Living up to its motto, ‘Community First’, the Zoroastrian Trust Funds of India (ZTFI), known as the Community’s premier service-oriented organisation, started a new initiative aimed at assisting our single bawas and bawis to find their companions for life. Aptly named ‘Soulmates’, the initiative provides the crucial platform for our Community’s youngsters to meet and mingle, and hopefully bump into their potential life-partners and get happily hitched!

Kicking off the very first chapter for the soul mate hunt, a fun picnic-event was organised on Sunday, 21st October, 2018 at Seagull Resort in Virar. Organised by ZTFI’s newly appointed Trustee Arnavaz Jal Mistry along with Founder Trustee, the dynamic Yasmin Mistry and her brilliant team of do-gooders, the event was a great success with over 40 dashing and hopeful singles participating.

Yasmin, along with her lively team of volunteers, kept the atmosphere casual and fun, and in no time, had all the participants feeling at ease and comfortable to mingle around and get to know each other. The picnic provided the perfect platform to the participants to openly share their perspectives about life and their ideas and expectations about soulmates.

The day started with a round of introductions which quickly gave way to the national anthem of all picnickers – Antakshari, being enthusiastically played while en route to Sea Gull Resort. The snacks provided ensured the energy as well as the decibel levels high! A gorgeous view of the destination greeted the excited band of ‘marry’-makers, where they were welcomed by the gracious and warm Arnavaz Mistry and Yasmin Mistry, who kicked off the day with a chit-chat and casual introduction session, helping the participants to break the ice. A good number spoke at length about their goals and passions – exuding confidence and charm.

After a yum breakfast, fun games were played to further acquaint the singles to each other. The game, ‘Musical Chairs’ was hosted by Yasmin Mistry with a twist, where rounds were taken – with one gender walking to the music as the other gender sat – and when the music stopped, those walking would sit on the empty chair next to them, facing those already sitting. The break in music lasted for a few minutes so as to help acquaint those facing each other to get into conversations, till the music would resume again. This game was thoroughly enjoyed and was a big hit amongst all. Other fun games including ‘tug-of-war’ and balloon-balancing and bursting, were also played and soon it was time to break for pool-time – which was also a splashing success and got people very comfortable with each other.

Next was a delicious lunch and some more fun games, and then, a skit – where participants flaunted their impressive talents across role plays which provided ample laughter therapy for all. After the winners were awarded prizes, everyone ended up on the dancefloor amid great fun, laughter, and most importantly, new connects being formed between the singles.

After evening tea and hot pakodas, the group bade each other farewell, to return home with a heart full of fab memories for having found new friends and new soul-connects! Everyone thanked ZTFI for the great effort and the superb management and effort taken to make the day a memorable one.
“A well organized, enthusiastic team who gave their best in terms of energy and hospitality on a well-earned Sunday! The activities were superb and got both genders engaged in something fruitful. The food was fab, and the A/c bus provided much comfort on a hot October day,” said participant Sarosh Baria.

Sanaea Ukaiji, another participant, said, “I came alone, wondering out to make new friends, and the next moment, I am known by all! Thanks to the interactive games, I got to make many new bawa friends and had a Sunday well spent with good vibes! Thanks a lot!”

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Photo courtesy: Mr. Farokh Mojia