It is said that change is the only thing which is constant and as they say 'old order changeth,yeilding place to new' – so from this issue there is a change in editorship as Chandralekha jija takes a sabbatical and me –Damayanti Singh with pride p l e a s u r e a n d a l i t t l e apprehension will be editing your awaited issues of the MGD guild newsletters for the summer (May) Autumn (Sept) and Winter (Jan) issues.

The memories of years spent in MGD are so fresh and dear it seems like only yesterday that I left school. "Everything in its place and a place for everything". So true about are hearts and minds too! If we remain and act in accordance to the pre ordained there will be much less misery all around. It is when these too are out of sync that we are vulnerable and then we become the cause of hurt to those whom we come in contact and those whom we love.

In school the Thought for the Day which has been permanently etched in my mind is "Honourand shame in no conditionArise;Act well thy part and there all the honour lies". Each time my mind and heart played tricks with me this li tle voice pricked my ears made me sit straight and pull up my socks.

Blessed were we all who groomed and blossomed under the larger than life persona and guidance of Ms Lutter who gave her utmost so we could reach our highest.

Wishing you all Meaning and Mirth in this Merry month of May and looking forward to an enriching and interactive tenure with the guild news letter.

Damayanti R V Singh ('73 Batch)

His birth in the Royal House of the Kachawas was an occasion of great rejoicing that lasted for a year. A prince had been born to a ruler of Jaipur State after centur ies. His ancestors including his father, the legendary Maharaja Sawai Man II, had all been adopted from related Kachawa families of “Dhoondhar” (Jaipur State).

The young prince was brought up with a lot of love and care. Educated at the prestigious Doon School (Dehradun) and thereafter at the famous Public School at Harrow in the United Kingdom; he opted to follow his childhood dream of becoming a soldier and joined the Indian Army. Heir Apparent to a rich legacy and surrounded with all that spells 'Luxury', he preferred to follow the tough and strict regimentation of a soldier's life. The young, handsome and dashing Captain Bhawani Singh of Jaipur was inducted in the elite regiment of the President's Bodyguard in 1954 – a duty he carried with exemplary devotion and pride.

He was a keen polo player. As a young prince he played ”cycle polo” along with his brothers at the far end of the Jaipur Club Polo Ground and later played Polo on horses with aplomb and distinction. As the founder president of he Rambagh Polo Club, his patronage gave a big boost in popularizing the game and in carrying his father's legacy of International fame and recognition.

I vividly recall the state visit of the first President of India, Dr. Rajendra Prashad in 1955, for the swearing -in ceremony of H.H. Sawai Man Singhji II as the Rajpramukh of Integrated Rajasthan in Jaipur. Capt Bhawani Singh accompanied the President as his A.D.C. and Bodyguard. The pride he felt on that occasion was palpable – proud of Jaipur and proud of his duty. The historic ceremony took place in his home – the palace where he had grown up; but on that day he was the epitome of professional commitment – attending on the President of his country – at attention watching his father taking the oath.

In 1970 he succeeded to the “Gaddi” of Jaipur as Sawai Bhawani Singh, the 40th ruler in a l ine of ext raordinar i ly distinguished rulers, warriors, statesmen, architects, and patrons of many arts and craft forms that have made Jaipur famous and renowned over the ages.

During the 1971 Indo-Pak war his crack regiment – 10 Paratroopers trounced the enemy at the Chachro battle – for his gallantry and brave leadership the President of India de c o rat ed him wi th the prestigious Mahavir Chakra. A l e g e n d a r y s o l d i e r a n d commander he lived up to the inheritance of h s fore fathers who had, for c entur i e s , commanded great armies to great victories.

As an individual he was a kind and benevolent person with a lot of compassion for all around him. He led a very disciplined life, throughout his rein he maintained a close connect with his people – here was a man, a Prince himself, who could walk with Princes and not lose the common touch, and walk with commoners nor lose his nobility.

As we bid farewell to the last ruler of the Kachawas, we pray his noble soul rests in eternal piece, and offer our deep hear t f e l t condol enc e s to Maharani Padmini De v i , Maharaj Kumar Padmanabh Singh, Princess Diya Kumari and her family .

CHANDRALEKHA MATHUR (SAHAI)

January ‘11 - Our Winter Break ended with the celebration of the Kite Festival. Along with everyone working hard to get into the flow of CCE, full fledged activities too kept us busy.

February ‘11 - The 7th of Feb - a Monday - was set aside for our La t e Ms . Lut t e r ’ s Bi r th Anniversary Celebrations. The day began by a Prayer Meeting held at the Quiet Corner followed by a school Assembly in front of our Stadium . Our Guest Speaker was Mrs. Rita Kuhad who had also studied and taught at MGD for a short period of time.

Basant Panchmi - the following day which involved a special assembly in front of the Stadium. An Inter-House Instrumental (Solo) Music competition was held.

We also had an important event awaiting us further that day - the Unveiling of the Bust of our very own Late H.H. Rajmata Gayatri Devi Ji of Jaipur. The Bust was unveiled by Rani Vidya Devi Ji in front of the full school gathering whilst the MGD School Song played on …. Its made of pure white marble and stands firm in the little Gardenic Round-about, between the Main School Gate and the Porch School Entrance .

The Pr o g r amme f o r the c u s t oma r y P a s s i n g Ou t Ceremony held on the 15th of Feb at the SMS Dining Hall began with the Traditional Welcome, Lighting of the Lamp and the Saraswati Vandana . The Chief Guest at the function was Rani Vidya Devi (President, Board of Governors). Potted Plants were then presented to the Chief Guest and the Three Parent Speakers. - “Some say it with Flowers but at MGD we say it with a plant symbolizing enduring love and affection” in the words of the compere that evening. Our Three Parent Speakers were - A proud mother o f the He ad Gi r l Na zm Bharadwaj - Mrs. Kanwaljeet Kaur --- Mrs. Kamlesh Gehlawat - Mother of Sunaina Singh( Vice President of the Student Council) and Mr. Rajkumar Singh - Father of Madhu Singh (Ex- Green House Prefect). We also had a we l l spoken and encouraging message by our Principal Mrs. Suniti Sharma. The air was one of mixed feelings - Sad for our dear students who would be leaving this renowned institution and sweet as it would be the beginning of a new and challenging Life ahead. Then we went on to present the Tokens of Appreciation to the Three main Leaders followed by the pinning up of badges for all the Passouts. The choir sung - Ranger’s Watchword and Life’s Mirror followed by the School Song and National Anthem. The function ended by a session of Tea for all.

March ‘11 - The school steeped up with Exams- Studies etc. Af ter which Class- Wise Educ a t i o n a l T r i p s we r e organized n Results for the term being prepared.

April ‘11 - We began the new Term on the 6th of Apr - New beginnings - new anticipations - new Plans n the excitement of expectation amongst it all.

At the very beginning a Rock Concert - the first of its kind at MGD - was organized for the Students as well as Ex- MGDians against payment of an average Entry - Fee. The Bands were - ADVAITA (a Delhi based Rock Group) and Fragile Silence (from Jaipur). The main organiser was Komal Panwar (an Ex- MGDian).

MGD also organized a Two Day Film Festival for the first time with the initiative of our Principal - Mrs . Suniti Sharma, a Teacher Rep. and a Student Representative- Alokita Sharma- Class XI. The festival was titled- ‘Windows to the World ‘ which involved screening of various documentaries based on Social Issues like Social Equality, cleanliness and hygiene, Justice, Peace etc.

That’s all for the time-being. Take care and have an enjoyable and hot Summer Break.

- Vanessa Everett

“Carpe Diem” - seize the day, the moment & embrace life with joy & wonder. This is my mantra now that I begin my new life, & has been unknowingly in the past – an insight that just came to me. My four & formative years in MGD were wonderful; happy years to dream, to play, to practice, to laugh, to LEARN!

A deep sense of belonging, bonding; shared secrets & friendships. A quiet confidence & love for those values that were so deeply ingrained in us. Miss Lutter was an icon, a legacy, an idol, an example who taught us to go in search for the modern & the new, but never to forget the traditional & the old.

I passed out from MGD in 1972 & came back in 1977-1978 to teach the junior classes. Miss Lutter’s trust & faith in me was what urged me to quietly but surely incorporate some of the skills 7 methods I had picked up in my Teacher’s Training – into the already existing norms & values. I loved every moment of that year, & tried to imbibe in the students a sense of freedom to think, question and retain. My salary was a handsome sum of Rs. 500/- I gave my parents a gas tandoor with my first pay – the joy on their faces cannot be measured by time. Only my marriage in 1978 took me away from MGD and Jaipur.

On a final note this mantra of 32 years - - - yes a long time! It took me exactly this long to return to Jaipur – my bi r thplace, schoolplace, college place marriageplace, birthplace – my daughters Noma and Rima were born here too. Holidays too were spent here when I visited my parents from time to time.

People wish to be settled: only as far as they are unsettled is there any hope for them. No I agree with Ralph Waldo Emerson? Poor me, waiting, waiting and wishing to be settled – & so here I am! But it is in our very waitings, learnings and yearnings, surrendering and trusting to change do we flow with ebb of life & time. To accept; to grow; to fail, learn and fail again; to keep on going – This is it!

