Our visit to the U.K. – from   Tuesday 22 August to Tuesday 19 September 2017  

Our recent visit to United Kingdom turned out to be overwhelmingly successful   – in terms of the wide ranging experience and uplift that I (and of course my wife) received – while interacting with many of our family members and friends – visiting from Kenya and those residing within the U.K.

Here is the write-up   – a bit long one but it provides lot of information- for future reference :

Our recent visit to United Kingdom turned out to be overwhelmingly successful   – in terms of the wide ranging experience and uplift that I (and of course my wife) received – while interacting with many of our family members and friends – visiting from Kenya and those residing within the U.K.

In short, I can describe it as heavenly – as it uplifted our emotional vibes from meeting our family members and friends.

Background

The primary reason visiting U.K was to attend Mohanlal’s granddaughter Anisha’s ( daughter of Mayur/Bhavni) wedding in London but arising from that event – my wife and I were to rekindle our memories of family ties with many of my wife’s relations. This view was fortified by the fact that my eldest brother (Kanti) was also visiting from Kenya at the   time to spend time with his two sons (Shammir & Nehul) & their families.   This would again afford further chance to revisit our fond memories  with many of my side of relations. Further, this provided the argument that   (having) my brother visiting U.K. will afford us a lifetime opportunity to pose for a family photo of those   of my siblings & their spouses (currently alive ) and  who are presently in U.K.   Of course we missed my sister Sarla & her husband (Satish) who remain in Kenya.

Note: Last we visited U.K and Kenya was some 10 years ago – to attend the wedding in Kenya of Mohanlal’s granddaughter Aarti (daughter of Anju/Naina in Nairobi). So there was a gap of 10 years -when we remained only sporadically connected with our near and dear ones.

So eventually  with some gentle plodding by our daughter (Nina) and   son-in-law (Sunjay) , we decided to take the trip.   So last minutes tickets were booked and the trip began safely -with Sunjay taking time from his work and drove us to the Ottawa international Airport and  Hasu , my cousin (my maternal uncle’s son ) came over & picked us from the Heathrow Airport on arrival.

Thank you Hasu and Dhanak for a warm welcome to London.  Your warmth, chatter and late night tea along with Atul’s energy and his recommended   Chinese Dried Plums   will be remembered at all times.

There were some specific events and experiences that we went through  when visiting the U.K this time. We avoided any tourist traps and remained focused to spend time   with our family members and friends.

So now I will narrate some of these events :

These are:

Event 1   – Remembering my AmuMama – whom we recently lost

Event 2   – Anisha weds Rikin

Event 3   – Meeting some of my colleagues from the Royal College, Nairobi

Event 4   – SamvatsarÄ«   Lunch at the Oshwal Center

Event 5  – Attending ” Saadadi ” – a condolence meeting at Oshwal Ekta Center

Event 6   – Celebrating 80th Birthday of my eldest brother

Event 7   – Ajul’s dream girl (Daksha) – and announcement of impending engagement

Event 8   – Our itinerary of stay in U.K – as it unfolded

Event 9   – Departure ( adios) – Michhami Dukkadam to all

 

Event 1

We spent the first few days – after our arrival in London for remembering and expressing our sorrow for recent loss of my loving maternal uncle AmuMama   ( who passed away not too long ago in Kenya) with his son (Nilesh & family ) for loss of his father, with  Hasu, his brother Atul , his brother Jitesh and families for loss of their uncle ( AmuKaka  – who is their paternal uncle),  my ShantiMama & family – for loss of a   brother and with my ChampaMami for loss of her brother-in-law.

Subsequently , we mourned my uncle’s death with my RamnikMama & family – for loss of his brother and Darshi ( who had just come over from Nairobi,Kenya) – who is my AmuMama’s granddaughter and was with him till last minute.

My take on my AmuMama –  (note :  for my poem from the heart refer to my blog  – referred below).

Link:   http://pravinshah.org/wp-admin/post.php?post=1025&action=edit&message=1

My AmuMama   passed away on 12 July 2017 in Nairobi, Kenya.   AmuMama was  born in Kenya, lived his whole life in Kenya. AmuMama had been a pillar to me – when I was 16 years old and completed my Senior Cambridge in Mombasa – he helped me with moral and financial support so I could start on my journey to become a professional engineer . I graduated from the Royal College, Nairobi ( second batch of the newly opened college   -with Mahatma Gandhi statue- funds contributed by the Indian Community of East Africa) in 1962 as a Civil Engineer with professional qualification from the Institution of Civil Engineers of London. I stayed with the joint household   of  my AmuMama & GunvantMama on Duke Street in Nairobi – and then walking from there to the Royal College precinct.   During third year, I moved to the Hostel attached to the Royal College. After my graduation   and my work career , my AmuMama remained my best friend and support in  case of any need – like transportation etc. Well he was such a helpful person for anyone who needed his help   – with cheerful smile and witty conversation on his lips.

We – I   will miss you a lot but then you are always in my heart.

The London trip helped me to share my sorrow and thus overcome my grief for my beloved AmuMama and accept the reality of loss.

Event 2

The Anisha wedding was fabulous with so many events to attend. We met with Anisha and all family members prior to actual wedding day – and also the groom (Rikin ) – on Mehndi day.

The three days we spent with various events/gatherings – led us to meet most relatives from Jackie’s side but also others who were friends and/or related to Mohanlal and family.   Most of us celebrated each event with complete attention, fun and serious understanding of what was being done/celebrated.

The food was fabulous. Jackie being on a non-dairy diet- was catered accordingly.

From the young ones of Mohanlal’s family we met:

Niraj/Nili                               (   parents – Anju/Naina )

Neel/Rachna                 (   parents – Jinit/Mina )

Vikesh/Heenal           ( parents – Jinit/Mina )

Arjun                                             ( parents – Mayur/Bhavni)

Of course — Anisha & her to be husband Rikin           ( parents – Mayur/Bhavni)

 

The current Anisha wedding –   was leading us at times on a journey through memory lane – reminding us of the earlier wedding we attended in Nairobi (travelling from Canada to attend the wedding) some 10 years ago for Mohanlal’s other granddaughter   (Arti ) – when Jackie and me had opportunity to reconnect with her relatives in Kenya at that time after a long time away in Canada.

