The ABC Club

A big heart. A big house. A big garden. A lifestyle that was high flying yet grounded 

He made a badminton court. So that his kids could play. Yes we did grow up with our own badminton court and a lot of place to play. 

Mom played her friends played and every one in and around came to play. So much so that no one living there got s chance to play. As the community of badminton players grew Mom decided to formalise it. A club grandly called the Amateur Badminton Club and informally called the ABC Club. 

A token fee of 8 Annas was charged. Later it was increased to 1.5 rupees. This was used to buy shuttle cocks and paint. Every one would buy help maintain and paint the lines. A regular group would play. 24 regular members. 2 dozen. A committee was formed with Mom voted in as a President. 

Practice and regular games. Singles, doubles, mixed doubles. It became s place to meet to share to explore life. Out of this came beautiful friendships which lasted over 60 plus years. 

Mom proudly remembers being one of the best women players and would practice and compete with the men. Matches would be Organised within  the groups and friendly matches with other clubs. My grandad or grand mom would give away The trophy. 

It was an outdoor court. Old stone paved. The lines were also carved into the ground. Two smooth metal poles held the net. Later for us kids this court became such s playground. We would cycle round the poles showing off our skills. The court saw so many of us. I remember waking early to okay because we needed a still air and no breeze. Of course we played with light wind advantages to one side. The idea was to play. We learnt to smash and volley and drop the shuttle. Those error the days 

During the monsoon a shed built by my grandfather became the community meeting place - carrom, table tennis and more

The group grew strong always there for each other - and love. Yes this two dozen consisted of people from various walks of life and different religions and beliefs. Girls and boys all different yet like-minded in the spirit of life. The bonds transcended every difference, creating friendships that lasted for 70 years. Friendships that stayed strong even as people moved on and away out. Of Mahim first and then the city if BOMBAY. They stayed true as they tied the knot, built homes and families, and travelled to distant lands to explore new shores. Six   of them married within the club and jokingly people asked if this was s badminton club or a match making club. The friendships were so strong that even today we kids connect with their kids. For years we met them as families.

We Hajeebhoy kids remember so many of them so fondly. Norbert Uncle and Louis Uncle and all the others whose homes we visited regularly every Christmas without fail and were welcomed with warm hugs and special treats. shams and Camar with their grand old house full of arti facts. sister Marilya who became a Nun and was always so proud of Nunus children. There was a sort of unadulterated love amongst this group an acceptance and inclusion which I wish today we could emulate as our world is torn asunder by narrow minds and thoughts 

Right now six of  the original 24 remain - and they still stay deeply connected there for each other strong  in their memories. They stayed steadfast. They remain baddy friends right to the very end...... and for  moms and dads golden anniversary of course the cake was a badminton cake where we said they courted on the badminton court 

The 24 (the dirty 2 dozen!!!)

Norbert - Louis - Hyacinth - Peter - shams  - John - Flavian - FAZEL - Sal - Joe - 

Josephine ( married Hyacinth) - Dora - Marilya - Rita ( married John) - Mavis 

The remaining half dozen : Mom ( NUNU) - Shahrukh ( my dad) - Sultan - Camar - Victor