Our annual trip to Kerala, gods own country
The International Day of Older Persons was celebrated on 1st October at Parukh Dharamsala, the home for the aged. by doing something different.
A special craft session on making a paper lantern was conducted by the remarkable 91-year-old art enthusiast, Sarla Kothari.
She demonstrated a simple technique of folding an art paper, cutting small shapes based on your imagination, and then unfolding it to reveal a beautifully designed paper with holes that let the light through. A contrasting gelatin paper was stuck onto the main paper and decorated with glitter tapes. The two ends were then joined to form a rounded shape. and when placed over an LED tea light, the lantern was ready to illuminate with a light of warmth and joy.
Thanks to our club members, who assisted the ‘older persons’ in creating their projects. The older individuals were thrilled to try something new, and even the men showed great enthusiasm.
Three cheers were given to Sarla Kothari, whose inspiration at the age of 91 reaffirmed the fact that age is no barrier to creativity and contribution.
Enthusiastic Members helping the elders
In October we also acknowledged World Mental Health Day which is on 10th October by conducting Music Session at SPJ Sadhana School, Peddar Road, for the children of Special needs, with a singing session. Music has a powerful way of uplifting spirits, that promotes mental well-being and serves as a source of Joy and therapy.
The World Mental Health Day Week - a music session with the children of SPJ Sadhana School, Promoting mental well-being through the power of music:-
India grapples with maternal and child health challenges, including high mortality rates due to malnutrition, limited healthcare access and mental health issues among pregnant women. We collaborated with Bhavyata Foundation to ensure the well-being of pregnant women and their unborn children and provide comprehensive support to the expectant mothers. We supported 25 underprivileged expectant mothers to receive guidance on maintaining physical health, emotional balance, and self-care during their pregnancy. Each woman was given grocery kit offering essential nutrition support, which contained Almonds, raisins, jaggery, roasted chana, brown chickpeas, khichdi dal and wheat flour.
Through the supoort of IWC Bombay, 25 underpriviliged expectant Mothers received guidance in yoga, and counselling with a generous donation of INR 1,06,500
Teachers Day S.E.C - On 3rd September 2024 (week of Teacher’s Day on 5th Sept)
Teacher’s Day was celebrated with the teachers of S.E.C (Society for the Education of The Challenged), to recognize the invaluable contribution of the teachers of S.E.C. in building a future for children with special needs.
The nature of the session was not disclosed to the teachers beforehand, and they were initially apprehensive when each received a drawing board, Acrylic paints and brush However, artist Shital Mehta, who led the session, quickly put their doubts to rest. Her method and illustrations inspired the participants, allowing them to tap into and reveal their hidden talents. The theme of the session was Birch Trees. By the end of the workshop, the with the theme. They enjoyed the session thoroughly and were happy to carry their gift of the drawing board with their own drawing. The project met its objective of providing the teachers with a creative outlet and a therapeutic break, helping them rejuvenate and maintain their emotional well-be ing amidst their responsibilities.
A Therapeutic Art Workshop with the Teachers of S.E.C, with Artist Shital Mehta:
Continuing our celebration of Pre- Teacher’s Day, we visited the Dementia Day Care Centre of Dignity Foundation 0n 4th September 2024, to recognize that teaching extends beyond the classroom.
The Dementia Day Care Centre does a remarkable job of engaging individuals who have lost their memory, providing them with care, stimulation, and companionship. Their dedicated efforts ensure that those affected by dementia stay mentally active, offering a supportive and compassionate environment.
Our member of Executive Committee Paragi Mehta conducted an Art Session with a well thought and designed idea with the theme ‘Wings and Fins’. She had the drawings on a board of butterfly and Fish and also taken gliteeries to stick on the wings of butterfly and scales made of cardboards to paste on the fins of fish.
Activities like sticking and pasting can be beneficial for people with dementia. These provide a sense of accomplishment; the simple, repetitive activities reduce anxiety and offer a calming effect.
Snack boxes were distributed after the session.
This project reinforced our commitment to Building a Future of a compassionate society, where empathy and kindness are at the forefront of all we do.
Members helping the individuals of Dementia Day Care Centre
Wings and Fins : A creative session using drawings of Fish and Butterfly
On 19th August, in the spirit of Raksha Bandhan, we had the privilege of acknowledging the hard work and dedication of seven ward ladies from economically disadvantaged backgrounds at Wadia Hospital. We tied Rakhis with the message, ‘Woman Protects a Woman,’ and provided essential groceries, including Tur dal, Ghee, Rawa, Sugar, and Tea, along with a cash gift of ₹3,000 each.
