THE ROTATOR - Issue 46

Happy reading!
Your Rotator Team 2025–26

Rotary Shankara Library Summer Camp Storytelling 11-5-2026

Ant And The Grasshopper
Under the shade of Lalbagh’s trees, our circle of 12 young listeners age two and a half to fours years and 2 of them age eight years discovered the wisdom of Aesop.
As the pages of ‘The Ant and the Grasshopper’ turned, so did their expressions from curiosity to giggles to thoughtful nods.
One hand shot up: “But can’t we share our food?” It was about listening, imagining, and learning.

A morning at Lalbagh where a story became a conversation, and a circle on the grass became the room of Rotary Shankara Library.
That’s the magic of stories in the open air. No walls, no desks just grass, wonder, and life lessons that stay long after summer camp.
-Rtn. Kalyani Talukder

ShieldHer 4th Screening Camp: Preventive Care in Action

The 4th screening camp under ShieldHer: United Against Cervical Cancer was conducted at Alliance University, Bengaluru, on May 16, 2026, focusing on preventive cancer screening for ground staff and women from underserved backgrounds.
A total of 76 women participated in the camp.
Among them, 36 underwent HPV Pap smear testing using liquid-based cytology, while all participants received breast cancer examination and 55 underwent oral cancer screening.
Women requiring additional evaluation were provided referral (“yellow”) cards for follow-up care.
The camp highlighted both the growing acceptance of preventive healthcare and the continued need to address hesitation around cervical cancer screening through sustained awareness efforts.
The organizers thank the management of Alliance University, Ms. Sakshi Jauhari and Ms. Arathi Jose for coordination support, Dr. Shobha K. and the Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology screening team, and Dr. Vidyamani Lingegowda for their valuable contributions.
– Rtns. Dr. Sowmya P. R. & Dr. Nita Roy

Understanding Health Insurance: Key Takeaways for Seniors and Families

Mr. Rahul Venuraj, founder of Greyup, delivered an insightful session on health insurance, explaining the complexities, hidden clauses, and essential features of choosing the right policy.
He emphasized that health insurance is especially important for seniors due to rising health risks and medical costs, and stressed the importance of buying adequate coverage early — before major illnesses develop.
Rahul highlighted that medical inflation in India is nearly 14% annually, forcing insurers to create multiple plans with varying limits and exclusions.
He explained important concepts such as room rent limits, ICU caps, proportionate deductions, co-payments, waiting periods, and nondisclosure of pre-existing diseases, all of which can significantly affect claim settlements.
He advised members to avoid policies with room rent limits, co-payment clauses, and diseasewise caps, while ensuring coverage for consumables, modern treatments, and increasing renewal benefits.
He also stressed the importance of regularly reviewing policies, maintaining proper medical and insurance records, and ensuring family members are aware of policy details and emergency procedures.
His concluding message was clear: the key is not just having insurance, but having the right insurance. A slightly higher premium today can save lakhs of rupees in the future.

VISIT TO TYA, St. John Hospital

The 1st anniversary celebration of the TYA – Teenager and Youth Autism Center at St. John’s Medical College Hospital was a heartfelt reminder of the power of compassion, inclusion, and community.
A special highlight of the event was the re-inauguration of the photocopying unit (donated by RCB), where autistic teenagers and youth have been trained to independently manage the service, a meaningful initiative promoting vocational empowerment, dignity, and sustainable opportunities for the children and the department.
It was deeply moving to witness the resilience of the children and the unconditional love and dedication of their parents. The incredible work being carried out under the guidance of Dr.Suhas and Dr. Vijaya continues to transform lives with care and commitment.
The event was graced by Rotarians Minku Buttar, Raghunathan, Anju Agadi, Gertrude, and Ann Supriya who came together in support of this inspiring initiative.
⁃Rtn. Minku Buttar

