Seven Star Status


7 STAR PROGRAMME OF GRAND LODGE OF INDIA.

2009

Our Lodge got the Certificate of Participation

MINIMUM NET ADDITION OF 2 INITIATE MEMBERS

  1. We have initiated 6 New Members between January 2009 till Sept. 2009 and 1 member has joined during the period, No members have resigned – As such a total of 7 subscribing members has been added to our Lodge during this period. The details are as under :
    1. Bro. Girish MIshra initiated on 25th February 2009
    2. Bro. Anirudh Kumeria initiated on 28th March 2009
    3. Bro. Archit Patel initiated on 28th March 2009
    4. Bro. Rohit Pant initiated on 28th March 2009
    5. Bro. Jayesh Modi initiated on 25th April 2009
    6. Bro. Abhijeet Goswami initiated on 25th July 2009
    7. W. Bro. Pramod Kumeria joined on 28th March 2009
  2. The total subscribing membership now stands at 63 as against 56 during the last year.

ONE MASONIC EDUCATION PROGRAMME

We regularly conduct Masonic Education Programs every month for the Brethren of the Lodge.

  1. Our Lodge Website www.masonrymagic.org is continuously updated and carries very interesting aspects of Freemasonry which are read by Masons and Non-Masons.
  2. Prior to holding any regular meeting we conduct a Lodge of Instruction meeting during which the D.O.C. and other Sr. brethren of the lodge explain the significance of the various rituals to the brethren.
  3. During our regular meetings the brethren read papers on Masonic Education collected by the Secretary so as to instill Masonic knowledge amongst the brethren. Preference is given to new initiates to prepare and read papers. All our summons carry the item as an Agenda.
  4. On 19th September 2009 a Masonic Education Program was held at Hotel Metropole which was attended by large number of Masons, Non-Masons and Ladies as also members of the Press. The Chief Guest was Mr. Mukesh Patel a renowned Tax Consultant and orator. The Masonic Education Program was also addressed by M.W. The Grand Master and R.W. The Regional Grand Master.

ONE EDUCATION AID PROGRAMME

We regularly conduct Masonic Education Programs every month for the Brethren of the Lodge.

  1. Our Lodge Website www.masonrymagic.org is continuously updated and carries very interesting aspects of Freemasonry which are read by Masons and Non-Masons.
  2. Prior to holding any regular meeting we conduct a Lodge of Instruction meeting during which the D.O.C. and other Sr. brethren of the lodge explain the significance of the various rituals to the brethren.
  3. During our regular meetings the brethren read papers on Masonic Education collected by the Secretary so as to instill Masonic knowledge amongst the brethren. Preference is given to new initiates to prepare and read papers. All our summons carry the item as an Agenda.
  4. On 19th September 2009 a Masonic Education Program was held at Hotel Metropole which was attended by large number of Masons, Non-Masons and Ladies as also members of the Press. The Chief Guest was Mr. Mukesh Patel a renowned Tax Consultant and orator. The Masonic Education Program was also addressed by M.W. The Grand Master and R.W. The Regional Grand Master.

ONE EDUCATION AID PROGRAMME

  1. "LODGE FELLOWSHIP IT SKILLS CENTRE FOR HEARING IMPAIRED" was set up next to our existing project "LODGE FELLOWSHIP LAB FOR THE HEARING and SPEECH IMPAIRED" at the "Umang" School for Hearing and Speech Impaired children. The project was inaugurated with much fanfare by M.W. Bro. Justice Devinder Gupta, OSM, M.W. The Grand Master in the presence of a number of brethren from various parts of the country. The event was widely covered by the Press and Media and the inauguration was telecast on DD News the same evening. The total cost of the project is approx. Rs. 3.50 lacs including furniture.

    The sole purpose of setting up this project was :

    • Hearing and Speech Impaired are not accepted by the general society
    • Hearing and Speech impaired are financially dependant on their parents as they do not get jobs
    • Hearing and Speech Impaired do not get adequate facilities to hone their skills
    • Hearing and Speech Impaired are still considered as a burden on society by the general public
    • There are no Computer Institutes which are willing to impart I.T. Education to Hearing Impaired.

    Every child suffering from a disability has certain skills which need to be nurtured in the right direction and help them in achieving their ambitions. They need to be properly trained to develop the skills so that they can mingle with the ‘better enabled’ as also become independent, in the sense, that they can earn a livelihood and are not considered as a burden on anybody.

    By setting up this Centre we are confident that we will serve such children and adults and enable them to realize their dreams. This project, too, like our other projects, will serve the differently enabled for years to come and will prove to be another sustainable project.

  2. Since a long time it was the desire of the brethren of Lodge Fellowship to immortalize the name of our Late Bro. Subbu, who was instrumental in reviving Lodge Fellowship and was a leading light in Freemasonry. With this aim in view and considering his cherished dream of educating the under privileged, the brethren of Lodge Fellowship decided to set "W. BRO. M.N. SUBRAMANIAN, LODGE FELLOWSHIP YOUTH DEVELOPMENT CENTRE". A centre which would reach out to those youth who cannot afford to go to premier private schools or tuitions, yet dream of wanting more knowledge through good learning methods and better exposure to the modern world., where youth can be subjected to a holistic personality development program.