Also on 19th August, World Humanitarian Day, we had the honor of recognizing Harakchand Savla, who for the past 35 years has been a source of hope and care for cancer patients. His tireless dedication exemplifies compassion and humanity, paving the way for a healthier and more hopeful future. We joined him in serving free meals to a long line of cancer patients and their families outside Tata Memorial Hospital. Our contribution of ₹21,000 supported these free meals at Tata Memorial, and extended to JJ and Wadia Hospitals.
Day On 21st August, we expressed our respect and gratitude to senior citizens, reaffirming our commitment to their well-being as an essential part of the future we aspire to create. We organized a heartwarming gathering with the senior residents of All Saints Home, featuring a musical session led by Srimati Manasi Kelkar, founder of Swarmanas. The seniors thoroughly enjoyed the music, clapping and singing along with enthusiasm. The event concluded with refreshments, leaving everyone with smiles and a sense of joy.
The projects are run by generous donations from our donors.
On 24th July, the Inner Wheel Club held its 1st General Body Meeting (GBM) at the Victoria School for The Blind. The meeting marked the beginning of a new and exciting year for the club, featuring a unique and memorable twist—a laughter session immediately following the GBM. The concept of starting the year with a laughter session was met with great appreciation from all attendees. The session was conducted by Archana Rao, one of India's esteemed laughter ambassadors. Her infectious energy and humor created an atmosphere of joy and camaraderie, making everyone laugh heartily and thoroughly enjoy the experience. This innovative approach not only set a positive tone for the year ahead but also underscored the importance of laughter and well-being in our lives. The event was a resounding success, leaving everyone with a renewed sense of enthusiasm and togetherness. Dr. Mita Roy, President (2024-2025) was delighted with the positive response and looked forward to incorporating more such uplifting activities in the future.
On 2nd March 2023 IWC Bombay celebrated completion of 60 years. The joyous occasion took place at Imperial Tower Banquet in presence of 126 attendees that included the District dignitaries, 56 Club members, Zonal Coordinators, Club Presidents, spouses and invitees.
Inner Wheel Club of Bombay took an initiative on World Chess Day, 20th July 2024, to organize a chess tournament among the students of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Municipal School. It was the first time that chess was being played at the school, with the initiative of President of Inner Wheel Club of Bombay, Dr. Mita Roy. The tournament was directed by Chess expert Dr. Abhishek Roy. The event was successful, with thirty children from VIth to Xth standards participating enthusiastically. First, second, and the third prizes were awarded in all four categories. Lakshya Agarwal, an international rated chess player, and Nagesh Guttula from South Mumbai Chess Academy graced the event and distributed the prizes.Their presence was very inspiring for the students. Sixteen year old Lakshya Agarwal played with first and second prize winners which was an added bonus for them. The school was thankful to IWC Bombay for the initiative which opened up a new avenue for them.
District Urban projects of which PDC Jyoti Doshi is the Project Chairman, were inaugurated on 9th January 2023. The projects were i) Cytology Lab at Cama and Albess Hospital for Women and Children and ii) Seniour Day Care Centre with a Garden of Tranquility, at King George V Memorial Trust.
New Year was celebrated with Seniour Citizens at Parukh Dharamshala with King and Queen contest, on 5th January 2023.
Laughter Therapy session was conducted by Digi Engineer, at SEC school (Society for The Education of the Challenged) on 25th August 2022.
Initiated by IWC Bombay Bayview, a joint project was undertaken with IWC of Zone 1 of District 314, for ALERT-INDIA (Association for Leprosy Education, Rehabilitation and Treatment - India). Donation of Rs. 40,000/- per club was collected for Selfcare with 400 Ulcer Dressing Kits and 300 MCR (Microcellular Rubber footwear) specially made for Leprosy Patients.
The shoes and its parts are designed by the team, and made in - house. The wear and tear of the shoes as a result of the patients' walking pattern, are not more than six months
Swings, See-Saws, Bar Hanging, Equipment for Volly ball, and Cricket Bats and Balls, were donated to Bhanuben Pravin Shah Vidyalaya, Tara, Panvel, run by the Centre. The project was inaugurated by President Neela Parikh in presence of Vice Chairman Pallavi Choksi, and members of club viz. Mita Roy, Roopal Thakkar and Zainab Lokhandwalla.
The table would support treatment by enabling effective examination and thereby facilitate diagnosis
On Saturday 14th Jan IWC Bombay, Rotary Club of Bombay and Fern Residency distributed 50 mattreses to Vaidu Community .
Our Club's OCV( official club visit) , ECM and 2nd GBM were conducted at CCI, C.K. Nayudu Hall, on 10th August 2022. After the meetings, an interesting game of Quiz was played , designed by Zainab and conducted by PP Sweta. Prizes were given to the winning team. The event ended by impromptu singing of a medley of patriotic songs compiled by Zainab and Zarin. A copy of the songs was handed over to all the members and were sung spontaneously without any rehearsal.
