In the heart of Delhi, amidst ongoing political discourse and concerns over air quality, a unique and recurring celebration took place. Renowned Sufi Kathak dancer Manjari Chaturvedi celebrated what she humorously calls her annual "40th birthday" at the residence of noted author and former diplomat, Bhaichand Patel.
A Tradition of Ageless Celebration
Manjari Chaturvedi has turned her birthday into a delightful annual tradition that defies conventional aging. Sharing the philosophy behind her celebrations, she explained, "I famously celebrate my 40th birthday every year, and every year all my friends come." She playfully dismisses any other number associated with her age, stating her intention to continue this tradition for several more years as long as it brings her joy. The recent gathering also served as a secondary celebration for friends who missed the launch of her new book, making it a dual-purpose festive evening.
The Host and a Friendship Spanning Decades
The soirée was hosted by Bhaichand Patel, a prominent figure in Delhi's P3 (politics, bureaucracy, and media) circles, well-known for his legendary Valentine's Day parties. Reflecting on their long-standing bond, Patel revealed, "We both came to Delhi around the same time – 25 years ago." He arrived from Bombay, while Manjari came from Lucknow. Their friendship began at the Neemrana Fort, where she was performing and he was an invited guest. This was the second time her birthday was celebrated at his home, a testament to their enduring connection.
Manjari echoed these sentiments, crediting Bhaichand for her integration into Delhi's social fabric. "His was the first Delhi party I was invited to," she recalled. For someone new to the city, his dinners and gatherings became the gateway through which she built her circle and was warmly accepted into the capital's vibrant cultural and social life.
A Gathering of Luminaries
The celebration saw the confluence of distinguished personalities from various fields, underscoring the couple's wide social network. The guest list included notable figures such as:
- Former Foreign Secretary Shyam Saran
- Senior advocate Aryama Sundaram
- Author and critic Rakhshanda Jalil
- Former Union Minister Pallam Raju
- Ex-MP and senior lawyer Ashwani Kumar
- Justice Najmi Waziri
- Noted lawyer Diljeet Titus
- Political commentator Sanjaya Baru
- Businessman Yakub Mathew
The event stood out as a warm, personal gathering of old friends in an intimate setting, a refreshing contrast to larger, more formal Delhi parties. It highlighted the personal bonds that form the backbone of the city's cultural community, proving that some traditions, like cherished friendships and a youthful spirit, only grow richer with time.
