todays Women … The Empowered Women.
“A woman is the full circle. Within her is the power to create, nurture and transform.” – Diane Mariechild.
Women Empowerment means promo ng women in their social and economic development, providing them equal opportuni es of employment, educa on, economical development and allowing them to socialise.
Recognising the needs of des tute women, Rotary clubs have been fundraising and partnering with chari es to raise awareness and help them to learn some skills (so they can be economically independent). Rotary undertakes many projects to empower women and girls. There are many formula ng strategies and ini a ng processes started by the government of India in order to bring women into the mainstream of development. Women cons tute half of the country's popula on and need to be independent in every area for the holis c development of women and children.
The need of women empowerment arose because of the gender discrimina on and male domina on in the Indian society since ancient me. Women are being suppressed by their family members and society for many reasons. They have been targeted for many types of violence and discriminatory prac ces by the male members in the family and society in India and other countries as well. Wrong and old prac ces for the women in the society from ancient me have taken the form of well developed customs and tradi ons. There is a tradi on of worshipping many female goddesses in India including giving honour to the women forms in the society like mother, sister, daughter, wife and other female rela ves or friends. But, it does not mean that only respec ng or honouring women can fulfil the need of development in the country. It needs the empowerment of the rest half popula on of the country in every walk of life.
Women are equal to men — saying this seems to be quixo c approach to everyone but in real there is nothing imprac cal. This is wholeheartedly pragma c only the need is to stop the overwhelming cri cism and prejudice exis ng ll today. Women Empowerment has become a highly debated social issue not only in India but also around the Globe. Is the woman's voice heard or it con nues to be neglected despite all the civiliza on advancement?
Hearing the independent women's voice and helping the women to ensure their voices are heard has given rise to many Women empowerment groups from Rotary ,coming forward to safeguard against the women abuse. Government of India has also enacted various rules and regula ons within the cons tu onal framework to improve female representa on in different professions. As such not only IIMs but also many other B-schools, other professional ins tu ons, as well as job opportuni es in almost all types of male dominated professions including Indian Air Force, Navy and Army have started awarding higher weightage to female candidates for gender diversity.
“Women are always saying, 'We can do anything that men can do.' But Men should be saying we can do anything that women can do.” – Gloria Steinem. A woman caring for her children; a woman striving to excel in the private sector; a woman partnering with her neighbours to make their street safer; a woman running for office to improve her country – they all have something to offer, and the more our socie es empower women, the more our own families and our Na on will develop.
If you want something said, ask a man, if you want something done, ask a woman! Rtn. Neena Bagga
GML 2018-19 - February Edition Content to be submitted to email: [email protected] 24 Miration District 3141
A Rotary Tribute to the Pulwama Shahid Jawans
To pay their respect to India's brave-hearts, Rotary Club of Mumbai Western Elite (RCMWE) took a unique ini a ve. On Sunday, 17 February 2019, RCMWE invited people for a Peace March. Nearly 1500 people took part in this silent march. All of them gathered at Lakshadham School, Gokuldham at 6 pm where a few words were said by the Club President and a 2 minutes silence was observed for our soldiers. Following this, the music group of RCMWE honored the martyrs by singing the Na onal Anthem, a Prayer and by ligh ng the candles. A silent march was a way for them to express their support, for the martyrs, our soldiers, our fellow countrymen and the Rotary con nues to lend a hand in any further way that they can. RCMWE members, friends and family opened their hearts and wallets and contributed Rs.55 lakhs within a short span of less than 24 hours. This amount collected will be directly handed over to the family of each martyr by a team of RCMWE members visi ng all over India.
Rotary Club of Mumbai Queens Necklace similarly paid homage to the martyred brave- hearts by offering prayers, observing silence, ligh ng candles in their memory. And within 24 hours of an announcement made by the President, the Club collected Rs.75 lakhs for the families of the departed souls.
Rotary Club of Bombay led the RI District 3141 Peace March on Wednesday, 20 February, 2019. Rotarians and their families gathered at the Gateway of India at 6:30 PM to homage to the jawans martyred in the heinous a ack upon a Central Reserve Police Force Convoy in Pulwama on February 14, 2019. Members lit candles as a tribute to our soldiers. Words cannot express the grief experienced by all.