This time all young ones (in Mohanlal’s family) have grown up, most married and all being so polite and welcoming.

Of course at that time (10 years ago) Anoop ( Jackie’s nephew – her brother Jayantilal’s son) was alive.  Anoop is still very much in our thoughts.

During this wedding , Anoop’s sister Minal and her husband Sachin had come along from Kenya with Minal’s mom Manjubhabhi.  We were so taken by Minal’s loving smile and her simple but caring attention to her JackieAuntie.

During this wedding, we were pleased to meet and join in the celebration with Jackie’s other brother   Sobhag and his wife Hansabhabhi -who had travelled from Kenya to attend the wedding. Their daughter Anjali had also flown in from the USA to attend the wedding.

This afforded the opportunity to be around   the near and dear ones (even for a short time) – as we are aging this meeting becomes all the more important for reliving our past.

 

The actual wedding was performed at the Ditton Park Manor – the bridegroom   party to be arriving at 8.30 am in the morning of Monday 28 August 2017.   So to enable us an easy and relaxed experience -we had decided to stay two (2) nights in a nearby hotel (Heathrow/Windsor Marriott Hotel , Langley, Slough) – Sunday night and Monday night.

The wedding bridegroom party arrived at around 9.00 am and thereafter bridegroom having been welcomed ceremoniously by the bride’s mother – the wedding started (   within a professional lawn marquee   ) at about 10.00 am (after breakfast) . The presiding priest was Kamal Pandey –   a young, affable   and bi-lingual priest for the occasion.   The ceremony was kind of Jain themed.   There was pin-dropped silence during the ceremony.

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Ditton Park Manor

Just 20 minutes from London is a truly exclusive location, where time appears to stand still within an atmosphere of enchantment.

Ditton Manor has over a century of charm but with all the modern amenities to host wedding parties from 120 seated in the Great Hall or up to a 1000 guests within a professional lawn marquee.

Ditton Park belonged to the crown in the reign of Queen Elizabeth 1. It then eventually passed to Ralph Montagu , 1st Duke of Montagu, through marriage. The present house which may have been first built around 1500 was badly damaged by fire in 1812.

Nearby, on the Great West Road,   a public house known as the Montague [sic] Arms stands, now owned and operated as a Harvester restaurant. The pub dates back to the early 19th century.  

Link:   https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ditton_Park

Note: Jackie and I had dinner on Sunday (27 August 2017) night and breakfast on Tuesday morning at the said  Harvester restaurant.  So friendly and homely – the waitress spent time and found a carton of Soya Milk for Jackie’s non-dairy diet along with other menu items.

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After wedding was over – all were treated to a fabulous vegetarian lunch and then some of us went to their accommodation at the Marriot hotel for rest till 5.00 pm – and then embarked on the bus (special for transporting guests from the Ditton Park Manor to the Hotel and back) and arrived back at the Ditton Park Manor at about 5.30 pm ( start of the Reception   time) . We all gathered on the grounds and had refreshment/drinks and took photos etc.

At one point, looking at the Manor – which looks like a palace (albeit all simple and without much decoration)   – where I saw a balcony and uttered to others as to ” When is the Prince or Queen coming to   wave at us? ”   It was in the spirit of making a lighter conversation in the ambience of sitting under a balcony of a palace .

Well, it happened   – both Rikin and Anisha ( assuming the role of prince & queen for the   moment – as they were the groom & bride ) appeared on the balcony and waved to us – sitting or standing under the balcony. So the statement uttered came to be true – for us.

How times have changed?    It was not long ago when Winston Churchill spewed venom at India (and Indians) – calling Mahatma Gandhi posing as a fakir and   his imperial bent   was supported by many British citizens and leaders.  Now Indians can rent a manor (previously owned by a British Duke) and perform wedding ceremonies with Jain/Hindu slokas with all the freedom and rights.   So Britain has changed – and we have advanced educationally and economically plus politically. That is the effect of democracy in Britain.

After reception dinner   – there was dance on the floor – the first dance led by Rikin and Anisha.   Jackie and I joined in the fun and danced a couple of numbers – before we left for the hotel at about 11.00 pm.

Event 3

The meeting with some of my old college colleagues ( from way back ) had come out of the blue.

Note:   I did my Civil Engineering education at Royal Technical College (RTC) , Nairobi finishing in June 1962.   The RTC was established in 1956.   I was in the second batch(at the new College) starting my college time in September 1957.   Depending on when you attended the college, it may have been called Royal Technical College , Royal College Nairobi, or University College Nairobi. It wasn”™t until 1970 that the college was transformed into the University of Nairobi.

It so transpired that we were warmly welcomed by Bhaskar/Vidula Patel to spend some time with them -while visiting U.K. this time.   Both Bhaskar & Vidula are ex-Royal College students – whom we had met earlier.   We   decided to spend a few days with them immediately after Anisha’s wedding . So Bhaskar & Vidula picked us up at   noon time on Tuesday 29 August 2017 from the Marriot Hotel.   Well, they were working enthusiastically to organize a gathering of a few Royal College ex-students (who are currently residing in London) for a dinner party to welcome Jackie & me in their midst.

The dinner party came about on the same day – that is on Tuesday 29 August 2017. Lo Behold! the gathering was planned to be at the famous and historic Indian Gymkhana Club in London. We were so spell-bound with all the happenings – first meeting with some of the old College colleagues and that at the Indian Gymkhana Club.

Note:   Indian Gymkhana Club is a combined Cricket, Football and Hockey Club and was established in 1916. It is   the largest and longest-standing multiracial Sports Club in the United Kingdom. The club is celebrating 100 years of existence this year. However, the current site was opened on 15-acre site in Osterley, West London in 1922 –   thanks to donations from some of the most illustrious families in India, including the maharajas of Patiala, Kapurthala, Jhalawar and Cooch Behar.

