Class of 1998-99 meets after 27 years at Shivaji High School in Vitthalwada

Former students of the Class 10 batch of 1998-99 held a one-day "school" at Shivaji High School in Vitthalwada, Gondpipri, on Thursday (the 12th). The occasion was the batch's reunion. Old friends met one another after a full 27 years, and, now nearing the half-century mark in life, relived their school days.

The idea of the reunion came from former student Jayshree Rao (Rajurkar). On her initiative, classmates scattered across different places came together. All of them shared the expenses and enjoyed being students again. In her opening speech, Jayshree said the aim of the event was to strengthen old friendships, get to know one another's families and stand by one another in good times and bad.

At the event, former principal and headmaster Lande, Prof. Shambhu Yelekar, Duryodhan, Nibrad, Gaikwad, Dange, Pote, Khamkar, Shende, Diwase and constable Suresh Wagdarkar were felicitated. Some teachers came with their wives. The teachers recalled old memories, while the former students introduced themselves and their families.

The former students sat through every "period" taken by their teachers and felt school life again. Kishor Madavi conducted the programme. Visiting former students were given mementos and gifts. Pedas were distributed on the occasion of Diwali, and young children were given chocolates. Friends who had come from far away asked after one another and refreshed their childhood memories.

Anuradha Mallerwar, Seema Pimplakar, Vijaya Shrikondawar, Jayshree Jampalwar, Alka Wagdarkar, Dayal Kukudkar, Sanjay Pimplakar, Ramesh Wagdarkar, Pradeep Potraje and Gautam Awathare worked to organise the event. At the end, Jayshree Rao thanked all the teachers, former students and their families.

Many had moist eyes as they took leave after the reunion lunch. Leaving behind their childhood classrooms and memories, everyone was moved. The gathering became a memorable celebration of friendship, gratitude to teachers and a childhood lived again.