1st July 2022 was a very important day for Inner Wheel Club of Bombay. Established on 1st July 1963, Inner Wheel Club of Bombay was formed in R.I. Dist. 315.
Late Ms. Purviz Banaji laid the foundation of starting the first Inner Wheel Club in Maharashtra, 3rd in India after Ahmedabad and Kolkata.
The founder President was Late Ms. Soona Balsara. The Charter was presented on April 13, 1964 by Ms. Reynolds, wife of the Deputy British High Commissioner.
The Golden History of Inner Wheel Club of Bombay:
- First Club to be set up in Maharashtra
- First District Chairman, Purviz Banaji (District 315)
- First District Chairman, Silla Ardeshir (District 314)
- First Association President, Raksha Mehta
- First Triennial Conference - Constitution and Credential Committee Chairman of the Association, Silla Ardeshir
- First Triennial Conference or Association Conference Chairman, Raksha Mehta
- First Inner Wheel member in India to be felicitated with Margarette Golding Award, Raksha Mehta
- First Club in India that has given 11 Chairmen to the District
- First Club in District 314 to start with a micro finance scheme
- First Trust of IW clubs in India – Inner Wheel Club of Bombay Charity Trust
Installation of our new President Neela Parikh was held on this joyous day in presence of the District Chairman Mita Sheth and her entire team. There were 92 attendees to share the joy of the Club. Special video presentations were shown, 11 new members were initiated, and a heart-warming performance was given by the students of the Society for the Education of the Challenged.
It was a day of elation, jubilation and happiness, when the Immediate Past President Shilpa Mehta handed over the reins to Neela Parikh, and the members resolved and committed to continue the good work with more determination, as they stepped into the 60th year.
ऐ दिल ख़ुशी का दिन है यहाँ
ये है Inner Wheel Club of Bombay मेरी जाँ
ऐ दिल ख़ुशहाली का माहौल यहाँ
ये है inner wheel club of Bombay मेरी जाँ
१.
इसे Perviz Banaji ने स्थापित किया
Silla Ardeshir ने इसे पंख दिया
Rakshaben Mehta ने क्या ख़ूब उठाया
Banoo Cama ने बाहों में लिया
shirin pe tigara ने क्या काम किया
ये है Inner Wheel club of Bombay मेरी जाँ
….
२.
ईनाम हम देते Meera mehta के नाम
साथ अपने है kanta anand सुबह-शाम
Lata Palekar ने बढ़ाई है शान
इस club में है Jyoti Doshi का बड़ा मान
Indira Kotak करती है ख़ूब काम
Falguni Mehta का है अपना स्थान
…..
३.
साठ सालों तक club का नाम ऊँचा किया
मेहनत और लगन से क्या काम किया
सोचकर और समझ कर हर project लिया
समाज की सेवा में योगदान दिया
हर एक president का बहुत शुक्रिया
ये है inner wheel club of Bombay मेरी जा
४.
आगे जा कर हम club का नाम रोशन करेंगे
बड़ी लगन से कई projects करेंगे
true friendship को हम प्रोत्साहित करेंगे
per sonal service को बढ़ावा देंगे
International understanding का पालन करेंगे
ये है Inner wheel club of Bombay मेरी जाँ
on 60th year
Society for the Education of the Challenged (SEC) is a school that educates the physically handicapped children from the under-privileged strata of society.
Besides imparting education to the children, SEC encourages them to participate in various fields, like sports, swimming, cultural activities, art, vocational training, educational camps etc to enable them to be confident to face life in future.
Swimming forms a very important part of the curriculum of the school. The swimming lessons by professional coaches is used as a form of therapy and also to prepare the students for the swimming competition held every year by the SEC. Swimming encourages the children to move beyond their physical limitations.
This year too, the annual swimming gala was held on 3rd March . It was sponsored by the Inner Wheel Club of Bombay through Past President Sandra Merchant. The students look forward to this day with great excitement. It is amazing to see the children swim in the pool, despite their disabilities vying with each other in a competitive spirit.
Children with severe disabilities are applauded and cheered as they make an all-out effort to finish their lap. The competition also includes games with balloons and balls in the pool, along with a school-wise relay competition. (between the 3 units of SEC School).
The swimming gala also teaches us not to give up easily when faced with difficulties but face them bravely.
Joy requires nothing and gives much, and these children teach us the ability to create joy.
For the past three years the Inner Wheel Club of Bombay has been having an outstation trip along with GBMs. After having it at Lonavala and Baroda for the past two years, this year it was at Rishikesh.