In living this very life does one grow and expand into greater awareness. Turning points have to be embraced, challenges have to be faced. Every change of place, space, home, situation, event, responsibility have to be met. Have to keep our dreams strong and enthusiasm bright – inspite of ... learn and RESPOND to every little window of opportunity that life brings! As my favorite inspirational writer says “What you resist will persist, but what you embrace you will eventually transcend.”

“Carpe Diem” will definitely help me with my counseling which I have taken on as my goal, aim and passion! Will be glad to be of any help.

Kum Kum Sen (nee Singha) 1972 Batch

We at the Guild are facing the problem of reaching out to you all, posting the mail uses a lot of paper and is time consuming - couriers are unreliable - hence keeping up with the times, we will reach out to you all via SMS or email.

Those of you who have DND (Do Not Disturb) on your cell phones - you need to give us your email address at our new email id mgd_guild@hotmail.com along with your year of passing out from school.

Somehow we are not getting a feed back from our younger MGDians. We want our Guild site to be more interactive and live. We would like to share your news and it could be one point were your friends could log in and get your information. So please do keep the Guild informed about the happenings in your life.

We MGDians need to be connected. Warm regards

Jane H. Singh Vice President MGD Girls' Guild

Reaching out to all MGDians who passed out in the year 1995 and onwards please pick up the threads, get back in orbit and give us a chance to know your where abouts. Go across time and distance amidst nostalgia and Bonhomie. It is time to come closer to us to laugh and to connect telling us about yourselves. Share with us your myriad experiences and we assure you a place of pride in our guild news letter.

Editor

Gauri Singh (MGD Batch 1981) joined Indian Administrative Service in 1987 and has held various positions in Madhya Pradesh, New Delhi amd now in Abu Dhabi. She was District Magistrate and Collector at District, Dewas. She successfully implemented Total Adult Literacy Programme. She was also Mission Director, Rajiv Gandhi Watershed Management Mission.

She was Project Co-ordinator, District Poverty Initiatives Project. Here she led the design team and conceptualised and negotiated with World Bank and set up the entire institutional structure for this $110 million World Bank Project received higher rating during the mid term review by the World Bank.

A Joint Secretary, Ministry of New and Renewable Enerygy, Government of India, she prepared the framework of newly launched Nat ional Solar Mission.

She joined Internat ional Renewable Energy Agency ( IRENA) located at Abu Dhabi in January 2011 as Director. The agency has160 countries as its members. Here her role is to develop effective strategies for the necessary transition to a renewable based energy future. She is co-ordinating this process in the developing countries of Africa, Latin America and Asia wi th the co-operat ion of developed countries including USA, UK, Canada, Germany, France, Spain and other European countries. She is also responsible for knowledge management and Technical Cooperation develop effective strategies for the necessary transition to a renewable based energy future. She is coordinating this process in the developing countries of Africa, Latin America and Asia with the co-operation of developed countries including USA, UK, Canada, Germany, France, Spain and other European c o u n t r i e s . S h e i s a l s o responsible for knowledge management and Technical Cooperation.

Contributed by Mrs. Pushpa Yatindra Singh (Gauri's Mother)
email- gsingh@irena.org

Good Evening Everyone

Respected Rani Vidya Devi Ji, Board of Governors, Members of the MGD Girls’ Guild, Our Principal Mrs. Suniti Sharma, Col. Thakur, Our Admn. Officer, Parents, Teachers and My dear Friends Today is going to be the last day for me to stand here to give the Thank You Speech. So many I’ve given so far, I thought preparing the final Thank You Speech would be a Cake Walk for me, but no dear friends last night as I sat to pen my thoughts and feelings; I realized how difficult it is.

Feelings, memories, thoughts were in conflict with each other. I had to hold them tight and give them a proper shape and form. Today I am standing at the threshold to bid adieu to my alma mater and all my dear friends with whom I have shared many happy hour s and cemented a strong bonding over the years.

I am not exaggerating if I say “the years spent in MGD have been the best years of our life”. Right from the days we’ve entered the portals of MGD as little, confused girls to graduate as confident young ladies.

The journey of transformation is tremendous. On this day, we sincerely miss our own dear Rajmata Shahiba whose vision was a gift to us …….. Ok, from where should I start? From those bygone days, when we were little girls in tunics, completely in awe of salwar kameez dupatta clad jijas? How proud we felt when our jijas held our little fingers & took us to the Dining Hall and then back to our Hostels. Was it pride alone? No, my dear friends we also learnt that when we become jijas we would also be helpful and protective towards our younger ones.

From little girls in prep we grew as juniors “the awe struck expression” from our eyes is gone with a sense of ownership to our School. We started realizing our responsibilities too at this stage. But this real izat ion and knowledge did not stop us from teasing our baijis or getting irritated whenever they rang the bell. How much we wished in secrecy that we should hide the bell so that the day does not start with that loud ring. We will remember all the baijis for handling our waywardness with patience and endurance.

I will be failing in my duty if I don’t mention the nursing staff who tirelessly took care of us when we fell ill. How many days we have assembled in front of the warden’s room on weekends pleading with them to let us watch T.V. giving them tall promises. Oh! Those fights for the remote dear friends who can forget all these. My dear wardens and matrons you were like mothers to us. Your love and care will always be etched in our memories, it is because of you MGD was always a home to us and will remain so in our lives.

Years rolled by and we became SENIORS in CAPITAL letters, we felt that we are the face of MGD, we represented MGD in various competitions. Oh! The pride we have when we say “we are from MGD”. When I think that from MGDians we are going to be Ex- MGDians my feelings are all mixed up – sat isfact ion, happiness and sadness, yes dear friends I cannot conceal the sadness now our lives will take us to different corners of the world. We will be physically far away from MGD, but MGD will remain strong in our hearts. We may go from MGD but MGD cannot go from us.

So I thank this hallowed institution for giving us so much. We learnt to enjoy to the hilt at the same time we realized our duties and responsibilities. We learnt to dream big till the goal is achieved. On behalf of the Class 12th students I immensely thank Rani Vidya Devi Ji our chairperson whose valuable presence and guidance have helped us to aim high. My thanks to all the MGD guild members for their constant support. I thank our technosavvy principal Mrs. Suniti Sharma who has helped us with unassuming attitude and straight forward approach. Thank You Ma’am.

We have been groomed as young and confident ladies and ushered into this vast wonderful world. We owe this to our dear teachers, who untiringly, smilingly and patiently attended to our needs. Whether it is Maths and Physics, or English & Debat e s , o r Spo r t s and Swimming. Or the Dance Drama, they willingly rose up to occasions and brought out the best in us. Dear teachers you are our icons and I run short of words to thank you. My sincere thanks to Col. Thakur our admn. Officer and the entire office staff for contributing their share for making our life at MGD a memorable one.

Oh! The list is endless. Thanks to each and every person here at MGD. At this juncture we the students of class 12 affirm that we will live up to the motto of our dear MGD and we will do “our utmost for the highest”.

Dear MGD, You light the path which leads our youth, For our future brightens, with each lesson you teach Each smile you lengthen, each goal you help reach For the dawn of each post, each philosopher & king, begins with a great institution. Thank you MGD, thank you so much!

Nazm (Head Girl, 2010-2011)

1. The brave duo of Sippy Chopra (85 Batch) and Shabnan Dey (85 Batch) climbed Mt. Everest and placed the MGD Flag atop one the highest peaks ! Atta Girls ! May you reach many more heights.

2. The whole world watched in awe and bated breath when Anna Hazare took up the challenging task of fighting India's most corrupt. Support for this moral war poured in from all corners of life and joining them in Jaipur were a group of dedicated MGDians led by Mrs Vandana Nadgar who led the candle light vigil at the statue circle vowing the solidarity and support to Anna Hazare in the true spirit of MGD they stood up for what is right always.

1. Our heartflet condolence to the Royal family of Jaipur on the sad demise of H H Maharaja Bhawani Singh Ji ( 17th April, 2011)

2. To the family of Rajmata Menaka Devi of Devas (Rajmata Gayatri Devi's Sister)

3. To the family of Preeti Ola 2005 Batch who died in a car accident in Jhunjhunu District

Our heartiest congratulations to :-

Mr s . L i l a Awa s thi -She celebrated her 90th birthday on February 5, 2011 with her family and friends in the U.S.A. We add to the greeting sent to her students and colleagues. Pranati Lunia (1972) - Won the best terrace garden contest organised by Times Property in association with Binani cement. The contest was open to all who had beautiful terrace garden in their homes.

