Interview with District Governor Rtn. Mahaveer Bothra, Interviewer: Rtn. Sashikumar, Editor – Voice of the District

Q1: Governor Bothra Ji, Golden Sparrow has taken the district by storm. What made you say yes to this event instantly?

Bothra Ji: Well, first of all, when the District Counsellor PDG ISAK Nazar comes to you with a spark in his eyes and a bird in his story – you know it’s not going to be a regular Rotary event! (laughs) But seriously, the idea was powerful. Women are the heartbeat of our homes, our clubs, and society. Golden Sparrow was a chance to honour that energy. It was an instant yes. Also, I like birds.

Q2: What do you think this event achieved beyond the grand celebration?

Bothra Ji: We didn’t just have a program. We built a platform. This was about voices, visibility, and a vision. The real victory is that it sparked confidence in hundreds of women. And we now have an all-women’s club with 150+ members – that’s not just big, that’s world-record big. Now that’s what I call lighting up Rotary.

Q3: You trusted a mostly women-led team to handle the event. Was that a conscious decision?

Bothra Ji: Oh yes! When the First Lady Rtn. Jayashree Bothra pitched the idea herself, it was already in safe hands. Then came Dr. Sujatha Srinivasan as Event Chair, with Rtn. Anees Begam, Lalitha Sriram, and Mohini Sriram – honestly, my job became just to cheer from the sidelines and occasionally crack jokes!

Q4: You’ve always been vocal about engaging every segment of Rotary. How do Golden Sparrow, Kalankarai Vilakku, and Valarpirai reflect that?

Bothra Ji: If Rotary were a movie, these events would be the musical numbers! (winks) Golden Sparrow sang the women’s song. Kalankarai Vilakku spotlighted past presidents, and Valarpirai gave our green Rotarians their hero moment. It’s all part of the same screenplay: inclusivity with a standing ovation.

Q5: You were a Light Up President when PDG Nazar was the Governor. How has that relationship evolved now?

Bothra Ji: We were ‘light up’ Guru-Sishya then, and we still spark ideas off each other. My Governor doesn’t just think out of the box – he recycles the box into something Rotary can use! His support as District Counsellor has been priceless.

Q6: You’ve received rave reviews for your leadership style this year. What’s your secret?

Bothra Ji: Two spoons of trust, a pinch of focus, and unlimited laughter. I take my responsibilities seriously, but not myself, and I trust my team. That keeps the team light and the results bright.

Q7: How do you ensure events don’t become just another day on the Rotary calendar?

Bothra Ji: Ah, the secret sauce – emotion! If your event doesn’t stir a heart or spark a smile, it’s just a meeting. Every event this year had soul. Golden Sparrow? That had glitter in its soul!

Q8: The new Rotary Club of Golden Sparrow is a landmark move. How do you plan to support it post-charter?

Bothra Ji: Like any proud parent, I’ll be hovering nearby but letting them fly. They’ve got wings, attitude, and a world record already. I just hope they invite me to their anniversary party!

Q9: What do you want every Rotarian to take away from Golden Sparrow?

Bothra Ji: That Rotary is for everyone. Not just the usual faces, but the quieter voices too. And when women lead, Rotary dances. Literally – we had a fashion parade and a one-man-woman act. Beat that!

Q10: Finally, what’s next for RID 3233?

Bothra Ji: More light, more life, more laughter. We’ll keep breaking stereotypes, records, and maybe a few stage props. But always with a purpose. That’s the promise of this year – and the Golden legacy we’ll leave behind.

The post Lighting Up Rotary with Golden Sparks first appeared on Voice of RID 3233.

Interview with PDG ISAK Nazar: Interviewer: Rtn. Sashikumar, Editor – Voice of the District

Q: PDG Nazar, Golden Sparrow has become the talk of the district. What inspired this unique initiative focused on women in Rotary?

PDG Nazar: It all started with a simple yet powerful thought – women are not just participants in Rotary, they are powerful change-makers. Golden Sparrow is our way of acknowledging that truth and giving it the space it deserves. As District Counsellor, my role is to identify spaces that need attention and activation – and women’s engagement in Rotary was one such vibrant, yet under-tapped, domain. When I discussed this with our Governor Rtn. Mahaveer Bothra, he immediately saw the potential and gave his full support. His vision for an inclusive, diverse and vibrant district resonated deeply with me.

Q: You’ve launched several pioneering initiatives in RID 3233 – from Rotary NextGen to Kalankarai Vilakku. How does Golden Sparrow fit into this ecosystem?

