Mr. Nanik Rupani presented Priyadarshni trophies to Prof. Mizokami, the students of Osaka University and a special trophy for the Osaka University for the group's performances of two Hindi Plays in Mumbai on 4th and 5th of January, 1998. The trophies were presented to them at a function arranged at The Indian Social Society. Mr. B. M. Rupani played a very vital role in the successful organisation of the function which was witnessed by 120 dignitaries. The Function was addressed by Mr. Nanik Rupani, Mr. R. Sethi, Mr. B. M. Rupani, Mr. Anil Kumar and Prof. Mizokami. Mr. Nanik Rupani congratulated Prof. Mizokami and his students for their commendable efforts in presenting Hindi dramas and wished them all the best in their future endeavours.

A gathering consisting of prominent personalities was arranged in Kobe by Mr. B. M. Rupani, where Mr. Nanik Rupani met the prominent Indian personalities residing in Kobe. Some of the dignitaries present on this ocasion and at the trophy presentation ceremony were Mr. Anil Kumar, Mr. R. Sethi, President, Indian Chamber of Commerce, Japan, Mr. Vinod Malkani, President, Indian Social Society, Mr. Khajanchi, President, India Club.

Bharat Nirman an All India Organisation, to promote and take-up constructive programmes in all walks of life organised an Award Function to honour 10 Talented Ladies from Maharashtra in various fields like music, education, medicine, social work etc. at its Annual Programme at ISCKON Auditorium. Mr. Nanik Rupani accepted to be the Guest of Honour on this occasion at which Mr. Ramanand Sagar, Film Producer G Director was the Chief Guest. The Function was inaugurated by Mr. Pramod Navalkar, Hen. Minister for Cultural Affairs, Maharashtra, Mr. Sushil Kumar Shinde, M.p, Hen. Justice Mr. V. S. Deshpande, Ex-Chief Justice, Mumbai High Court, Smt. Vishaka Raut, Mayor of Mumbai, and Mr. Dinesh K. Tandon, Senior General Manager, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., Mumbai were the other Guests of Honour on this occasion.

Speaking on this occasion, Mr. Rupani praised the significant work done by Bharat Nirman for the promotion of natural sciences and all round social development. He specially congratulated Mr. Shanti Dugar, Chairman, Bharat Nirman for awarding the talented ladies for their outstanding contribution in different spheres. He also complimented Mr. M. C. Bhandari for convening the programme.

Mr. Nanik Rupani presided over the Golden Jubilee Function of B. T.Shahani Navin Hind High School G Junior College, Pune.

Mr. Nanik Rupani was invited to be a Special Guest of Honour at the Jhulelal-Jo-Melo organised by Mumbai Sindhi Cloth Merchants G Commission Agents Association, at Khar, Mumbai. The beautiful Function was an occasion to celebrate CHETI CHAND and SINDHI NEW YEAR which was attended by various prominent artistes, musician and dignitaries.

Prajapita Brahma Kumaris Ishwariya Vishwa Vidyalaya organised a function to celebrate their Diamond Jubilee which was attended by about 15000 people. Honourable Justice Mr. G.T. Nanavati was the Chief Guest. Mr. Nanik Rupani was the Guest of Honour on this occasion. Ms. B. K. Clshaben was the master of the ceremony, which was addressed by various distinguished speakers. Speaking on this occasion, Mr. Rupani praised the activities of the organisation saying that inspite of the advancement in Science G Technology in the developed countries, they still look towards India for answers to spiritual questions. He further mentioned that while accompanying the Chief Minister, Mr. Manohar Joshi's delegation to South-East Asian Countries, he had mentioned in his talks that religious organisations like Brahmakumaris can play a vital role the enhance NRI investment in Maharashtra as they are the real ambassadors of our country who project India abroad. He also said that Brahmakumaris have done yeoman service to the humanity by spreading international understanding and the message of peace, and the Sindhi community is proud of the fact that this Movement originated from Sind. He further mentioned that this Movement is a form of "Stree Shakti" which has played a very vital role in the history of India.