PROGRAMME FOR 2011 A.G.M. - SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2011 A.G.M. - SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2011-FOLLOWED BY A VISIT TO “TILONIA” DANDIA NIGHT - SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2011- AT THE SCHOOL ANNUAL GET TEGETHERSATURDAY DECEMBER 17, 2011- MORNING LUNCH AT THE SCHOOL. EVENING VENUE - RAMBAGH CONVENTION CENTER GOLDEN BATCH OF 1961 & SILVER BATCH OF 1986 WILL BE FELICITATED. Contact no's for the Golden Jubilee Batch 1961 Mrs Ranjana Jaitely - 9829115772

Silver Jubilee Batch 1986 Ms Vandana Mehta - 9414078405 Ms Kalpana Kumari - 9928040109

EDITOR - Mrs. Damyanti R V Singh 7, Vaishali Enclave Meghna Estate Vijeta Marg P.O. Vaishali Nagar, Jaipur - 302 021 Cell : 98290 43156 E-mail :

Ms. Vanessa Everett Cell # : 091- 9982983000 E-mail : vanessaeverett@rediffmail.com vanessa_everett@rediffmail.com

MGD Girls Guild MGD School Sawai Ram Singh Road, Jaipur - 302 001 Tel # 0141-3122031 E-mail :msrbuzz@gmail.com mgd_guild@hotmail.com Website : wwwmgdgirlsguild.org

A new beginning, a new year – a new decade – new hope and a new endeavour !!It is now T/10 ! Yes its that time of the year when we have just bid adieu to the old year - ’09 and wished all our near & dear ones a happy T/10. On behalf of the Guild Executive Committee I wish you and yours A VERY HAPPY &PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR - May it bring happiness, good health, cheer and joy !!

Now is the accepted time to make your regular annual New Year resolutions. Next week or the week after you can begin paving hell with them as usual ! As Oscar Wilde has rightly said, “Good resolutions are simply cheques that men draw on a bank where they have no account.” Every day is a new beginning. Treat it that way. Stay away from what might have been, and look at what can be !! That’s a lot of advice for now !

The year that was, will be remembered as a momentous one. The year rolled along inexorably on its destined path leaving in its wake the usual mix of joys and sorrows. All of us had something to feel happy about and something that made us sit up with a start and take stock, along with a feeling of philosophical acceptance of the inevitable.

It taught us the importance of the transcient nature of life – the illusion of permanence is nothing but a mirage – change is the only constant in life – knowing this paradox as we all do, yet are constantly taken aback whenever it occurs in its myriad forms ! For all MGDians the year 2009 records the end of a glorious era. Our founder, H. H. Gayatri Deviji Saheba’s demise left us all bereft and stunned – for days one moved in a retrospective mode. Her death took us way back to our childhood and schooldays, to life after school, the countless occasions when we recalled her inspiring words at various challenging moments of our lives; how her simple, down-to-earth wisdom showed us the light ! We miss her today and always will. But her legacy will live on for ever. So much to learn from just thinking about her – her elegance,stylish glamour, her astute observation of a situation, her ability to take major decisions with far reaching consequences. A change has come after 66 years. We can look forward with optimism, a strong foundation as that of MGD School is hard to find. It is this solid load-bearing stone that has paved the destiny of thousands and will continue to do so. There is a bright new dawn awaiting – as the control passes into the capable hands of Rani Vidya Deviji, new President of the Board of Governors and a new Principal of the School & President of the Guild – ushering the new decade and a new era. So true, every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end !!
Have a great year !!

BUSYBEES

I’m writing this column after quite sometime as the last issue was dedicated to our Late H. H. Rajmata Sahiba of Jaipur. We miss her presence back at school all the time esp. at all functions and get togethers. May God grant her eternal peace.

And now getting back to this column I need to tell you about events since June 2009 but would like to inform the missing of various events because of time and space constraints.

Beginning with the CBSE Board Results-2009
Class X
I Position - Vasuki Tikkiwal - 97.0%
II Position - Anukriti Gupta - 96.8%
Anshula Sharma - 96.8%
III Position - Palak Dewan - 96.0%
Class XII
Science Stream
I Positon - Richa Agarwal - 93.0%
II Position - Khushboo Agarwal - 92.0%
III Position - Anusha Sharma - 91.6%
Commerce Stream
I Position - Somya Sethi - 95.2%
II Position - Shivranjana Rathore - 94.2%
III Position - Sukriti Agarwal - 93.2%
Art Stream
I Position - Vrinda Loiwal - 95.0%
II Position - Niharika Shukla - 94.2%
III Position - Chinari Mathur - 93.2%
Pankhuri Mendiratta- 93.2%
July 2009 - The 24th of July - a day kept aside for various Inter House Activities at various levels at school.

An Inter House Rakhi Competition was arranged for students from Classes VI to XII. A maximum of hundred girls were chosen from each house to make rakhi’s on the spot. The First Position was bagged by Helen Keller followed by Madame Curie at the Second Position.

Simultaneously on that very day an Inter House Debate Competition of English and Hindi were organised. Florence Nightingale bagged the First Position where as Sarojini Naidu was Runner’s up at the English side and on the Hindi side Sarojini Naidu was at the top followed by Helen Keller at the Second Place.

Yet another Inter House Power Point Presentation was held at Senior Level. Helen Keller stood First followed by Florence Nightingale at second position.

August 2009 - The 12th of August 2009 - the 66th Birthday of our school was not celebrated due to the sad demise of H.H. Rajmata Sahiba. We had a solemn assembly at school after which little packets of dry fruit were distributed to the students and staff of the school. The DVD -(Royal Reformer) - based on Rajmata Sahiba’s life was viewed class-wise on that day.

- on the 19th August various interhouse competitions were held within the school premises. We had the Hindi Folk Song Competition for the Seniors wherein Sarojini Naidu House bagged the 1st and Madame Curie the 2nd place respectively.

A Poetry / Recitation Enactment Competition was also held for Juniors. Sarojini Naidu stood 1st and Madame Curie stood second in the competition.

In the sport of tennis MGD organized the Rani Vidya Devi Cup Tournament. It was the 7th Inter School Team Tennis Tournament that took place at MGD itself. It spanned over three days 20th-22nd August. The Chief Guest being Rani Vidya Devi Ji herself. Maharaja Sawai Mansingh Vidyalaya was the winner and MGD “A” Team was the Runner Up.

September 2009 - The 5th of September - Teachers Day Celebration at MGD. We started the day by assembling at the Quiet Corner which was followed by an entertaining assembly totally prepared and organized by the students themselves. The school gave over early that day leaving the teachers to enjoy their Special Day. A programme for the staff members at the stadium was followed by a Special Lunch at the SMS dining hall. The Principal Mrs. Suniti Sharma handed over a token to every staff member on this Special Occasion.

On the 7th and 8th of September MGD Hosted an Orientation Programme for Economics. Teachers from all over Rajasthan attended.

Putney High School, London, and Saint Agnes, Stutgart, Germany had their Student - Teacher Exchange Programme at MGD during the month of October November.

October 2009 - We had a big event at school - The Inter House Athletic Meet from 8th to 10th October. Rani Vidya Devi declared the Meet open. We had a series of events for the day. The Opening Ceremony was followed by the Olympic Oath, Sportsman’s Prayer, Mass Drill by the Primary Section, Yoga Display, and the most important - The Housewise March Past. After which began the 3 day long array of field and track events. The Closing Ceremony for the same was held on the 10th October. The Chief Guest being Ms. Paramjeet Choudhary, an outstanding only woman athlete from Rajasthan to represent India at the Sydney Olympics in 2000. A gymnastic display, Prize Distribution Ceremony, Address by Chief Guest, the Sports Meet Flame Distinguished, School and House Flags lowered and finally the singing of the National Anthem brought an end to the Athletic Meet.

HOUSE-WISE RESULTS
I Position Madame Curie
II Position Florence Nightingale
III Position Helen Keller
IV Position Sarojini Naidu

We also had an Inter House Aquatic Meet held at the Swimming Pool on the 12th & 13th October. The newly constructed pool built in place of the old one was inaugurated the very same day. Rani Vidya Devi Ji was the Chief Guest for the same. The two day event included many races and relays of different swimming strokes. The Synchronised Swimming Act enthralled and attracted everyones attention at the Closing Ceremony.

HOUSE-WISE RESULTS
I Position Madame Curie
II Position Helen Keller
III Position Florence Nightingale
IV Position Sarojini Naidu

November 2009 - Our school had to shut down for some time due to the outbreak of H1N1. School opened in the month of Dec. and instead our Winter Break stood cancelled. During the break an International Conference on English Language was organised at school by ELT@I on the 20th and 21st. More than 150 delegates from all over attended. This conference proved enriching to every one who attended.

December 2009 - Human Rights day was observed by viewing of documentaries by classes VI to XII.

Christmas Day Assembly on the 24th was also a different celebration, the first of its kind, seemed different coming to school anyway at this part of the year. anyway that’s all I have to wrap up for the column. Wishing all my readers a very happy, holy and blessed New Year. Adieu.

VANESSA EVERETT

THE 21ST CENTURY’S GUILD

Hello Jijas! I’m Meghna, not an Ex- MGD’ian, currently in class IX of the same school you studied in. I consider myself very lucky to write for ‘Guild Today’ and would like to thank Chandralekha Jija for this opportunity !

