10/10/2024
Press Release: Old Martinians of New England Celebrate Founder’s Day at Annual Dinner
Boston, MA – The Old Martinians Association of New England (OMANE) gathered at Masala Art for their annual Founder’s Day dinner, celebrating the legacy of Lt. General Claude Martin, the visionary behind the La Martinière Colleges in India and France. The event drew Martinians from across the region, many joined by their spouses, to reconnect and honor the rich heritage of their alma mater.
The evening kicked off with a heartfelt welcome by Kaplesh Kumar, one of OMANE’s founders and its senior-most member. He reflected on the lasting impact of Claude Martin’s educational vision, which has shaped generations of students, including those gathered for the occasion.
Syed Ali Rizvi, President of OMANE, led a poignant tribute in memory of Neeraj Chandra, a beloved alumnus who passed away three years ago on the same day. Chandra was deeply involved in the alumni group, and Rizvi’s words emphasized how greatly he is missed by the Martinian community. After the tribute, a moment of silence was observed in Chandra’s honor, allowing attendees to reflect on his legacy as an exceptional professional, father, and friend.
The event also featured a special recognition for Vijay Gupta, a dedicated senior Martinian who has consistently made the trip from New Jersey to attend OMANE’s events. Treasurer Siddharta Jeewan presented Gupta with a Martinian lapel pin, recognizing his unwavering commitment to the alumni association.
In a lively segment of the evening, members introduced themselves and shared personal stories about their experiences as Martinians. Many expressed their gratitude for the close-knit bonds they have formed over the years, both during their school days and through OMANE’s activities. The evening fostered a deep sense of community, underscoring the lasting connection Martinians share.
Kaplesh Kumar also shared exciting news that La Martinière Girls’ College in Lucknow was recently ranked the second-best school in India, further cementing the institution’s reputation for excellence. The group welcomed first-time attendee Sameer Vora, a Calcutta Martinian, who was delighted to connect with fellow alumni for the first time in Boston.
The evening concluded on a high note, with attendees joining in to sing the school anthem, “Hail Hail the Name We Own,” followed by a group photograph to commemorate the occasion.
Several members who were traveling and could not attend were dearly missed, and OMANE looks forward to their participation in future events.
If you are, or know of, a Martinian in the region, OMANE warmly invites you to connect with the community. For more information about OMANE and upcoming events, please contact Kaplesh Kumar, Rajiv Sharma, Siddharta Jeewan, or Syed Ali Rizvi.
Here are some beautiful memories from the evening-