Mr. Nanik Rupani accompanied SAARC delegation headed by the President of SAARC, Chamber of Commerce G Industry, Mr. Kantikumar Podar, on its visit to Pakistan. The delegation consisting of prominent members of SAARC visited various cities of Pakistan and had the opportunity to meet the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Mr. Nawaz Sheriff, Chief Minister of Sindh, Mr. Muhammed Hamid, Governor of Punjab and various other dignitaries including Ms. Farzana Rahman, President, Ladies Forum, Karachi and Begum Salma Ahmed, one of the pioneering lady industralist of Pakistan, Mr. Muhammad Ismail Rahoo, Minister for Excise & Taxation, Government. of Sindh, Mr. Mohammad Aslam Shaikh Larkana Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Mr. Khalid Amin, Chairman, Pakistan Silk & Rayon Mills Association, Karachi, Mr. A. Hamid Adamjee, Chairman, Adamjee Diesel Engg. (Pak.) Pvt. Ltd., Mr. Rehmatullah Javed, Chairman, Grand Group of Companies and Prof. Dr. Khawaja Ahmed Saeed.

It was an extremely successful and memorable visit as it yielded opportunities of not only exploring new areas of collaboration and association between the two countries at various levels including business and industry but, also helped to create a greater awareness about similar cultural heritage, shared by the two nations, fostering feelings of closeness between the people of the two countries.

Mr. Rupani's visit to Pakistan also created significant awareness about the aims and projects of Priyadarshni Academy.

Priyadarshni Academy in its efforts to promote and encourage cultural exchanges between India and other countries organised a unique performance of Hindi Plays by the students of Osaka University. The 18 member troupe led by Prof. Tomio Mizokami consisted of Japanese students of Hindi literature at Osaka University of Oriental Studies. The first performance was held on 4th January, 1998 in collaboration with Jai Hind College at the Jai Hind Auditorium. The Academy and MMK College co-hosted the next performance in collaboration with Nehru Centre on 5th January, 1998. Mr. Pramod Navalkar, Minister for, Cultural Affairs, Maharashtra, inaugurated the Function. The Japanese students staged renowned Hindi Plays "Parda Uthne Se Pehle" by Rajendra Kumar Sharma and "Pvar Kaise Hota Hai" by Mr. Ramashankar Nisesh. The Hindi Plays by the Japanese students received a great response and critical acclaim both from the critics and the public alike in Mumbai and Japan. The performances were covered widely by the print media and various prominent TV Channels.

This goodwill visit of Japanese students to India was also a great opportunity for Indian and Japanese students for active interaction and cultural exchange.

Mr. Nanik Rupani was the Guest of Honour at the inauguration of Children's Garden organised by the Police Quarters, Lonavala. Renowned film actor Mr.. Dharmendra Deol was the Chief Guest and Mr. Arvind Inamdar, Chief Commissioner of Police, inaugurated the Function. Addressing the distinguished gathering on this occasion, Mr. Rupani said that the time has come when the police role is to have very cordial relations with the people through a lot more interaction to make people regard the police as their true friend in the hour of need. He also praised the Police Inspector of Lonavala area, Mr. Sharad Jadhav for the excellent work which has been done after he took charge of the area. He said that negative projection of police through films and TV media has contributed to damaging the image of police amongst the masses. He particularly appealed to Mr. Dharmendra Deol and Ms. Tanuja, who were present on the occasion to help improve the projection of police in film media.

Priyadarshni Academy hosted a dinner meeting for distinguished NRIs and leading dignitaries from India and abroad at Hotel Oberoi Towers, Mumbai to meet Mr. Manohar Joshi, Chief Minister of Maharashtra and prominent Ministers of the Maharashtra Cabinet, Mr. Pramod Navalkar, Minister for Cultural Affairs, and Mr. Anil Deshmukh, Minister of State for Education. The distinguished gathering attended by NRls from various countrie, and captains of Indian industries was a significant step in the Academy's endeavour to promote foreign and NRI investment in India, specially Maharashtra through bringing about closer interaction and understanding between the NRI Community and the Government of Maharashtra as a significant follow-up to the Academy's participation in Advantage Maharashtra and the Maharashtra delegation to South-East Asian countries. The Dinner, at which Mr. Manohar Joshi and Mr. Pramod Navalkar also announced plans for starting a Sindhi Academy, was a great success.