The four day trip included Dehradun at the Himalayan foothills, Rishikesh the spiritual city on the banks of Ganga, and to Mussoorie a beautiful Hill Station. It was arranged and organized by our Club member Radha Bajaj, assisted by our Secretary Vatsala Jatia, and many others. After having the GBM at Aloha Resort, Rishikesh, the group headed to the Beatles Ashram, a Ganga Aarti at sunset time at Triveni Ghat and a walk at Ram Jhoola, which concluded the outings for the day, with dinner and overnight stay at the Ganga Kinare Riverside Resort, Rishikesh.
Day 2 began with a drive to Dehradun for a heart-warming visit to the Bajaj Institute of Learning, a special school for the Hearing Impaired, and then to the Hostel to visit to the NGO Deeds, run by them. We saw their Tailoring unit and had a sumptuous lunch which was sponsored by Radha Bajaj. This was followed by ‘Maitri Sandhya’ a Zonal Fellowship programme organized by District 308. All 8 clubs of the zone participated in it. The fellowship also included the ISO from Ahmedabad. The evening at Antara Senior Living, Dehradun was a great bonding time for our members with Karaoke, songs and dinner.
Day 3 was spent at the beautiful Hill Station Mussoorie and its twin town Landour. After a walk on the picturesque hills of Landour, lunch at J W Marriot Grove Resort and shopping on the mall in Mussoorie, the members returned to Antara Senior Living for another fun evening and dinner.
Day 4 began with an inspiring visit to the Indian Military Academy, an Officer Training Camp of our armed forces. It was followed by a quick lunch sponsored by Radha Bajaj at Asthal Farm House, and then to the airport to conclude a memorable Fellowship which was attended by 22 ladies of the Club.
For the past many years, our Club has been celebrating Haldi Kumkum event for our vocational class students. Like every year, on 25th January 2020, all students of our vocational classes, along with their teachers, gathered to celebrate this event with a lot of enthusiasm.
The event began with the lighting of diya by the Chief Guest Mrs. Falguni Padode, Guest of Honour District Vice Chairman Mrs. Amala Mehta, President Jayati Dasgupta and the members of IWC of Bombay. The performances by the students for speech/dance and competitions for mehendi/ tailoring/ makeup were of a high standard. Beautiful gifts sponsored by PP Shweta Vakil were distributed to the participants and winners of the competitions. Certificates were handed over to successful candidates on completion of various courses.
The celebrations ended with the distribution of 110 return gifts sponsored by the Club member Shyama Poddar and food boxes sponsored by CC Ankita Bagri.
The significant contribution, guidance and encouragement of the teachers and members of IWC of Bombay was appreciated by all the students.
Bombay Institute for the Deaf and Mute is a school with a noble cause educating special children. Our Club has been sponsoring their annual Sports Day for the past many years.
The event began with march past, and unfurling of national flag by the President Jayati Dasgupta.
Other than the usual athletics there were several innovative games that the children played with a lot of enthusiasm and gay abandon. There were games for the teachers, guests and club members too.
The event ended with the prize distribution.
The under-privileged children of SEC (Society for the Education of the Challenged) have just a handful of days when they get to enjoy the pleasures of childhood. Inner Wheel Club of Bombay tries its best to bring cheer in to their lives by organising various events for them. One such event that the children look forward to every year is the Christmas party. This year it was held on 19th December 2019.
The morning began with snacks and drinks sponsored by the Club. The children went in to raptures when they were entertained with a 'Puppet Show' and 'Twisting and Shaping the Balloon'. The entry of Santa Claus added to their festive joy. Beautiful gifts were distributed, courtesy the family of our late member Zarine Chothia. Then it was dancing time for everyone. The enjoyable morning ended with scrumptious lunch sponsored by the Club.
On 17th December 2019 our Club held its 6th GBM of this year. It was a very special day, when the members let their hair down with the spirit of joy and happiness that one feels at Christmas time. The venue was Le Sutra the Indian Art Hotel, courtesy our member Radha Bajaj. The GBM took place in the Banquet Hall of the Hotel, which is a dedicated art and cultural space. It was decorated with a Christmas tree, a table, with bells, candles, candy canes, garlands, streamers, stockings, wreaths, snow globes, and angels, spreading the magic of Christmas. All those present were dressed in Christmas colours of red, white and green, with Santa caps. After the GBM some of the members presented Christmas songs and dances. To end the morning on a high note the chefs of the hotel demonstrated making of some mouth-watering dishes such as Crepes and Warm Mushroom Salad. It was a GBM that would be remembered by those who attended for a long time.
