Mount Abu “Batch of 69”–Catching Up After 40 Years

The batch of 69 St Mary's School Mount Abu

The batch of 69 St Mary's School Mount Abu

Can you spot yourself in these two photographs? The first was taken in 1963, and the second was taken in 1969. Do you recognize yourself or a few familiar faces? Fast-forward 40 years to November 28th and 29th, 2009, when our “Batch of 69” came together for a heartfelt reunion. 

Kishore Parmar sparked the idea for this reunion in June when he took the lead in tracking down our batch mates. Gathering addresses, emails, and phone numbers from across the globe took determination. Yet, when Kishore’s initial emails went unanswered, it seemed like his efforts had hit a wall. Perhaps the emails had vanished into cyberspace—or maybe we were just too caught up in our lives to respond. 

The batch of 69 Paddy's Bridge

But life has a way of surprising us. Disappointment transformed into excitement as Kishore’s persistence paid off. Replies trickled in, enthusiasm grew, and by the end of November, a handful of us were back where it all began—Mount Abu. The photograph above captures that long-awaited reunion: 40 years of life, laughter, and nostalgia condensed into one joyful moment. 

Reflections on Time and Friendship 

When we left our Alma Mater four decades ago, we carried dreams as big as the mountains surrounding Mount Abu. Some dreams came true, others morphed into new ambitions, and a few faded into memory. Reconnecting, we recalled Brother Kean’s timeless words, *“All fall short in the eyes of the Lord.”*  However, our shared stories and laughter brought us fortitude, gratitude, and a renewed sense of purpose. 

More than a celebration of the past, the reunion made us realize how precious and fleeting our remaining time is. Despite the unknown number remaining, our gathering affirmed that life, in all its twists and turns, is a gift worth cherishing. 

You know you are getting old when everything either dries up or leaks.

Old age is when former classmates are so grey and wrinkled and bald, they don't recognize you.

Have a GREAT day........and keep laughing!

It's good for the soul.


Tomorrow will post more snaps of the reunion