Giants International, a social welfare organisation involved in diverse projects such as health care, rehabilitating the handicapped, low-cost housing, afforestation, celebrated its 25th Anniversary. Mr. Nanik Rupani was specially appointed Convener for the Silver Jubilee Convention by World Chairman of the Giants International, Mr. Nana Chudasama.

The Convention was inaugurated by His Excellency Dr. p C. Alexander, Governor of Maharashtra, Dr. M. S. Gill, Chief Election Commissioner was the Guest of Honour on this occasion. The Convention convened by Mr. Nanik Rupani, was attended by delegates from 260 cities all over India and 9 countries abroad. Various programmes and projects undertaken by Giants including a unique subsistence project for poor "Talpia" aimed at making the poor villagers self-employed, and create a source of nourishment to counter malnutrition were discussed during the Convention, which was a great success.

Mr. Nanik Rupani was a Guest of Honour at the inaugural function of the 10th Inter-Collegiate youth festival Jashn-E-Rizvi" held at Rizvi College of Arts, Science and Commerce. The festival received great participation from colleges throughout Mumbai. Addressing the students on this occasion, Mr. Rupani appreciated the work being done by Rizvi college and complimented the excellent team work of the teachers in organising the function and great participation of students from many colleges.

Mr. Rupani said that the youth of today are the future of our nation and the country has high hopes from them towards the general improvement in all spheres with their dynamism and sincere efforts.

Mr. Nanik Rupani was the Guest of Honour at a Seminar on Sindhi Folk Literature organised by the Department of Sindhi, University of Mumbai. The Seminar was inaugurated by Dr. (Mrs.) Snehalata S. Deshmukh, Vice Chancellor, University of Mumbai, Dr. Ghulam Ali Allama, ex Vice-Chancellor, University of Sindh was the Chief Guest on the occasion.

Priyadarshni Laughter Club International (PLCI) was invited by The Open International University of Complementary Medicines, a prestigious international organization recognized by the United Nations, to present a symposium and a workshop on Laughter Therapy at the World Congress for Integrating Healing Methods held at Colombo.

Mr. Nanik Rupani, was conferred with a doctorate as an acknowledgement of his constant endeavours for social welfare at the World Congress. The Doctorate was presented to Mr. Rupani at Bandaranaike Memorial Hall at Colombo on 28th of November, 1997 by Dr. Anton Jayasuriya, Chairperson of The Open International University. More than 900 delegates from over 100 countries were present at a glittering ceremony.
At this prestigious International Conference, experts from over 100 countries presented papers on systems of alternative and traditional medicine practiced in their respective countries for thousands of years.

Experts on the panel of PLCI, Mr. Nanik Rupani, Mr. Kishore Kuvavala and Dr. Siddhartha Khandwala, presented research work papers on various aspects of Laughter Therapy and Laughing Movement. Dr. Khandwala presented his research on medical benefits of Laughter Therapy.

The experts and other members of the delegation conducted a workshop consisting of a Demonstration of the laughing session and various scientifically evolved types of laughter techniques. The presentation of the symposium and the workshop on Laughter Therapy by the experts of PLCI for a distinguished global audience on an international platform provided a great boost to the Laughing Movement and worked to increase awareness about this wonderful natural therapy, which is a gift to humankind worldwide, as it generated great interest and enthusiasm amongst the participants.

Priyadarshni Laughter Club International, a division of the Academy organised a meeting of anchor persons of the Laughter Clubs of Mumbai at Radio Presidency Club. The meeting was a platform for the anchor persons to share their ideas and opinion on various issues related to Laughter Therapy and was a step forward towards achieving the goal of taking laughing movement far and wide with the collective strength of all the Laughing Clubs.

