Wedding photos!
November 16, 2008 on 9:02 am | In Uncategorized | Comments OffShannon’s and Sunir’s wedding photos are up. Here’s a taste…
Sunir/Shannon Wedding- 1 (Marriage Ceremony)
October 19, 2008 on 4:31 am | In Miscellaneous Musings!, Family/Self | Comments OffOur son Sunir got married to Shannon on Saturday 11 October 2008.
The wedding took place in Toronto where both Sunir & Shannon live. Also Shannon’s parents live in Toronto too.
We live up north (some 6 hrs drive away from Toronto) in Deep River - a town situated half way between Ottawa and North Bay.
The wedding went smoothly and it was just “divine”.
General:
MARRIAGE CEREMONY
The marriage ceremony was crafted by Shannon & Sunir together ( and helped/ supported by both sets of parents - as resource for background and details of the traditions) - keeping in mind two cultures and religious tradiitons for the wedding ceremony.
Further the internet and also their own grooming when growing up (in matters of religious and cultural traditions) helped to put together the mechanics of their Marriage Ceremony .
Here is the Marriage Ceremony details - as was provided to all guests (as a pamphlet) who attended to witness the Sunir/Shannon wedding at the Toronto Cricket Skating and Curling Club in North York, Toronto.
Marriage Ceremony
The Marriage Ceremony of Shannon Knights and Sunir Shah
Groom’s Processional
Sunir is escorted down the aisle by his groomsmen and immediate family. His mother, Jashoda Shah, carries the wedding garlands. Shannon’s mother, Kathy Magladry, welcomes Sunir into the family.
Bride’s Processional - “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” by J.S. Bach
The bridal party walks down the aisle. Shannon is escorted by her father, Doug Knights.
Navakar Mantra - Jain Prayer
Recited by Pravin & Jashoda Shah, Sunir’s parents
I bow to the prophets.
I bow to the liberated souls.
I bow to the spiritual leaders.
I bow to the teachers.
I bow to all the saints.
This fivefold bow destroys all sins and obstacles and of all auspicious mantras, is the first and foremost one.
Passing of the Peace
Guests are invited to greet each other, saying “Peace be with you”.
Welcoming Words - by Officiant Sarah Bunnett-Gibson
Jaimala
Sunir and Shannon exchange floral garlands as a special greeting to each other.
Solo - “Higher Ground” by G. Green, K. Agee and S. Dorff
Unity Candle
Sunir and Shannon light the unity candle to represent the joining of their lives in marriage. This candle will become the sacred flame for the Mangal Phera.
Granthi Bandhan
Sunir and Shannon’s scarves are tied together, symbolizing their union. This tradition is the origin of the term “tying the knot”.
Mangal Phera
Sunir and Shannon walk around the sacred flame four times. Each time, they stop to touch a stone in their path that signifies life’s obstacles they will overcome together. The four rounds represent dharma (moral conduct), artha (wealth and prosperity), kama (love and passion) and moksha (enlightenment).
Saptapadi
Sunir and Shannon take seven steps together, while making the following seven promises to each other.
To provide for their new household.
To maintain physical, mental and spiritual health.
To earn and build wealth by honourable means.
To attain wisdom, happiness and harmony through their mutual love.
To raise healthy, strong and noble children.
To stay together through bounty and drought.
To remain true companions for all their lives.
Exchange of Vows
Exchange of Rings
Signing of Register - “Irish Blessing” arr. E. Daley
Reading - “The Art of Marriage” by W. Peterson
Read by Lauren Wilkie, Shannon’s friend
Blessing
Pronouncement
Recessional - “Wedding March” by F. Mendelssohn
Sunir/Shannon Wedding -2 (Events TimeLine & Schedule )
October 18, 2008 on 2:07 pm | In Miscellaneous Musings!, Family/Self | Comments Off
Our son Sunir got married to Shannon on Saturday 11 October 2008.
This is the 2nd part to the description of the wedding events - which include from Engagement to other ceremonies leading to the main Wedding Ceremony on 11 October, 2008.
This part only gives the timeline for various events- the description will follow later.
Time line
1) Proposal for marriage - by Sunir to Shannon during October 2007 at Gananoque (Theater))
2) Engagement Ceremony 24 May 2008 at Mackay, Ontario (Indian Hindu tradition)
3) Setting date for wedding & booking of the hall during December 2007
(Wedding to be on Saturday 11 October 2008 at the fabulous Toronto Cricket Skating & Curling Club.4) Shannon’s Bridal Shower - Sunday 14 September, 2008
5) Sunir’s bachelor party - Saturday 4 October 2008
6) Travel from Deep River (by parents and sister’s family) to Toronto –on Tuesday 7 October 2008 – Rented Condo - downtown Toronto.
7) Thursday 9 October 2008 (morning) – Ganesh Puja at Ram Mandir (at Mississauga) and then lunch at Brar (on Dundas Street, Mississauga)
8) Thursday 9 October 2008 (evening) – Mehndi at Shannon’s Parents’ home
9) Friday 10 October 2008 (evening)- dinner at Shannon’s parents’ home
10) Friday 10 October 2008 (evening)- offer of a tray of gifts to the bride by her in-laws - at Shannon’s parents’ home
11) Friday 10 October 2008 (late evening) – rehearsal at the Toronto Cricket Skating & Curling Club
12) Saturday 11 October 2008 – the Wedding Day
- Groom’s Party departure from Sunir’s place at 2.00pm (Thus family’s arrival at Sunir’s apartment at 12.30 pm - also to help Sunir in his wedding attire). After that prior to departure for photo shoot- Aarti by his sister & then coconut cracking under the car (driven by his brother-in-law)
- For photo shoot at 3.00 pm – travel to Alexander Muir Gardens (Park) from Sunir’s
Shannon’s parents & bridesmaids (3 – Heather, Erica & Lisa) ) were there
Sunir’s parents & his best men (3 – John, Brandon & Mark) were also there.
- Saturday 11 October 2008 (at 5.00pm) – wedding ceremony –see the Wedding Brochure) at the Cocktail Lounge (all rearranged for the wedding ceremony)
13) Saturday 11 October 2008 after the completion of wedding ceremony – 6.00 pm–– welcome of Shannon in the Groom’s family (footprints – Goddess of Lakhsmi) & there after cocktail
14) Saturday 11 October 2008 – Reception dinner & speeches 7.00 pm – Sunjay as Master of Ceremony
- celebration after after dinner – back to Cocktail lounge for Slide Show (by Lisa) and dances – Live Band – dance by Shannon with her dad – followed by dance by Sunir with his mom – followed by Shannon & Sunir – joined by all.
- Dandia dance & Bhangra dance also followed after the Dances to Western songs – dances & fun till 1.00 am (Sunday).
- Wedding & celebration End – at 1.00 am (Sunday). Back at the Condo at 2 am Sunday
15) Brunch at Shannon’s parent’s home - Sunday 12 October 2008 (1.0 pm to 5.00 pm)
16) Miscellaneous
- Thanks from the newly wed - Monday 13 October 2008 – Shannon & Sunir came to the Condo (in the morning) to visit parents & Nina/Sunjay/Sitara & thanks them for all the help for their wedding. They brought gifts of framed photos as a memento to the wedding
- Monday 13 October 20 – 2.00 pm - Nina/Sunjay & Sitara returned to Mackay – after visiting Shannon’s Parents to say adios.
