BY CAINE CORREA
PHOTOS BY DHRUV SHAH
The 32nd anniversary of the annual sports extravaganza Festival of Friendship (FOF), ended in style on 30th November with a swanky red carpet dinner and dance event dubbed Red Carpet Affair atop Diamond Plaza 1’s rooftop hall.
The venue, decked out in red and black themed decor was choc-a-bloc with round tables, each sporting a floral centrepiece, silverware and crockery and liquid refreshment, spread for dinner.
The Nords, a three-piece jazz band, welcomed guests with strains of soothing instrumental hits.
Community representatives, their friends, families, participants, friends of FOF and many other supporters showed up in style, dressed to the tee for the closing ceremony to appreciate the hard work of athletes, volunteers and FOF steering committee.
The games had over 2,000 participants, convenors and six months of preparations by 150 volunteers.
“These are long-lasting friendships beyond the games,” said FOF Convenor Aneez Rahemtulla.
There was a novelty award-giving pinpointing some of the evening’s most outstanding guests and entertainment was provided by DJ Raahi, DJ Drummer duo Harsh and Rushab, and Bhangra Warriors. The dance floor was packed to overflowing. It is not often you see a crowd so into dancing, they ignore calls to join the buffet meal queue.
The vibrant atmosphere was visible in the manner different Asian sects were enjoying each other’s congenial company. Here’s to FOF, the friendship and joy bringer!