PDG Nazar: Each initiative I’ve supported or conceptualized serves one core mission: making Rotary more engaging, inclusive, and future-ready. With Rotary NextGen, we brought young blood into Rotary. Kalankarai Vilakku re-ignited the spark in our past presidents. The Green Rotarians orientation gave a warm, informed welcome to our newest members. Golden Sparrow, in that sense, completes the circle – by empowering the women of Rotary. This event is not just a celebration, but a commitment to significantly increase women’s participation in our district. And I’m proud to share that we are chartering a new all-women’s club, Rotary Club of Golden Sparrow, with more than 150 members – a world record in the making.

Q: Tell us about how this event came to life.

PDG Nazar: The spark for Golden Sparrow came from our District First Lady Rtn. Jayashree Bothra, whose passion for empowering women is truly contagious. The idea took flight on the way back from Mahabalipuram during a conversation with Dr. Sujatha Srinivasan and her husband, PDG R. Srinivasan. When I proposed formalizing the idea, Sujatha readily accepted to lead it as the Event Chair. Jayashree took on the role of Event Mentor and was instrumental in shaping the vision and motivating the team. Along with Co-Chair Rtn. Anees Begam, Secretary, Lalitha Sriram, Treasurer, Rtn. Mohini Sriram, and a powerhouse team of women Rotarians they created something truly magical. What makes me proud is that it was organized almost entirely by women – with minimal male support. That’s the kind of self-driven force we need more of in Rotary.

Q: What’s next for RID 3233?

PDG Nazar: The journey has just begun. Under Governor Mahaveer Bothra’s visionary leadership, we will continue to create platforms where every Rotarian – young or experienced, male or female – feels they have a voice and a role. Golden Sparrow is a shining example of what happens when we believe in each other’s potential and give it wings.

Q: What made you confident this would be a success?

PDG Nazar: Honestly, the energy I felt from the women we approached was electric. They were waiting for such a platform. With leaders like Jayashree, Sujatha, Anees, and others taking charge, I knew this was going to be a landmark event.

Q: How do you see the new all-women’s club contributing to the district?

PDG Nazar: It’s going to bring fresh energy, new leadership styles, and more inclusive thinking. These members will not only participate – they will lead, inspire, and shape the future of our district.

Q: You’ve focused on different segments of the Rotary family. Why that strategy?

PDG Nazar: Because every segment has unique strengths. Youth bring enthusiasm. Past presidents offer experience. Green Rotarians need orientation. Women bring community spirit and innovation. If we engage them all, we build a district that’s rich, diverse, and dynamic.

Q: You also pioneered the Annettes Club a decade ago. How do you feel seeing it now flourish at the district level?

PDG Nazar: It’s truly heartening. When we introduced Annette’s Clubs in 2014-15, the goal was simple: keep our children meaningfully involved in the Rotary spirit. Now, ten years later, to see the formation of the District Annettes Council and the election of a District Annettes Representative (DAR) is deeply fulfilling. These young leaders, guided by committed Rotarians, are organizing events like the Annettes Carnival and service projects like feeding the poor. It shows that the Rotary values are taking root early.

Q: What message would you give to those nurturing the Annettes now?

PDG Nazar: Encourage them, trust them, and let them lead. When we empower children with purpose, we’re not just building future Rotarians – we’re shaping responsible citizens. The success of the District Annettes Council is a testament to what sustained mentorship and faith in young minds can achieve.

Q: What has this journey taught you personally?

PDG Nazar: That leadership is not about doing everything – it’s about identifying people’s potential and giving them a platform. The women of Golden Sparrow have taught me that time and again through their passion and commitment.

Q: Any message to Rotarians who want to do something new?

PDG Nazar: Don’t wait for perfect conditions. Start with your idea. Discuss it. Rally support. And remember, when you believe in the impact it can create, the district will believe in you.

Q: In one line, what does Golden Sparrow mean to you?

PDG Nazar: It’s a celebration of possibility – when vision, leadership, and purpose come together to create something unforgettable.

Q: Any final thoughts?

PDG Nazar: My heartfelt thanks to every woman who said yes to Golden Sparrow, and to every Rotarian who encouraged them. Let this be the beginning of many such inclusive and inspiring milestones for RID 3233.

The post The Vision Behind Golden Sparrow first appeared on Voice of RID 3233.

By PDG Rtn. A.P. Kanna, Event Advisor

Golden Sparrow was not just an event – it was a statement. A statement that when women take the lead, magic happens. From the very first brainstorming session to the final celebration, this event was driven by the passion, commitment, and grace of the women of Rotary. And what a phenomenal job they did!