- Monday 13 October 2008 – Thanksgiving dinner at Shannon’s parent’s home - “sataru” for Sunir –also Shannon’s paternal Grandpa’s birthday (88th ) . Sunir’s parents were also invited.
17) Return to Deep River - Tuesday 14 October 2008 – by Sunir’s parents
18) Departure For Honeymoon - Tuesday 14 October 2008 – Sunir/Shannon went for honeymoon to a Muskoka resort.
Note: on their trip home Nina/Sunjay –on Monday 13 October 2008 requested the resort management to place a bottle of champagne in Sunir/Shannon room (as a special gift from family).
19) Final offering to nature ( Ottawa River) - Thursday 16 October, 2008 -. Sunir’s parents made prayer at the Ottawa River shore (in Deep River) & with humbleness offered the two coconuts (from the wedding ceremony) to the sacred river for consumption by the River creatures
Wedding Schedule:
Thursday, October 9
Morning – Puja at Temple with Jackie, Pravin, Nina, Sunjay, Sitara
4:00pm – Shannon gets manicure at Cozy Nails
6:00pm – Bridal mendhi by MendhiRani at 46 Deloraine
Avenue
Friday, October 10
4:00pm – Shannon and bridesmaids get manicures and
pedicures at Cozy Nails
6:00pm – Rehearsal dinner buffet at 46 Deloraine Avenue (approx. 25 guests)
- Speeches/toasts (Lauren, Lisa, Mark, Brendan)
9:00pm – Ceremony rehearsal at the Cricket Club with Officiant Sarah Bunnett-Gibson
- Bring shoes, wedding programs, unity candle, taper candles, matches, stone, scarves, coconut, laptop
- Test slideshow with computer and projector
10:00pm – Drinks in Cricket Club lounge for those who
wish to stay
Saturday, October 11
Morning - Bring Sunir and Shannon’s luggage to hotel (Doug)
- Set up table décor (cushion covers, votive
candles, table numbers)
- Set up anniversary cards/pens, menu cards and
donation cards on tables
- Set up gift/guestbook table, cake table, seating
posters
- Pick up wedding cake or arrange delivery (Sunjay?)
- Cricket Club staff set up stage for band
- Bring Indian music on iPod and dancing sticks
- Bring tips and payments in envelopes
11:00am – Hair and make-up appointments at Calia for
Shannon and bridesmaids
- Hair at Euphoria and make-up at Calia for Kathy
(11:45am)
- Sunir and groomsmen get ready at 674 Broadview
1:00pm – Shannon and bridesmaids eat lunch at 46
Deloraine (nothing messy!)
- Florist John Kimmel delivers bouquets and vases to 46 Deloraine
- Sunir’s family arrives at 674 Broadview
1:30pm – Sunir’s family pre-wedding traditions (eg. bracelet)
- Shannon and bridesmaids start getting dressed
2:00pm – Photographer Kevin Lam arrives at 46 Deloraine
- Florist delivers flower arrangements and pedestals
to Cricket Club
2:30pm - Sunir, groomsmen and parents leave for
Alexander Muir Gardens
2:45pm – Shannon, Kathy, Doug and bridesmaids leave for
Alexander Muir Gardens
3:00pm – Band arrives to set up at Cricket Club
- Photos in Gardens (bride, groom, bridesmaids, groomsmen, parents)
- Bring photography permit
4:00pm – Leave for Cricket Club
4:15pm – Family photos with Nina, Sunjay, Sitara and
grandparents at Cricket Club
4:30pm – Male and female wedding parties in separate
rooms (guys in room by bar)
- Guests arrive and are greeted by Kathy and Doug
at main entrance
- Mathieu and Ryan greet guests in lounge and hand
out programs
- Photographer to take photos of tables, venue, etc
4:55pm – Grandparents and mother-of-the-bride escorted
down the aisle by ushers
- Piano music playing
5:00pm – Wedding ceremony begins with groom’s
processional
5:45pm – Wedding ceremony ends with bride and groom’s
recessional
- announcement by officiant to move to back or balcony while chairs cleared
- get Aarti ready (white sheet, towel, thali, vessel for sindoor water)
- Sunjay announces bride and groom’s entrance and
Aarti
- Aarti performed by Jackie
- flowers moved to head table and cake/gift tables
- put out seating arrangement posters
- servers pass hors d’oeuvres and red/white wine
- mixed drinks and beer at bar
- non-alcoholic punch station
- photographer to finish any posed family photos and then take candids
- guests mingle and sign guestbook (on back gift table)
6:45pm – Announcement to move to dining room for dinner
- guests pass through both sets of doors with table
seating posters and find tables
7:00pm – Servers pass out glasses of champagne for
toasting
- Sunjay (MC) welcomes guests and announces
wedding party and bride/groom
- Gives thanks, explains kissing game, donation cards and anniversary cards
7:05pm – Nina’s toast (2-3 min)
- Salad course served
7:30pm - Speech by Heather and Erika (2-3 min)
- Speech by John (2-3 min)
- Main course served family-style (candles cleared off tables first if necessary)
- Shannon and Sunir greet each table individually during dinner
- Shoe game (questions by Sunjay)
8:20pm - Set up projector and screen and laptop
- Band to do sound check
8:30pm – Speech by Sarah/Deborah (2-3 min)
- Speech by Jackie/Pravin (3-5 min)
- Sunir and Shannon cut wedding cake
- Dessert, coffee and tea served
8:50pm - Speech by Kathy/Doug (3-5 min)
- Speech by Shannon/Sunir (3-5 min)
9:00pm - Sunjay announces to move to lounge for slideshow and dancing
- Lisa does slideshow
9:10pm - First dance by Shannon and Sunir
- Father/daughter dance (guests may join in)
- Mother/son dance (guests may join in)
- Band begins regular sets
- Indian music (eg. gerba raas between sets - get
Dandiya boxes from back room)
10:00pm - Bouquet toss
10:30pm - Snack table (fruit, cookies, paan, coffee, tea)
1:00 am - End of party
- Sunir and Shannon off to hotel
- Doug and Kathy bring home flowers and gifts
- Leave flower pedestals at Club for florist
Sunday, October 12
10:00am - Depart for Granite Place
- Kathy and Doug to bring wedding flowers for
décor
- Jackie and Nina help Shannon put on sari
10:30am - Brunch begins
1:30pm - Brunch ends
Sunir/Shannon Wedding- 3 (Speeches during Reception)
October 17, 2008 on 2:15 pm | In Miscellaneous Musings!, Family/Self | Comments OffDuring the reception which followed the Sunir/Shannon wedding ceremony - there were speeches by few of the bride’s and groom’s friends and family members.
The first speech & toast were offered by Nina (groom’s sister) at 7.05 pm.
This speech was followed by Heather & Erica ( bride’s sisters) - who delivered their speeches together and offered toast to the newly-wed.
The next speech was by John ) Sunir’s friend and bestman.
Bride’s parents (Kathy & Doug) delivered their speeches - a very touching and emotional moment . This was then followed by a song by them.
The following speech was given by Sarah & Deborah - bride’s friends.
