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Rotary House of Friendship 20, Lavelle road, Bengaluru
Issue 16 October 19, 2026 | Charter No. 3233 | ID No. 15766 | R I Dist. 3192
Total Membership : 338 | Members Present : 65
| Members Exempted : 079
Happy reading!
Your Rotator Team 2025–26
Monday night at the RHF of the RCB was anything but business as usual. The familiar atmosphere of meetings and discussions gave way to a vibrant celebration as the venue transformed into a dazzling arena of colour, music, and movement for the much-anticipated Garba Night. The moment guests began arriving in their resplendent traditional attire, it was evident that this was not just another social gathering, but an evening dedicated to celebrating one of India’s most cherished cultural traditions.
As the music filled the hall, the dance floor came alive with energy and enthusiasm. Elegantly dressed women in colourful chaniya cholis and men in traditional ethnic wear formed lively circles, moving gracefully to the infectious rhythms of Bollywood and Garba music. The air resonated with laughter, rhythmic clapping, and the joyous spirit of togetherness. Rotarians, young and old, men and women alike, joined the celebrations with equal zeal, creating a spectacle that reflected the true essence of community and fellowship.
Garba, originating from the vibrant state of Gujarat, is much more than a dance form. Deeply rooted in spirituality and tradition, it is a celebration of life, devotion, and divine feminine energy. Traditionally performed around a lamp or an image of Goddess Durga during the Navratri festival, Garba symbolizes the eternal cycle of creation and existence. Its circular formations, rhythmic movements, and uplifting music represent unity, harmony, and the interconnectedness of life. On this memorable evening, these timeless values found expression in every step, every clap, and every smiling face on the dance floor.
What made the celebration truly special was the way it brought people together. Beyond the music and revelry, Garba served as a reminder of the power of culture to unite individuals regardless of age, background, or social standing.
It showcased how traditions passed down through generations continue to remain relevant, fostering friendships and strengthening bonds within communities. The dance became a living expression of India’s rich cultural heritage, connecting participants not only to one another but also to traditions that have endured through centuries.
Among the many memorable moments of the evening, the performances by Rotarians Vishaka and Nishka stood out spectacularly. Their extraordinary energy, flawless coordination, and seemingly tireless enthusiasm captivated everyone present. As they twirled across the floor with confidence and grace, they demonstrated not only remarkable dancing skills but also an infectious passion for the art form. Their performance drew enthusiastic applause and admiration from the audience, who were visibly mesmerised by their talent and dedication. In recognition of their outstanding performances, both dancers were honoured with special gifts, a gesture that was warmly appreciated by all.
As the evening progressed, the festive spirit continued unabated, with participants eagerly joining one dance after another. The celebration became a perfect blend of tradition, entertainment, and fellowship, embodying the Rotary spirit of togetherness and community engagement.
Like all memorable gatherings, the night eventually drew to a close, but not before participants shared warm conversations and laughter over a delightful dinner. The fellowship that followed the celebrations was a fitting conclusion to an evening that had successfully combined culture, devotion, friendship, and fun.
The Garba Night at the RHF of the RCB was more than just an event; it was a vibrant celebration of heritage, unity, and the enduring joy of coming together as one community.
OFF THE CUFF
It was in the year 2003 that R. Raghunathan joined Rotary, introduced by one of the most revered PDGs, Capt. V. V. K. Mani. During one of the meet-and-greet sessions, Rtn. Srinivasa Rao casually discovered Raghu’s inclination towards music and made me a life member of the Nadasurabhi Cultural Association, Koramangala!
Post-induction, we were lost like Alice in Wonderland! Fellowship Chair Rtn. Subbu and his smart Ann, Usha, picked us up and put us on stage for the Independence Day celebration, alongside other Rotary couples, to perform “Mile Sur Mera Tumhara.”
Since then, eventful years have passed, with different Rotary Presidents, their teams, and members taking RCB to greater heights. Rtn. Ranga Rao became the President, and RCB came up with unique projects and programmes, including Happy Schools, Training the Teachers, Yuva Yamini, and Natanotsava, to mention a few.
It was then that Nadasurabhi provided an initial connection for RCB with Sangeeta Acharyas, and we saw budding musicians singing for Yuva Yamini!
Over the decades, Rotary has continued to bind, connect, serve, and nurture!
Apart from binding and connecting people, RCB is full of talent. Any effort can spark an idea, and its effect is infectious! This year, under the presidentship of Rtn. Vineetha Chinappa, the Programmes Committee initiated the idea of celebrating Independence Day at RCB—the last, and a lasting one, at our RHF building!
The enthusiastic team comprising Anu Varma, Sharmila Mukerjee, Shailesh Rudra, Kalpana Ganesh, and yours truly sang patriotic songs from different states. Riaz Basha put the programme together, while Sunil Kumar provided the best audio-visual support.
Army veteran Capt. Naveen Nagappa shared his experiences of the Kargil War, keeping everyone on the edge of their seats.
Our Rotary family is ever ready for fun, projects, service, and fellowship.
RCB Yendendigu Cup Namage!
— Ann. Supriya Raghunathan
Garba is a vibrant nine-night festival celebrated during the Dussehra season that serves as a powerful catalyst for unity, devotion, and community spirit. Moving in a synchronised circle around a sacred lamp, participants symbolise the cycle of life, fostering an environment of equality that transcends age, social status, and background.
The festival builds strong community bonds through weeks of collective preparation, teamwork, and shared traditions. It acts as a vital cross-generational bridge, where elders pass down cultural heritage and values to the youth, who infuse the celebrations with modern energy. Garba’s inclusive and welcoming nature brings together people from diverse regions and faiths, promoting social harmony and lasting friendships.
The energetic music, rich colours, and collective dancing lift spirits, allowing participants to escape daily stress and share genuine human connections. Beyond the celebration, many events integrate charitable initiatives, channelling festive joy into social responsibility.
Ultimately, Garba is much more than a traditional dance; it is a profound celebration of human connection that strengthens the social fabric, leaving communities more united, harmonious, and vibrant long after the final night.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the festival is its ability to build a sense of community. Families, friends, neighbours, and even strangers come together to celebrate a shared tradition.
— Rtn. Dr. Gertrude D’Souza