Link:   https://www.theguardian.com/cricket-has-no-boundaries/2017/may/25/its-a-special-place-the-101-year-history-of-the-indian-gymkhana-cricket-club

There were some 6 couples (besides us) who attended the dinner gathering – all very charming and bubbly in welcoming us.

Following colleagues and wives attended the dinner.

1) Bhaskar Patel   &   his wife Vidula – who organized the dinner party & with whom Jackie and I had gone to the dinner party.

2) Mansukh Shah & his wife Lata

3) Pyarali Mannani & Nasim

4) Edgar d’Sa

5) Himat Talsania & Kanta

6) Chhagan Mistry (Architect) & his wife Nalini

 

Note : Mansukh and I were classmates in High School in Mombasa & then at Royal College in Nairobi. The others who came to welcome me were students at Royal College – possibly a couple of years junior to me (and Mansukh) but I had met a couple of them at a RTC gathering   in Toronto   in the year 2001.

My wife and I were floored by the warm time we spent together -remembering and reminiscing about old college days and also remembering others who were not at the table at this time.      Fabulous.

One incident that we remembered & jolted me and my memory was about — a rag day parade in 1961   – during which an accident happened and we lost one of our colleague students (Chhaya) who got caught under the wheel of a parade truck.    Also another incident   -shortly after our graduation , one of our colleagues ( Fonseca) had joined with the Royal Air force in U.K. – and during training had an accident and plane crashed and we lost him.   This memory was a bit of shocker – buried , at least , in my conscience for a long time. Now it has surfaced and the sad memory does hurt – even after so many years.

I was pleased to see Mansukh Shah and his wife, Latta who had come to the gathering to welcome us. They were introduced to Jackie and I am sure they had pleasant conversations.

Mansukh   and I have been together while growing up in Mombasa, Kenya – we were together in the high school (Technical High School) Mombasa — in the same class- and   there after again at the Royal College in Nairobi – again in the same class for Civil Engineering qualification. We completed our education at the same time – graduating as Civil Engineers.   After college, we separated out   to   different career routes – leading him to be in U.K. and I am in Canada.   So meeting him after so many years was a very pleasant happening – though now both are retired as professional Civil Engineers.

I got the opportunity during dinner to have a chat/conversation  with Chhagan Mistry. He is an architect by profession.   Nice chat with Chhagan   – it transpired that he was instrumental in bringing to the notice of Oshwal Shahs Community in London about a huge property at Potters Bar, which was available for purchase. The long and short of that is —  the Oshwal Shahs own that property and now we have Oshwal Center there.  Also he helped in the design & details for the   Jain Temple on the property.

A bit of history for my record from my conversation with Chhagan.

One item that kind of spilled over during the conversation is about the visible success in their career and generally in life of many of the early years graduates from the RTC   – even when they are scattered across many countries (such as East Africa , U.K., Canada, Australia and USA).   The technical acumen and leadership exercised by most   is astounding   and is a tribute to the values instilled and foresight of our fathers and grandfathers during our upbringing under difficult colonial times.

A note about our stay with Bhaskar and Vidula

We feel that we are fortunate to enjoy the warm hospitality that Bhaskar and Vidula bestowed on us during our stay with them and which kind of transitioned us subsequently to a smooth stay in London.

After Bhaskar & Vidula picked us up at noon time on Tuesday 29 August 2017 from the Marriot Hotel , we went to their home in Ruislip.

Both Jackie and I were immediately awed by collection of their various fabulous artifacts in their home.   The most attention grabbing and those inspiring reverence were   two     – i)   a   ” stained glass”   Ganeshji  (crafted by one of their contacts) and   ii)   an intricate photo of ShreeNathji studded with various semi-precious stones. These two ignited in my heart my prayer mode  – a sort of doing a religious pilgrimage visit.

We spent  Wednesday shopping – went with Bhaskar for woolen sweaters (made in UK)  – bought two sweaters – Pringle brand (made in Scotland) and also I needed two special AAAA batteries for my hearing-aid remote. These we could not get from the shops.

Well, Bhaskar/Vidula   were kind & took (drove) us to Rugby on Thursday 31 August 2017 – where we wanted to make a visit to meet with our son-in-law Sunjay’s mom Hasuben .  It was a beautiful day and we had experience of M1 highway and we arrived at Rugby at noon time – we had a good visit and after lunch and socializing for a while we returned back   to Bhaskar/Vidula’s home by the evening.  After dinner we spent time chatting and also looking/savouring at Bhaskar’s album of RTC memories & photos from yonder years.

Vidula is an expert cook and enjoyed her meals . I still remember her home made pickle –   ” Chhundo ” (mango pickle) – exceptional texture and test and accompaniment to any   main dish.   Thanks Vidula.

Event 4

It   was the Paryushana festival  time  when we visited the U.K.  SamvatsarÄ«  (Forgiveness Day) is the last day of Paryushana festival observed by the followers of Jain religion. On this day, Jains ask for the forgiveness for their mistakes committed knowingly or unknowingly from the fellow beings.

It so happened that we were in London during Jain Paryushana festival  and thus we were fortunate to partake in this year’s Samvatsari  Lunch organized by the Oshwal Association of the U.K. on Sunday   03 September 2017 at the Oshwal Center, Potters Bar, Hertfordshire.

This afforded us the opportunity not only to partake in the Lunch – but also to visit the famous Oshwal Center of London and also the Jain Temple located there.  Besides we were to get to meet many of our relatives and friends whom we would not have time otherwise to visit individually.

At that time we were guests and staying with my sister Ranjan and her husband Mahendra in Edgware. So we went with them – driven by Mahendra – to Oshwal Center arriving there by 11.00 am.   Also their daughter Bini was with us.

As we had time before lunch – we went over to the Temple – made our prayers and then went on the grounds to enjoy the garden and many different well carved   ” stambhs – pillars “.

The Jain Temple

The Jain Temple is a “Shikhar Bandhi” Jain Temple and is popular with artistic carving.  The inner sacred sanctum houses idols of 3 Tirthankaras   (spiritual teachers of the dharma – righteous path) .  Mul nayak is Mahavir Swami; on his left is Parshvanath and on his right is Adishvara.