The final speech was by groom’s parents (Jashoda & Pravin) .
The groom’s parents’ speeches are given below:
Saturday 11 October 2008 Page 1 of 2
Sunir Shah’s Wedding Day
Speech by his dad (Pravin J. Shah)
Hi ! Everyone.
Hi! Shannon Hi! Sunir
For us as parents, this is a moment of such profound happiness when we see Sunir and Shannon getting married by taking their vows of wedding , synthesizing two great cultures in front of family members and friends.
We believe that the blessings of grandparents make this solemn event very auspicious.
Sunir’s paternal grandmother (Kasturben) who is 87 (and wheel chair bound) has conveyed her blessings from Kenya to both Shannon & Sunir.
His Canadian Grandmother (Mrs. Ruth Mckkeracher) was always thinking of Sunir. Though she is no more with us I am sure that her blessings are being showered from above for Sunir and Shannon’s happiness.
Both my wife and I are delighted that Shannon’s maternal grandparents (Opal & Ray Magladry) & paternal grandparents (Rae & Ken Knights) are present here. Your blessings to the newly wed are really very sacred.
It is touching that both, Sunir & Shannon, are very fond of their families. Shannon / Sunir, I would like to assure both of you that you are in our hearts every minute.
Sunir has always been very consistent in whatever he does. He does any task with devotion and commitment. When in elementary school after our moving to Deep River, he had to learn playing a recorder. This was a new subject different than what he was learning in Hamilton. He was 9 at that time. But he devoted time with great concentration to learn it. His Karate classes in Hamilton were equally well tackled. While studying at Carleton University and later doing his Masters at University of Toronto, we found him also committed to his outside work. He juggled his study and career well and managed to keep his study marks at the top at all times.
On the other side, over the years, we have watched Shannon also. She is just so warm and also very consistent in her commitment and devotion into whatever she wants to do. So between the two there is “resonance” - a musical quality of oneness and practicality.
Shannon, we embrace you as our daughter in the family. Now we have Nina and Shannon as we have Sunir and Sunjay. Sitara (our Granddaughter) is our first link to the future. We are overjoyed that she is present here at her Uncle’s wedding. Sitara is very fortunate to start her life with coddling by both Sunir & Shannon since her birth.
Both my wife and I do appreciate Doug Knights and Kathy Magladry for welcoming our son (Sunir) into their family with warmth and open hearts.
Our thanks are to the Knights and Magladry families for wonderful welcome given to-day to our family and friends along with the groom’s party.
I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all the families and friends from Toronto, Deep River area and other parts of Canada and especially those from overseas who came to bless the newly wed couple.
Sunir / Shannon we are very proud of both of you. Our heartfelt Congratulations and our best wishes for your continued happiness.
I would like to offer the following HAIKU poem, a traditional Japanese style poem. I would like you all to join with me and repeat the Haiku lines.
Vows round the candle
Sunir, Shannon gliding into the future
Forever entwined. Amen.
Pravin Shah
Sunir Shah’s Wedding Day
Speech by his mom (Jashoda. Shah)
Hi! Shannon Hi! Sunir
Hi ! Everyone
I just want to walk into the memory lane and talk about Sunir and his sense of responsibility.
As he was growing up he was always ready to help in house chores.
He would wash, dry and stack dishes at the right place. This was done time and time again without any demand from me. Now drying dishes was his specialty.
Also when I would arrive home from grocery shopping, he would invariably show up at the door to help me carry groceries into the house. Not only carry these but also to place each item at the right place.
Shannon, you can see that he is well groomed in the domestic engineering, somewhat.
I want to thank all for being here to bless the newly wed couple.
Speech by his mom (Jashoda. Shah)
I just want to walk into the memory lane and talk about Sunir and his sense of responsibility.
As he was growing up he was always ready to help in house chores.
He would wash, dry and stack dishes at the right place. This was done time and time again without any demand from me. Now drying dishes was his specialty.
Also when I would arrive home from grocery shopping, he would invariably show up at the door to help me carry groceries into the house. Not only carry these but also to place each item at the right place.
Shannon, you can see that he is well groomed in the domestic engineering, somewhat.
I want to thank all for being here to bless the newly wed couple.
Being Grandparents - 6
October 16, 2008 on 9:26 am | In Uncategorized | Comments OffThis post is a continuation of the earlier posts (Being Grandparents ,Being Grandparents - 2, Being Grandparents - 3, Being Grandparents - 4, Being Grandparents - 5) as the previous posts were becoming a tad bit busy.
Tuesday 07 October 2008
This is the day Sitara travelled to Toronto with her parents to join her grandparents - who had earlier gone separately to Toronto - same day - to prepare and attend their son’s (Sunir’s ) wedding to Shannon on Saturday 11 October, 2008.
The grandparents and parents stayed at a rented “two rooms - two bathrooms” furnished condominium - downtown Toronto (on Bay Street) . The condominium is known as the Conservatory Tower.
The whole week with grandparents and parents at the downtown condo was exciting to Sitara. She just enjoyed the change in scenery from home and the participation in various ceremonies and functions related to Sunir/Shannon wedding .
The full description and narration of the ceremonies and functions is given separately in a write-up titled “Sunir/Shannon Wedding”. Refer to this arricle for Sitara’s role and fun items during her stay at Toronto.
Thursday 16 October 2008
Sitara is moving on to learn new daily items for living. Yesterday (Wednesday 15 October 2008) she started to use the “potty” at her parents home in Mackay and come out winning.
Today (Thurday 16 October 2008) she used the “potty” at her grandparents home. She did her small thing and happy about it.
She also (while at grandparents home) started climbing down the stairs - on her own volition - of course coaxed and supervised by her granddad.
Wednesday - 29 October 2008
This was the day Sitara came to her grandparents home (of course with her parents -Nina & Sunjay) to celebrate her second Hindu New Year.
She was just playful and was as always graceful. She also had her dinner - earlier than the adults - who would sit down for dinner subsequently.
This time we also had Marcel - my bridge buddy and a friend - to join us in this celebratory dinner.
Sitara being a bit shy ( as a kid) was playing a bit away from Marcel for a while but when we were having dinner (and Sitara was just going around playing all over) Sitara quietly came over where Marcel was sittng at the dining table said “hi” to him.
After dinner, when sitting in the living room, Sitara had one of her books and then she took that to her nana (i.e me) initially & then slowly but resolutely took it to Marcel to read to her. This Marcel did and Sitara really enjoyed it. She spent some happy times with Marcel.
For the celebration of 2008 Hindu New Year- Sitara got a nice musical toy from grandparents along with an addition/contribution to her piggy bank.
Note: Sitara is 1 year and 2 1/2 months old and one can see the confidence and poise in all things that she (even being a baby) does. Her walk and holding the posie of her head etc are very heart warming. She has developed her own mind ( i.e her likes and dislikes) and she has manners to communicate these in very loving ways.
I am told (and in fact I saw the binder) this morning she helped her mom to cut and paste pictures of fruits and animals in a binder - her book created by herself (of course helped by her mom) . She helped to glue the pictures and in the process had her hands glued together -which needed to be cleaned and separated.
Happy New Year to you, Sitara.