I’m here to introduce you to the 21st century’s guild, rather Guild Part-II. It all started in April 2009 when I made the MGD student’s page on the social networking site Facebook. We already have hundreds of pages of our school on it, but my idea was to make a page which would keep the Ex-MGD’ians updated and would also keep the current students informed. I started putting up the information I had, and kept segregating the members who joined the page. Then there was the Inter-House Power Point Presentation Competition in May. It was my house captain who suggested me to make a presentation on the School Guild. It is an important part of MGD, and that was what we had to show everyone. My seniors and I started collecting information and soon Mr. Biyani had our faces registered in his mind! In my History class, instead of asking questions about the ‘French Revolution’, I kept questioning Mrs. Nisha Chatterjee about the guild. And so on, I and my fellow house girls kept revolving around Ms. Vanessa Everett, Ms. Lakshmi Singh and Ms. Benu Puri! We also called Mrs. Neeta Boochra on the eve of the competition! Obviously, we had to win! And then, Helen Keller, the house I belong to, won the competition! We felt proud to receive a standing ovation from the audience! It was at that moment, when I really realised how important the Guild was. I uploaded all the things I had collected on the page; the songs from the CD ‘The Wonder Years’, old black and white photographs, the souvenirs et al. They all revived the lost memories of the Ex-MGD’ians! I learned the funny stories behind the nostalgic photographs! The Thank yous below the video of the School Song made me happy. And I decided to keep the page updated, always.

The page now has more than One Thousand Six Hundred MGD’ians from all over the world along with the current students. In these 7 months, I have befriended many Ex-MGD’ians, and have informed the students about the important changes and announcements. The only thing I couldn’t do is tell this to Rajmata Sahiba. But I believe, and I know that she sees everything from above. This page is truly inspired by the MGD Girls’ Guild! I’d like all of you to log in to Facebook, make an account, and join the School page ! Just search “Maharani Gayatri Devi Girls’ School” and the very first link in the results is the page you have to join! I’m sure you’ll meet your batch mates there too! Kudos to all of you!!

MEGHNA SHARMA

CLASS IX, MGD SCHOOL

GOLDEN JUBILEE BATCH

ASHA MEHTA (DURLABHJI )
SAVITRI KUNADI
PADMA GUPTA (CONSUL)
MANJU KUMARI SINGH
USHA JHAVER (KABRA)
PRITAM SHYAM SINGH
PAAN NARPAT SINGH

DOWN MEMORY LANE

My two class mates of 1959 senior cambridge batch came from Nairobi, Kenya to study at M.G.D. They were Manju Dixit now Devgan and her cousin Prabha Bhardwaj now Pareek. I had lost touch but after 50 years traced them both through their cousins in washingtom D.C on my last visit, just in time before our golden re-union. Manju is a doctor settled in Los Angeles married to a doctor and has 4 children who are also doctors ! Her e-mail address is drmanju@yahoo.com. Prabha is now settled in Hamilton, Canada. Her e-mail address is prabpareek@gmail.com It was so nice talking to them and they had fond memories of M.G.D. Manju has promised to come to Jaipur soon and I shall bring her to see M.G.D. At our golden jublee reunion we were 7 classmates. They were Asha Durlabh Ji, Savitri Kunadi, Padma Consul, Usha Kabra, Pritam Singh, Paan Janak Singh and myself. I am trying to locate Pushpa Rathore and Suniti Kannetkar. If any M.G.D’ian knows their whereabouts, please do let us know. Also Arlene Rebello is untracable. It was good seeing you all at the MGD Luncheon - Keep smiling !

MANJU KUMARI SINGH (1959)

e-mail -shivrajsingh36@hotmail.com

B4 & AFTER 14/11

Just attended my golden jubilee re-union @ M.G.D. on 14/11/09. Millions of thoughts & memories have thronged the mind.

When I passed out of school in 1959, little did I realize that MGD had prepared me to face life in real, with all its trials and tribulations, and yet come out a winner. Besides family values learnt from parents and siblings as I grew, it was what I learnt @ school that made the difference, and made me what I am today. As a result life has been not so difficult, tough & demanding situations dealt with smoothly, children reared with the right values in place.

They were taught not to shun hard work, try to excel & give their maximum input & yet remain down to earth not losing their touch of commitment, compassion and kindness. I tried to find the best schools for them in Mumbai, judging wherever I went by MGD standards. 5 Miss L.G. Lutter, is a personality that reigns supreme in my mind, embedded with great memories, b’coz I can boast of being the only day scholar who spent my final year in the school hostel, so as to avail of all extra coaching & gain the experience of living in a hostel. And let me tell you, that every moment was worth it - the extra classes that were taken by Miss Lutter in the evenings, following a time table strictly with all its rules laid down by Miss Meenakshi, and the fun and frolic of living life with lots of others. She, members of the staff, senior Jijas and the umpteen bais/bearers who looked after all our needs are totally responsible for making me what I am today. From them I learnt punctuality, sharing, teamwork, love, faith, sacrifice and duty. It was later that I realized that these were lessons of life, which are very hard to learn, and yet were taught to me so effortlessly. Today I can proudly say in my life of sixtyfive years that ‘our utmost for the highest’, my schools motto, has remained my life -line in every which way. Another very good thought that has always remained with me is, ‘character is not ready made but is created bit-by-bit and day-by-day’— this was one of the many thoughts of the day recited in chorus in the school assembly. “I would be true” taught me that whatever I do I am answerable to my conscience and the Good Lord above . ‘Thank god for the world so sweet’ taught ‘me not to be selfish, but remain humble. That I have never told a lie in my life is a very honest statement. And hence I am very very thankful to MGD for making me aware of any wrong-doings and always making me move fwd. fearlessly for what is right.

In the end a great respectful reverence to Maharani Sahiba for creating an institution that remains unparalleled till today, giving thousands of girls the opportunities to excel to the best of their potential. Truly she was dreaming much ahead of her times and we are all thankful, proud and lucky for being MGDians.

ASHA MEHTA (DURLABHJI) 1959

SILVER JUBILEE BATCH

1. Sadhna Pareek
2. Priti Banthia
3. Anuja Lalwani
4. Vinita Shekhavat
5. Kinni Saxena
6. Aditi Bhanot
7. Aradhna Singhvi
8. Rajni Garg
9. Namita Mehrotra
10. Anamica Bhatnagar
11. Chaitali Panmei
12. Jasmine Rehman
13. Lakshmi Kumari Rathore
14. Mita Kapur
15. Rupila Tandon
16. Shilpi Mathur
17. Radhika Karki
18. Sunanda Acharya
19. Julie Khemka
20. Zeenat Haque
21. Shivli Bajpai
22. Nitya Devi
23. Shivina Kumari
24. Savitri Rathore
25. Aradhana Sethi
26. Vidhi Bhandari
27. Charu Mathur
28. Preeti Bhargava
29. Sangeeta Sancheti
30. Sunita Bageria
31. Seema Chaudhary
32. Poonam Sharda
33. Kamayani Sharma
34. Sapna Goel nee Jain
35. Kumud Sharma
36. Sangita Sharma
37. Seema Baheti
38. Reena Gupta
39. Kalpana Hirawat
40. Brijlata Gemini
41. Navneet Takkar
42. Mona Sogani
43. Mamta Suklecha
44. Rashmi Aggarwal
45. Kitty Palawat.

ANNUAL GET-TOGETHER

The Annual Get-together of the Guild took place on November 14, 2009. A cold bracing morning greeted the 1959 and 1984 batches for their Jubilee re-union at the SMS Convention Hall at the School – a very colourful turn out of eager faces bursting with enthusiasm and the sheer joy of being at MGD once again !. We were very happy to have our new President, Mrs. Suniti Sharma, with us – a lot of us including me met her for the first time. The interact meeting began with the observing of a two minute silence in memory of Late Rajmata Saheba followed by all paying floral tributes to her portrait – a very moving and sentimental ceremony for all, and specially those who had come from far & distant places. there were a lot of moist eyes as the reality of the loss of our founder hit us. This was followed by the introduction of the Executive Committee members and the Jubilee batches. It was really inspiring to have Julekha Jija (Sen – 1950 Batch) with us She had come all the way from Kolkata for the occasion (Great spirit Jija, & a great example !!) The Golden Girls & the Silver Girls introduced themselves & told us about their lives & families. There was the screening of the Guild’s tribute to Late Rajmata Saheba - “Royal Reformer”. We then stood up to sing the School Song.

The Chief Guest , Rani Saheba Vidya Deviji, joined us at the lounge of the SMS Dining Complex. Bouquets were presented to her & Mrs S. Sharma. Rani Saheba and Mrs Sharma welcomed the Jubilee batches. The customary mementos were presented.

The Silver Jubilee batch had invited their teachers to grace this occasion. They presented their token of affection & respect to them in the true ‘Guru Shishya Tradition’ Speeches from the two batches were followed by the teachers expressing their love & appreciation & pleasure on meeting their old students - seeing them blossom from young teen-agers to the beautifully groomed young ladies. The Silver Jubilee girls stayed at the School Guest House (Miss Lutter’s Bungalow ) to revive and relive their time 25 years ago. I request some of them to send an account of their experience !

The Golden & Silver Jubilee girls presented generous cheques to the School and the Guild Samitee to commemorate this special day in their lives.