There is a ” Hand with Ahimsa Chkara ” on the ground along one side of the Temple. It is called the Ahimsa Hand (Jain Hand) and symbolizes non-violence. It is a right hand shown facing upwards (fingers up), with the thumb slightly pointed out.

Some believe it to be the Saṃsāra, a “wheel of life” on which there are depictions of birth, life, death, and reincarnation/death, along with the actions and consequence”™s of one”™s past, present, and future (Jain Hand).

Over upper level ground – a magnificent grove of trees is planted – some   52 trees – representing 52 villages of Halar.  Note: Halar is a county/borough in Saurashtra , Gujarat, India – from where originally members of our Visa Oshwal community   migrated – about a century ago – to go overseas mostly to Bombay and then to Kenya & other parts of East Africa .

Each tree is planted on its own separated from each other by a few feet and each tree is surrounded by a concrete round platform   ( ” Otlo “- a Gujarati term )  depicting the name of a village and donors who have contributed funds towards planting that particular tree & platform.

This Temple is gaining reputation for an excellent place for pilgrimage (by Jain visitors to London) and also by tourists   interested in knowing/understanding other culture/religion/tradition of the world.

The carved artistic temple along with well laid out and spacious garden provides the peaceful and solemn ambience for those seeking spiritual experience.

Samvatsari   Lunch

The Samvatsari lunch was held at the main building – utilizing all the halls   (and a marquee)- as to accommodate many participants who had come to share this joyous but somber day in the Jain calendar.

The   organization was superb, the enthusiasm and caring attitude of the volunteers was exemplary and worth to be proud of. The crowd was well behaved and remained in queue where so needed. We   stood in the queue and there we met   Jigna ( Mahendra/Ranjan’s eldest daughter ), her husband Richard and their kids – Ishan & Rishi. We also met Priyal (my nephew   Sunay’s wife) and her two kids – Ayla & her brother Ridai.   Further we met others too while in the queue – I remember meeting my niece Rina also.

As the queue wound down to the lower basement hall, we were greeted with smile and   ” namaskar ” by specially posted volunteers welcoming the participants with humility and wishing all of us a nice lunch. This was very profound in lifting our joyous spirit and at the basement hall – we picked up our lunch (chosen by each of us from a variety of menu items) served by volunteers posted at various tables. After pick up of the lunch  – we proceeded to the marquee which was erected next to the Main Building . There we all sat down and had our lunch – with quiet and relaxed manner.

After lunch, we came out to the grounds – from exit side – and there we had some time to mill around meeting some old acquaintances   (I met a couple of brothers (Ashok & Suryakant) who were   our neighbours in Mombasa -Station Road when I was in primary school). And also meeting some of our relatives ( in fact we met most of Jackie’s cousins & wives ).

We spent some time at the Main Building halls – where the ” physically challenged ” were served lunch . The love and care shown by the volunteer servers to each and every guest was exceptionally heart-warming.

So we ended our visit to the Oshwal Center by 3.30 pm and returning back we decided to visit Jackie’s cousin brother Laljibhai ( who lives with his son Harshit & Alpa ). Laljibhai has medical problems and need constant care.

My admiration and many thanks to all the volunteers who made the day very comfortable.

Event 5

Saadadi – Condolence Meeting . ” Saadadi ” style condolence meeting , I believe , is unique to our Community – having originated in Nairobi, Kenya. ” Saadadi ” is   organized at a Community Hall   within few days immediately after death of an individual     – by the close relatives of the deceased.

On Sunday 03 September 2017 (the day we went for Samvantari Lunch)    – after visiting Laljibhai (Jackie’s cousin brother) at his son’s home – we came to Ranjan/Mahendra home and had dinner and some rest.

After that we went to   a ” Saadadi ” – a condolence meeting held at the Oshwal Ekta Center for Hansaben. We went with Mahendra/Ranjan.  Hansaben had passed away a few days back. She is sister of my JayaKaki ( wife of my RashikUncle or Bachukaka – as we used to call him) plus she is also related to Mahendra from her husband side.

At the Condolence meeting – all (those coming to condole) get into a queue ( can be a long line) which slowly threads towards a line of mourners (from Hansaben’s family members – in this case) – either standing or sitting down – and as we get to the line – each one in line get to offer his or her either silent condolence message or expressing few words to that effect and then move on to the next mourner – until all are touched (metaphorically speaking) and offered condolence message – The purpose being that – in a way to make a gesture that lets the family know you”™re thinking of them and share their sorrow. Your choice of words is important and to avoid any inappropriate word.

This meeting has a set time – so we arrived within the allotted time and once the line move on – it takes only about 1/2 hour to complete the process.

This meeting allows opportunity to meet others -who would have come to condole – either before joining the line or after the process is complete.

As we were recent visitors to London   – many people came over and said Hi and had a bit of a chat – remembering our past. One of the guys I met was Mansukh Kanji -who was my neighbourhood friend when I was in primary/secondary school in Mombasa – living on Station Road -near our Visa Oshwal Community Place –   that is now 60 -65 years ago. That was very nice.     We also met Mansukh and his wife – Indu (Manjubhabhi’s brother & wife) as well as met Mahendra & wife (Virparfuva’s eldest son – the other sons &wives we met at Oshwal Center on Samvatsari lunch day).

After that we went over to Anuj’s parents home ( Anuj is Bini’s husband). Also Anuj was home – as he had returned back from his visit to Belgium.

Oshwal Ekta Center is the Oshwal Community center in Edgware, England – not very far from Ranjan/Mahendra home. Nice hall and they ( the Organizing Committee ) have plans for more renovations in the days to come. Only problem with this location is lack of parking – not like Oshwal Centre at Potters Bar where parking is ample.

Event 6

This visit to London was to achieve few objectives .   One of these was to spend time with my eldest brother, Kanti (turning 80 and visiting from Kenya for a few days) – as much as is feasible during our visit.