Halloween - Friday 31 October, 2008
Sitara came to grandparents home (in Deep River) along with her parents to enjoy and savour all the fun and outings of halloween - for ” Tricks or Treat ”. Her parents dressed her as a ”Tiger” (costume) and she had whiskers on the costume and a tail.
She went out with her parents in the neighbourhood ( and to our friends’ houses -a bit further out) for ” Tricks or Treat ”. Apparently she went on her own steam ( supported by her parents for safety)to many houses and got her treats .
She was completely tired (but happy and contented) whe she came back after about an hour of fun. She had her milk and brushed her teeth before going to sleep ( fell asleep very quickly ). She is still at grandparents - her parents then went out for their own fun (for halloween party in Petawawa). They stayed night in Deep River.
Friday 31 October, 2008
This halloween day, Sitara got her first GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate) -her mom bought from the money Sitara got as gifts from family members & friends ( plus some Government monthly supplements) since her birth.
The GIC will earn her 4.5% compounded over 30 months.
Pravin Shah
Being Grandparents - 5
October 5, 2008 on 2:03 pm | In Miscellaneous Musings!, Family/Self | Comments OffThis post is a continuation of the earlier posts (Being Grandparents ,Being Grandparents - 2, Being Grandparents - 3, Being Grandparents - 4) as the previous posts were becoming a tad bit busy.
Saturday 09 August 2008
Today was the Sitara’s first picnic out with the local East Indian Group.
The day was cloudy and rainy. Until early afternoon, it was not sure that the day will work out fine. However, we decided NOT to cancel going to the picnic as we assumed that the rains will diminish or stay in the clouds. Sitara & her parents came from Mackay to Deep River. Sitara moved to our minivan and her parents drove their car to Petawawa - to be left at the parking lot of our mall property till the evening - when Sitara & her parents would go together for dinner at her dad’s work colleague’s (Andy) house.
We all then drove in the minivan (maroon) to the Bonnacher Park (on Round Lake) for picnic. We had a ball of a time. Sitara enjoyed the outdoors and being coy to other kids.
We returned in the evening back - by the way the rain held up good. All in all it was great outing - Sitara enjoyed herself with different types (varieties) of food - which she normally does not get a chance to try at home. She being on her diet (specially prepared baby food).
_____________________________________________
Saturday 06 September 2009
Oh! the past week had a been life changing experience for Sitara. She has been to a baby sitter in Deep River for full days as Nina has started her work . Some days , the grandparents look after her when the baby sitter is not available.
Where she goes (her baby sitter’s first name is Jinnette),the baby sitter also looks after other three kids. Thus Sitara gets to know and play with other kids (though all of these kids are a bit senior - a few months - to Sitara) .
It seems that Sitara has taken this change stoically - and of course her mom also has to accept this new reality of leaving her precious child to a stranger.
Sitara have taken this change in her small strides well and thus have relieved all of us of any undue anxiety.
Good show girl!
___________________________________________
Tuesday 09 Septemeber, 2008
Wow ! what a day. Sitara came to grandparents home to stay for the day. Her mom stayed back at their home to catch up on her studies/reading to hone up on latest pharmaceutical happenings.
Grandma took her in the morning to FEN class at Mackenzie High School while Grandpa went to Petawawa for his weekly Bridge Card game.
Grandpa came back during lunch time - by that time Sitara had come back from her FEN outing. She is a doll - charming one at that. She wins Grandpa’s heart in an instant - always looking and calling her “nana” ( Grandpa) to pick her up and play with her with her toys.
To-day, after her lunch feed, she was walking around in the kitchen and suddenly we find her toddling to the kitchen west wall (having nice artificial brown - with a tinge of black- brick veneer) and we found her “just like praying at the Jerusalem West Wailing Wall” and keep touching the wall and just staying put there. This is an apt description that her Grandma gave. What was happening was that she was doing her No. 2 and was a bit shy about it and needed a quiet meditative place for it.
She seems to come of age to understand this important body function and needs her privacy and also she understand the need for concentration to complete this task. She also knows the word to describe her activity. She calls it ”pooh’ pooh” and says it once she completes her chore.
Ata Girl!
________________________________________________
Sunday 14 September, 2008
The current weekend is special for Sitara. She is spending it with her dad only. Her mom & Grandma have gone to Toronto to participate in the Bridal Shower (on Sunday) for Shannon - given by her paternal grandma & family.
Sitara’s grandpa (nana) had gone to Peterborough to attend an Engineering meeting (PEO) Eastern Region Congress.
So Sitara got a special deal to be looked after by her dad for full weekend. Talking to her dad yesterday, her dad took her out to Pembroke - to visit her dad’s friend’s house for barbeque. There Sitara handled herself well and enjoyed the visit. There she came close to a dog (Geannie) and she was a bit shy and may be afraid to get near her.
I am told Sitara had been introduecd to pets sinc eearly time. She first got it know Joanne’s dog (Emma) - Joanne is Sitara’s mom’s friend in Ottawa. Sitara is also with the babysitter’s cat though she is a bit afraid of the cat.
However, this is good introduction to pets in her 1st year oflife.
Her mom & grandma are to return home to-day (Sunday) late at night - by that time Sitara would be asleep.
Note: Both her mom & grandma returned from Toronto late at night on Sunday.
Thursday 25 September 2008
Sitara came home after her session at the FEN - about 12.00 noon. Her mom went away to her prior committment elsewhere in Town . So we , the grandparents, had the full time with Sitara. She is adoll. We fed her & she just laps up everything and remains very charming at all times. After the lunch, which enjoyed , she went to sleep. Her mom had come back from her errandsin teh Town.
After her nap, granddad took her in the backyard - the first time she had the freedom to romp around. She also went to the park adjoining our backyard. After a while , she did not want to walk & runbut have her “nana’ carry her around.
Her mom & dad agreed to have dinner with us and thus Sitara had more time with us - till 6.30 pm.
What we learnt from her mom. that Sitara has started to have teeth brushed (with Colgate) yesterday. She is growing up .
She likes to go on the road and meet with people and pets. However, now she does not want her to be held by fingers but to remain completely free. There is a bit of a danger as she might run to the road without control. So we need to pay extra attention to dangers and look after her safety.
Sunday 05 October 2008
It happened. This is the first time Siatra spent the whole night at the Grandparents without her parents. Her mom had to go to a Company Conference on Thursday 02 Oct (returning back on Sunday, 05 Oct) -away closer to Toronto (Blue Mountain) and Her dad had to go on Saturday to Ottawa to attend the Stag party for our son who is getting married soon (on 11 Oct) . He also returned back on Sunday (05 Oct)
Sitara was a doll at all times. She was at ease with both the grandma and grandpa though at times one can feel that she was missing her mom and also her dad. She being only 14 moths old - she can only express her feelings by looking at her mom’s photos (which are hanging at our place at many spots) and saying out loud “mom”.
She would also speak out “daddy’ a few times. However, she really was at ease with the grandparents and played with both of them - together or separately . She kept her schedule for eating and sleeping though on Saturday nite , she was a bit late in sleeping. We found out later (i.e on Sunday) that she was cutting another tooth.
She speaks new words everyday - some are her own made up and others learnt.
