Ashir's Birthday

Ashir turned 25 on 12 Aug 2006. God, that is young. And so were half the party at his place.

This was a farm way out in Bannergatta. It was more a house than a farm. Lovely pool, which Ashir had wisely drained earlier in the day, to avoid any unwanted sojourns into the wet and wild. Arok said that the very interesting detail in the pool was made with old tiles which they had broken up. They family also had an interesting collection of skins and animal heads mounted on the wall and collection of old cars that were parked around the grounds.

The sky was overcast but the slight drizzle earlier in the evening had stopped completely. The temperature must have been in the low twenties, which was perfect for having the party outside. The girls were feeling a bit cold, even when they had shawls. But once the dancing started, I didn't remember anyone complaining.

A bonfire was started in a circular pit that allowed seating right around it. This was where they would have barbecues as well. What a marvelous idea as the weather started to get nippy.

Midnight arrived and it was time for the cake. It appears that with most birthday celebrations here in India, the birthday boy/girl will inevitably get a facial or mud pack soon after he/she takes the knife to the cake. In this instance, Roland had the honour of presenting this to Ashir.

It is also customary for the the birthday boy to feed a piece of cake to at least the family, which I think is a great tradition. A lot more personal than putting a slice on a plate and handing it out.

Pratap and family were there. Sowmya was home from New York as well. It was great catching up.

The witching hour arrived (I must say that it has been arriving earlier and earlier) and I had to say goodbye, leaving the young ones to party into the wee hours...