    Along with "UNNAT", an NGO run by one of our brethren, Col. Dr. Yashavant Joshi, we were finally able to set up this project which was inaugurated on 20th January 2008 by R.W. Bro. Vasudev Masurekar, R.W. The Regional Grand Master of W.I. in the presence of R.W. Bro. Meher Gimi, The Regional Grand Secretary and W. Bro. Tushar Zaveri, ARGM.

    The centre has been set up at Nobel Nagar in the outskirts of Ahmedabad which is inhabited by people from lower income group and is presently equipped with a Library and a Computer learning centre having 8 computers with multi media projection system, furniture, toys and games. The centre conducts youth development activities like personality programs, spoken English classes, adventure activities, creation of youth forums and takes care of overall development of children as also rehabilitates the women of the area by teaching them sewing skills etc., to make them self reliant. Most importantly, this centre is meant to fill the deficit in the overall development of the children from backward socio-economic background.

    The initial establishment expenses amounting to Rs. 2.50 lacs have been met from the generous contributions received from the brethren of Lodge Fellowship. However, to run this centre, recurring expenses of nearly Rs. 6,000/= p.m. are required for the first 2 years till it starts generating its own income to become self reliant. In an unprecedented move The R.G.L. of W.I. contributed Rs. 72,000/= towards 1 years expense. The monthly recurring expenses are presently being met by the generous contributions from the brethren Lodge Fellowship.

    This centre was recently visited by M.W. The Grand Master and a no. of brethren and their families from across the country on 19th September 2009. The above report is uploaded on our website and on the website of R.G.L. of W.I.

  3. Brethren of Lodge Fellowship have been continuously sponsoring the education of a girl child from the weaker section of society. Till 2006 we had adopted "Neelofer" and had sponsored her education for 5 years till she graduated with flying colors. Since 2007 we adopted "Ms. Dhruvi Deepak Shah" and are committed to support her with all her education expenses including books, stationery, tuition fees, college fees etc. till her Graduation/Post Graduation. A sum of Rs. 5,000/= was dispersed to her for the education expenses during the year 2009.
  4. The country’s first Braille Language Laboratory set up by the brethren of Lodge Fellowship No. 140 at Blind Peoples Association, Ahmedabad and named "LODGE FELLOWSHIP No. 140 G.L.I. BRAILLE LANGUAGE LABORATORY" continues to educate the visually impaired students from KG till graduation level. The project continues to get accolades from across the world and has the distinction of getting the award from Hon. President of India as a unique innovation and invention. Articles about this project have been published in Freemasonry Today, U.K. as also in New York Times, USA, apart from all leading dailies in India, copies attached herewith. The Braille Lab which was inaugurated by M.W. Bro. Dilip D. Udeshi, OSM, has also been visited by M.W. Bro. Arun Chintopanth, OSM, M. W. The Grand Master of G.L.I. during March 2006 and by M.W. Bro. Justice Devinder Gupta, OSM, M.W. The Grand Master of G.L.I. during January 2008 and again on 18th September 2009. A no. of foreign delegations keep on visiting the Lodge Fellowship Braille Language Laboratory.
  5. After a lot of deliberations and as per the feedback received from various Institutes and Schools for the need of a learning aid for the speech and hearing impaired it was concluded that we should develop a Language Laboratory for the speech and hearing impaired who could have a device which could help them in developing their talking and educational skills. Accordingly Lodge Fellowship No. 140 set up a unique computerized Lab for the Hearing and Speech Impaired named "LODGE FELLOWSHIP LAB FOR HEARING and SPEECH IMPAIRED" at a cost of nearly Rs. 4 lacs, which was inaugurated on 12th March 2006 by M.W. The Grand Master, M.W. Bro. Arun Chintopanth, OSM, in the presence of The Past Grand Master, M.W. Bro. Dilip D. Udeshi, OSM, R.W. The Regional Grand Master of India, R.W. Bro. Vasudev Masurekar and other Sr. officers of The G.L.I. and R.G.L of W.I. The above Hearing impaired language laboratory has since proved to be very useful for improving the talking skills, lesson grasping and task reproducibility of the speech and hearing impaired through a self assertive learning device. And will serve the hearing and speech impaired for years to come. The Lab is a permanent installation in a classroom for 10 students with an individual seating arrangement and each student having dedicated equipment for learning by them even in the absence of a teacher. This new unique computerized system of learning has proven to be a pleasurable experience for the hearing and speech impaired and is a novel way of studying by the hearing and speech impaired. The Lab has been widely acclaimed as a unique project. The lab has also been visited by M.W. Bro. Justice Devendra Gupta, OSM, M.W. The Grand Master of G.L.I. in January 2008 and again on 18th September 2009 along with a number of brethren and their families from across the country.