Likewise, Rotarians from across RI Dist 3141 paid homage to the brave-hearts in their own locali es, offices, housing socie es and reportedly have donated large sums of moneys to the Funds for the families of the martyred CRPF Shahid Jawans! Together we can make a difference!!
GML 2018-19 - February Edition Content to be submitted to email: [email protected] 25 Miration District 3141
Performance Assessment (AUDIT Time)
OCV Deonar 13th December 2018 OCV Malabar Hill. 28th September 2018
A high powered team for the OCV. District Governor with his comments on the Club's performance
OCV. Bombay Mid City 9th January 2019 OCV Mira Road. 27th February 2019
Applause all round for a job well done The team strikes a business like pose during the OCV
OCV Mumbai Lakers. 7th February 2019 OCV Mumbai West Coast. 11th Jan 2019
Smug look a er the comple on of OCV A relaxed picture post the OCV
OCV Seacoast. 7th March 2019 OCV Bombay Worli. 16th January 2019
Coast to Coast, smiles all round Though ul pose during the OCV
GML 2018-19 - February Edition Content to be submitted to email: [email protected] 26 Miration District 3141
SARAL (Power to the Women) – A Case Study
As we celebrate Women's Day on 8th March, we remind the world that the world is a beautiful place because of women. Women are blessed with the power to give birth. And for this power, nature awards them with menstrua on. For years, menstrua ng women were considered unhygienic due to limited availability to sanitary care. It was off-late that the awareness spread and the taboo subsided to some extent in the urban areas. It is now widely believed that a SANITARY PAD is the symbol of conscious menstrual care. But these pads are not affordable when we go down the lower income strata of the society. Due to unaffordability of the pads, it has been observed that almost 50% of girls drop out school when they start menstrua ng. Taking a note of this harsh reality, Rotary Club of Mumbai Western Elite started with project SARAL which is distribu on of “reusable” sanitary pads. RCMWE aims to achieve two goals with this ini a ve.
1. Spreading awareness about menstrua on hygiene in rural areas 2. Providing environment- friendly as well as cost effec ve sanitarypads to women and girls.
How idea got germinated? When I was 27 Years old I had gone to Borivali village from 'CRY' (CHILD RIGHTS & YOU) founda on. There I observed that many young girls and women faced serious difficul es during menstrua on. They were using torn clothes and ashes instead of sanitary pads, as they could not afford pads. I felt psyched out looking at the plight of these women and girls. “We call ourselves a developing na on and we are s ll struggling to address the basic facili es for women??” – This was the ques on troubling me all around.
From that day I decided to devote myself to spread awareness about menstrual health and use of sanitary pads. I could feel the voice coming strongly from my conscience. Hence when I joined Rotary, I expressed my thoughts and our Rotary club gave me an opportunity to address this serious concern of Girls and women in need. We named this project as *SARAL* as we aim to make the lives of women simplified with this project.