The Inner Wheel Club of Bombay had a unique fun day on 25th November 2019 when 22 ladies of the club took off by a hired bus / cars to the beautiful bungalow of member Arti Sanghi for its 5th GBM combined with a picnic. They were welcomed with a lavish spread of breakfast with tea / coffee. After refreshing themselves, the members settled down for the GBM presided by Jayati Dasgupta. This was followed by outdoor games in the garden. Games such as 'Nin Pins', 'Ringing the object' and 'Darts' were played with child-like enthusiasm by the members. The amusement then shifted indoors to play some quick-witted games planned by the hostess Arti. The final game was put up by Treasurer Shivangi Sheth, a quiz on Hollywood and Bollywood songs, much enjoyed by all the participants. Another sumptuous lunch spread awaited the members. It was a day that would most certainly be the highlight of Jayati's tenure as a President.
One of the on-going projects of Inner Wheel Club of Bombay is a picnic for the children
of SEC (Society for the Education of the Challenged). Like every year, on 15th November
2019, 200 handicapped children of the school, together with the staff and helpers
collected from early morning at the Rotary Club of Bombay Uptown Gardens,
Wadala.
The picnic is being organized with the support of Mr. Sanjay Shah of the Rotary Club of
Bombay Uptown Gardens since the year 2009. This year he was joined by President Piyush
Patel, Secretary Anoop Nathani and Mrs. Vyjanti Shah. The wholesome lunch for the entire
300 present was sponsored by the Rotary Club and served by its members PP Ashok Karode,
Payal Chaddha, Bharati Shah and Jagruti Parekh. Picnic started with a prayer and a song
by the SEC children, followed by the students presenting little tokens of love for the
guests. Members of Inner Wheel and Rotary, together with the teachers of SEC helped the
children with games like Car Racing, Tail the Donkey, Dart game etc. The smiles, on the
faces of the children receiving gifts after playing the games, were worth a million
dollars.
Each year the four units of the school take part in a competition, which is either
singing or dancing. This year in view of 150th birth anniversary celebration of
Gandhiji, the four units enacted a play based on Gandhiji’s life. The scenes from
Gandhiji being thrown out of the train in South Africa, the three monkeys of Gandhiji,
Dandi March and a lesson on punctuality were enacted beautifully by the children. It was
a good way for the children to learn about the Father of the Nation.
The children also had an entertaining dancing session. Our club members and the staff of
the school too joined the merriment. It was a day that was joyful to the children, and
of great satisfaction to adults present.
A World where Caring is the most prized asset
Members of our Club led by President Jayati paid a visit to Shradhanand Ashram in Matunga, on 30th October. The ashram is home to 170 abandoned children - from babies a few days old, to 18 years. It opens one’s eyes to so many who enter this world totally dependent on the love and care of people other than their biological parents. Some of our Club members donated for this very worthwhile cause.
Here we see some of our members at the ashram.
'If Music be the Food of Love......"
At the Dignity Senior Citizen's Centre at Jogeshwari, Inner Wheel Club of Bombay arranged a soul-stirring Music Therapy Session on 16th October, 2019.
Conducted by Manasi Kelkar, daughter of the famous playback singer Uttara Kelkar, Manasi transformed some 60 men & women of the Day Care Centre to shed their inhibitions, sing along, laugh - and even dance along with her. Manasi's easy-going, charming manner and positive energy radiated through the room, endeared her readily to a group of elders whose lives in a slum are mostly short on joy. For that brief while, she helped their spirits soar!
young at heart.
Senior Citizens Day.
The Club year 2017-18 came to a satisfying conclusion at the 10th GBM and AGM on June 20.
President Sandra Merchant presented a review of the year and thanked members for their generous contributions towards the year’s projects.
The Club Award 2017-18 was presented to Komal Israni for her commitment and for upholding our values. District Awards were distributed to PAP Raksha Mehta, IPDC Falguni Mehta and to the office-bearers. Zarin Havewala was also feted for winning First Prize in the District essay competition.
Three learners from the Adult Literacy Class passed the NIOS exam and along with their teacher Darshana were felicitated by CLCC Alka and our dedicated volunteers.
IWC Bombay continued its rural out-reach programmes in April with a very pressing need today in all villages – providing drinking water. Kondap is a tribal hamlet near Panvel, where the women had to walk several kilometres every day for their daily supply of water causing them tremendous hardship. IWC Bombay sponsored the drinking water project in this village, along with distribution of sarees and water jars to the women. Our Club’s stalwarts Rakshaben and Falguni Mehta, under the auspices of Balwantrai Mehta Panchayatraj Jagruti Kendra, Shantivan, implemented the project.
President Sandra had made sure that our 9th GBM was very special. Members boarded a luxury bus to take them to the SEC school at Naigaon and then to Rhythm Lonavala resort. IWC of Bombay is a strong supporter of the residential SEC School at Naigaon, which members visited on 14th March.
Haldi Kumkum was celebrated on the 27th of February at the vocational training classes in Ambedkar School, Worli. The ladies were all dressed up for the occasion and the two best dressed ladies won prizes. All the teachers were also felicitated.
