The Making of VanBhoj-I

Abe….picnic karega ??

I am sure this must have rung some bells. I suppose everyone has gone for picnics. As children, it was one of the primary reasons we waited for the New Year.

Picnic…. A day away from the constraints of home. A day away from the watchful eyes of Maa. A day meant for wild partying. A day when we had the right to go haphazard. A day when mistakes were fun. A day to show Maa that we can cook. A day to show Papa that we can cope up with anything and everything. A day to be……. Our very own selves. A day of complete freedom. Welcome New Year….. let’s party together!!!

When was the first time you went for a picnic?

Let’s go through such a debut………..

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December 1995
Class VI (A)

S: Abe picnic karega ?

A: Picnic !!! bhak….. won’t get permission.

S: Abe I’ll get it for you.

A: Who else are there?

S: You, me, A,B,C,D, Pappu,Chunnu,Gajodhar, Sankat, Tanki, Sadiya, Teli, Billi, RamSingh, Poodi, Puna, Jaga......

A: Did you talk to them ???

After roaming around the class for some 15 minutes, having similar conversations, S comes up with the list.

S: See…You, me , Av, An, J, Su, As are ready. Some else may join. You ask your parents.

A: You ask uncle to convince Papa.

Next day………..

A: Abe….. got the permission !!!!

S: Sahi !!!!!!! so when should we go???

After lots of yes’ and nos….

S: 1^st ???

A: 1^st will be too crowded…. Won’t get permission.

S: 31^st??

Av: I am going with my colony friends.

S: 2^nd ??

J: Which day is it ??

An: Thursday

J: Not on Thursday…. It’s the day of Goddess Lakshmi !!! No non-veg !!!

S: Bhak.

A: 25^th December

All: 5 days before New year !!!

A: We won’t be able to go after new year…we have our classes from 3^rd. 25^th is a good day. Problem kya hai ??

All: (slowly)Theeeeekkkkk haaaaiiiiiii.

S: 25^th done. A, An, J….lets meet this evening at my home to plan things out.

All: Okay.

No one knew how to start. They all left with a silent question….. Can we pull it off ???

............. to be continued.........