Glamour on the race course

Instituted by the RWITC as the S A Poonawalla Trophy in 1982,the race is dedicated to Soli Poonawalla for his lifelong contribution to Indian racing and breeding. It was only in the year 1990 that this race was upgraded to Grade 2 and was called ‘The Poonawalla Cup’ and subsequently to the Poonawalla Million in 1996,marking the beginning of the ‘Millions’ concept in Indian racing and establishing itself as one of the richest events on the racing calendar of the city. Over the years,the race has attracted much glamour and is now the most anticipated race of the season. The race on Sunday,September 23 at the Pune Race Course,says Col. Gidwani,who is in-charge of the race wing of the Poonawalla group,is a must attend even for race novices. “We will be giving out forms at the entry to the race course. Every one can fill it and drop it in the drop box for a lucky draw,and as every year,they are entitled to test their luck for a car,” says Gidwani. Along with the annual lucky draw,the event will also have a contest for the best dressed gentleman and lady at the race course. “For racing enthusiasts,this race is the best place to be as it will feature nine of the finest horses of Indian racing,” adds Gidwani.

Metal matters

Fabindia and the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) will showcase a contemporary range of copper products handcrafted by the Tambats of Pune. The exhibition will be at the Bund Garden Road outlet of Fabindia on September 22 and 23 from 10.30 am to 8.30 pm. The event was inaugurated by Parul Mehta,trustee of Ishanya,on September 21,and co-convener of INTACH,Pune chapter,Sharvey Dhongde presented a talk entitled ‘Design as Heritage’. The range on display has been conceptualised by designer Rashmi Ranade. The Tambats will give a lecture and demonstration of their 400-year-old art form in the afternoons on both days. Mrs. Arti Kirloskar,Convener of INTACH,Pune chapter says they hope to develop new markets to ensure sustained source of livelihood for the Tambat craftsmen.