Pravin Shah
Book Reading -Miscellaneous Books Read
September 14, 2008 on 6:10 pm | In Miscellaneous Musings!, Book Reading | Comments OffGeneral Comment:As mentioned earlier on my April 19 2007 post, I have embarked on writing a few words on all the books that I may read in my retirement. I will reread few books which I read over last few years - this to allow me to capture some good essence from the readings.
Since I read my last book -Eterana Ganesha (see my earlier posting on April 20 ,2008), I have read the following books till now. These books are over and above the 3 separate Bridge (Card Game ) books I have read for my learning about good bridge playing. I follow the Standard American Yellow Card system (SAYC) when playing bridge game. My partner Marcel & myself have done well both in Duplicate & Social bridge in Deep River and Petawawa - though we need to learn much in order to achieve consistent results. The learning continues . The main book of reference (for learning) is : Standard Biddng with SAYC by Ned Downey and Ellen Pomer.
The books I read are listed in the order they were read.
1) Idiots At Work by Leland Gregory.
Paperback book - some 220 pages- its the chronicles of workplace stupidity. Hilarious & a bit disconcerting as we see our and foibles of others in life - especially at workplace. A light book .
2) Watchers by Dean R. Koontz
Paperback book - some 483 pages - its a story about lab work with the creation of two separate genetically altered life forms - who escaped the highly secret Lab - and the chase begins . One is a magnificent dog of immense intelligence and the other was a hybrid monster of a violent nature. A gripping story of chase and devastation in the path and ultimate victory of the good side - i.e the dog lives free with his master.
3) The Only Road to North by Erik Mirandette
Paperback book - some 298 pages. This is a religious book (a sort of spiritual discovery by a young man, Erik). Erik was doing a humanitarian job in Morocco - was out on quest to live the life that he felt he was created to live. This led him to an unforgettable travel a cross Africa with his younger brother and two friends on Road Bikes (motor cycles) . They travelled 9000 miles in the bikes starting in South Afric and ending in Egypt.
However, after that successful trip across Africa, a terrorist’s bomb ripped Erik’s world and faith apart. He lost his brother from this bomb.. An autobiographical & gripping story - a good read to know that all that we plan can go awry with unknown higher plans which can supersede our plans.
4) The Indian Fan by Victoria Holt.
Paperback book - some 448 pages.
This is the story about Britain and class living in Britain in Queen Victoria time with colonial living in India .It does give some colouful description of life in India at the time along with life in England. A very interesting reading - I read the book in a couple of daus as it was difficult to put it down
5) Dreams of Glory by Thomas Fleming.
A paperback book - some 491 pages. This book is set in 1780 when America was fighting war with England - Americans led by George Washington - a gripping story - of life in America at that time with Blacks also playing their part in the war with England.
6) The Spring of Tiger by Victoria Holt
A paperback book - some 371 pages. This is set in England and Shree Lanka during the 8th Century . It revolves around the pearls -the Ashington Pearls (which were given to an ancestral Ashington by a Ceylonese King for saving his son by the Ashington) have been with family for generations . There is a description of tea plantations and such development in Shree Lanka. A good book for light reading.
7) Economics of Lord Mahavira by Acharya Mahaprajna
Note: Lord Mahavira is the 24th (last) Tirthankar of Jains. He propagated the non-violence way of life and consideration for others - with detachment to material things (as opposed to aggrandisement of wealth).
A paperback book - some 174 pages- a very serious book - on morality of commerce and economy .
According to Mahavira , th eprudent principle guiding the limits to consumption is this: any article of use, which does not impinge on physical, mental and emotional health, should be acceptable.
Pravin Shah
Our BIO
September 7, 2008 on 9:09 pm | In Miscellaneous Musings!, Family/Self | Comments Off
04 Sept 2008
Pravinchandra Juthalal Shah & Jashoda Shah
The family photo (below):
Self - Pravinchandra Shah- at the back middle; Wife - Jashoda Shah - in the front middle; daughter – Nina at the right and son –Sunir at the left.
General Background
Pravin is an individual who has stumbled on a life trajectory of personal growth, which allowed him to participate in social/cultural activities within Oshwal community and also other societies while pursuing his professional Civil Engineering career. Pravin is a Professional Civil Engineer, graduating in 1962 and subsequently becoming Charter Engineer with Institution of Civil Engineers and also with the Institute of Water Engineers and Environment of United Kingdom. He became licensed Professional Engineer in Ontario soon after his emigration to Canada from Kenya in 1974.
Pravin is also the Registered Hydraulic Engineer in Kenya – the first Oshwal & Indian Engineer to do so.
On 27 May 1967, Pravin and Jashoda got married in Nairobi.
Jashoda remains a pillar behind Pravin for his social and public service. She is a stalwart in whatever comes her way. Jashoda is a B.A. graduate. She was a secondary School teacher in Kenya. Since coming to Canada, she devoted early years in raising two kids; both of them are now well established in life. She also ran a business with great alacrity till she retired in 1999.
Both Pravin and Jashoda have been involved in many different social and public life, in Kenya as well as in Canada. Since Pravin and family have moved around a bit, their record of service is somewhat scattered and is specific to each location where they (& family) have lived.
Pravin’s interest in social activities can be attributed to his parents and grandparents whose motto in life was “to help others” even when it impacted adversely to their own & family’s well being.
While in Canada, the work took the family to various locations (from Niagara Falls to Montreal & Mississauga & Hamilton and finally to Deep River, Ontario). They established their residence in Deep River in 1986, where both the kids completed their elementary and high school education.
Both Pravin and Jashoda are now retired and live in Deep River, Ontario Canada. . Jashoda wound up her businesses in 1999 while Pravin retired from his career during April 2007. His professional career spanned some 45 years.
Drivers in Life and Career
Believe in positive leadership & commitment
Teamwork for successful achievement in goals.
- Be practical and prompt in execution of approved goals
- Unbiased attitude with an open mind for listening others’ opinions
- Holistic approach to life with vision for good of the community
- Social interaction and acceptance of cultural diversity
- Honesty and integrity
Life Timeline & Social/Cultural Activities
1940 -1956
Pravin was born in Ruiru on 8th April 1940 to Kasturben (his mother) and Juthalal Dharamshi Naya Shah (his father). Their family surname (“gotra”) is “Bidd”. His grandfather Dharamshi Naya Shah was from Navagam (in Halar, Saurastra in India) who came to Kenya during 1910. He was followed by his wife (Deviben), son (Juthalal) and his father (Naya Depar Bidd) – all came together in 1921. My great-grandfather (Naya Depar Shah) stayed only for a few years in Kenya and went back to India, around 1930, for personal reasons.
His father, Juthalal Dharamshi Bidd, started a business in Ruiru in the 1930s. His was one of the first businesses which were established when Ruiru became a trading center to service the European agricultural settlements in the area.
Pravin along with his two elder brothers moved to Mombasa (around 1944) with the family. The family moved to Mombasa to facilitate education of the young ones. Pravin completed his elementary schooling (Kikowani Primary School) and secondary schooling (Technical High School) in Mombasa. His Senior Cambridge Certificate was obtained in 1956 at the age of 16.