Mr. Nanik Rupani, Mr. Kishore Kuvavala, Dr. Siddhartha Khandwala, Mr. Ajit Kamlani, Mr. K. C. Gupta and Dr. Dolly Gurbaxani were some of the prominent persons, who shared their views on this subject.

Mr. Nanik Rupani and Priyadarshni Academy have had a long and meaningful association with Giants International, a prominent social service organisation, which celebrated its anniversary at Hotel Oberoi Towers, Mumbai. Mr. Balasaheb Thackeray, Shiv Sena Chief was the Chief Guest of the function, which was presided over by Mr. Nana Chudasama, World Chairman, Giants International. Various distinguished personalities were honoured on this day for their outstanding work for the society.

Mr. Nanik Rupani has always taken keen interest in the activities of Giants International. As Vice Chairman of the organising committees he proposed a vote of thanks on this occasion.

Mr. Nanik Rupani accompanied a Maharashtra State level delegation led by Chief Minister, Mr. Manohar Joshi to Singapore, Malaysia, Japan, China and Hong Kong. The focus of visit of the delegation was on exploring the possibilities of having overseas investments in Maharashtra. The Honourable Chief Minister and the delegation interacted with major industry groups and NRI associations. Mr. Rupani's paricipation played a significant part in bringing about an effective and extensive interaction between the delegation and the prominent NRls of the South-East Asian countries.

Mr. Nanik Rupani was invited as a Guest of Honour at the Annual Function of Shiva Sangeetanjali, the cultural wing of the Dr. (Smt.) Sushilarani Baburao Patel Trust in the memory of Late Dr. Baburao Patel, a well known author and journalist. The function consisting of an evening of classical music and dance featuring talented artistes was attended by Ms. Charu Singh, Chief Executive Officer of Priyadarshni Academy on behalf of Mr. Rupani. Ms. Singh also accepted the felicitation memento in honour of Mr. Rupani from Dr. Sushilarani Patel, Managing Trustee and Chairperson of the -Trust.

The Directorate of Social Welfare, Pune, Government of Maharashtra, organized a "Sun Without Drugs" cultural programme at Patkar Hall, Mumbai, where folk artistes, musicians and dancers who had come from various parts of Maharashtra gave performances. The Function was inaugurated by Mr. Babanraoji Gholap, Minister, Social Welfare, and presided over by Mr. Shivajirao Naik, Minister of State, Liqour Prohibition. Mr. M.R. Patil, Chief Secretary, Social Welfare, Mr. Satish M. Gavai, Director, Social Welfare, and Mr. Mushtak Kazi, Asst. Director, Social Welfare, were the Chief Guests for the occasion. Mr. Nanik Rupani and Ms. Poonam Dhillon Thakeria, famous Hindi films actress, were the Special Guests of Honour.

Addressing the gathering, all the chief speakers lauded the work Priyadarshni Academy has done over the years. In his address, Mr. Nanik Rupani said that the Academy has always been in the forefront of creating awareness against drug addiction through various workshops and seminars in educational institutions, and shall continue its crusade in the future as well. Ms. Poonam Dhillon said that music and dance performances for public was a very effective medium of conveying a powerful message against drug addiction. The distinguished guests gave away prizes to the folk artistes present, and the evening ended with lively and colourful performances from them.

The Government of Maharashtra organized Advantage Maharashtra, a 3 day long NRI Conference in Mumbai which was inaugurated by the Hon'ble Prime Minister Mr. H.D.Gowda. The Conference which was meant to boost NRI investments in Maharashtra drew more than 300 NRI dignitaries from various countries. Priyadarshni Academy was part of the Hospitality Committee, in-charge of the smooth welcome of the overseas guests, and to ensure a pleasant stay for them. The Academy set up a Central Control Room at its premises, which assimilated all the data concerning the guests and assisted the smooth reception of the overseas delegates.