Conceptualized with the powerful vision of our District First Lady, Rtn. Jayashree Bothra, and executed with brilliance by Event Chair Dr. Sujatha Srinivasan, Golden Sparrow soared to new heights of elegance and empowerment. The core team, comprising Co-Chair Rtn. Anees Begam, Secretary Lalitha Sriram, and Treasurer Rtn. Mohini Sriram, set a standard of leadership that was both inspiring and efficient.

Watching the event unfold was like witnessing a masterclass in collaboration. Sujatha, our Vision Virtuoso, led with heart and vision, ensuring every detail was in place. Anees, our Harmony Architect, orchestrated the flow with her knack for seamless coordination. Lalitha, the Sincere Secretary, kept things running with clockwork precision. And of course, Mohini, the Money Master, managed the finances with absolute flair. Together, they proved that leadership, when done with unity and purpose, can be unstoppable.

The day itself was nothing short of magical. From the beautifully decorated venue to the inspiring sessions and the vibrant cultural performances, everything reflected the spirit of womanhood. The games, quizzes, and interactive sessions added a layer of joy and community that was palpable. It wasn’t just an event – it was an experience that celebrated the essence of Rotary and the strength of women.

A special mention must go to the men who stood by us in support. PDG ISAK Nazar, whose idea of Golden Sparrow set the wheels in motion, was an unfaltering pillar of strength. His vision to engage and empower women through this grand platform was the spark that ignited this beautiful journey. Our District Governor, Rtn. Mahaveer Bothra, lent his unwavering support, embracing the idea and empowering the women of Rotary to shine.

I also want to extend my heartfelt thanks to PDG R Srinivasan, the district officials and male Rotarians who supported this initiative wholeheartedly. Their encouragement and assistance, whenever required, showed true Rotary spirit – supporting each other to achieve more.

Golden Sparrow is proof that when women lead, history is made. And I am immensely proud to have been part of this journey, witnessing history unfold right before our eyes. Together, we have not just created memories; we have set a new standard for what is possible in Rotary.

The post A Masterstroke of Unity: Women Making History in Rotary first appeared on Voice of RID 3233.

A Special Editorial for Voice of RID 3233 – Golden Sparrow Edition
by Yours Truly (a rare male specimen at an all-women’s Rotary carnival)

So, they said, “It’s going to be a women’s carnival. Come, be part of it!”
What they didn’t say was that I’d be the only guy awkwardly adjusting my collar in a swirling sea of sarees, bindis, bangles, and boss energy. Welcome to Golden Sparrow, the “Womenaissance” of RID 3233 — a Rotary-first extravaganza that turned out to be part celebration, part revolution, and part moment-of-silence-for-the-lone-man-standing.

This special edition of Voice of RID 3233 isn’t just a newsletter. It’s the logbook of a spacecraft piloted by powerhouse women, blasting past stereotypes, setting records, and creating history with the Rotary Club of Golden Sparrow — soon to become the largest all-women’s club ever chartered, with 150+ members ready to rewrite the rules (and probably do it in matching color-coded sarees).

Behind this feathered phenomenon were some truly fabulous flamingos:

 DG Mahaveer Bothra Ji – Calm in the chaos, the ever-supportive shepherd of this flight.
 PDG Nazar – The visionary who planted this idea and watered it with wisdom.
PDG AP Kanna – Our Event Advisor, who watched proudly as women took charge and soared.
Jayashree Bothra, Event Mentor – The silent storm behind the wings.
Sujatha Srinivasan – The Event Chair who chaired everything, including probably gravity.
Anees Begum– The Co-Chair with the cool confidence of a woman who knows her way around ten WhatsApp groups and three agendas.
Lalitha Sriram, our event secretary – also known as “The Deadline Whisperer.”
Mohini Sriram, our treasurer – fondly nicknamed “Spreadsheet Sorceress” (she can balance a budget in her sleep and still look fabulous).

And then there’s me — trying to survive panel discussions on pelvic health without flinching and smiling through the occasional “men are the problem” joke. (Note: laughing too hard = betrayal of your kind. Not laughing = suspect. It’s a minefield, I tell you.)

Huge thanks to Raji, our Grammar Guardian, who ensured these articles didn’t commit any linguistic crimes, and to my team at Praanha, who brought beauty, balance, and branding brilliance to every page.

This one’s not just a newsletter. It’s history, it’s her-story… and occasionally, it’s my hysteria from the sidelines. Enjoy the read!

