Life is often filled with unexpected twists and turns, and sometimes, we find ourselves in situations we never anticipated. This is exactly how I feel about my new role as your Rotary President – it happened quite by accident, and it’s been like jumping into a swimming pool with only the support of those around me to keep me afloat. But, as we all know, sometimes the best opportunities come from the most unexpected places. I genuinely view this opportunity as a service to our community, a chance to make a meaningful difference, and to work alongside some of the most dedicated and compassionate individuals I know.
One Sanskrit shloka that resonates deeply with me is:
*"सेवा परमो धर्मः"
This translates to "Service is the highest duty." This ancient wisdom perfectly encapsulates the spirit of Rotary and the commitment we all share to serve others.
When I attended PETS (President-Elect Training Seminar), I was both nervous and excited. Our respected District Governor Shital Shah and his team had meticulously planned every detail of the training, and their dedication and enthusiasm were contagious. Their comprehensive planning and the clear vision they presented gave me the confidence I needed to take on this role and carry our club’s mission forward. The magic of Rotary was evident in every session, inspiring me to embrace this opportunity with passion and determination.
I have had the privilege of knowing many of our members for a long time, and this role presents another wonderful opportunity to work closely with them. It’s a chance to deepen our friendships and to forge new bonds that will last a lifetime. The camaraderie and mutual respect we share are the bedrock of our club, and I look forward to building on this strong foundation.
Our club has always been a beacon of hope and service in the community, and as we move forward together, I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. Each one of you brings unique talents, perspectives, and passions to our club, and it is this diversity that makes us strong. Together, we can achieve great things.
I encourage each of you to engage fully in our vision for Rotary. Let’s dream big, set ambitious goals, and work tirelessly to achieve them. Let’s embrace the opportunity to serve our community, to support each other, and to make a real difference in the lives of those we touch.
As we embark on this journey together, let’s remember the words of another profound Sanskrit shloka:
*"संगच्छध्वं संवदध्वं सं वो मनांसि जानताम्"
This means, "May you move in harmony, speak in one voice; let our minds be in agreement." It is a reminder of the power of unity and the strength we draw from working together towards a common goal.
Rotary’s mission is more than just a series of projects; it is a way of life. It is about building bridges, fostering understanding, and creating a better world for future generations. It is about being there for each other, just as we are for our community. And it is about the joy and fulfilment that comes from making a difference.
One of my primary focus areas this year will be the formation of Rotary Community Corps (RCC). These corps will be instrumental in helping us execute our projects more efficiently and effectively. The RCCs are designed to bring together non-Rotarian men and women who share our commitment to service and can help amplify our efforts on the ground.
Additionally, we will place a significant emphasis on our Rotaract and Interact clubs. These youth programs are vital for nurturing the next generation of leaders and instilling in them the values of Rotary.
I am also thrilled to mention that we have a strong and inspirational Board of Directors who will drive our mission forward. Their dedication and innovative ideas will undoubtedly propel us towards success.
We are from the land of Bharat that has always welcomed and helped everyone who come to us. This spirit of generosity and service is deeply ingrained in our culture and aligns perfectly with Rotary’s philosophy. As proud Indians, we are inspired by the legacy of great leaders like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, who dedicated their lives to the welfare of the people and stood for justice, bravery, and compassion. We also draw inspiration from the teachings of Swami Vivekananda, the devotion of Sant Tukaram, the wisdom of Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj, the visionary social reforms of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar and Jyotiba Phule, and the principles of non-violence and truth championed by Mahatma Gandhi. Their ideals guide us as we strive to serve our community and make a positive impact.
Indian tradition has always placed great emphasis on the role of women, not just as supporters, but as leaders and pillars of strength. Our Anns and Lady Rotarians exemplify this tradition, embodying grace, resilience, and leadership. They are integral to our success, much like the women who have shaped our nation’s history.
I would also like to take a moment to acknowledge and appreciate the tremendous efforts and achievements of all our past presidents. Their leadership and dedication have laid a strong foundation for our club. They have guided us through challenges, celebrated successes, and have set high standards of service and commitment. Each one of them has left a lasting legacy, and it is on their shoulders that we stand today, ready to build on their hard work and vision.
In the months ahead, we will face challenges, celebrate successes, and learn from each experience. But most importantly, we will do it together. I am grateful for the support and encouragement you have shown me, and I am committed to leading our club with integrity, passion, and a steadfast dedication to our shared values.
Let’s embrace this journey with open hearts and minds. Let’s inspire each other, uplift our community, and create a legacy of service and friendship that will endure for years to come. Together, we are stronger, and together, we can achieve anything we set our minds to.
Remember, "एक दिन मिट जाएंगे, माटी के मोल, जग में रह जाएंगे प्यारे तेरे बोल।" Let's make sure our words and actions today leave a lasting impact on the world.
Thank you for your trust, your support, and your unwavering commitment to the ideals of Rotary. Let’s make this a year to remember!
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