Annual & Republic Day Celebrations - 2011

Our Kunal Icon, the society that resembles India in many ways - mix of culture, languages and religions. A place, where all the festivals are celebrated with equal importance. As usual Annual Day of the society is celebrated on 26th January.

This year annual day was marked by sports events, including what we termed a "Micro Marathon" as well as cultural programmes featuring old Hindi and Marathi melodies. The day began at 6:30am with more than a hundred fitness enthusiasts residing in the complex taking part in the micro-marathon, and most of them completed it which signifies the good health of residents.

This was followed by our regular flag hoisting ceremony at the hands of one of the dignitaries in the society. The flag hoisting ceremony became more graceful owing to patriotic songs from various Kuanl Icon residents. Few songs were so touchy, that audience had tears in their eyes. There was also a small parade by the Kunal Icon Security guards.

Immediately after that there were various athletics events for Children and grown-ups, such as running, tri-cycling, slow-cycling, throwball etc. Most beautiful site was when around 25 small children were having their tri-cycle race; it looked like professional motorists are getting geared up for their race. They all looked so cute. The enthusiasm of parents watching their kids compete was indeed a sight to behold. The wonderful scene of ladies tying their saris and dupattas around their waist looked like nevertheless that Jhansi ki Rani - Laxmi Bai. All age groups had best of their time.

To give everyone break from Sun light, then came drawing competition in the Club House, sponsored by an art school in the vicinity. The scene of every age group with paper and color resemble the scene from 'Taare Zameen Par'. Not sure if it was 'Taare Zameen Par', but for sure it was 'Saare Zameen Par'.

Swimming and Waterpolo took center stage late afternoon with the sun beating on the glistening pool filled with scores of contestants of all ages.

With all the pains and sweat, then came time for most awaited Award Ceremony, started with pomp and splendor. The director of one of the prominent social organizations in Pune, called Door Step School (who work for the underprivileged children in Pune especially around construction sites), adorned the dais along with our local corporator as well as dignitaries from the Society itself. Prizes went out for the various events including Cricket, Badminton, Table Tennis, Chess etc.

But the most important trophy "The GEM of Kunal Icon" (our own equivalent of the "Bharat Ratna") went out to that one person who fundamentally changed the way our Society functioned - he is one determined and courageous individual and also an ex-Major from the Indian army. He is none other than Maj. Thulasee Das.

Last but not least, what could be the better way to finish a rushing day with a soothing musical night? A well-known musical group - 'Nishad' was invited to entertain everyone in garden area. They enthralled the crowd late into the night with their renditions from old and timeless classics - both Hindi and Marathi. They made residents dance to their tunes and entertained them to fullest.

The various stalls and eateries setup for this occasion also added flavour to the evening.

The night was splendid, with scents and music in the air, an occasion for Kunal Iconites to come together and celebrate not only the Republic day but also their Annual day in grand style.

Then came the moment to thank everyone and bid good-bye. Like all good things, annual day celebration also came to an end.

The Managing Committee would like to expresses gratitude towards the following sponsors, without their patronage the event of Kunal Icon Annual Day Celebrations would have not been so successful.

· Body of God

· Sanjay Hyundai

· Club Mahindra Holidays

· Sai Industrial Security Services

· YOU Telecom

· Corporation Bank

· Jadhav Water Proofing Services

· Graffiti Expressions

· Rabbit & Tortoise

· Noble Chemists

· Mr. Anup Nahar

Our heartfelt thanks to all the Members and Residents who encouraged us with their participation in making the event grand success. We wish you all the best.

Please click here to see pictures taken during the event