Hence, we came up with the SAFFKINS. A SAFFKIN is a 12 hour reusable sanitary solu on. It is the world's first Reusable washable and bacteria destroying sanitary napkin. It is made out of stain release fabric and also biodegradable. It can be used for 1 year or 60 washes. It absorbs up to 12 hours. The cost of one packet of SAFFKINS is Rs. 200 (containing 2 units) which means that it costs Rs 15 per month per unit. We have completed almost 25 to 30 projects in the rural areas of going to schools and providing them free SAFFKINS. The Smile on their face, which symbolizes their relief from this everlas ng pain, is worth seeing. No other happiness can match the sight of this deligh ul smile. S. A. R. A. L (Sanitary pads that are Affordable in Rural Areas for Longevity)
Projects so far: 9) Betagon Ashram School Boisartal, Palghar. 1) Gurukul School, Film city 10) Avadh Vidhyalaya, Dahisar. 2) Ashram Shala school Near Bhiwandi 11) Amar Jyo School, Ketki pada 3) Rescue founda on Kandivali 12) Shailendra College of Arts & Commerce, Dahisar. 4) JIJAMATA school, Kurar village 13) Reiki Camp at Kandivili. 5) Rotary School of Sanskar Dham, Unnat nagar, Goregaon west 14) Aatma Malik Interna onal School, Shahpur. 6) Medical camp, Gokuldham 15) Medical Camp at Chitrakoot Grounds 7) Film city School, Goregaon. 16) Mate Pada, Aarey colony. 8) Astha Adivasi School, Vikramgarh, Palghar. 17) Vidyabhavan School, Bangurnagar
The World is a beau ful place because of women. Let's ensure we make their world beau ful too. Rtn. Rashmi Harlalka
GML 2018-19 - February Edition Content to be submitted to email: [email protected] 27 Miration District 3141
The Woman of Substance – PDG Lata Subraidu
Dynamic leadership quali es and a proprietor of an event management company, she has etched her mark in Rotary as the first Lady President of RC of Bombay Bandra in 1994 and the first and the only lady DG of District 3140. Having the dis nc on of being the only Lady District Governor of District 3141 she did remarkable landmark projects in her year 2013-14 which included Chhatra Chhaya, building 100 low cost shelters “Rotary Ku rs” at Shilonde, Mangal Paatra, Midday Meals for 1,00,000 Children and Chhatra Adhikar, a step towards making India 100% literate by 2020. Currently in charge of disbursement all the District and Global grants and is RI's 3 year DRFC of District 3141 from 2017 to 2020.
A chat with the District Governor (2013-14) PDG Lata Subraidu.
Q) Serving Family and Service to Humanity. What is the common essence between the two and what should be one's priority?
Ans. This is the first step to serve humanity. Respec ng our elders, bringing up our children with right values is an asset to the community. As we grow and widen our horizon we go out and serve humanity in various ways by using our me, talent and treasure. We thus give back to the community what we have received in ample and make this world a be er place. Q) Through the pla orm of Rotary, what have you benefi ed?
Ans. Rotary is an Ins tu on by itself. I Have learnt me management, leadership quali es, planning and execu ng projects efficiently and to have compassion for the needy and to give selflessly.
Q) What are the challenges and experiences in the trajectory, taking up the most coveted posi on as a DG of the pres gious District 3140.
Ans. I thoroughly enjoyed the prime posi on of the first Lady District of the Premier District 3140. I had a wonderful team of Dist officers including college of governors and the best Presidents one could ask for. The only challenge with a large district with 140 clubs was extensive travelling for projects and OCVs. With RI direc ve to bifurcate the District, I took on the challenge and succeeded in crea ng another powerful district 3142.
Q) On Interna onal Women's Day, what pearls of wisdom would you give to the female Rotarians who aspire to be successful leaders in their voca on?
Ans. To be successful leaders in their voca on one must take the voca on very seriously and have willingness to sacrifice a lot in life. There will be lot of hurdles, pressures, biases in her journey but she must not give up. She has to stride forward with convic on and confidence. If she is strong mentally nothing can stop her from reaching the top.
Q) For a woman who is as enterprising as you, what according to you are the hardships a lady has to face and how to overcome them?
Ans. Women have a double responsibility of home and work and strike a balance between the both. An efficient support system at home makes it easier to manage in a family where a kind mother/in-law can be a strong support. But now in nuclear families it's the maids and the drivers who are your support system besides the husband of course. The new age husbands are not shy of nappy changing and even cooking. The modern woman of today overcomes the hardships with grit and courage and shines in the world.
Q) Who have been your role model and the inspira ons you draw?
Ans. My mother has been my role model. My mother brought us up with great courage and hard work. She used to take tailoring orders to supplement the income plus look a er 4 daughters [school going] and a son. Her never say die a tude has stayed on with me. Rtn. Suman Sharma
GML 2018-19 - February Edition Content to be submitted to email: [email protected] 28 Miration District 3141
A Gift of Hope ..
Rotary Club of Mumbai Sion launched a unique ini a ve to introduce yogic prac ces of pranayama and medita on to cancer pa ents with a view to bring in posi vity in their minds, relaxa on and built inner strength to face the sufferings.