It so happened that he turned 80 – the day we landed at Heathrow Airport arriving from Canada – Wednesday 23 August 2017. Though talking with him on the phone after we landed in London – we got opportunity to   meet him only after a few days.   That was the day   when his sons (Shammir & Nehul) had organized a surprise birthday party for him. He did not know about it and his son Shammir and family were overseas (visiting California , USA for holidays) – when we arrived in London. We were approached by Nehul for the party – the invitation and the date   – at 6.00 pm Saturday 26 August 2017 and it to be at Shammir’s   place – as he would be back from USA by then.

Saturday was a busy day for us – as we were to be at Mayur’s place (Northwood) in the afternoon to participate in Anisha’s  Mehndi event. We had to excuse ourselves around 8.30 pm from the festivities and leave Mayur’s place to get to the party.  Note: There was a dance after dinner but we missed all that as we could not remain late and miss my brother’s birthday party.

It was important to be at the birthday party on two counts   1) It was my brother’s 80th birthday party and thus I would not want to miss it and 2) this is the only chance we will get to meet the whole side of my family together –   which would then allow a photo shoot of our siblings and their spouses – who are in U.K.   So we arrived at Shammir’s place at about 9.00 pm – a bit late for the party but we were in time for the cake cutting and subsequent photo of all my brothers, sisters and their spouses   together. I must mention here that we could not have in the photo —   my brother Arwind, my Kanchanbhabhi   (Kanti’s wife) – as both of them have passed away some years ago. Also my sister Sarla and her husband Satish could not be in the photo shoot – as they were in Nairobi, Kenya.

It was terrific that we managed to get to the party- however late and missing some items at Mayur’s place – as besides my siblings /spouses   we also met almost all of our nephews and nieces and spouses   and most of the grandkids.   Note: My sister Daksha and her husband had come all the way from Northampton and their three sons ( Ajul, Krupesh and Dinit) have also joined in – them being in London.

The party turned out to be exciting – having some cool moments to reminisce our family fraternity and getting fun looking at each other and sharing happy moments. At the end of the party around mid-night, my brother Suryakant dropped us at Hasu’s place where we were staying.

Event 7

Ajul decides to propose to his girlfriend (Daksha). This event was kind of a surprise  (especially during our visit to England ) – not thought of even in our dreams.

Ajul is my sister Daksha (Dipak)’s eldest son – whom we had met earlier at my brother Kanti’s 80th birthday party.   Fine young man.

So we had gone over to Northampton to spend a weekend with Daksha and Dipak.

We went to Northampton to Daksha/Dipak home on Friday 08 September 2017 with  Mahendra/Ranjan   and my brother Kanti.  Mahenda drove us all in his car.

That evening, Ajul had also come over (by train from London) along with his girlfriend (also named Daksha) to be with his parents in Northampton and also spend some time with us too – besides they arranged it in such a way so his girlfriend Daksha was introduced to all us on Friday   – as Ranjan (his Masi), Mahendra (his   Masa) and Kanti (his Mama) and myself & Jackie (his Mama/Mami) were all there. A sort of breaking a story /news of impending engagement.

However, Mahendra, Ranjan and Kanti returned to London on Friday night leaving Northampton at about mid-night – and Jackie and I remaining to spend the weekend there.

After spending the day together – going to John Lewis Mall at Milton Keynes and to a Buddhist Pagoda around that area – we returned back to London on Sunday 10 September 2017   in the evening – driven by Dipak in their minivan . We were to stay with Suryakant/Jasu in London that night but we had   a detour to my nephew Nimish’s home .  So Ajul introduced his girlfriend Daksha to his KumudMami and to Nimish and Prasita . After that Dipak drove us to Suryakant/Jasu home and there again introductions were made and after that late at night they left.

So it happened fast after that – Daksha’s parents flew over from Dehradun (India) on Friday                                                            (15 September 2017) next and spent their Saturday in Northampton and ” the die was cast “. So unofficially Ajul and Daksha were engaged – a formal ceremonial proposal was made by Ajul to Daksha later.

So on Saturday (15 September 2017) evening   –   Daksha/Dipek , Ajul and his girl friend Daksha & her parents come over to London at Shammir’s home – where we had gathered for dinner and introductions were made   and relations were established.  Also Krupesh (Ajul’s brother) came over after a while to join in the   bonhomie.

To top it up – sweets from Dehradun (India) were distributed for celebrating the occasion.   After a short time together – Daksha/Dipek , Ajul and his girl friend Daksha & her parents and Krupesh left – and thereafter we  went to the dining table for our dinner.   At the dining table – we were – Jackie, myself, Kanti, Suryakant & Jasu, Kumudbhabhi , Rina’s mom , Shammir & Rina – 9 in total.   Both grandkids (Ruan & Syan) had their dinner earlier.

Event 8   –     Our itinerary of stay in U.K – as it unfolded

a) Departing from Ottawa on Tuesday 22 August 2017 at 10.40 pm   local time & arriving   at Heathrow Airport , London on Wednesday 23 August 2017    –   Welcomed by Hasu ( my cousin – maternal)

Stayed with Hasu and his wife Dhank – from Wednesday 23 August to Sunday 27 August 2017

See above Event 1 (remembering my AmuMama) write-up – for some details.

Also see above Event 6 write-up – for some details on my brother Kanti’s 80th birthday at his son Shammir’s home

b) Stayed at Heathrow/Windsor Marriott Hotel , Langley, Slough – from Sunday 27 August to Tuesday 29 August 2017 –   for attending Anisha’s wedding.

See above Event 2 ( Anisha weds Rikin ) write-up – for some details.

c) Stayed with our Royal College colleague & friend Bhaskar Patel & His wife Vidula   – from Tuesday 29 August to Friday 01 September 2017.