Mr. Nanik Rupani was invited as the Guest of Honour at Mumbai Schools Sports Association's Annual Sports Meet on February 810 held at University Sports Ground, Marine Lines, Mumbai.. The 103 years old Association is the oldest of its kind in the world, which organizes and conducts tournaments in 20 disciplines of the Olympics. Mr. Rupani lauded the long history and efforts of the Association and assured all cooperation from the Academy in future.

Upon the invitation of Mr. P. P. Chhabria, Chairman, Finolex Group of Companies, Mr. Nanik Rupani addressed a group of leading doctors at a Seminar at Ratnagiri. The Seminar was organised by Mr. Chhabria with the aim of discussing the health facilities and related concerns for the people of Ratnagiri area. In his talk, Mr. Rupani shared his thoughts with the leading doctors about the concept of Laughter Therapy and Laughing Movement being promoted by Priyadarshni Laughter Club International all over the world with the group of prominent medical practitioners.

The NCC Cell, University of Mumbai organized "Sankalp" National Integration Camp-97, for NSS volunteers from 17 universities from January 30 - February 8, which was hosted by K. C. College, Mumbai. It was inaugurated on January 30, Martyr's Day by the Governor of Maharashtra Dr. P.C. Alexander at R.D. National College, Bandra. Mr. Nanik Rupani was one of the dignitaries present. He was felicitated by Smt. Achamma Alexander.

On February 2, 1997 Priyadarshni Academy sponsored National Integration Mela on the K. C. College Grounds. Students representing various universities of India set up their own stalls serving food delicacies particular to their respective States. The food was cooked and served by the students themselves, dressed in colourful regional costumes. With folk music and dancing to add to the lively ambience, the overall atmosphere for a visitor was one of beautiful harmony and unity in diversity. Later in the afternoon, Ms. Meenakshi Sheshadri addressed the gathering of students which was followed by cultural programmes.

Mr. Nanik Rupani was a Guest of Honour at a Seminar on "Sindhyat in Sindhi Literature." The Seminar was organised by the Department of Sindhi Literatue headed by Dr. Baldev B. Matlani. It was inaugurated by the Vice Chancellor of Mumbai university, Ms. Snehalata Deshmukh. Mr. Gobind Malhi presided over the function and university Prof. Arjan "Shad" was the Guest of Honour.

lt was on this beautiful balmy evening, around 600 delegates of various Laughter Clubs of Mumbai and from all over India, gathered together on the premises of Radio Presidency Club. The serene setting overlooking the Arabian Sea was just right for such a meet where the enthusiastic participants shared not just a lot of laughter but also exuded a keen joy of living and remarkably positive attitudes, the attainment of which to a large extent has been due to being part of the Laughter Movement. The Convention conducted in a warm ambience, with the speeches of guest speakers being interspersed with rounds of full throated laughter, "HOHOHAHA" from the participants, replacing the customary clapping as a token of appreciation, started off with the welcome address by Mr. Nanik Rupani, wherein he welcomed the Chief Guest Mr. Raj Purohit, Minister for Labour & Housing, Government of Maharashtra and all the distinguished guests and participants. Mr. Raj Purohit inaugurated a booklet on the Laughter Therapy & Movement brought out by the Academy and lauded the work of Priyadarshni Academy since its inception and thanked Mr. Rupani for finding time to organize this Convention.

The Convention organised by Priyadarshni's Laughter Club International, a division of the Academy, with the aim to give the laughter movement a greater momentum with the collective strength of all the Laughing Clubs, provided a total input on all the aspects of it. Leading medical practitioners Dr. Kanti Patel, Dr. Siddharth Khandwala and Dr. Dolly Gurbaxani elaborated on the scientifically proven positive impacts of laughter on a person's physiological and general well being. Mr. S.K. Bhardwaj and Mr. Anantram - Commissioners of Customs and Central Excise, respectively, along with Mr. Ajit Kamlani, President of WIAA, who have participated in the laughing movement, shared their personal experiences on how starting the day with a laughing session in the morning equips one with enthusiasm and a lot more positive approach to deal with the stress filled work scenario.