— Yours in Confetti, Chaos & Chiffon-Coloured Power,
The Accidental Sparrow Among the Golden Ones

The post Editor’s Nest: Perched Among Golden Sparrows first appeared on Voice of RID 3233.

 By Rtn. Jayashree Bothra, District First Lady & Event Mentor

When we first dreamt up Golden Sparrow, it wasn’t just about creating an event –it was about launching a movement. A space where women didn’t just gather, but soared. A celebration not of titles or trophies, but of every woman’s journey –the quiet strength, the loud laughter, the unspoken sacrifices, and the unapologetic joy.

As Event Mentor, my role was to gently nudge, steer, and sometimes just stand back in awe as the extraordinary women of Rotary took flight. This wasn’t a day of frills and flowers –it was a declaration. That womanhood deserves a spotlight not just in boardrooms and conferences, but also in spaces filled with music, dance, learning, and laughter. A carnival of spirit.

Why Golden Sparrow? Because to me, that little golden bird is more than a symbol –it’s a reflection of every woman I know. Beautiful yet strong. Delicate but determined. Overlooked sometimes, but never out of power. This event was our collective flight –and every woman who showed up brought her own wings.

It was delightful to see sessions that weren’t just informative but transformative. To watch women laugh without restraint, learn without judgment, and most importantly, lift one another without hesitation. Whether it was the stand-up comedy, the games, or the moving addresses –we made room for both heart and hilarity.

And yes, we must applaud the men who stood with us –not in front, not behind, but beside. Because the future we’re dreaming of is inclusive. A Rotary that celebrates not just service above self, but celebration above silence.

As I stood at the back of the hall during the flash mob finale –hearing the cheers, watching women of all ages dance with abandon –I knew in my heart: this wasn’t the end of an event. It was the beginning of something far bigger.

My hope is that Golden Sparrow becomes more than an annual affair. Let it be a mindset. A message. A memory we keep building upon.

Because when women rise, they don’t rise alone –they lift the world with them.

The post Golden Sparrow: My Heart’s Flight first appeared on Voice of RID 3233.

Dr. Sujatha Srinivasan, Event Chair – Golden Sparrow, A reflection on the making of Golden Sparrow

Golden Sparrow was not just a one-day carnival – it was a dream brought to life by the passion, strength, and unity of women who believed in creating something extraordinary. From the very first moment of conceptualizing the event, one thing was clear: this was going to be a space where women led, lifted each other, and let their spirits soar.

As the planning unfolded, every detail was infused with care – designed not just for entertainment, but for connection, joy, and unforgettable experiences. The goal was to keep the audience not just engaged, but emotionally fulfilled from the first moment to the last. And the result? Nothing short of magical.

Women from all walks of life stepped out of their comfort zones. They danced, laughed, explored, and celebrated themselves. Many came up with teary eyes and warm hugs, whispering that they had never experienced such joy in their lives. One woman said, “For the first time, I felt truly seen.” Another said, “This will forever be one of the most beautiful days of my life.” It was in these moments that we saw the true power of collective womanhood.

When women lead with empathy, courage, and purpose, the energy they create is transformative. Golden Sparrow became a mirror reflecting the beauty and resilience that women often forget they carry within. It wasn’t just an event – it was a gentle reminder of what happens when women come together with trust, vision, and the freedom to be themselves.

The echoes of laughter, the glistening eyes, and the heartfelt gratitude shared that day have left an imprint on every heart involved. It’s no wonder that even before the sun set on Golden Sparrow, voices were already asking: When is the next one?

Golden Sparrow was proof that when women lead – not with control, but with compassion – something truly magical unfolds. And this magic is only the beginning.

The post When Women Lead, Magic Happens first appeared on Voice of RID 3233.

A behind-the-scenes celebration of the Golden Sparrow Ladies Carnival By Rtn. Anees Begam

It’s an important and historic day for our Rotary District 3233 as we celebrate our Golden Sparrow, Rotary Women’s Carnival to celebrate women in Rotary. 

Every grand event has its magic, but the true essence often lies behind the scenes – where ideas are born over coffee chats, where laughter echoes louder than stress, and where every challenge is met with grace, grit, and a shared sense of purpose.

We wish to profoundly thank our Honourable Mayor of Greater Chennai Corporation Mrs Priya for her gracious presence to inaugurate this Carnival.

It’s an honour and pleasure to have Dr Parveen Sulthana, a true trailblazer on women power and women empowerment, join us and for her graciousness in accepting the Rotary Achiever Award.