A pa ent, when diagnosed with cancer suffers financially, emo onally and physically. The family also bears the brunt of these sufferings silently. In such a situa on, as outsiders we can stand by them, by offering encouragement and moral support. The club members were impressed by a talk by Shri Sa sh Kolvankar, a Yoga prac oner, when he visited their Club in January 2019. He has been teaching Yoga to cancer pa ents for last 24 years. President Tony Singh promptly offered space in his hotel premises to start this ac vity. This inspira onal ini a ve started with 15 adults, 2 children, 9 yoga teachers, 11 Rotarians with DGND Rajendra Agrawal, President, Shri Kolvankar and his wife. With prayers in Sanskrit and a yogic pranayama session, a serene, spiritual and peaceful atmosphere was created. This was followed by an interac ve session on Yoga and general wellbeing. Finally, a, healthy nutri ous meal was served to all.
As Rotarians we stood by the pa ents while they learnt Yoga and Pranayama techniques. They were made to feel special and not alone in their tough journey of life. What we had given to them was Gi of Hope to say “Yes I can, and I will fight to survive cancer”.
Rtn Shashi Parekh
Life is Like Football: You Need Goals
The Football graph is rising in our country and laying a lot of emphasis on the game. In the midst of all this frenzy, the Rotary Club of Mulund Hills has con nued to play its role by organising the Rotary Youth Football Tournament – the “Rotary Cup 2018-19” on 3rd February at the newly built turf at the NES School, Mulund West. The Club has been organising this tournament since 2010.
The tournament was in its 8th year and saw 46 teams par cipate over a span of 4 age groups viz. U10, U12, U14 and U16. The 5-a-side tournament reached out to nearly 370 children belonging to different schools and football academies. There were several even ul matches and the intensity and winning a tude of the children was something to take back home. The enthusiasm of the parents and guardians and their support to the teams has been increasing over the years. For the par cipants, the mo va onal communica on by coaches and parents, the discipline on the field, physical fitness prac ces and the hunger for winning are life-changing experiences which inspire them to set higher goals in their life.
For Toss, Kick off Final matches and Prize distribu on DGN Sunnil Mehra was chief guest. Project was led by Chair Rtn PP Shripal under Club Leadership of Rtn President Chandrakant and Rtn Club Secretary Sanjay.
Rtn Dr. Paresh Thakkar
GML 2018-19 - February Edition Content to be submitted to email: [email protected] 29 Miration District 3141
Epitome of Success - Thy name is Mary Kom
On 24th November 1982, in a non-decrepit village in Manipur, a girl was born in a peasant family. Over the years this girl would blaze a trail winning six World Championship boxing Gold medals. Meet M. C. Mary Kom, an embodiment of Women's Empowerment.
Mary Kom was the first-born child of impoverished parents. Her father was a landless labourer. Though her father had only rudimentary educa on, he yearned to see his children well educated in an ''English school''. Though it was difficult to conjure up money for fees, text books, uniforms and other expenses, he was determined his children would not be handicapped due to lack of proper educa on. At mes, school fees were not paid in me. During these mes, the children had the ignominy of not being allowed in the class room or be allowed to take examina ons.
Apart from working the fields, Mary's father, Apa would go hun ng and fishing. Apa being a skilled hunter ensured the family were never short of food. Smoked fish and cured meat would always be available. In her autobiography, Mary recalls when she le home for training; her father would pack this smoked and cured meat for her gradual consump on.
As Mary excelled in all individual sports, school authori es suggested a career in sports and a move to Sports Authority of India (SAI), Imphal. Her father was not keen. But Mary persisted. Her father finally relented and let her focus on sports despite knowing poverty would not allow him to provide the rich diet, equipment, clothes or money needed to sustain a spor ng dream.