As always the School Mess laid out a delicious & sumptuous lunch. Our sincere thanks to Mrs Sharma, Col. Thakur and the Mess staff for the excellent arrangements and the warm hospitality. Guild Nite at the Rambagh Palace Hotel was a glittering evening. Guild members and their escorts ‘ rocked’ the night away to the pulsating DJ music playing old favourites and current popular numbers. It was a memorable evening. Needless to say, through it all we missed the gracious presence of our dear Rajmata Saheba. This was the first Guild Nite she was not there !!

CHANDRALEKHA MATHUR (1954)

PREMIERE

The documentary “ROYAL REFORMER” was premiered on the “DISCOVERY” Channel on December 12, 2009 at 9 p.m. Although heavily edited from its original 40 min. length to fit the prime time slot of 25 mins plus ads. It is still a ‘must watch’ in case of a repeat telecast. The DVD is available at the School Souvenir Shop. Out station members can place mail orders with the Guild Office.

FROM A LOVED TEACHER

My Dear MGDians of 1984 Batch, Thank you so much for inviting me to the Get-together. Each year by 7 each batch girls have remembered me on this occasion and I appreciate this thought.

I would like to share a wonderful and joyful experience with you all. Recently visited Canada. Some of you certainly remember the Twin Sisters from Kuwait – Nimi and Bithi. Nimi lives in Canada and works in Windsor and Bithi in Florida USA. They invited me for a week and gave me an amazing time. We were meeting after 30/35 years ! Bithi is running a big time business connected with many airlines, running a special bus for Senior Citizens and school bus for children. I was touched by the way they appreciate and remember MGD. With every breath they only talked of MGD and thanked the School for what they are today. They showed the real spirit of being true MGDians, I wish I could express in words the respect and affection they gave me; they also wanted to know about the activities, academic, houses, sports, dance and above all about teachers, Jijas, maids and on and on they went. They were extremely happy to know that the ‘Jija’ tradition is still followed ! Bithi is ready to help the Guild anytime.

This certainly shows what MGD is in the true sense. So I want you girls to know how dear and close to my heart the old girls are. For the regard and respect you have for your teachers I thank you once again.

With love and Best wishes to each one of you.

MRS BRIJPAL ANEJA

The passing away of Rajmata Sahiba is a very personal loss for me, as she touched my life on numerous occasions in a very very special way.

It is difficult for me to believe this most gracious lady is not amongst us anymore, it is an irreparable loss and the void will never be filled.

I will continue to keep her spirit alive by contributing in my own small way for the development of the girl child. My daughters who passed out from MGD and I will always be proud to be connected with Rajmata Sahiba who will always remain in my family and my heart.

MRS B. ANEJA

MUSIC OF RAJASTHAN

My two new Langa albums Kanudo and Dhun were launched last Thursday by Rajasthan Tourism Minister Bina Kak and Rural Dev. & Panchayat Minister Bharat Singh.

Kanudo as the name suggests is Western Rajasthan’s devotional songs to Krishna whereas Dhun is purely an instrument played on the double flute satara the kamicha and the sarangi.

VANDANA SINGH NADGAR(1976)

REMEMBERING

His Excellency S.K. SINGH, Late Governor of Rajasthan

The sudden passing away of H.E. S.K. Singh on December 1, 2009 came as a big shock to Guild members.

During his tenure as the Governor of Rajasthan, Shri Singh was very closely associated with MGD School and the Guild. His inspiring and erudite speech as Chief Guest at the Annual Prize Giving in 2007 was memorable. Thereafter when the Guild Executive Committee was putting the film “Royal Reformer” together he gave a lot of his valuable time commenting his views on Rajmata Saheba’s contribution towards Girls education in Rajasthan and uplifting so many lives in Jaipur. He is an integral part of the film – a memory we are so grateful for and will cherish always. On behalf of the Guild Executive Committee and all members of the MGD Girls Guild, I extend our deep and heartfelt condolences to his wife Mrs Manju Singh and her sons and their families on this irreparable loss. Shri S. K. Singh was very closely related to quite a few Guild Members, our condolences to them.

EDITOR

CONGRATULATIONS

Heartiest Congratulations to –

Meenakshi Hooja, (Mathur – 1968) on the wedding of her son Rajat with Himangini on November 5, 2009.

Sapna Dhingra, (2001) on her wedding with Aaroosh Singh Sethi on December 30, 2009.

Aruna Mehta, ( Lodha – 1972 ) on the birth of her twin grand children Chirmi and Chirag on September 23, 2009

CONDOLENCES

Our heartfelt condolences to,

Kamla Kota – on the demise of her husband Kr. Rameshwar Singh on August 16, 2009 at Jammu.

Ritu Uberoi (Seth – 1969 ) – on the passing away of her father Shri P.N. Seth on September 21, 2009, and Her father-in-law Shri J.M. Uberoi passed away on January 5, 2010. our deepest condolences on this double loss.

Kangan Goyal ( Uberoi – 1996) – on losing her maternal and paternal grandfathers.

Dr. Sheela Sharma (1970) – on the tragic loss of her son Mohit Sharma on October 23, 2009. Condolences to her husband Dr. S. Sharma and the family.

Dr. Mrs G. D. Bakshi ( Ex Principal, MGD School ) – on the demise of her husband Col. O. D. Bakshi, on December 17, 2009 at New Delhi.

RAJMATA GAYATRI DEVI
1919-2009
REMEMBRANCE

“All MGDians are dear to me”, the beautifully modulated voice that said these words, time and again, as part of speeches delivered on countless occasions, over a span of six and a half decades; is silent. These words will reverberate in every MGDian’s heart always. These are the words that have inspired generations of MGDians to live up to the promise of a grand, precious, royal gift to the daughters of the aristocrats of India, initially, and later as it opened its doors, to all. A gesture that lifted the veil and revolutionised the cloistered lives of “purdah” oppressed families for ever; and gave a glimpse of the world beyond!! It brought out the latent talent of girls who had suffered from the lack of opportunity; it gave a fillip to girls’ education in Jaipur, Rajasthan and India. A young Maharani’s first initiative for a cause she believed in ardently and sustained it with untiring zest throughout her life!

Rajmata Saheba is no longer with us. As we try to deal with this irreparable loss, it is hard to reconcile to its reality. Her awesome charisma pervades every nook and corner of MGD; one cannot think of the School without its founder. The grandeur of her presence at every function, big and small, her casual visits or when she brought visiting dignitaries and personal guests to the School, her suggestions to introduce and improve the curriculum and extra - curricular activities; her words of encouragement, her gracious appreciation of our efforts, will forever be enshrined in our hearts. Her legendary beauty, glamour, elegance and exquisite style, was breath- taking!! Words cannot portray her ethereal loveliness! Although one of the most photographed personality of her time, even the best camera persons across the globe could not wholly capture her entrancing allure and charm! A Princess to Remember!

As we bow our heads in homage, and pray to the Almighty to grant eternal peace to the noble soul, with gratitude and a deep reverence and love for her; we can feel the aura of her dynamic and iconic persona, that graced this earth for ninety glorious years, surround MGD. She leaves behind her an invaluable legacy, for us to cherish and nurture!!

Maharani Gayatri Devi – Majestic, Gracious, Distinguished!!

Chandralekha Mathur
EDITOR

MESSAGES

The last issue of GUILD TODAY felicitated Rajmata Gayatri Devi Sahiba on her ninetieth birthday. It is sad that this issue carries her obituary. Although I never had the good fortune of meeting her, I have heard so much about her in the last few weeks, that I am honoured to be associated with this institution that bears her name. Through these accounts I have come to understand her multi-faceted personality and her vision for the School. She will remain always the guiding spirit behind all our endeavours.

Mrs. Suniti Sharma
Principal, Mgd Girls’ School
President, Mgd, Girls Guild

Rajmata Sahiba’s passing away marks an end of an era. She has left a void that will never be filled. MGD was her creation. through the school, to change the mind set of the ‘girl child’ and bring her into the mainstream of emerging India. The year was 1943. She visited the School often. Much traveled as she was, she brought the outside world to us. Little things like a dance from Spain, the “Mexican Shuffle”. She personally taught us the dance steps and also the American folk “Square Dance” We were delighted to learn these from her. They livened our week-end “Socials”.

Thereafter when the “GUILD” became active, she supported us in all our activities. I remember the one last year, at age Ninety, despite being unwell, she came in a wheel chair and joined us in the evening get-together at the Rambagh Palace Hotel to felicitate the Golden Jubilee Batch and the Silver Jubilee Batch. That was her commitment to MGD! It was this dedication and support I admired most in Rajmata Sahiba.