The swimming gala for the SEC school children was held on 20th of February at the YMCA swimming pool. This event was also sponsored by IWC of Bombay. The children were also served healthy snacks and hot lunch after the event.
The Bombay Institute of Deaf and Mute celebrated their Sports Day on the 2nd of February. This event was sponsored by IWC of Bombay. It was a treat to see his children march to the beats of the drum although they could not hear it. All the games during this event were designed keeping these special children in mind.
It has been an eventful season for IWC Bombay. The highlight was the felicitation of our senior-most member PDC Silla Ardeshir at the District Conference. At 96 years, she was able to enthrall the audience with her warm and stirring address and was given a standing ovation. At the District Urban Medical Project and the District Rural Projects, our Club was also recognised for its major contributions.
Our last GBM of 2017 reflected the spirit of the season – our host Alka Roy decked up her home with Christmas decorations, Members wore Xmas colours, & Santa caps, and we even had an amazing Ikebana demonstration of arrangements specially for Christmas! The food was the ultimate cherry on the cake! And a spectacular turnout of our members! As we welcomed 3 new members to our fraternity! Well done all!
Our Club Sponsors SEC Picnic -
The SEC picnic was held on November 11. We were delighted that our District Chairman Dr
Madhavi Pandya was Guest of Honour. Around 300 special children from the four SEC
schools enjoyed special games, prizes and lunch.
Club’s OCV cum 5th GBM -
District Chairman Madhavi Pandya was an honoured guest at the OCV and our Club’s 5th
GBM.
Diwali celebrations were ushered in at a well-attended party following our 4th GBM.
Festively attired members complemented the CCI hall, which was beautifully decorated by
Vatsala, Ankita, Alka, Jayati and Shivani in true Diwali spirit with colourful rangoli,
streamers and dupattas. Fun and games were organised by Zarin, Arti, Alka and Najma with
plenty of prizes.
The highlight of the evening was a felicitation of the Club’s seniors for many decades
of service and their continuing advice. Everyone quickly joined the special garba
performed for them.
After a delicious high tea and an evening of camaraderie, every member left with a lucky
dip gift as a memento of a wonderful get-together.
Inner Wheel Club of Bombay held a festive Saraswati Puja at its Vocational Classes at the
Ambedkar Municipal School, Worli. Rotary’s First Lady Devi Narayan graced the function.
President Sandra, IPP Sweta and PP Lata addressed the students, encouraging them to
expand their horizons by learning new skills.
The event also featured singing, dancing and speeches by students which were greatly
enjoyed by the large gathering.
IWC Bombay has conducted the Vocational Classes for several years, attended by women
from the adjacent BDD chawl. The programme includes beautician courses, tailoring,
mehendi, English and Hindi language, etc. The Club also runs Adult Literacy classes in
the school.
The members of our club celebrated senior citizen’s Day at Parukh Dharamshala on the 29th of September. The residents wait for this day every year when they are entertained by the children of SEC school. Gifts were distributed to each member and the entire programme was planned under the able guidance of our very senior member, Zarine Chothia.
Prafulla Dahanukar Art Foundation drawing competition at Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar School, Worli on 19th August.
Our 2nd GBM was held at “The White Owl” on the 16th of Aug. After the meeting the members were taken on a tour of the micro brewery inside the restaurant. There are about 8 different type of beer which is brewed here from ingredients like rice, wheat, corn and hobs. It was a very interesting tour and our members could sample some beer as well which was highly appreciated.
At the First GBM of the Club on July 12, 2017, outgoing President Sweta Vakil installed the incoming President Sandra Merchant. She, in turn, inducted her new team for 2017-18. The event, held at Willingdon Sports Club, saw a large turnout. Two new members were welcomed to the Club.
DC Falguni hosted a most gracious finale to 2016-17 for Inner Wheel Club of Bombay, at the idyllic setting by the sea of the Breach Candy Club on 14th June, 2017.
Carol Veigas(left pic) of BIDM &Sister Therizin (rightpic ) of Canossa Special School receiving Donation Cheques, seen here with DC Falguni Mehta, President Sweta Vakil & Club Secretary Pallavi Nerkar.
PAP Raksha Mehta receiving Donation Cheque towards Housachi wadi Water Project with Club dignitaries.
Well known Artist Manjiri Verde(left)& Mrs Wandrekar (right) gave members interesting insights into their works, which were on display in the beautiful and expansive Art Hub Art Gallery, together with the gallery’s own collections.
The Meeting ended with a vast, delicious spread of short eats catered by The Spare Kitchen & well wishers. The above group photo with major organisers - all smiles after a superb evening!