During her s nt at SAI, Imphal she tried her hand at many sports like pole vault, javelin throw, gymnas cs and various track and field disciplines. None appealed to her. She yearned for something like the mar al arts with a lot of ac on. It was around this me, there was talk of women's boxing being introduced in SAI, Imphal. Coincidently, Dingko Singh, a Manipuri lad punched his way to a gold medal in the Asian games. This created a buzz in the small state. Apart from Dingko Singh, Mohammed Ali and his daughter, Laila Ali was the childhood heroes Mary worshipped. By this me, Mary had decided, boxing would be her calling in life.
Mary Kom approached Oja Ibomcha, one of the best boxing coaches in SAI Imphal. He tried to dissuade her calling her a small, frail girl and telling her boxing was for boys. But something in her body language tugged at the Coach and he agreed to coach her with the warning, “If you are really interested, you may join, but I am very strict about the rou ne and ming. If you can't keep up, don't join.” She enjoyed the rigorous exercises and training schedule. Her natural inborn style came to the fore. Life had prepared her for the endurance part. All she needed was to perfect footwork punches and gamesmanship.
The first major tournament Mary par cipated was the Na onal Women's boxing championship in 2001 in Chennai. This was her first travel by train. She won the Gold medal.
GML 2018-19 - February Edition Content to be submitted to email: [email protected] 30 Miration District 3141
Epitome of Success - Thy name is Mary Kom
From Chennai they proceeded to Bangalore for a training camp where she had her purse stolen. Then again on the way to Hisar for selec on for the first Asian Women's Boxing Championship meet, her suitcase with all her money and passport was stolen. She was selected for the Asian Women's Championship meet at Bangkok in 2001 but as her passport was stolen, her par cipa on was in jeopardy. Help from an array of well-wishers ensured a new passport was issued in double quick me. One Onler Kom, a fellow Manipuri hand delivered the new passport. This Onler Kom would later marry Mary Kom.
Though Mary lost in the first round at the Asian Women's Boxing meet, she got selected for the World Women's boxing championship in Pennsylvania, USA. While her team mates fell by the wayside, Mary Kom lost in the finals. The Silver medal prompted the Sports Ministry to announce a cash award of Rs.9.00 lakhs which came a er a year.
With part of the prize money, Mary bought a paddy field for her father so that he was no longer a landless labourer. Some money was set aside for the educa on of her siblings as they had made personal sacrifices to help Mary achieve success. A contribu on was also made to the Manipuri boxing establishment to acknowledge their efforts in pu ng her on the world stage.
As Mary was taking baby steps in the na onal and interna onal boxing stage, Onler was a friend and older 'brother' figure. In 2003, Mary was conferred the Arjuna Award. Prospects of marriage loomed crea ng distrac ons. She spoke to Onler who advised her if she cared about her boxing career, marriage would have to be wai ng. While this was going on, Mary did not sense, Onler started having feelings for her. He proposed marriage to her promising he would not hinder in her career. They got married in 2005.
In September 2010, she went to Barbados to the Sixth World Championship and won her fi h consecu ve gold medal a er a silver medal in the first one. She boxed in the 48 kgs category.
In the 2012 Olympics, Women's boxing was making a debut. But only three categories would be available---51 kg flyweight; 57 to 60 kg lightweight and 69 to 75 kg middle weight. For an Olympic berth, she needed to compete with boxers from five weight categories. Forced to move to a higher weight category entailed a lot of adjustments. Mary asked for a foreign coach and her sponsors, Olympic Gold Quest (OGQ) helped iden fy Bri sh coach, Charles Atkinson.
In 2012, the World Championship was set to be staged in China. This was the only qualifying event for an Olympic berth. In the quarter finals, Mary was beaten narrowly 13-11 by Adams. The Olympic qualifica on hung by a thread. Only if Adams entered the finals, would her beaten quarter finals opponent sneak into the Olympics. Lady Luck smiled and Mary earned an Olympic qualifica on. In the Olympics, she moved into the semi finals with a couple of hard-fought wins. But a er pu ng up a hard fight, she bowed out beaten, 11-6. But she won a Bronze medal. Awards and rewards were showered on her. The government allo ed three acres of land for a boxing academy which now provides free facili es to aspiring boxers.