JANE H. SINGH
VICE PRESIDENT
MGD GIRLS GUILD

BUSYBEES

H.H. Rajmata Gayatri Deviji’s passing away on Wednesday July 29, 2009 has left an un- filling
vacuum in the hearts and minds for all at M.G.D. Indeed it was on that fateful day when Rajmata Saheba’s hard working and untiring hands were put to rest. School was over for the day when news reached us. But nevertheless our Principal, Mrs Suniti Sharma gathered the Boarders along with the Residential Staff at the School Stadium to pay homage to the departed soul. Mrs S. Sharma spoke a few words followed by our active Guild Executive Member Mrs Nisha Chatterjee who spoke about her memories of Rajmata Saheba. Later during the evening the same gathering met at the SMS Dining Hall to pay their respects to the beloved founder of MGD. On July 30th the School remained closed as a mark of respect. The Unit tests scheduled for 30th &31st July were deferred to a later date. That morning the Principal, some Staff members and leaders of the School gathered at the old Assembly Hall to pay their respects; where in a hymn/prayer was sung & floral tributes offered. Later all present went to ‘Pritam Niwas Chawk’, City Palace, where Rajmata’s body lay in state for all to pay their last respects & tributes.

On the 31st July 2009, the entire School Assembled at the School Stadium. It was indeed a large gathering – Members of the Board of Governors, Guild Members, Ex- MGDians, recent Pass outs, Principal, Staff and Students of MGD. The assembly began with a prayer and recitation of Shlokas. We also had 3 Speakers, coincidently all being ex- Head Girls of this esteemed institution -Vandana Singh Nadgar (1969), Shivambika Singh of Raoti ( 2007), Aishwarya Singh (2008) – they spoke in honour of and with gratitude for the Legend. Their speeches are published for you in this column of the Newsletter. Rajmata Saheba, a legend renowned world - wide for her elegance and beauty and more importantly for fighting for the empowerment of women of India, and the list of her works goes on ….

I would like to conclude by saying she will always be remembered at the School especially through our School Song—”Of Her Highness who started the School for us”…. and goes on to…. “Sing of all who may be absent, yet linger in our hearts Always …..”

May the Almighty God grant her Eternal Peace. Amen. Adieu!

VANESSA EVERETT

CONDOLENCE MEETING
ON JULY 31, 2009

An era has passed with the loss of our beloved founder – Rajmata Gayatri Deviji Sahiba, on Wednesday JULY 29, 2009. Let us remember this lady extraordinaire. She was born on May 23, 1919. in London to the Maharaj kumar of Coochbehar, West Bengal, when India was still under the British.

The young princess, then only 21 years old was bestowed in marriage to the then ruler of the Pink City, Maharaja Sawai Man Singhji. When the young bride Gayatri Devi Sahiba arrived in Jaipur in 1940 she must have envisioned this School; because within 3 years of her marriage MGD School was founded with the support and blessings of her husband, the Maharaja.

From then on the School was Maharani Sahiba’s first born. She nurtured it with love, care and insight to make it into this most prestigious Girls’ Public School. Carefully steering it into Modern India away from the “purdah” system. Maharani Sahiba often personally incorporating to the School curriculum and the many skills required by young girls to meet the challenges of the 20th & 21st Century. These “purdah” family girls who had not ventured out of their secure homes alone, were encouraged to ride, play tennis, swim and participate in competitive sports giving them confidence that would stand them in good stead throughout their lives. You all are a great testament to this.

Girls, each one of you is a privileged lot to attain your education and grooming in this historic institute. Value it and be the ambassador of your School, your city and your country in the way Rajmata Gayatri Devi Sahiba was.

May God bless you all and may Rajmata Sahiba’s soul rests in Peace.

VANDANA SINGH NADGAR.
HEADGIRL, (1968-69).

To the world ''Maharani Gayatri Devi ji'' was an epitome of beauty and grace, a visionary with extraordinary ideas, a lady far ahead of her times, but to us here at MGD, she was above all....an inspiration!

At a time when education of the Girl Child was rare, she created this beautiful institution which change the outlook of the people.

The many girls who have been fortunate to have studied here with always remember her not just as the founder but also has the beautiful lady who mesmerised then by her sheer presence, be it as the smallest of school functions or at the School fete or the Annual Function or at the School Birthday. I am sure everybody would agree with me, the world ''Thank you'' would be insufficient to express our gratitutde towards her for giving us MGD. She also instilled in us a deep sense of apperication for a culture and provided us with quality education.


M.G.D. is the medium that inculcated us with a value system that to this day guides us in our lives. I can safely say that all we are today is because of the and this is her living legacy. M.G.D. will soon be completing 70 glorious years, but a lot has changed. We will no longer sea that enchanting vision of Rajmata Sahiba in her trademark chiffon sarees nor her inspiring speeches. But as our School Song goes ....'' She will linger in our hearts always....''.

SHIVAM VIKA SINGH RAOTI
(2007)

On this solemn occasion I stand here to pay tribute to one of the greatest woman who ever lived. Being the former Head Girl, I was fortunate to be in her charismatic presence on the several occasions she came to the School. And believe me, every single time was an experience in itself!

She personified beauty, grace, elegance charm and poise. And her relentless drive for life was evident in every field she ventured into—be it politics, education or service to the community.

Indeed, she is the very essence of MGD. And this great institution represents what she stood for; Culture, Values, Ambitions and Quality Education. On behalf of all members of the MGD family, I salute Her Highness Rajmata Gayatri Deviji of Jaipur, the true Woman of Substance.

AISHWARYA SINGH.
HEAD GIRL ( 2008)

FOND MEMORIES & TRIBUTES. GAYATRI DEVI

What can one say about Gayatri Devi that has not already been said again and again?

That she was beautiful is not the only reason to remember her today– What about the other nine beauties of the world of that era voted by‘Vogue’. Who remembers them? Even Viven Leigh was 'Gone with the Wind'. But Gayatri Devi did not fade away with time. She remained a shining star all through her life. Yet her beauty was so captivating that most people failed to see beyond that. I suppose to know her true persona one had to know her true personality. A little known fact about her is that she was a linguist. I have seen her chat in Spanish & French. Besides English & Hindi she was fluent in her mother- tongue Bengali (Coochbehar dialect). She could also follow Marathi, her mother’s othertongue.

In all phases of her life – as a Princess, Maharani, Rajmata she remained a very disciplined person. Going horse-riding every morning with her polo playing family, playing tennis every evening. Attending all the functions she was expected to – however tedious and boring. She did not shirk any duty. Unlike today’s VIPs, I do not remember a single instant when Their Highnesses of Jaipur arrived late for any function. They were known for their meticulous planning & timing. Whenever they hosted an event they would arrive well before time to check the details personally. Matters became difficult when the Maharaja became a part of the government set up, as Rajpramukh ( Governor) of Rajasthan. Two such occasions have remained in my memory as I was also involved in the situation! Eleanor Roosevelt, wife of the President of USA was paying a visit to Jaipur. Sure enough, Their Highnesses of Jaipur reached Sanganer Airport to receive her much before time. As His Highness was checking the details of protocol, Gayatri Devi noticed that the girl the govt. organizers had selected to garland the Chief Guest was extremely short and Lady Roosevelt was a tall elderly woman! If she bent too low to be garlanded she would probably lose her balance & topple over, creating a diplomatic crisis. My uncle, Parbat Singh was the ADC to H.H.Jaipur. Gayatri Devi ordered him to call Miss Lutter on phone at once & immediately rush either Roop Chittora or Yashwant Namli (two of the tallest girls of the School)! Roop was probably absent that day so I was sent to the airport. Meanwhile my Kakisa ( uncle Parbat’s wife) was asked to head in the same direction in her car with a Rajasthani dress for me to wear. Above our heads was the aircraft coming in to land with the chief guest! By the time the plane taxied to the red carpet area and Mrs. Roosevelt was received with all the fanfare, I was ready to garland her. Thanks to the quick thinking & timely action taken by Gayatri Devi she returned to the US without a slipped disc! India saved its face!!

On another occasion, Miss Lutter barged into my class-room with Uncle Parbat in tow, got me excused by the teacher and put me in the Staff car with him. On our way out Uncle explained to me that the then Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru had come to Jaipur on his first visit to the state. As usual the government organizers had slipped up on an important detail. In the programme it was printed that the function would begin with the singing of“Saare Jahan Se Accha”, then welcome address by the Rajpramukh. followed by a speech by the PM, ending with the customary singing of the National Anthem. The group of singers brought there were, it seems, told only about the anthem, so they had practiced just that. They did not even know the words of “Saare Jahan” His Highness being the official host was livid at the goof up. There was no time to rectify the mistake, as the PM’s motorcade was already en route. But Gayatri Devi rose to the occasion & took charge of the situation. She asked Uncle Parbat to rush to MGD School & bring Yashwant, “tell her she has to sing “Saare Jahan Se Accha”.. she instructed. In the car Uncle asked me nervously, “I hope you know the words & the tune, otherwise many heads are going to roll today”.

Mercifully the venue, Ram Niwas Bagh was close to the School. Still by the time I reached the Stage the PM was already there. I was full 60 seconds late ! He gave me a lovely smile and said, “ Shuru karo” After I had rendered the last line of the song, I noticed His Highness looking at Gayatri Devi with great affection and pride. She had saved him a huge embarrassment! She was his best asset and he hers. Those two were made for each other!

Looking back what impressed me about Gayatri Devi was that she was no dumb-doll; she had a sharp mind and the ability to take quick decisions. One can imagine her level of involvement with MGD School by how well she knew the girls studying there. Truly a remarkable person to have known and I cherish my memory of the great lady !