The Golden Sparrow Ladies Carnival was more than a celebration – it was a reflection of the energy, elegance, and unity of the women who brought it to life. From early planning meetings to late-night WhatsApp brainstorms, the journey was filled with creativity, surprises, and sisterhood in its truest form.

There were quiet champions who stitched decorations by hand, spontaneous moments of joy during rehearsals, and team members who lifted each other through every hiccup and high. What we built wasn’t just an event – it was a bond.

“The Spark Behind the Wings” is our heartfelt tribute to the spirit that made the Golden Sparrow soar. To the dreamers, doers, and unstoppable women behind every detail – this moment belongs to you.

The post The Spark Behind the Wings first appeared on Voice of RID 3233.

By Lalitha Sriram, Event Secretary – Golden Sparrow

On April 19, 2025, the campus of St. Thomas College, Chennai, transformed into a vibrant haven of grace, unity, and empowerment, as Rotary District 3233 celebrated Golden Sparrow – a landmark event dedicated to the spirit of womanhood. Conceptualized by the women of Rotary, for every woman in our community, Golden Sparrow was more than just a gathering – it was a radiant expression of strength, elegance, and the power of sisterhood.

Like the golden sparrow itself – a symbol of beauty, resilience, and freedom – this event brought together women from across the district to celebrate their unique strengths: compassion, creativity, leadership, and an unstoppable spirit.

The event commenced on an uplifting note with a soul-stirring violin performance and the ceremonial lighting of the kuthuvilakku, setting the tone for a day that was equal parts celebratory and soulful. Hon’ble Mayor of Chennai, Ms. Priya Rajan, graced the occasion as Chief Guest, while the ever-inspiring Ms. Parveen Sultana was honoured as the Special Awardee.

Designed to be “informative, informal, interactive, impromptu, and inspiring,” the day featured an exciting mix of sessions. Highlights included Thandavam, and Bold Becoming Beautiful – a series of health and wellness talks by a panel of dynamic doctors. Cultural performances, including high-energy international dances, kept spirits soaring and the audience fully engaged.

Adding flavour to the celebration were a variety of games – Rotary and music quizzes, Thambola with a twist, and even a stand-up comedy segment. The event also celebrated the achievements of Annettes with special awards. Powerful addresses by Vanitha IPS and PDG Ananda Jothi lit up the venue with inspiration and emotion.

A surprise flash mob brought the house down, embodying the boundless energy that had defined the entire day.

None of this would have been possible without the extraordinary efforts of multiple committees – Registration, Programs and Entertainment, Sponsorship, Stalls, Catering, Media and Publicity, and Kits – each of which worked tirelessly behind the scenes.

Special gratitude goes to District First Lady Rtn. Jayashree Bothra for her vision and mentoring spirit, Event Chair Dr. Sujatha Srinivasan for her inspiring leadership, and PDGs Nazar, Srinivasan, and AP Kanna for their steadfast support. Co-Chair Rtn. Anees Begam and Treasurer Rtn. Mohini Sriram were the pillars of strength in making this dream a reality.

Golden Sparrow didn’t just celebrate womanhood – it sparked hearts, amplified energy, and gave us wings.
As the curtains fell, it wasn’t the end – it was the beginning of a new, empowered journey for the women of Rotary.

The post Golden Sparrow: A Soaring Celebration of Womanhood first appeared on Voice of RID 3233.

Rtn. Mohini Sriram, Event Secretary

Welcome, dear reader, to the Treasurer’s Report — minus the math, plus a whole lot of mayhem.

No numbers. No pie charts. Just pure gossip, glamour, and glorious spreadsheet wizardry behind Golden Sparrow, the most dazzling carnival this side of the equator.

Let’s peel back the glitter and take a peek at how we turned modest moolah into full-blown magic!

INCOME: Aiming High, Landing Gracefully (and Glamorously)

Registrations:

We started with bold dreams. “We’ll hit thousands!” we declared.

“Should we hire bouncers?” someone gasped.

Spoiler alert: we did.

Reality? The registrations trickled in with elegance, just like a well-dressed auntie arriving fashionably late to a wedding. But oh, what a perfect crowd it was! They danced, they laughed, they lived their best carnival lives — and not one bouncer had to bounce.

And Then… The Men Came:

Yes, we opened up registration to Male Rotarians — at a premium, of course. They entered cautiously, eyes wide, as if they’d accidentally walked into a Zumba class in a silk dhoti.