Says Mary Kom in her autobiography – Unbreakable. “The Academy will allow me to share with the next genera on of boxers my passion for the sport. I want to give them the pla orm that I had to fight for, and nurture their talent. I believe with all my heart that if you pursue your dream with all the zeal at your command, nothing is impossible. I dared to dream big in spite of my humble beginnings. I hope that my life is proof to youngsters across India that is possible to do more if they dare, if they have the will.”
In 2018, MC Mary Kom won an unprecedented sixth world tle. As she prepares for the 2020, Olympics let us pray and hope she will win the Gold medal.
Mary Kom is a profile in courage. Over the years, from her childhood days she has encountered numerous challenges. But her indomitable spirit and single- minded devo on to be a boxing icon has seen her clamber the ladder of success. She is a beacon and inspira on for all women. Women's Empowerment, thy name is Mary Kom.
Rtn. K.V.Premraj
GML 2018-19 - February Edition Content to be submitted to email: [email protected] 31 Miration District 3141
Rotarians in Action (Community Service)
Catch Them Young Rotary Club of Chembur Mumbai organised Prize distribu on event at Balwadi . Compe on winners were given prizes, at the same me, some select parents were given " SUJAN PALAK" awards for taking keen interest in the ac vi es of their child. Shri Eknath Avad, a poet and writer on BAL SAHITYA was the Chief Guest who interacted with students and parents in his interes ng "story-telling" way
Dental & Health Check-up Camp Rotary Club of Bombay Seaface organized a Dental & General Health Check up camp at Vanita Vishram primary school hall . Dr Meena Vora & her team & Dr Pankaj Parekh with his colleague Dr Pree Gagan checked 155 pre-primary students. Also an audio- visual clip on good dental care was shown to the students. Each child was given colorful tooth brush as a gi .
Clean & Safe Water Health Check Up for Village Students Rotary Club of Mumbai Marvels provided a Rotary Club of Palghar conducted a Medical Camp at Surya Valley School, Village Chahade, Water purifier cum cooler at Smt. Kamala Dist.Palghar in associa on with M.L.Dhavale Memorial Trust. At total of 320 students Mehta Blind School for Girls at Dadar East. The were examined for diseases of Eyes, Nose, Ears, Skin and General Body Check Up with a Club also provided School Uniforms to 150 team of 7 Doctors and 3 Nurses, assisted by several members of the Club. resident Blind girls. The Inaugura on was done by the hands of one of the major Donors Smt. Aruna Mahendra Dhruva.
GML 2018-19 - February Edition Content to be submitted to email: [email protected] 32 Miration District 3141
Rotarians in Action (Community Service)
Encouraging Sports Rotary Club of Mulund Hills organized for 8th consecu ve year a Football Tournament for 4-Age Groups. A total of 46 Teams par cipated from neighbourhood schools and Football Academies reaching out to over 370 children. DGN Sunil Mehra was the Chief Guest at the Toss, Kick Off at Final Match and Prize Distribu on. The Club is commi ed to doing Social Work and make a posi ve difference in lives of the society. Sports as one of the avenues for development of young children has become a vital component of its agenda.
A S tch In Time… Joy of Giving Rotary Club of Powai provided two sewing machines to Rotary Club of Mumbai Jewels distributed 222 Blankets for children along with Manisha Sohni and Ranjana Ingle associated with the Durga other essen als at St.Catherine's Home at Andheri Mumbai. Mahila Bachat Ghat, a women's self-help group. This ceremony was a ended by Corporator, Mr. Shrinivas Tripathi who supports some of these self-help groups in IIT Powai area to empower women from nearby slums.
Upgraded Labour Room & Female Ward Rotary Club of Mumbai Elegant sponsored the Upgrada on of Labour Room and Female Ward at Brahmakumari's BSES Municipal General Hospital. This flagship project of the newly formed Club was made possible due to the generous dona ons it could garner from members and o thers. The Project District Calendar April 2019 was inaugurated by DG Shashi Sharma on 27th February, 2019 in presence of Rtn.Anita Pansari, President and several members from the Club and the District
GML 2018-19 - February Edition Content to be submitted to email: [email protected]