YASHWANT RANA
( NAMLI—1953 ).

MY UNFORGETTABLE MOMENTS

Today after 55 years, I sit down to pen a few lines from my MGD School album.

My heart broke to hear about the sad demise of our beloved Rajmata Sahiba. She was our mother,founder, guide and everything for MGD School. Her heart was of gold and as beautiful as herself. She not only just founded the School, but nurtured it with love and care. With her passing away MGD has become an orphan. Her dynamic personality spread joy, like magic. She guided us like a lamp towards success.

I have a beautiful photograph of Rajnata Sahiba with my name and her autograph. I was very young then and I had requested her to give me her photograph, and she did remember and brought it for me in an envelope! It is a precious treasure for me which I have cherished all these years and will always cherish.

I was at MGD for 8 years and they were very beautiful years. As a boarder and as the Head Girl in 1953-54 I had many occasions to meet Rajmata Sahiba – each occasion was priceless! When I think of my school days all memories flash in front of me and everything is as real as ever – the 8 years at MGD formed a very strong bond and I hold it very close to my heart.

On hearing of our founder’s passing away, tears rolled down my cheeks and I had a very vivid picture of her in my eyes. Her beauty knew no bounds. I remember her coming to visit us at the School very often and we could not take our eyes away from her—she had that mesmerizing effect! O! she was so exquisite! Just by observing, I learnt a lot, she was my idol and I always wanted to be like her – soft spoken, graceful and beautifully simple. May her soul rest in Peace and her School prospers to wonderful and untouchable heights. She will watch from the heavens above and bless her child – MGD School. God bless my beloved School.!

URMILA BISHT
( GYAN SINGH –1954)

“MEMORIES ARE MADE OF THIS...…”

Her life was surrounded with all that spells ‘luxury’. Beautiful palaces, country homes, plush city pads, priceless jewels, rare antiques, crystal chandeliers, banquet halls, private plane, dozens of retainers to
pamper every whim and fancy!

The growing invasive coverage by media personnel of major events has its pluses and minuses. Rajmata Gayatri Devi ’s demise. made headlines in all premier national and international dailies and publications. Photo stories were splashed on center spreads for days, giving details of her life; based on facts gathered from sources, some authentic others questionable and unreliable. But through all this Rajmata Saheba emerged as large if not larger, than what she was in life. The world saw her beauty & elegance, read about her numerous welfare activities, her dedication and commitment to the people of ‘Her & Jai’s Jaipur, about her outstanding contribution towards education, the glamour of her lifestyle!

But it was not always just the Polo Clubs, Prize Horses, Buicks, Bentleys & Jaguars, fine Chiffons & Pearls, Champagne & Caviar, jade, rose- quartz, Lalique, Rosenthal, or the finest Meissen, Limoges & Sevres services., her becomingly wind blown photographs on decks of private yachts anchored at the French Riviera, and all the watering holes of the rich and famous, dancing with her ‘Jai’ to the languid melodies of the ‘forties’ & ‘fifties’ at night clubs in London, Paris, New York & across Europe — Her long life was filled with personal losses and tragedies, of a magnitude that would have completely crushed and shattered a lesser human. The sudden death of her husband in the prime of life, the death of her only child, the tragic deaths of her siblings, the sweeping changes brought about by India becoming a democracy, the integration of Princely states into the Central Union, the abolition of Privy Purses! Big changes galore! Seeing the crumbling of the glorious city of Jaipur, the desecrated & vandalized ruins of her childhood home, the Palace, in Coochbehar, the charred remains of the beautiful hill-retreat“Collinton” in Darjeeling, W. Bengal – the fire that took away a much loved brother! The mask did slip momentarily, as she reminisced about the lost splendour at the Circuit House in Coochbehar and I was waiting to put my daughter on a 12 hour delayed train to Delhi. She rallied with remarkable resilience!!

From each calamity Gayatri Devi, rose strong and upright, with a regal forbearance.

She never languished in sorrowful misery. Her self discipline, her zest for the causes she supported, gave her the strength to move on and take it all in her inimitable stride. She remained in total control and command (which came to her as naturally as style) of everything around her to the very end. She faced every storm with courage and grit. In a TV interview ( Simi Garewal’s Rendezvous, NDTV ) she was asked by the anchor, what was her favourite song? “Frank Sinatra‘s— I live my life my way.” She replied. Despite so many upheavals ,she did live life HER WAY!!

CHANDRALEKHA MATHUR
(SAHAI – 1954 )

OUR RAJMATA, GAYATRI DEVI

The death of Rajmata Gayatri Devi brought about a great sense of personal loss in me.

I remember the last time I was privileged to meet her, at the 50th Anniversary of my Graduation from MGD. She handed over a little silver memento, pinned the golden MGD badge on me and said in perfect Bengali — “Aapni kemon aachen? Aikhon kothai thaken? ( How are you? Where do you live now?)

My childhood memories of a beautiful princess (She was a Maharani; but I always thought of her as a princess) came back to me. She used to come to School, tall, elegant, in her “pastelly” chiffons, often with her son who held her hand. Then through the years, we became old and she older still, but never did she lose that aura of royalty, dignity and elegance.

We are what we are today because of her. She created MGD for us and for the future generations of students with foresight, imagination and a desire to do something for girls like us who otherwise would have had little to look forward to. She had her public persona, but for us she was Our Rajmata and we will miss her.

SHEELA ROY
(SEN 1955)

The Maharani Gayatri Devi the world remembers as an icon, a legendry beauty, a celebrity fairy- tale
Princess who lived a fairy- tale life.

But the Maharani we remember is an inspiration and a Saviour. Back in early 1943 it was virtually unheard of young Rajput girls from princely states to be going to school. Yet so many of us from all over India completed our Cambridge Courses from the environs of the Maharani’s own little brain child – MGD, fittingly known as Maharani Gayatri Devi Girls’ School. It was her endeavour and assurance that changed an entire generation and helped us women, who kept pace with the changing time.

Today as one of the first few blessed to be bestowed with the opportunity she created for us, we want to remember the Maharani we knew – the one who set a gracious example of how to live a full life – in front of us – the one who instilled the courage in us not to be “mere women” but REAL WOMEN, the one who is the essence of everything we are today – and of everything so many more like we are!

Today we want to remember the Maharani who left us on the 29th of July 2009, but who will live on forever in the hearts of every MGDian past, present and future.

Compiled by -

KALNIKA CHAUHAN
of MAKRANA

LALIT, RAGHOGARH
– Red House Captain – 1955

Late KUMUD, RAGHOGARH
– Head Girl – 1956

MRINALINI, RAGHOGARH
– 1989
MANDAKINI, RAGHOGARH
– Blue House Captain – 1991

MRIDIMA, RAGHOGARH
– Head Girl - 1994

KARNIKA, RAGHOGARH
– Vice-President – 1997

KIRTIKA, RAGHOGARH
– Games Captain – 1997

KALNIKA CHAUHAN MAKRANA
– Vice –President
Deputy Head Girl – 1999

PRIYANKA JAMWAL
– Blue House Captain – 1999

MALVIKA JAMWAL
— Head Girl – 2003

Our Rajmata Sahiba will always inspire us, she is the epitome of grace.“Lets sing of Her Highness who
started the School for us…” We MGDians of 1981 batch were fortunate to meet her on our 25th reunion as Silver girls, 25 years since we passed out of school then, but the spirit was the same, we played cricket, danced to the tune of‘ghumar’, recollected dialogues of plays we had enacted, heard the steel plates in the dinning hall, met our jijas and our founder teachers. The day was made by Rajmata’s benign presence, she had made a special effort to be there to present us mementos and meet us. Her spirit will always remain with us!!

SANGETA BHUSHAN
RASHMI BALUJA
SHARMILA ROYCHAUDHRY
ANJLEEN BERAR

TRIBUTES.

She walks in beauty like the night of cloudless climes and starry skies; And all that’s best of dark and bright Meet in her aspect and her eyes.

The legend that is Rajmata Sahiba will continue to live in each of our hearts forever. The class of 2000 joins together in expressing our immense gratitude and love for all that Rajmata made possible through her dedication to her beliefs and work, and the many lives she touched. We are ever mindful of being the bearers of her legacy — of sharing knowledge, love and kindness each day of our lives. We continue to be inspired by the radiance she brought into our lives, and would always affectionately remember her as our dear Rajmata. Quoting academician Germaine Greer –

“How important it is for us to recognize and celebrate our heroes and she-roes!”

And today we celebrate the life of our She-roe, Her Highness Rajmata Gayatri Devi. You will always be there in the hearts of millions of MGDians!

CLASS of 2000

SMALL GESTURE — BIG IMPACT !