But hats off to them! These brave souls faced a tsunami of sarees, survived the selfie stampede, and left with a new appreciation for how women really party.

Stall Sales – 100% Accuracy, 0% Chaos:

Budgeted: 35.

Actual: 35.

Because when women say “35 stalls,” we don’t mean 34.5 or 36-ish. We mean thirty-five.

Precision is power, and power wore heels that day.

Sponsors – The Real MVPs:

We prayed. We manifested. We WhatsApped at odd hours. And voilà — sponsors showed up like magic.

Apparently, charm, persistence, and mild emotional blackmail do work.

EXPENSES: Where Dreams Go to Spend (Responsibly)

Venue:

Ah, the venue. Air-conditioned bliss. Spacious elegance. A place cool enough to preserve not just our makeup but also our sanity.

Sure, it wasn’t cheap — but darling, have you ever tried to dance in a humid hall in chiffon? Some things are worth every rupee.

Catering:

Full plates. Fuller hearts. And prices that we negotiated like seasoned sabzi-walis at a Sunday market.

Queen moves only.

Entertainment:

Under budget. Overachieved.

Better than Netflix — and you could sing along!

Because we were the entertainment:

Fashion walks, soul-stirring songs, antakshari smackdowns, and a flash mob so contagious, the snacks almost danced too.

Golden Sparrow Badges – The Unplanned Star:

Surprise! Turns out, nothing makes you feel like a national hero quite like pinning a bird-shaped badge on your chest. It was the Oscar moment we didn’t know we needed.

The Final Curtain Call:

We bedazzled within budget.

We impressed the sponsors.

We fed hundreds.

We danced, we sang, we probably lost 14 bobby pins each.

And through it all, we balanced the books like the boss ladies we are. Yes, there were plot twists. Yes, some items came with bonus glitter. But who says budgeting can’t be a drama with a happy ending?

This wasn’t just an event — it was proof. Proof that when women lead with heart, hustle, humour, and a well-locked Excel sheet, anything is possible.

Here’s to the women who shine on stage, off stage, and yes — even in the spreadsheets.

Golden Sparrow wasn’t just a celebration. It was a flex.

The post Spreadsheets & Sarees: Confessions of a Carnival Treasurer first appeared on Voice of RID 3233.

Let me set the scene. I’m the District Chair for Communications and Promotions for Golden Sparrow, a grand Rotary event celebrating womanhood. Sounds noble, right? I made all the posters, handled promotions, and basically helped turn this dream into a dazzling reality.

But then… I attended the event.

Now, imagine being one of the five men in a hall filled with over 500 dazzling, spirited, high-energy women. I wasn’t just outnumbered – I was out-everythinged. Sarees rustling at sonic speeds. Perfume densities breaching WHO limits. Group selfies forming and dissolving like flash mobs. I spent the first 30 minutes just trying not to photobomb anyone.

The sessions began with energy levels that could recharge your phone. Then came a panel of brilliant doctors discussing women’s health topics in unfiltered, high-definition detail. As a man, I tried to maintain a neutral face. Inside? I was glitching like a frozen Zoom call. Blink too much – suspicious. Nod – creepy. Smile – risky. So I sat statue-still, making deep eye contact with the carpet.

It got better (worse?) when the speakers came on. One passionately declared, “Men are the real problem!” The hall erupted in cheers. I clapped too. Out of instinct? Survival? Solidarity? Who knows anymore? At one point, I whispered to a fellow male attendee, “Bro, blink twice if you want to escape.”

But truth be told? It was glorious. The energy. The laughter. The raw, unfiltered sisterhood. Women danced, joked, shared, learned, and absolutely owned the stage. There were quizzes, comedy, awards, and emotional moments that gave me goosebumps – and not just because the AC was set to ‘Arctic’.

Sure, I felt like a confused giraffe at a penguin party, but I also felt immense pride. These weren’t just women. They were my friends, mentors, moms, sisters, teammates. They were Rotary itself – just shinier, sassier, and way better organized.

Golden Sparrow taught me a lot: that celebration and empowerment aren’t mutually exclusive, that women supporting women is a force of nature, and that as a man, sometimes the best thing you can do is cheer from the sidelines… and carry a spare safety pin.

Would I do it all again? Absolutely. Next time, I’m bringing popcorn, tinted glasses, and a sign that says:
“Design guy. Emotionally confused. Proudly overwhelmed.”

The post Trapped Among Sarees: One Man’s Hilarious (and Heartfelt) Day at Golden Sparrow first appeared on Voice of RID 3233.