UNITY IN DIVERSITY
The Syndicate Bank Officer's Quarters (Dhanashreya) shortly called DOWA at Sector 17 Vashi is a classic example of unity in diversity. There is no segregation on the basis of caste or creed among the over 100 plus officers staying in the quarters. The Ganpathi Festival was the time to rejoice and get the blessings of Lord Ganesh. Aarti will be performed on all 7 days both in the mornings and evenings. Women used to take very active part.
Incidentally, there is a women's wing of Dhanashreya, which is working for the general welfare of the residents. The evening aarti would be followed by cultural activities arranged by the resident officers in a very planned and systematic way. Chief Guest is called to distribute prizes for the Best Performers. Both Young and old participate in these activities. Once I had the opportunity to perform on the stage with a nursery rhyme starting with " Johnny Johnny Yes Pappa " to keep the young children amazed. When I attracted their attention, I simply played " Jack and Jill Went up the hill to fetch a pale of water " in carnatic tune, followed by Punjabi, Hindustani and western music. I won the applause and accolades which I never forget during every Ganesh Festival. Some of the prizes are sponsored by individuals to keep the children encouraged all the time.
Community lunch is also arranged on Sunday after the culmination of Vishnu Sahasranamam by men, Lalitha Sahasranamam by ladies followed by Satyanarayana Puja. Officers arranged to prepare lunch and served them to all residents along with prasadams in a very well planned way. It is indeed a grand show of strength at DHANASHREYA. The neighbouring buildings admired the co-operation and togetherness all these years.
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