The Gang at Anil & Irene's, Croydon. 18 July 04

The base for this bash was the Lakhani residence, where we were served with chilled beer and wine.  After chit-chat and gathering of the troops (much lower number than usual), we strolled across to Lloyds Park, just down the road, to enjoy the Croydon Mela.  It was great fun.  Good food, great variety.  Several marquees with live music.  Enjoyed listening and watching Sidi Goma.  The Sufi Sidis hail from Gujarat; they have East African origins, and their music is an energetic fusion of Eastern quawali and tabla with African drums and rhythm.  Nearby there was a funfair which made the day fun for the kids too. 

Back to the Lakhani's for tea and the group photo and more gossip.  Then Sayonara till the next gathering.

The guest of honour in 2002 was Mahendra Patel (Manga), in 2003 was Deepak Bedi.  This year the guest of honour was Vinoo Thanki (seated fourth from the left) whom many of us met for the first time since school.