Zarine Chothia, President Sweta Vakil & members of Inner Wheel Club of Bombay came to encourage and witness a spirited swimming competition by differently abled children, including an artistic Water Formation demo at the YMCA Swimming Pool in Agripada. Seen in the first picture above is one of the winners with Zarine. In the picture below are other happy competitors & winners with our members.
Our Club once again was proud to sponsor the Annual Sports Day at the Bombay Institution for Deaf & Mutes in Mazgaon. The beautiful School of 160 children, with its supportive and enthusiastic teachers came alive with students participating in several individual and team sports. At the end, attractive prizes were won, and the children and staff were treated to some delicious snacks. It was indeed heartening to see how our Club’s contribution brought such happiness and bonhomie amongst these students.
Students of the Ambedkar School, Worli’s Vocational Classes stitched together these kangaroo bags and nesting for KEM Hospital’s New Natal ward. Material was supplied by one of our Members, and the Vocational Guidance ladies are seen here helping pack the material for dispatch.
District Chairman Falguni, President Sweta and Members of the Inner Wheel Club of Bombay seen above at the Inauguration of 3 important rural projects : The ‘Best Out of Waste’ Vocational Training Workshop under the Literacy Project, as well as Environment Projects of Solar Water Heater, and Ayurveda Organic Plantation. Our Club was happy to have donated handsomely towards these projects.
Senior Citizens at Parukh Dharamshala were treated to an afternoon of entertainment, with themselves as the Star performers, on 9th January, 2017. They sang, they danced, and eventually one pair was crowned King & Queen! Happiness & sporting spirit were on display by everyone!
23rd December 2016 at SEC School, Agripada. President Sweta Vakil with Zarin Chothia & volunteers join in to make it a day to remember. Our very own ‘Santa Claus’ Malti Jain charmed and danced with the kids. As children posed for a picture, and sat down engrossed in a Magic Show & Juggler!
IWC of Bombay arranged an interesting joint presentation with IWC of Bombay North on ‘A Greener Life’ at the Aditya Birla Centre, Chowpatty on December 9th, 2016, followed by Tea. Seen in the back row is the Presenter Mr Rumi Engineer from Indian Green Building Council, with members of both clubs.
Ladies of the Vocational Class being conducted by Inner Wheel Club of Bombay were in for a pleasant gift of free sarees on 8th December. Members of Rotary Club of Queen’s Necklace came together with our Club for this project, co-ordinated by Devina Shah. In the pic we see all those members who came together for the distribution.
It was a packed 3 hour programme at the historic Mani Bhavan for the above. Attended by a large number of visiting Inner Wheel dignitaries from Nigeria, including the IIW President, District dignitaries, and a large group of our Club members. Highlights of the afternoon included a guided Tour of Mani Bhavan, followed by an Introduction to the Library Preservation Project by Dr Usha Thakkar- President, Mani Bhavan Gandhi Sanghralaya, as well as a brief presentation on the Literacy Project by CLCC Jayati Dasgupta. The programme concluded with Tea.
On 19th November, 2016, our Club got together 69 little ‘budding young artists’ of the Rotary Club’s Bhavishya Yaan Project at the Ambedkar Municipal School in Worli. These young children were participating in the PDAF competition, and these pictures are testimony to how seriously they took up this challenge!
Art : 19th October, 2016 – GBM, Rashna’s donation of laptop of Rs 18,200.0, BOOK ART PRESENTATION BY BANOO BATLIBOI, Diwali festivities, dress, food at The Viewing Room, Colaba
Members of the Club celebrated with 250 blind members of Maharashtra Andha Audyogik Utpadak Sahakari Sanstha Ltd. on 22nd October, 2016 at Rishi Mehta Hall, Tardeo. PDC Lata Palekar contributed towards white folding canes, Sholapur Blankets & Diwali sweets for all.
In true Inner Wheel spirit, 8 members of IWC Bombay including PDC Jyoti Doshi and President Sweta Vakil exchanged greetings and flags with their counterparts in Reykjavik during the Rotary Club of Bombay’s visit to Iceland mid October.
Celebrated on 3rd October at Parakh Dharamshala with kids from CSRD School performing for them.
16th September 2016 was an evening to remember for 122 Senior Citizens of Dignity Foundation. Renowned and accomplished singer Ameya Dabli & his troupe held them spellbound at Rang Sharda Auditorium, Bandra. Inner Wheel Club of Bombay was proud to have supported the evening, and many members came forth with their families and friends to lend support too. Ameya’s soulful voice sang favourite bhajans and film songs and quickly got the audience foot-tapping to his beat! Senior Citizens were also handed out dryfruit packets at the show – a fun evening was indeed had by one and all!