See above Event 3  ( dinner with Royal College colleagues) write-up – for some details

also we had a day visit   with Hasuben ( Sunjay’s mom) in Rugby on Thursday 31 August 2017 – driven there by Bhaskar / Vidula .

d) Stayed with Ranjan/Mahendra (my sister & her husband)   – from Friday 01 September to   Tuesday 05 September 2017

See above Event 4 ( Samvatsari Lunch) & Event 5 (Saddaadi) write-ups – for some details

During our stay   – we had dinner at my ShantiMama/LekhaMami   home on Monday 04 September 2017. My brother Kanti was also invited.

e) Stayed with Suryakant/Jasu (my brother & his wife) from Tuesday 05 September to   Friday   08 September 2017

also during that time   :

– had dinner at Blue Ginger Restaurant with Harkhu/Nimu, Mansukh/Lekha & Laxmikant/Mukta on Wednesday 06 September 2017.   –  A   good time spent with friends .

Harkhu is my old time friend from Kenya. Mansukh is my school and college friend. Laxmikant is Jackie’s relation and friend.

– had lunch at Mansukh /Sobhna (Jackie’s cousin brother & wife ) home   on Thursday 07 September 2017 – there were also (also Sheetal and his wife were at the lunch) , ManuBhabhi, ManjuBhabhi, Pravin/Champu, Manjubhabhi’s brother Mansukhbhai and his wife Indu were also invited. Also Sushi/ Rajni were there too. Pravin/Champu’s daughter (Shaily)   also came over.

– Went over for a visit to Rina/Minesh home on Thursday 07 September 2017  evening . Met Minesh’s parents ( Vijayaben and Venichandbhai (Vinubhai . Also met their daughter   Ruhi . Their other daughter, Kria,  had gone to sleep at that time.

 Rina – trying to be vegan – knew about Soya Yogurt , Soya Ice Cream . Also had tea which was Caffeine free – a product of South Africa ( known as Tick-Tock tea)

Note:   Tick Tock”˜s deep colour and full taste make a delicious cup of tea, and it”™s well known for its health properties too. Gentle, soothing, naturally caffeine free and low in tannin, Tick Tock Rooibos Tea can be enjoyed at any time, even at bed time.

Tick Tock Rooibos tea is still  harvested by hand and cured in the traditional way The process takes place in the crisp  air of the Cedarberg Mountains of South Africa’s Cape. It  requires great skill to know when the cure is at its peak;  one sign is that it begins to give off a delicious sweet aroma that attracts wild bees.

f)   Stayed with  Daksha/ Dipak (my sister and her husband) in Northampton between Friday 08 September to Sunday 10 September 2017 . Driven there  by Mahendra/Ranjan .  My brother Kanti also joined us.

See above Event 7  ( Ajul’s dream girl -Daksha) write-up – for some details.

also during that time on Saturday :

– Daksha /Dipek took us to meet Champa/Harkhu in Northampton . Champa had worked for TESCO for 21 years until her injuries – when she retired.   She has 3 girls – all grown up . One – Kalpa – is married ( to a local guy – they have two kids – a boy and a girl – both toddlers) The two others ( Bina & Rina) are not married and live nearby -and together.

– and in subsequently in the afternoon we   went to Leicester – a sort of pilgrimage – to go to Shree Jalaram Temple for worship. Nice temple – with an idol of Shree Jalaram with an idol of Shree Ram behind.   After the worship at Shree Jalaram Temple   – we went to the Jain Temple ( which is known to be the oldest in the Western world). After worship – we waited till 7.00 pm for aarti – met Rajni Mehta & his wife ( who seem to be one of the leaders at the Temple).

The Aarti started at 7.00 pm – and we were encouraged to take & lead the Aarti – which we did.   There were 3 Aarti ( one for Digambar, one for Swetamber and last for Rajchandraji.   After Aarti — there was sing song ( stavan) led by a good singer.

We left the JainTemple at about 9.00 pm and then went for dinner at Indigo Restaurant serving Indian cuisine.   Arrived back to Northampton at about mid-night . Over tea, had a long good “shooting the breeze type” conversation with Dipak past midnight.

On Sunday , we all went   to John Lewis Center- Milton Keynes .   At the mall, Daksha concentrated to find any Chinese Shop – for she knew I was looking for Chinese Dried Plums                   ( believed to be good for digestion – for constipation relief – as recommended by Atul & already tried by me at the start of the journey to UK).   Well, we found it – not exactly at the John Lewis mall but at the adjoining Food Mall . We managed to buy few packets of these Dried Plums. Note : By the way – over the coming week Daksha tried these Dried Plums and she did report a good result – for her constipation problem.

After the mall visit – on the way back to Northampton   – we took a detour to a Buddhist Pagoda (Peace Pagoda) & Temple in the vicinity – at Willen Lake Milton Keynes.   We had to climb steps to go over to the Peace Pagoda – and walked over the top of the hill towards the Temple but wind and adverse weather made it difficult to go over to the Temple – had my hat had blown over and had to be retrieved with some concern. However, we did get to the Tree where worshipper place their written prayers . At that place there was a stone cairn with write-up and a fixed on the cairn was a small   golden Ganesha statue.   I am surprised to see a Ganesha image at a Buddhist shrine.

Note: Ganesha also appears in Buddhism, not only in the form of the Buddhist god Vināyaka, but also portrayed as a Hindu deity form also called Vināyaka. His image may be found on Buddhist sculptures of the late Gupta period.

See Link: https://www.buddhagroove.com/what-is-significance-of-ganesha-in-buddhism/

After the visit to the Peace Pagoda , we rushed back to Northampton as Jigna/Richard and their toddlers ( Ishan & Rishi) were visiting Daksha’s family for an hour or so. They arrived about the same time we reached Daksha’s home. Had a great time playing with Rishi – a very adorable   ~ 1   1/2 yr old boy. All had dinner refreshment   together – and after Jigna family left –   we kind of relaxed a bit before leaving Northampton for London.

We were to spend night at Suryakant/Jasu place .   Dipak  drove – all six of us again in their van.   On the way to Suryakant’s home – Daxa made   a diversion to go to Nimish’s   home   ( this was an opportunity to introduce Daksha Jr  to Nimish family and to Kumudbhabhi ) .