Mr. Kishore Kuvawala, informed the gathering about the research project undertaken by it, encompassing all the aspects of laughter therapy for which data is being collected.
Mr. Nayan Patel defined the structuring and future planning of the division to spread the laughing movement internationally with joint efforts of all the Laughter Clubs, the beginning of which has already been made with the Academy having opened a Laughter Club each in California and London. Ms. Pratima Morjaria, anchor person of London Laughter Club was there to tell everyone of the great success the concept has achieved in the West. A vote of thanks was proposed by Mr. Navin Kumar, member of the Board of Radio Club.

Mr. Nanik Rupani participated in the meeting called at the office of Vice Chancellor of Mumbai University, Ms. Snehlata Deshmukh. The meeting was held in collaboration with K.C. College to discuss and chalk out the detailed programme for the National Integration Camp, 1997 "Sankalp" for NSS volunteers from 17 universities to be held from January 30th to February. 1997. The meeting was attended by various dignitaries connected with this significant event.

Mr. Nanik Rupani attended the 2nd International Sindhi Sammelan at Mt. Abu, Rajasthan. The prime subject of the Sammelan was the art of living, and it was organized by Prajapita Brahma Kumaris Ishwariya Vishwa Vidyalaya. The Chief Guest for the occasion was Mr. Lal Krishna Advanil President of the BJP and the Chairperson was Rajyogini Dadi Prakashmani, Chief of Brahmakumaris. Some of the distinguished Guests of Honour were: Mr. Nanik Rupani, Mr. S.P Hinduja, Chairman, The Hinduja Group, Mr. Prahlad p Chhabria, Chairman, Finolex Group and Rajyogini Dadi Janki, Additional Chief of Brahmakumaris. Speaking on this occasion, Mr. Rupani said that Brahmakumaris have significantly contributed towards introducing and encouraging spiritual thought and showing a way to happiness amongst the masses in more than 3000 countries all over the world. He also lauded Mr. L. K. Advani's keen interest in this noble cause. He said that Mr.. Advani is not only the leader of the Sindhi community but also of the entire Indian Community.

Mr. Nanik Rupani led a delegation to meet Smt. Sonia Gandhi, at Juhu Centaur Hotel during her visit to Mumbai. Smt. Gandhi cordially welcomed the delegation and was pleased to meet the cream of Achievers from the City and the international Indian community, who were introduced to her by Mr. Nanik Rupani. Some of the prominent digniteries of the delegation were Mr. Bob Harilela of Hong Kong, Mr. Vijay Tirathrai, Malaysia and Mr. Probodh Mehta, Belgium, Mr. Chandru Raheja, Mr. Anshi Gursahani, Mr. Premnath, Mr. Noshir Talati, Ms. Geeta Mirchandani, Ms. Poonam Dhillon, Mr. Prabodh Thakkar, Mr. Ashok Patil, Mr. Ashok Kamdar, Mr. Murli Adnani, Mr. Balram Rupani, Mr. Sushil Sain, Mr. Sushilkumar Shinde, Mr. Sanjay Hinduja and Mr. Sandeep Hinduja. The meeting with Smt. Gandhi was a very significant and memorable occasion for each of the distinguished members of the group, specifically for the NRls, who have always been keen to invest in India and forge closer economic ties with the country of their birth.

Kamla High School & Junior College celebrated their annual function, and Organised arts, science and crafts exhibition at Dada Nirmaldas Gurbaxani Hall. Mr. Nanik Rupani presided over the Function. Addressing the gathering, Mr. Rupani praised the activities of the school. He said that it is one of the oldest and the best educational institutions in the area. He particularly praised Vice-Principal Ms. Rekha Shahani's contribution to the progress of the school and further stated the Academy's willingness to render support required by this renowned Institution. Mr. Rupani later visited the arts, crafts & science exhibition put up by the students and praised their enthusiasm and creativity.