When growing up in Mombasa, Pravin used to attend community meetings held at the Visa Oshwal Community hall for development of the community or for elections. This has instilled in Pravin the value of service but also of teamwork and need for consultation in any development work. During his formative years, Pravin became a regular member of the Bhartiya Swayamsavak Sangh in Mombasa and through his devotion, commitment and hard work rose in the leadership rank. Here he learnt the Hindi language and also the ancient and modern history of India as well as about the independence movement of India.
Jashoda was born in Nairobi on 15 November 1939 to Paniben (her mother) and Khimji Bhimji Haria (her father). She completed her elementary and secondary education at the Duchess of Gloucester School in Nairobi. His Senior Cambridge Certificate was obtained in 1957.
When growing up in Nairobi, Jashoda participated in the activities of Nairobi Sevadal.
1957-1964
Pravin enrolled at the Royal College, Nairobi in 1957 and completed his studies successfully in Civil Engineering profession during June 1962.
When at the Royal College in Nairobi, Pravin devoted his time to his studies for professional civil engineering but made a point of attending various community meetings at the Visa Oshwal Community. This gave him the know-how of the mechanics of conducting meetings and also the need for developing abilities to articulate and debate ideas.
Jashoda completed her B.A . from Bombay University, Mumbai India during 1964. In India, Jashoda devoted her time in studies but also found time to enroll in the Indian National Cadet Corp for military and civic training. She also dabbled in music and choreographed Gujarati Ras & Garba for Women’s Hostel to enter into competition.
1963- 1973
Immediately after the graduation Pravin spent time to establish his professional career in Kenya. His service in Ministry of Works resulted in design and implementation of various road bridges and culverts across the country.
Pravin also worked in the Ministry of Agriculture. There he worked closely with an international team led by a Canadian firm (Acres Consulting Ltd) for investigating the potential of the Tana River Basin (northern Kenya) for agricultural development.
During 1965, Pravin went to Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada on a Fellowship of the Food Agricultural Organization of the United Nations. There he worked at the offices of Acres Consulting Ltd. for a year gaining valuable practical experience in the design and implementation of the irrigation and hydroelectric structures and facilities.
While in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada during 1965 / 1966 for a year, Pravin participated in the activities of the United Nations Association of Canada, Niagara Falls Branch and provided presentations to local Service Clubs on Kenya.
Upon return to Kenya in July 1966, he devoted his time to his professional development though maintaining interest in the Oshwal community activities.
Pravin was stationed with the Water Development Department of the Kenya Government. There he worked to develop water supplies in the country. He was also instrumental in planning for the development of the Training Institute for the Water Technicians in Nairobi with the help of Norwegian aid agency. While at the Water Development Department, he worked at Nairobi office and at Mombasa office at different times.
After their marriage during May 1967, Pravin got transferred to Mombasa to work on the development of coastal water supplies until their return back to Nairobi in April 1969.
He designed and built waters supplies to the coastal beaches, Kilifi and Malindi.
After graduation, Jashoda began her career in teaching at the Visa Oshwal Girls Secondary School, Nairobi and continued teaching in Mombasa upon Pravin’s transfer there when working with Water Development Department.
While in Nairobi, Pravin continued his interest in the community and got elected as General Secretary of the Visa Oshwal Community (~ 8000 members of Nairobi) in 1970 and remained as secretary till mid- 1973. The President at the time was Shree Kantilal Narshi Shah who provided an excellent leadership.
Pravin also devoted time and effort to serve on the School Subcommittee of Oshwal Education & Relief Board in Nairobi.
These were transformational years for the community.
There was the impact of the new independence of Kenya, issue with the British Government about so-called “D” passport and the need for vouchers to enable migration to England.
New breed of educated Oshwals were coming back from their graduate studies and taking their rightful place in the tremendous development that Kenya was experiencing at the time. Many Oshwal community members were investing a lot of resources for industrial, commercial, real estate and financial development of the country.
Again there was a segment of the community, which was feeling a bit insecure and wanted to move away from Kenya for safety to other countries, mostly to Britain at the time.
The community was a pillar and a constant to all members to cope with all the changes that were coming to the society at the time. Pravin found this time challenging and exciting when real help and changes could be offered and experienced.
During this time, also the societal attitude was becoming critical of the old habits of social interaction, which was becoming evident at the time. The members of the Visa Oshwal Community Executive Committee supported the move away from lunches and meals by “squatting on the floor” and introduced the “Table & Chair” mode of partaking our social lunches and meals. This first change and modernization was a milestone and stepping stone to many others to come in subsequent years.
For being the General Secretary of Visa Oshwal Community for a period of two years, Pravin received a Gold Medal from the Community for the service.
While Pravin was busy with Oshwal Community committee and the School Subcommittee of Oshwal Education & Relief Board in Nairobi, his wife Jashoda Shah devoted her time for the betterment of young Oshwal women and their social interaction.She became a focal point and an inspiration for establishing the “Women’s Wing” in the year 1972. The “Women’s Wing” joined their organization with the Oshwal Youth League. The “Women’s Wing” has again been transformational for the community. It influenced change in “mind-set” of older generation to young daughters and daughter-in-laws in the Community. The “Women’s Wing” remains active till this day.
1974 -Today
During March 1974 Pravin and Jashoda emigrated to Canada.
In Canada, Pravin & Jashoda started their life in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada. Niagara Falls is one of the most beautiful cities of Ontario and is at the border between U.S.A and Canada. The “horse-shoe” waterfalls on the Canadian side are one of the world’s wonders. Niagara Falls is a tourist destination for millions in the world. Every year more than 20 million people visit Niagara Falls.
Their both kids were born in Niagara Falls. Their daughter, Nina, was born in December 1974 and son, Sunir, was born in June 1979.
While in Canada, Pravin worked initially on the designs of hydroelectric structures and power stations. Since last 30 years, Pravin has been working in the nuclear field and designed and built civil engineering structures for many Nuclear Power Plants in Canada and overseas. The professional work took Pravin on many short trips to various countries such as to Shree Lanka, British Guyana, Romania and Austria.
Pravin/Jashoda have lived an active social/public life and participated in many activities of varied nature in different fields in the public service after their arrival in Canada.
Apart from formal positions and activities, Pravin also writes poems on many topics and is not shy to write “Letters to Editor” on topical subjects. He also writes to clarify issues if he sees wrong perceptions of Indians or India in the media.
Jashoda spent her time raising the two kids but in 1985 ran a business in Hamilton for a year, which was sold as Pravin moved to Deep River for his career. In the Deep River area, Jashoda pursued her career running two businesses in the nearby town called Petawawa (this is one of the main Canadian Army towns) from 1991 to 1999.
Nina completed her Pharmacy degree and is pursuing her career as a Pharmacist and Sunir completed his Masters in Information Technology and is pursuing his career in that field.
Social/Public work in Canada
Niagara Falls area
- Member and President of the United Nations Association of Canada, Niagara Falls Chapter (1974- 1981)
- Establishment of Shree Jalaram Hindu temple (October 1974 to March 1975) at their residence Niagara Falls
While in Niagara Falls, Pravin actively participated in the activities of the United Nations Association of Canada, Niagara Falls Chapter from 1974 to 1981. He was elected and served the Chapter as the President for two (2) years (1979/1980) during which time Pravin devoted his energy for diseminating the principles of the United Nations including the rational behind the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
1970s were the time when Canada relaxed immigration from non-white countries to help alleviate the shortage of manpower in the country. Thus many new immigrants from non-white countries started to arrive. This was a new phenomenon on a scale never seen before and some of the local white population was not yet ready to accept these new immigrants socially and culturally.