LEADERSHIP CONCLAVE 2026 A weekend of Learning, Legacy & Fellowship

A GATHERING OF MINDS & HEARTS: Over 40 Rotarians came together at 82 Bhavikere our Member Rtn Annabelle’s scenic farm for a weekend that blended interactive learning, fellowship, and fun. Dressed in crisp whites and blue denims, members kicked off the conclave with energy and enthusiasm, ready to explore new ideas and strengthen bonds.
THE LEADERSHIP CHALLENGE: The challenge that the incoming leadership faces is that the existing RHF building is due for demolition & a new one is being erected in its place. Though the entire funding is in place thanks to CSR support the new building erection is likely to take at least 2 years. In light of this situation, it is important for the Incoming leadership to proactively plan meetings, service projects & membership motivation & retention.
INTERACTIVE GROUP SESSIONS: Past President Rtn. Ram Seshu set the tone by splitting members into four groups and encouraging exchange of ideas within each group, followed by cross group interactions. This dynamic format ensured that every Rotarian contributed meaningfully, and each topic generated 5–10 actionable ideas for the incoming Board to consider and implement. 
The discussions focused on: Life without the Rotary House of Friendship & the challenges thereon The importance of Committees & Regular meetings Membership protocols Most of the incoming leadership team attended and absorbed the suggestions, making the conclave a practical platform for shaping the year ahead.
FELLOWSHIP & FLAVOURS: Between sessions, members enjoyed sumptuous meals and refreshing tea breaks. The evening transitioned into a sundowner with hues of sunset, a well-stocked bar, and a delicious dinner — setting the perfect mood for fellowship and camaraderie.
KEYNOTE BY PP RTN. RANGA RAO: Day Two featured a powerful presentation by PP Rtn. Ranga Rao, who walked members through the legacy, governance, and ethos of RCB. His talk captured 92 years of Rotary’s values and systems, reminding everyone that RCB was built not just on structures, but on kindness, sacrifice, fellowship, and service.
“RCB was not built merely through banners, buildings or reports, but quietly through kindness, sacrifice, fellowship and service.” – PP Rtn. Ranga Rao.
LEGACY OF THE CONCLAVE: This Leadership Conclave proudly marked its 16th edition, having been started in 2011 just before PP Rtn. Mohan Gurjar assumed the presidency. Over the years, it has evolved into a cornerstone of RCB’s leadership development, blending tradition with innovation.

PRESENCE OF STALWARTS: The conclave was enriched by the participation of many past presidents and senior leaders, including:
Rtns. Mohan Gurjar, Shailesh Rudra, Ranga Rao, Ram Seshu, Zarir Batha, Vivek Prabhu, Gowri Oza, Pradeep Rao.
Incoming District Governor Rtn .
Ravishankar Dakoju. Their presence added gravitas, institutional memory, and inspiration for the next generation of leaders.
HOSPITALITY & BONDING: Rtn Annabelle’s farm provided a picturesque backdrop for fellowship. Members relished mango curry, aubergine in curd, Swamy’s omelette, imported cheese platters, and even the humorously named Coorg liquor “Bend Over Shirley.”
Overnight stays and the extremely attentive staff added warmth and deeper bonds among participants.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Organisers: President Elect Rtn Vineetha, Secretary Elect Rtn Vijay Rao, Vice President Elect Rtn Raghunath TV and team for their thoughtful planning.
Special Mentions:
PP Rtn. Ram Seshu for his witty and engaging “Goonda” brainstorming style.
PP Rtn. Ranga Rao for his masterful presentation.
Rtn Dr Anil Agadi, incoming Sargeant at Arms & go to man for the event.
Rtn Jigisha Rajguru for meticulously managing finances.
Rtn Annabelle for warm hosting & comfy stay at her farm.
VOICES FROM THE CONCLAVE
“Asuperbnever- to – be -forgotten conclave.” – Ranjana Anand “Perspective, pride and purpose — coupled with joy of bonding.” – Chetan Kamani “Beautiful people… my tribe.” – Minku “Family away from family.” – Anuradha Varma “A great learning weekend with innovation ahead.” – Gowri Oza “I rank this conclave among the top 4 or 5 that I have participated in my corporate life.” -Rtn Arun Bhaskar.
CONCLUSION: The 16th Leadership Conclave was more than an event — it was a mosaic of learning, legacy, and fellowship. It reinforced pride in Rotary’s systems, inspired innovation in service, and created memories that will be cherished for years to come.
As one participant summed it up: “A session of perspective, pride and purpose with the joy of bonding with wonderful souls.”
– Rtn. Vivek Prabhu
Past President 2018-19