Ameya with a bevy of beautiful ladies from Inner Wheel Club of Bombays
Lady Senior Citizens with members of Inner Wheel Club of Bombay taking a break
A very special morning for 25 Cancer-afflicted children from underprivileged backgrounds was held at the Radio Club, on September 17th, 2016. Organised by the Cancer Patients Aid Association, supported by Rotary Club and co-sponsored by Inner Wheel Club of Bombay, the children thoroughly enjoyed a unique Clown Show, followed by a delicious spread of their favourite foods. The morning wound up with distribution of colouring material, and colouring books for all the children. Indeed a joyful, memorable time was had by the children, their accompanying parents, the organisers, and members of Inner Wheel Club of Bombay who came to lend their support to this touching event.
Clowns in an action-packed storytelling sequence
The children come together for a Group Photo with members of Inner Wheel Club of Bombay
Seen above is Inner Wheel District Chairman Falguni Mehta with the President and other Members of the Executive Committee during her official visit to the Club. The meeting was held on 24 th August at Victoria Memorial School for the Blind, Tardeo.
A Slide Presentation and Talk by Dr Abha Nagral - Children’s Liver Foundation, on Hepatitis C in Thalassemia Children. This Foundation has been doing sterling work to support underprivileged children with liver disease. Seen here (second from left) is Dr Abha Nagral, with the Club President - Sweta Vakil & Guests.
On the same day, Educational scholarships were given to 3 students -Dhanashree Gawde, Pooja Goriya, & Sagar Palyekar towards their College Fees. Seen here from left to right, is Pooja Goriya, one of the students, receiving the Award, Sagar Palekar - another student, together with a parent on behalf of Dhanashree Gawde.
Following an Appeal for Assam Flood Relief – (Zone 1 project), the Club donated several boxes of clothes, blankets, kitchen utensils, and other useful items for helping the flood-affected. Here are just a few of the packages being despatched by our members.
In keeping with the Government's initiative on Swach Bharat, the Club allotted funds to renovate a Ladies Toilet at Marin Lines station, adding facilities for handicapped ladies.
A hearing-aid Battery Bank with an assured supply for 3 years was inaugurated at the Central Society for the Education of the Deaf (CSED). This will ensure that the hearing-impaired children will receive an adequate number of batteries for their hearing-aids, for use even when at home and not only while in school, as it is essential for their aural and mental development that they be exposed to ambient sounds and conversations throughout the day so as to speed up their integration into mainstream schools later on.
The Inner Wheel Club of Bombay teamed up with the Welfare of Stray
Dogs Society (WSD) and the Bhavishya Yaan of the Rotary Club of Bombay
to address students. Abodh Aras, the CEO of WSD, himself made
presentations to the students. The movie clip he displayed, followed
by his explanations, made the sessions highly interactive. It was a
joy to see the Bhavishya Yaan students responding with alacrity to the
questions posed to them by Abodh and the eagerness with which they
wanted to relate their personal experiences to him.
The focus, other than a brief on what WSD does, was on understanding
the ‘language’ of stray dogs, the circumstances under which they react
aggressively and most importantly, it spread awareness on rabies and
the action to be taken when bitten.
The Inner Wheel Club (IWC) of Bombay has been conducting vocational
guidance classes for several years at the Babasaheb Ambedkar Municipal
High School, Worli. Subjects range from tailoring, embroidery,
hair-styling and beauty to artistic mehendi application and classes
have been popular with the ladies of the locality.
The Nesting and Kangaroo Bags Project undertaken by IWC has provided
impetus to the tailoring classes as the bags are being stitched by the
tailoring students, who earn therefrom.
There are several success stories as the Microcredit Scheme extends
loans to these ladies, enabling them to start small businesses which
have grown very profitable, imbuing them with a sense of confidence
and self-worth.
At a recent felicitation ceremony called Haldi Kumkum, organised by
IWC several ladies related their success stories and guided the others
on taking the first step forward which is often the most difficult.
IWC
Bombay constructed a multi-purpose dining-cum-community hall as a part of the Leprosy
Rehabilitation Project at Shantivan. This was part of the District 314 Coordinated Rural
Project. It was inaugurated on March 7, 2014 by IIW President Gabriella Adami, in the
presence of AP Pushpa Suryamurty and DC Mrudula Dand.
IWC Bombay had also contributed to the construction of sanitation blocks for girl students
on the campus of KRNS, Shantivan, in keeping with the thrust area of AP Pushpa.
Zone 1 Clubs celebrated their fellowship based on theme Yellow
Vriksharopan - A ceremonial way of planting a sapling, accompanied by traditional
music and dance performed by the Alumni assoc of Viswa Bharti
The rapt Inner Wheel members
Anita Parikh and Devina Shah ably assist gourmet
chef Aruniti Shah at the cooking demonstation.
Forthcoming Events 
Memorabilia
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