 

 

 

When we arrived at Suryakant’s home ( about 9.30 pm) – surprise!   Darshi and Nilesh ( Nilesh is Darshi’s Mama -mom’s brother) were there visiting.  Darshi is granddaughter of my AmuMama ( Ela’s daughter) -who has recently arrived to UK to visit ( in fact she was to attend a conference but that   got cancelled last minute) . Darshi is a Pharmacist by profession.   My AmuMama passed away recently in Kenya ( just before we travelled to UK) and thus meeting Darshi was a God-sent opportunity.   An opportunity to grieve within family.

g) Stayed one night with Suryakant/Jasu on Sunday 10 September   2017 and then

h) on   Monday 11 September 2017 went to Sushi/Rajni home for a night .   Met their son Deep ( who is physically challenged, gone through hardship while growing up but   managed himself , did get an education and works with Tax Department   since last many years. He did work with Hasu   (my cousin) when Hasu was with the Tax Department. Hasu is now retired after 41 years of service. Deep lives independently in his own apartment – which he   shares with a roomie ( a local person).

Note: Sushi/Rajni came over in the morning to pick us up from Suryakant’s home

On Tuesday   12 September 2017 – in the morning – before lunch , Sushi/Rajni took us over to the neighbourhood park for a walk . All the amenities for children playground BUT also a an adult physio corner were there. Nice weather and walk.

Manu Haria & his wife Shobhna came over to visit.   Shobhna brought an Indian dress (maroon) for Sitara   and a bag of Sooji flour ( for making shiro) . We declined the Sooji flour on account of being heavy to carry.

Sushi/Rajni (along with Deep) took us to visit Harshit/Alpa & Laljibhai .   This is the second time we visited Laljibhai – who grew up with Jackie in the same household .

i)  Stayed two (2) nights at Mayur/Bhavni home   from Tuesday 12 September to   Thursday 14 September 2017 . They had come over to Sushi/Rajni home to pick us up late in the afternoon.

Tuesday night , Anisha dropped by at her parents’ home before her parents dropped her to her in-laws home. Arjun was also home – with whom we had good conversation.

Note: In the morning of Wednesday,   when I was resting a bit in the living room (at Mayur’s place) -as usual I was looking for something to read, Lo Behold ! what I found ?   On the side of the sofa – I found a collection of books – amongst these there was one book which attracted my attention. The book is top Jain Book -translated into English . Title : Tattvartha Sutra – That Which is.   This book is so excellent about Jainism and principles, We have a copy at home in Canada. I was mesmerized . This is moment which will transform me from my recent interest in Mystery/Detective books to philosophy/theology serious books – especially books about Jainism as I had done study previously when we were in Toronto   Area – before 1986.

On   Wednesday 13 September 2017 – at about noon Bhavni dropped us at Sanjiv/Pallavi’s home .

Pallavi & Manubhabhi wanted to take us for lunch and spend better   part of day with them.   On the way, we picked up Manjubhabhi from her sister’s home   before we proceeded to go to the Swaminarayan Temple (Mandir) at Neasden, London . There we spent time in the Temple premises but we were at a   wrong time when the actual Temple Sacred Sanctum was closed and thus after admiring the temple from outside -we left. It was decided on the run that we can go to Maru’s Bhajia House ( at Wembley) for lunch.   So we ended up there.

What a lunch!   Just took us back to our old days in Nairobi when there Maru’s Bhajia were very popular . Great time .   Next to Maru’s Bhajia House was the Sanatan Temple . We went to worship there .

Note: The Sanatan Temple in Wembley   was opened in the Summer of 2010, took 14 years to build, and is made entirely of imported Indian limestone.

After a worship at the Sanatan Temple – it transpired (during conversations in the car) that Dhanubhai Chandaria ( from Kenya) has recently arrived in London. So it was decided to go and visit him at his sister’s home – where he was staying.   Dhanubhai has a great esteem for us and vice versa – so this was   a pleasant surprise – him being in London.   We had a great visit and at the end , Pallavi invited him/wife to join us at dinner at Pallavi/Sanjiv home that evening .   So dinner went well – all having good time.

After dinner, Sanjiv dropped us at Mayur/Bhavni’s home to spend the night there. It was close to mid-night – but we had a good conversation with Mayur and Arjun prior to going to sleep.

j)  Stayed at Ranjan/Mahendra home from Thursday 14 September to Sunday 17 September 2017.

Mayur dropped us at Mahendra/Ranjan place – going via Suryakant’s home ( to pick up a suitcase we had left there – Jasu was home ).

Dinesh came to visit at about 3.00 pm on   Thursday at Mahendra’s home.   Also surprise – Ranjan Malde   ( our LaxmiMasi’s daughter) also came over to visit – day before she was travelling to Norway to be with her   son ( her son works in Norway ).

All in all it turned out to be pleasant afternoon.

In the evening – there was dinner at Tikoo (Nimish) /Prasita home ( Kumudbhabhi) — Aashay, Savir are Nimish/Prasita’s sons.   Savir is Sachin’s age (about 8 years)   and Aashay is about 11 years old.   Also Kanti, Suryakant/Jasu were there.   Kumudbhabhi made puranpuri   – which she remembered as my favorite .

After dinner, Suryakant dropped us at Mahendra’s place.

On Friday , Rishi   – Mahendra/Ranjan’s grandson was dropped off by Richard in the morning while Ishan had gone to school.

Today is a special day at Oshwal Center for Snatra Puja   – which Mahendra like to participate.

Note:   This is a common Puja widely performed by most of the Deravasi Jain worshipers. It is also a starting Puja before any other main Puja.

So we all went (along with Rishi) to the Jain Temple at the Oshwal Center.   Met Manikaki . Participated in the Snatra Puja. Also   did Shanti Jal puja, Chaityavandan   (praying to the Tirthankars at the temple ), & Aarti at the Jain Temple.

Note:   Shanti Jal puja   –   Water symbolizes life”™s ocean of birth, death and misery. This Jain puja reminds that one should live one’s life with honesty, truthfulness, love and compassion towards all living beings. This way one will be able to cross life”™s ocean and attain liberation (Moksha).