In the year 1980, the United Nations Association of Canada supported a programme of student exchange from foreign countries and placed these visiting students with local host families for a short period. This allowed close bonding and cultural understanding between the foreign students and the host families on one-on-one basis. Coinciding with the student exchange, the Chapter also celebrated the United Nations Day on 24 October 1980 with a dinner gala (under Pravin as the Chair) where the Chapter members and public interacted with the visiting students and host families. Also federal and provincial politicians participated in the dinner gala. This initiative was to help remove barriers between peoples.
In the early 80s, under Pravin’s suggestion, the Chapter proposed a resolution that “ Canada & other western countries to appoint a non-white as an ambassador to South Africa” to be taken to the national United Nations Association of Canada convention for discussion and acceptance. This was the time when apartheid regime in South Africa was much entrenched and such an appointment would take a bite from superiority of white race when the regime would be forced to deal with non-white ambassadors from major western countries. It was heartening to know that similar thinking was prevalent in U.S. The Reagan administration preferred a policy called “constructive engagement” vis-à-vis apartheid ruled South Africa. In 1986, the Reagan administration made a surprising move. Secretary of State George Schultz appointed career diplomat Edward Perkins, a black American, as the American Ambassador to South Africa.
Along with participation in the United Nations Association of Canada, Jashoda and Pravin established (October 1974) a Shree Jalaram Hindu Temple (along with the Jain element) in their residence at Niagara Falls. A regular monthly prayer service was held with appropriate reading and presentation on spiritual matter. This was found useful for interested locals to know and understand the Indian/Hindu culture and our non-violence traditions and way of life. Unfortunately, the temple service was discontinued (March 1975) upon Pravin’s transfer to Montreal on a work assignment. Even with a short existence, the temple had become quite popular with the locals and was quoted by local politicians for the excellent qualities that foreigners bring to the country.
When in Niagara Falls, both Jashoda and Pravin had become very active in supporting and initiating Jain religious activities. During this time, H.H. Munishree Sushilkumarji was welcomed and hosted many times when visiting Ontario.
Jashoda supported the East Indian Group of the area to organize and present Gujarati Ras (Dandia) & Garba programs during annual Canadian Multicultural week. The Canadian Government normally organizes this annual event to develop camaraderie and understanding between different cultural groups in the country.
Mississauga/Toronto area
- Participated as a Member of the Social Development Committee of the Social Planning Council of Peel (1982)
- Initiated and helped to establish a Jain Study Group (in Toronto to Niagara Falls area) 1983
- President of the Jain Society of Toronto in 1985 (1 year)
The family moved to Mississauga in late 1981 after Pravin changed employment from ACRES Consulting Ltd in Niagara Falls to Atomic Energy of Canada, Sheridan Park, Mississauga, adjoining to Toronto.
Pravin did not waste time and started to take part in the public service. He joined as a Member of the Social Development Committee of the Social Planning Council of Peel (1982). This Committee used to carry out “need analysis’ of the community in the social sector and recommend actions to help weaker sectors to organize life with dignity.
Pravin and Jashoda also took initiative to help and establish a Jain Study Group for the interested Jains in Toronto to Niagara Falls area. The Group’s first meeting was held in the summer of 1983 at Pravin/Jashoda residence in Mississauga. It is of interest to note that some visiting Kenya Oshwals ( Pravin’s relatives from Thika – Gulab Meghji Kanji & his wife Maniben and also Somchand Meghji Kanji and his wife Kanta) happen to come to visit Pravin and family on the day of the meeting and thus able to participate in the deliberation and study. They were enthused to note of such a group studying Jainism in far away land.
The objective of the Jain Study Group was to study Jain books and scriptures in a systematic manner so as to understand and assimilate the teaching of our religion rationally. This study would also help those participating to become more conversant with Jain religion and also to impart Jain Knowledge to their next generation in a modern way.
When deliberating in meetings of the Group, Pravin also developed some Jain songs/hymns in English and a scrabble game (from Jain words) to help the young ones to participate and learn about Jainism.
It is a tribute that this Group is still alive in Toronto/Niagara Falls area though Pravin & the family have moved away.
Pravin was elected to lead as the President of Jain Society of Toronto in 1985. He remained the President for a year as his career took him away to Deep River, Ontario.
During his presidency of the Jain Society two (2) important events took place.
The Jain Society organized a seminar (as a forum) on 17 February 1985 on the subject of “Jain Philosophy In Modern Times”. The event was held at the Jain temple premises in Toronto. In a forward to the Seminar publication the following sentiments were expressed.
“ We have to, individually and collectively, take affirmative actions in crystallizing our Jain and Indian traditions in the context of this continent (i.e North America) and modern times. We have to define the direction and activities required for enriching our and our children’s spiritual and social values. We also have to take positive steps to convey parts of our great heritage to the larger community for peace and bliss all around.”
The Seminar had presentations on the Jain subjects by some eminent scholars - the prominent being 1) Vividus (Mr. Ramnik Shah) – whose book on Jainism is well known 2) Dr. John Mayer – a professor at Brock University in St. Catherines, Ontario, and 3) Prof Debrata Sinha –a well known scholar and professor at Brock University. The seminar ended with songs (both traditional and in English) by the newly minted Jain Choir Group directed by Jashoda Shah at the time.
The second event that occurred was an incident which has left a painful memory on many. This is the Air India bombing by terrorists seeking revenge for Punjab/Khalistan movement in India. Air India Flight 182 was an Air India operating on the Montreal-London-New Delhi route. On June 23, 1985 the Boeing 747 operating on the route was bombed over Irish airspace, killing all onboard. The plane named Emperor Kanishka exploded at an altitude of 31,000 feet, crashing into the Atlantic Ocean killing all 329 people on board, of whom 280 were Canadian citizens and 22 were Indian nationals.
These were sad and tough days. We lost our friends and aquintances. One of my colleagues (Arup Das) lost his family who were travelling to India for a visit. The Canadian Government was shocked but in their shock they thought it was an India issue and sent condolences to Indian Government leaders for the loss of Indians in the flight. The Canadian Govenment lost objectivity that the Indians on the flight were Canadians.
The Canadian Government of the day and subsequent Governments continually remain embarrassed for such a gaffe.
Deep River/Pembroke area
- Served on the Deep River Police Service Board (1994 to 2000)
- Trustee of the Deep River & District Hospital Board
- Executive Member of the Algonquin Chapter of the Professional Engineers, Ontario from 1999 till to-day – Chair for the Chapter for two years (2005 & 2006)
- Nominated & Participated In Deep River Community Liaison Group for Port Hope Waste Disposal– 2 times (1990 & 1992)
- Participated in the activities of the East Indian Group of Deep River- Pembroke area (1986 till today).
- Participated in Deep River Economic Development Committee (1987-1989).