Though very small, but this episode has left a big impression on me. After all these years I can visualize the incident vividly. It was in 1965, I was a young girl in P-2, now Class IV. My home was opposite St. Xavier’s School, fairly close to MGD. That day the car was busy, so after school I was walking home with an escort (in School uniform. of course) when suddenly a big car (probably red in colour) stopped beside me. From the window a beautiful lady asked me if I needed to be dropped home? I was spellbound and awe struck seeing that the lady was non other than Her Highness Gayatri Deviji Saheba – I had seen her in School many times, but this was unimaginable! In all my confusion and surprise I could only manage to shake my head, meaning ‘No’. She moved on with a smile, but this incident has been etched in my heart ever since. It showed Rajmata Saheba’s humbleness and her love, concern and ardor, particularly for all MGDians. In all these years I have always regretted saying ‘No’ – Today, what would’nt I give to have had the privilege of being with her for a precious 5 minutes drive !!

PRANATI LUNIA
( GOLECHA—1972)

It was the School’s Golden Jubilee and in her speech Rajmata Saheba was reminiscing about how she set up the School . She mentioned how difficult it was to convince the aristocratic families to take such a big step of sending their daughters to school!. It was a tough task but she persisted and eventually
overcame the hurdle!

Last year I was working on a project where I had to learn an extremely difficult process on line and then teach it back to the associates in my Company. While we were half way through the project we came to know that we had been shown only half the process and the rest was never taught to us. I was the only person responsible for transferring knowledge and when this news was..broken to me I had a horrible sinking feeling in my heart that this project would fail! This was the time when I looked back at those words Rajmata Saheba had spoken and I thought if one lady could start such a big revolution single handedly – what is a small hurdle like this? My team and I toiled day & night and today, within 1 year we have reached 99.5% accuracy.

Rajmata Saheba has left some spark in all of us with either her poise and elegance or her simple and inspiring words. She taught us that no challenge is too big to overcome!! I was rewarded and promoted for my efforts!!

KARNIKA BHATI

THE ICONIC ROYAL – RAJMATA GAYATRI DEVI

Respected Rani Vidya Deviji,
Khamaghani!

We are extremely saddened by the news of the sad demise of Rajmata Saheba.

Rajmata Saheba has been the guiding light of MGDians since its inception. Her support of MGD School over the years has been instrumental in its growth saga. On every milestone reached by the institute she has been there guiding us with her down to earth and simple words of wisdom. Indeed Rajmata Saheba had gone through many life experiences worth treasuring. As the head of MGD School, Rajmata Saheba established this world wide well known institute.

We send our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family – May God grant them strength and wisdom to bear this loss and go forward in life.

Rajmata Saheba Gayatri Deviji will be remembered with respect and fondness at MGD School. With her passing we come to the end of an era. In her death, India has lost a royal icon and a stylish witness to almost a century of change!

With regards

SONALI BHATNAGAR
For the CLASS of 1987

I was really sad on August 12th …… the first School Birthday when the person who stood behind it all, the person who made it all happen….. was not there. In thinking of Maharani, Rajmata or Gayatri Devi
– as she was called by many—I can say that she affected the lives of so many Indian women in such a
positive, uplifting way, the measure of which will never be fully known or realized ……

I, for one, have been on the receiving end of the spectrum – eternally grateful and appreciative for the opportunity given to me by her vision and endeavor.

To have known her, to have had her in our lives; was like a Godsent blessing touch us in a beautiful, sublime way……

RASHMI PANDAY.
(1967 – CLASS)
New Jersey. U.S.A.

E-MAILS RECEIVED ON JULY 30, 2009.

“O, Come lets sing of MGD….. sing of all who may be absent, yet linger in our hearts always”

So will MGD, Maharani Gayatri Deviji Sahiba of Jaipur.

It was difficult to hold back tears when the sad news of Rajmata Sahiba’s demise came. The news spread fast. Every MGDian is sad today, so are the people of Her Jaipur. There will be a state funeral for her tomorrow.

She was a legend — elegance personified and a visionary …. No one can take her place. We will miss her always.

The Guild Executive Committee went to Lily Pool to wish her on her 90th birthday, in advance before she left for London. She was very happy to see us, The film produced by the Guild “Royal Reformer “ shows how she touched so many people.. it’s a must watch.We all loved her and will keep loving her; sharing the same feelings for our dear Rajmata Sahiba. May her soul rest in peace.

PRANATI LUNIA
(1972)
Member Executive Committee
MGD Girls’ Guild.

It is very sad to hear that Rajmata has passed away. She has been a presence in all our lives and it is
hard to believe she is no more. Today’s news took me back to when Miss Lutter passed away and we went to pay our last respects to her. For us who are far away to do that for Rajmata—please convey our deepest sympathies to her family and also the love and respect we all will always carry for her in our hearts.

MANIKA (GOVIL)AGGARWAL.
(1984)

Thank you Rajmata….. Thank you for the music, the joy you brought in our lives by establishing MGD. You live in all of us and will continue to do so for ever in all our future generations too. May your soul rest in peace.

PRIYAMVADA CHADDA
(1972)

You have spoken for us all.. Rajmata Sahiba was nothing short of a legend and will “linger in our hearts always” We were indeed fortunate to have had her touch our lives so profoundly ! May your soul rest in peace.

SUTOPA PARRAB
(1974)

The loss we feel at Rajmata Sahiba’s demise cannot be described in words. With her an era has ended, but what she has left behind is her legacy – our School that has molded our characters and given us the confidence to step out in the world and carve a niche for ourselves. May her soul rest in peace.

MRINALINI
(1992)

Any thing I have to say has already been said by others… My deepest sympathy to all in her family and to all MGDians whose lives are richer having been part of her life. Let us celebrate her’s and Miss Lutter’s dedication and passion towards educating girls and continue the journey in educating women and all it encompasses.

MOLLY SIRCAR
(1980)

In her life and death she was larger than life. It’s the end of an era. She will now be a part of folk lore as we tell our children what a magnificent woman she was. May her soul rest in peace.

ARUNIMA
(1995)

The sad news of Rajmata Sahiba’s demise is weighing heavily on all MGDians Words are not enough to
express the feeling. May her soul rest in peace.

MANISHA
(1989)

Rajmata Sahiba has definitely left her effect on every MGDian…. May her soul rest in peace.

SMITA BUSAR
(1996)

We are blessed to have been part of something so special (MGD) which forever will be a part of her legacy. May her soul rest in ever lasting peace.

KARUNA GOMES
(KUMBHNANI - 1984.)

Very hard to come to terms with her demise. As Namita, Madhu Jija and Shilpi (Agarwal) rightly said in their last few mails, she has been a pillar of strength for all MGDians and will be missed by one and all. The vacuum she leaves behind, I think cannot be filled by anyone else. May her soul rests in peace.

ADITI
(BHARGAVA- 1984)

My brother (he is from MSMSV) just called from Jaipur to give me the sad news and I was shocked. Both of us thanked the Lord Almighty that someone like Rajmata played a role in shaping our lives since the very beginning. It is a great loss. May her soul rest in peace. My thoughts and prayers are with the entire MGD family.

ANKITA JAJU
(1998)

This is really shocking and sad. A part of her will stay alive in all MGDians.

NAMITA SHARMA
(1989)

This is really shocking news- it will take time to sink in – all those wonderful memories of her visiting school are flooding in – all of us gawky school girls would stare at her in awe and admiration – later in
life she would be a role model for all of us—truly a legend has passed away and with her an era has gone. We shall miss you very much, Rajmata Sahiba.

NANDINI SAHAI
(THAPAN—1972)

She made our destiny… … …

“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” In my mind’s eye Rajmata will always be the fairy tale princess, Grand, beautiful, elegant, charming; brave, to think ahead of her times, never say die, could get anything done and overcome all odds………. Finally she meets her Prince in heaven and lives happily ever after….

Thank you for making our MGD a celebrity!

SIDH BAURY
SUCHITRA KUTTY

I really feel as though a part of me has died too coz we are what we are because of Rajmata; she will always live within us, as we so proudly say to the world that we are from MGD and people across the nation recognize the School and “Maharani Gayatri Devi’right away. That’s what MGD is to me and to every MGDian! May god rest her soul in peace. Amen!

RASHMI AGARWAL
USA.

RAJMATA! a princess remembered! There are no words to express the feeling of tremendous loss and deep sadness at the passing of an icon, of an era!

RACHNA GUPTA

These touching messages & tributes— so similar in their contents and emotions goes to show the tremendous impact Rajmata Saheba had on all of us … From batches of the Fifties to the first decade of thiscentury — Sixtysix years … yet the same respect, the same love, the same feeling of gratitude in almost the same words, That in itself shows how deeply the values she laid out for us are engrained in our hearts…. Once an MGDian, always an MGDian!! Dear Rajmata Saheba, we will keep this strong bond alive and ever strive for “OUR UTMOST FOR THE HIGHEST”!!

EDITOR

BOARD OF GOVERNORS.

All Guild Members are informed that hence forth –

Rajmata Saheba Kota is the President Emeritus of the Board of Governors.

Rani Vidya Devi, ( Late Rajmata Saheba’s daughter – in –law ) is the President of the Board of Governors.

EDITOR

ERRATA.
Kindly note —

The Annual Get-Together is Scheduled for SATURDAY NOVEMBER 14, 2009.
Golden Jubilee Batch –1959.
Silver Jubilee Batch—1984
There was a mistake in the MAY issue regarding the date. The error is regretted.

EDITOR