One of Laudium’s most astute and humble activists, who has a history of unselfishly serving the community, celebrated his milestone 80th birthday this past Sunday, with pomp and ceremony.
The gracious Amarlal Soma was warmly congratulated by family and friends at a function held in his honour, at the Barnyard Theatre in Menlyn, with about 100 guests in attendance. Messages for good health, long life and happiness were some of the many wishes that poured in for the smiling octogenarian, as his charming wife and pillar of strength, Rookie, stood by his side, echoing the sentiments of the well-wishers.
Addressing the gathering, longtime friend and chairperson of the LCSA, Ahmed Arbee, congratulated Amarlal on his 80th birthday, adding, “It was by no means an occasion to write the last chapter, but having been blessed with good health, Mr Soma needs to continue writing new chapters in serving the community. In reaching this milestone both Amarlal and Rookie are blessed to see the fruits of the family tree, that owes its sweetness to their three children; Priya, Prisha and Chetan, who are all achievers in their own right. This family tree has been nurtured by the Somas over the 53 years of their marriage, adding four precious grandchildren to the family tree.”
In addressing Amarlal specifically, Ahmed said, “Remember, God does not count the candles on this day. He counts the blessings that you have earned and will continue to earn in the many years that lie ahead.”
Amarlal Soma has served on a number of community-based organizations over the years, including being a board member and treasurer of the Northern Cricket Union where he was recently appointed as an Honorary Member. He is currently treasurer of the LCSA, chairperson of the 1860 Legacy Foundation and treasurer of the Pretoria Legacy Foundation.
*The Laudium Sun joins our readers in wishing Amarlalbhai many happy returns. “May you always be blessed with good health and may you enjoy many, many more beautiful years ahead, with never-ending joy and happy memories, together with family and friends.”
In the words of Henry Ford, ‘Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at twenty or eighty. Anyone who keeps learning stays young. The greatest thing in life is to keep your mind young.’
-Editor