R.K. Academy cordially invited Mr. Nanik Rupani to be the Chief Guest at their Annual Prize Distribution Function at K·C· College. Churchgate. The Principal of K.C. College Prof. J. K. Bhambani and the Priricipal of H.R. College Mr. M. H. Ajwani were also present on the occasion. Address was by Principal Ms. D. Odwadia. Mr. Rupani addressed the gathering of students. The prizes were distributed by Smt. Geeta N. Rupani.

The Union Home Secretary Mr. K. Padmanabhaiah was presented with Priyadarshni Academy's prestigious Public Service Award at a ceremony in the presence of dignitaries at The Chambers of Home Secretariat at North Block, New Delhi. The trophy was presented to him by Mr. Nanik Rupani on this occasion. Mr. Ashok Patil, former minister of Maharashtra, Smt. Rajani Patil, M.P. Lok Sabha and Mr. Ashok Mirchandani, were among the dignitaries present. Addressing the gathering, Mr. Padmanabhaiah praised the Academy’s long standing contribution to social work, and said that he felt honoured to receive the Award, especially as recognition for the beauracrats's contribution to the Nation’s progress has been long overdue.

Sahyog Foundation, the prestigious socio-cultural-educational organization of Mumbai, under the Chairmanship of Mr. Ram Jawhrani, celebrated their 6th Annual Awards Function at Rang Sharda Auditorium. Mr. Dilip Kumar, renowned Hindi films artiste was the Chief Guest of the Function. Amongst the honourable guests present on the occasion were: Mr. Nanik Rupani, Mr. Vilasrao Deshmukh, Mr. Vishwanath Sachdev, Editor, Navbharat Times, Mr. Nari Gurshahani and Mr. Nana Chudasama.

Indian Health Organization, an NGO spearheading the fight against Aids and Child Prostitution for many years, sponsored a "MumbaiKathmandu Cycle Rally" for prevention of Child Prostitution and Aids. The expedition was flagged off by the Chairman of "I love Mumbai," Mr. Nana Chudasama. Mr. Nanik Rupani was one of the prominent dignitaries who graced the occasion at the ceremony held at Girgaon, Chowpatty. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Rupani lauded the efforts of Dr. Gilada for doing good work for the society. He also said that Priyadarshni Academy extended its full support for the promotion of the worthy cause of aids-awareness.

Mr. Kishore Kuvavala. Vice-chairman of Priyadarshni Laughter Club International organized a laughing competition at Priyadarshni Park, Mumbai. Various Laughter Clubs of Mumbai were represented by their two best men and women laughers each. The competition was a great success with the participation of 36 males, and 30 female competitors and provided a boost to the Laughing Movement, the worldwide awareness of which is a cherished goal of Prjadarshni Academy. Dena Bank was the main sponsor of the Event, which was compered by Mr. Kuvavala. Mr. Nanik Rupani who was the guest of honour on the occasion, presented trophies to the winners. Mr. Rupani was later presented with a memento. The event which received significant media attention, was covered on Television by Aaj Tak, E TV and Citi Cable.

Aids Awareness Week was observed by Indian Health Organization (IHO) from November 20 to December 7, 1996 in Mumbai. The weekfull of activities like exhibitions, a march, lectures and a gyan-yagya was concluded at the hands of Mr. Nana Chudasama by setting the Aids Narakh-Sur ablaze amidst fanfare at Girgaon, Chowpatty. Mr. Nanik Rupani was the Guest of Honour on this occasion. In his address he praised Dr. Gilada's work adding that in today's social scenario, spreading awareness on Aids, specially educating youth on the subject, were extremely relevant and commendable endeavours.

A sequel to the Longest Banner of the World, the "Mumbai November 1996" was organized by Priyadarshni Academy and DAIRRC to help DAIRRC further the crusades against the drug menace.

The proceeds of the evening of December 2, 1996 went towards the Police Welfare Fund. The highlights of the other three days were on December 3 a pop show by Sharon Prabhakar, followed by a fashion show; December 4, a Hindi Film Star Nite with Bappi Lahiri; and a spectacular Dandiya Raas by Falguni Pathak, with colourful fireworks which brought the Event to its grand conclusion on December 5.