LINK: http://www.jaincentreleicester.com/resources/puja/

Lunch was provided in the hall . Ate many ladoos ( 3 1/2 ladoos) . Nice curry with sweet peas, tindora & fulka.

After that returned back to Mahendra/Ranjan Home . Mahendra went to pick up Ishan from school .

Dinesh came to visit about 3.00 pm and stayed until 5.00 pm .

Both kids   (Ishan & Rishi) had a sleep over at their nana/nani ( Mahendra/Ranjan) place .

On Saturday, I went for a walk ( in the morning ) around the area by myself first   and then with Mahendra taking a walk (after lunch) with Rishi in the stroller. This time we   walked a longer route – stopping at Shammir’s place and saying Hi to Kanti as well as Shammor/Rina.

Bini/Anuj had come over to play with the kids (Ishan & Rishi) . Also Rehma joined them .

Shammir then came over at 3.00 pm to pick us up – as we were having dinner at his place.

While at Shammir – Tikoo(Nimish)/Prasita and Savir had come for a short to visit .   Also RamnikMama/TaraMami came for a visit. This was excellent that I finally met them -otherwise our contact would only remain on the phone – while we were in London.

Nimish/Prasita and Savir left after spending less than an hour with the group.

Then unexpected happened.   Daksha/Dipak came from Northampton to visit along with Ajul, Daxa Jr and her parents (from India).   They announced that Ajul and Daksha Jr were now engaged (sort of unofficially) and   Daksha (Ajul’s mom) distributed Dehradun sweets to celebrate the occasion. The guests – parents of Daksha Jr –   (Raj Isar & his wife) are from Dehradun, India.

Rina had gone & picked her mom – who then joined us.

Suryakant/Jasu and Kumudbhabhi also came over and joined in the celebration. After sometime, RamnikMama/TaraMami left. Then Krupesh turned up to join in the celebration .

All stayed till about 9.00 pm and then Daxa and the group left for dinner somewhere in   a restaurant and the rest remained behind to have dinner at Shammir/Rina home.   Ruan & Syan (kids ) had their dinner earlier but Ruan came downstairs & took some of our group photos. On the dinner table we were – myself, Jackie, Kanti, Kumudbhabhi , Rina’s mom, Suryajkant, Jasu , Shammir and Rina . Late at night Suryakant dropped us off at Mahendra/Ranjan place.

Kanti was to travel to Kenya catching his plane (from Heathrow Airport) on Sunday morning.

Suryakant/Jasu to travel to Spain with Purvi & her husband for 2 weeks holiday (on Monday 18 September 2017)

And we were travelling on Tuesday 19 September 2017 – to return to Canada.

k) Stayed with Hasu/Dhanak from Sunday 17 September to Tuesday 19 September 2017

Note: Tuesday 19 September 2017 – being our last day in U.K .

Shaina (Manubhabhi’s daughter) came over (from Kent -where lives) just at about noon on Sunday 17 September – picked us up from Mahendra/Ranjan home – along with all our luggage.   We dropped the luggage at Hasu’s place prior to proceeding to go pick up Manubhabhi .   After that we went for lunch at a South Indian restaurant called Saravanna Bhavan  (for dosa meal) in Wembley. I ate Kara Dosa & others selected   Roya Masala dosa.   Shaina’s treat. Thanks Shaina.

After lunch we proceeded to Pravin/Champu home for a visit. Met   Sheelan’s ( Pravin/Champu’s son) wife – Murrey – and her two boys -about 5 or 6 years old .   From there we went across the road to visit KankuKaki and   Meghjikaka.

After that we were dropped off at Hasu’s place to stay   (   note: there till our departure for Ottawa on Tuesday 19 September 2017).

Visited Radiatben (Dhanak’s mom) in the evening of Sunday at her Senior Apartment building . Very majestic lady.

On Monday , we   Visited Amar/Vikita at their home. The kids (Aarav & Kiaan ) were home .   Amar had taken time off from work.   After that we   went to   visit Jitesh/Parul & Ashni (daughter) at their home.

Monday night Atul came over to visit . Also ShantiMama/LekhaMami came to visit and we all had good conversation.

note: Visited Laljibhai 2 times during our visit to London.

Event 9   – Departure ( adios) – Michhami Dukkadam to all

Well   it is departure time for Ottawa, Canada  after a beautiful  and heavenly visit to intermingle and meet with our family members and friends – in the U.K   but also those who came from Kenya. In fact Anjali (Sobhas/Hansa’s daughter) came from the USA. Note : most came to attend Anisha’s wedding.

On Tuesday 19 September 2017 at about noon – Hasu dropped us off at the Heathrow Airport Dhanak had already gone to work .    Plane (AC889) departed at 3.45 pm local time and we arrived in Canada (Ottawa Airport) at 6.15 pm local time   – Nina was there to pick us up .On the way we   stopped at T & T Super Market (a Chinese Grocery Store) – picked up some groceries and some Chinese Dried Plum packets.

Adieus —- London.    Many thanks specially to Hasu & Dhanak for welcoming us on arrival and then at the end taking us to the Airport for smooth departure . You have made it possible for  our visit to England to become very enjoyable and comfortable.

There was so much fun and so much opening up & jogging of memories and making new memories and enjoying the late nights , restaurants, visit to family members & friends (specially from Royal College ), visit to temples and moreover attending and being part of pleasant social events – like wedding and engagement -well informal though.

Besides there was evidence of how many have moved on and aging – by coming across   grandchildren   who are coddled and looked after by many of the grandparents (all amongst our family and friends). We enjoy our grandchildren back in Canada who make our lives joyous and alive every day. Thus seeing many of family and friends are also having same   experience was very cathartic.

Well to end – we are really very thankful to all, to each and every one of you who gave us cheer and laughs during our stay in U.K.

It is time for me to say Michhami Dukkadam to you all and genuinely if I have offended you in any way during our visit – I can assure it would have been unintentional and I seek forgiveness for any of my actions   – if such was the case.  

Please note Jackie (my wife) expresses similar sentiments.

And it was the Jain Paryushana festival   time  during our visit.