- Member of the “Unity in Diversity” Group of Deep River (1990 till present)
Tthe Provincial Government initially nominated Pravin on the Deep River Police Board in 1994. The Municipality of Deep River nominated Pravin for the last couple of years on the Board.The Board is responsible for the provision of professional police services to the Town of Deep River. Pravin was elected and served as the Chair of the Board for the years 1998/2000. This public service is an important work and needs a constant oversight of police work with proper development of policies for governance.
Pravin was presented with a plaque cloak from the Deep River Police Service Board for appreciation of the service.
In the early years of coming to Deep River, Pravin stood for election to become the trustee of the Board of the Deep River & District Hospital. He first joined the Board in 1993 and served for a year. It was a learning experience to know and understand the working of the socialized nature of health delivery, which is a universal health care, a government-sponsored system that ensured open and equal access to medical services for all Canadians. His contribution was mainly to be sure that delivery of health service at the Deep River & District Hospital remains professional and equal to all irrespective of race, color or station in life.
The second time Pravin came back to the Hospital Board was in April 2007 – after he retired from active employment.
This is what he said when offering his service to the DRDH Board
“I believe I can provide time and effort for participation in this important institution (Deep River & District Hospital) of the Deep River Community; sustained by ethics of service and commitment with honesty and integrity”
He got elected for a two-year term – most get elected to three-year term but he filled the position left vacant by a departing Board Trustee. He is also nominated by the Board Executive to be the Chair of the Public Relation Committee and endorsed by the full Board for the first year. This is an exciting public service work and takes enormous personal time. Most members spent close to 200–500 hours a year on the Hospital governance policies and fund raising activities.
Pravin is glad to be able to continue this public duty.
Pravin got elected to the Executive Committee of the local Algonquin Chapter of the Professional Engineers, Ontario in 1999 to serve the interests of the Professional Engineers and support local programs to expand knowledge of engineers on various new developments and technical challenges. The Local Chapter also is vehicle for interfacing with the public and local politicians about the Engineers’ activities and contribution to the public well-being. Pravin was elected and served as the Chair of the Executive Committee in 2005 and 2006. Currently he is the Vice-Chair since 2007.
Pravin got nominated to serve on on a Community Liaison Group -2 times (1990 & 1992) - constituted by the Canadian Federal Government to find a solution to the age old radioactive wastes at the Town of Port Hope, Ontario.
Port Hope is a Municipality of 17,500 people on the shore of Lake Ontario, less than an hour’s drive east of Toronto.
Eldorado began processing uranium ore in Port Hope’s Harbour in 1932 to remove the minute amounts of radium it contained. Several thousand tons of uranium ore would be required to get a single gram of radium. The uranium ore was being mined at Port Radium in the North West Territories.
Historic wastes are low-level radioactive wastes which are managed in a manner no longer considered acceptable, but for which the original producer cannot reasonably be held responsible. Often these producers no longer exist, so the problem falls to government.
A growing body of evidence suggested that extensive public involvement could play a constructive role in the cooperative resolution of waste-facility siting decisions.
The Community Liaison Groups were established by the Government to seek out a volunteer community which can accept such low level radioactive wastes for storage and/or disposal of such wastes – the proviso being that such volunteer community will not be left worse off and agreed adequate financial compensation will be put in place.
The final agreement has to be placed for a referendum for the community to accept.
Deep River is the only community in Canada that had voluntarily agreed to offer a site for a radioactive waste disposal facility, albeit low-level waste.
These were challenging times when all technical studies (from health related and type of structures commensurate with the area geology) needed to be assessed and decisions made to provide guidelines to the Deep River Municipal Government for negotiation with the Federal Government.
The Port Hope wastes were ultimately not moved to Deep River area and are currently managed at Port Hope.
Pravin & family have spent most of their years after emigrating to Canada in Deep River and without disruption to their lives; arriving in Deep River (1986) to work at the Chalk River Nuclear Laboratories of Atomic Energy of Canada Ltd.
Deep River is located some 2 hours (by car) from the Canadian capital city of Ottawa.
Pravin & Jashoda got involved in the local social and cultural activities.
The immediate involvement was in the religious activities and Diwali programs of the East Indian community living in the Deep River/ Pembroke area. Every month, one family (residing in the area at the time) would hold a Hindu Prayer meeting with a dinner after that. Also the group would hold every year a Diwali program.
These meetings allowed our kids to understand and take part in the prayers and discussions after that on Hindu/Jain/Sikh religions. Also at the social hours kids intermingled with each other and develop friendship, which remain for the lifetime. These prayer meetings helped in our kids to bond and develop friendship with other community kids; that helped them not to remain isolated in the larger community and away from the bullying or racial attack in the schools and grounds.
Pravin wrote a play based on Ramayana for a Diwali program for the year 1987. The play was directed and choreographed by Jashoda. In this play all the kids of the community got a part along with some adults. The play went well and successful in its objective to tell the story of Ramayana as full as can be possible but also to have all the kids of the community to come together for such an exciting undertaking.
Pravin also led the community to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of India’s independence in August 1997. A big program was organized at the Deep River Town hall with Indian & United Nations flags raised at the Town hall. The mayor and other dignitaries were present and Scottish bagpipe music serenaded all in the background.
Indian and Canadian National Anthems were sung. An Indian student group (from India) visiting Canada at the time provided quite a collection of dances and plays for the occasion. All in all, it was much enjoyed by the community and the town folks.
The Deep River Economic Development Committee was constituted during the years 1987-1989 by the Town of Deep River to assess the possibility of diversifying the economy of the Town. Pravin volunteered to work on the committee.
Deep River is “one-employer” town. Most people are employed by the Chalk River Laboratories. In the late 1980s, the prospect for the development of new Nuclear Power plants was diminished due to concern about safety, waste management of radioactive wastes and also for security. This led to reduction in the staffing at the Plant and thus a concern as to the survival of Deep River.
Public opinion surveys and investigations were carried out for alternative source of economic activities. Tourism was flagged as one area, which can be explored. Another was development of senior citizen community. However it was evident that the town folks were not ready to see too many tourists, which might disturb their well laid out community. The concern, it seems, was mostly for the new immigrants arriving from Montreal and Toronto area as tourists to experience Canadian rural culture & way of living.
This assessment did not bring any solution to the economic decline at the time.
But it did show a need for a change in the “mind-set” of the community re: immigrants and their good qualities. However, this is a slow process and would come about as immigrants continually prove themselves in professions, industry, commerce and social services.
To celebrate the “Unity in Diversity” is an instrument, which helps a settled community like Deep River to recognize the existence and good work done by all diverse groups of the community. This helps change the “mind-set” and acceptance of immigrants to this fine country of Canada.
An energetic and committed couple, originally from Iran, leads the Group.
The first meeting to establish such a group was held at Pravin/Jashoda residence in Deep River during the year 1990.
The Canadian couple (originally from Iran) has been instrumental in organizing every year since 1992 a week of programs to celebrate the diversity in the community. The week usually culminates in a very popular potluck dinner. Many people of all cultures (from Scottish to Vietnamese) come with their national dishes and also some provide cultural programs (like singing, dancing or playing a musical instrument).
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Ancestral Tid-bits
September 6, 2008 on 10:04 am | In Family/Self | Comments Off
Talking to my mother on Friday 05 Sepember 2008 (Kasturben) who is in Kenya - a full 87 years old, I have summarised below are ancestral historical facts.