In its constant quest and commitment to work for society, Priyadarshni Academy in collaboration with Drug Abuse Information Rehabilitation G Research Centre (DAIRRC), unfurled the World's Longest Banner with anti-drug messages to create awareness amongst the masses, especially the students, who are the prime targets of drug addiction. Gone were the long and boring speeches. If a picture can speak a thousand words, then the IDBI-sponsored 5 km long Banner made from 44, 000 sq. feet of cloth, and running across the entire stretch of Marine Drive from Nariman Point to Walkeshwar, certainly spoke volumes on the need to "Love Life, Hate Drugs."

Braving the morning Sun on November 30, 1996, a human chain of over 10,000 student volunteers from school and colleges of Mumbai, along with 700 DAIRRC volunteers, held the Banner aloft. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Rupani said the Academy plans to send the video clippings of the remarkable and unique feat to the Guinness Book of World Records. The longest banner received an overwhelming response from Mumbaiites, and surely, all who witnessed the Event, or read about it shall carry the Banner's indelible anti-drug message in their minds.

The importance pinned on the Event was underlined by the many dignitaries who attended the occasion. The Banner was inaugurated by Mr. Pramod Navalkar, Minister for Cultural Affairs, Government of Maharashtra. The Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Mr. Gopinath Munde also lent his gracious presence to the Event. Mr. Anil Deshmukh, Minister of State for Education, Government of Maharashtra was the Chief Guest of the Function. Mr. R.D. Tyagi, Commissioner of Police was the Special Guest of Honour. The Banner was a forerunner of "Mumbai November 1996" programme.

InCuffe Parade G Ballard Estate Directory was launched in the city at a Function held at the Radio Club. The Directory, which is an asset to financial institutions, business world, and various other organizations, is a powerful mailing list. It was released at the hands of eminent lawyer and legal luminary Mr. K. C. Vajifdar, in the presence of various dignitaries like Mr. Nanik Rupani, Dr. Rashmi Mayur, Dy. Chief Fire Officer, Mr. V.V. Rao, Asst. Commissioner. of Police, Mr. Suresh Kandale, among others. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Vajifdar said that the Directory will be an asset to the whole of Mumbai. Mr. Nanik Rupani, who was the Guest of Honour for the Function, said that, "in today's world of information and technology, facilities such as area-specific directories will be very helpful and is a step in the right direction. Area-specific directories and magazines have their own role to play, especially since it concerns media, and as everyone knows, the pen is mightier than nuclear power. This was a well accomplished venture undertaken by Mr. T.P. Mani of Mega Communications.

Priyadarshni Laughter Club International, a division of the Academy, inaugurated the Laughter Club of Juhu at Juhu Beach. Members of various Laughter Clubs of Mumbai gave live demonstrations of different kinds of laughter to a gathering of enthusiasts. Mr. Nanik Rupani, Dr. Madan Kataria, Mr. Kishore Kuvavala and Mr. Nayan Patel were the prominent dignitaries who graced the occasion and provided the necessary infermation and guidance on the various aspects of Laughter Therapy and Movement to the members of the new Club.

Free medical check-up of hawkers was organized by the Inner Wheel Club of Sealand at Nariman Point, and 75 dustbins, sponsored by Brite Bros., were distributed to the hawkers as a contribution to the project of Clean Mumbai Foundation and The Rotary Club of Mumbai, Environment Committee. Mr. Nanik Rupani, Ms. Kunti Oza, Chairperson, Clean Mumbai Foundation, Mr. Bipin Kapadia, Rotary Club of Mumbai, were among the dignitaries present on the occasion. Addressing the gathering, Mr. Rupani emphasized upon greater participation of hawkers in keeping Mumbai clean and said that, it was very encouraging that the Nariman Point Hawkers had set a good example of sound civic-sense for the other hawkers as well.