ONE MEDICAL AID PROGRAMME

  1. Since the inauguration of Lodge Fellowship Youth Development Center our Lodge has been conducting Regular Medical Camps, both, Health Check up and Specialized Camps. These are held at Lodge Fellowship Youth Development Centre on the 4th Sunday of every month. Leading Specialists from various medical faculties provide the necessary consultations and medicines including health food are distributed free of cost. The medicines are donated by Zydus Cadila and addl. Medicines required are purchased from the market from the contributions donated by the brethren. From February 2008 till September 2009 over 3000 patients have attended the various camps. Proper records of each patient are kept at the center for future reference. One week prior to the medical camp, printed leaflets are distributed in the nearby colonies detailing the program of the medical camp etc. so that maximum patients can avail free consultation and medicines.
  2. Brethren of Lodge Fellowship had set up the Centre for Paraplegic patients in association with Blind Peoples Association at Bhuj in Kutch for free life long treatment of paraplegic patients affected by the earthquake. The center has been rendering regular service and has helped rehabilitate a no. of patients including children. The building was adjudged as the most easily approachable building in India by a person with any disability.
  3. W. Bro. Dr. Bipin Naik provides free consultation and treatment to the children at our project, "Lodge Fellowship Early Intervention Centre for Multiple Disabled Children" where children are diagnosed for any disability and early corrective measures are taken including rehabilitating them as also training the parents in bringing up children with special needs.
  4. Our W. Bro. Dr. Iqbal Hakim has been rendering yeoman’s service by providing free psychiatric treatment regularly to the people who cannot afford professional help.
  5. With the support of The Regional Grand Lodge of W.I. and Masonic Ladies Association of Mumbai, Lodge Fellowship has been continuously supporting the children suffering from curable cancer at the Gujarat Cancer Society, Ahmedabad.

ONE NON - MEDICAL COMMUNITY AID PROGRAMME

  1. Lodge Fellowship undertook a unique project of holding a Smart Youth Development Camp along with "Unnat Academy of Human Excellence" near Ahmedabad in the beautiful environs of The Institute of Sanitation. The youth stayed together as a community, cooked, washed utensils and developed the sense of sharing. This 3 day in-house workshop was held from 21st May to 23rd May.

    The various objectives of holding the camp were :

    1. To bring about awareness in physical fitness and mental health.
    2. To lead towards path of Self-Development.
    3. To impart lessons on Study Management.
    4. To create a sense of social/national responsibility.
    5. To create an overall feeling of "well-being"

    The content of the Program in brief was :

    • Personality Development
    • Physical Robustness
    • Positive Health
    • Leadership
    • Effective Communication
    • Goal Setting and Positive Attitude
    • Manners and Etiquettes
    • Vital Youth Training

    The Youth were trained to Organise Cultural Programmes, Organise Social Events, Develop Creative Skills, Removing Stage Fear and participated in various Outdoor Adventure. During the closing ceremony all participants were given Mementos and Certificates and were asked to relate their experiences during the 3 day camp.

  2. The Lodge Fellowship Youth Development Center which was set up in January 2008 conducts youth development activities like personality programs, spoken English classes, adventure activities, creation of youth forums and takes care of overall development of children as also rehabilitates the women of the area by teaching them sewing skills etc., to make them self reliant. Most importantly, this centre is meant to fill the deficit in the overall development of the children, youth and women from backward socio-economic background. Street Plays (Nukkad Nataks) etc. are organized which stress the need of education and taking care of the environment.
  3. Lodge Fellowship is the first lodge to have started collecting alms for Dhanyadhan at all its meetings. The total contribution is then used to buy grains to be distributed to the needy. A separate account is kept for this purpose exclusively. On the occasion of the Universal Brotherhood Day on 24th June 2009 grains worth Rs. 5,000/= were distributed to the poor families of a slum in Ahmedabad. Apart from distributing grains the slum children were given a sumptuous meal. A special medical camp was also organized on the occasion and free medicines were distributed to the needy.
  4. The "Lodge Fellowship Early Intervention Centre for Multiple Disabled Children" set up by the Brethren of Lodge Fellowship at a cost of nearly Rs. 1.5 lacs. in collaboration with Blind Peoples Association has been acclaimed in Ahmedabad as a unique project. This is a continuous project of our Lodge and is equipped with modern developmental equipments, exercise equipments, electrical therapy equipments, parallel bars, exercise cycle and other equipments for the muscular development, positioning and motor development of the children with multiple disabilities. The Assessment Room is equipped with the following :

    • Vision screening through vision drum, color wheel and toys
    • Auditory screening and perception through toys and equipments having different sounds
    • Parallel bar, mats, drum and staircase for assessing balance and walking ability
    • Awareness of different senses through sensory box and resonance board

    All the children are assessed by doctors before they come to the center and hence the assessments described above are functional and commonsensical. Based on the above assessment, individual training program is developed. The progress of children is monitored from time to time and they are helped to acquire new set skills for independent living. The Center was inaugurated by M.W. Bro. Arun Chintopanth, M.W. The Grand Master on 4th October 2006. This is the only such center in this part of the country that provides intervention as early as in children aged 6 months and above. The center was also visited by M.W. Bro. Justice Devendra Gupta, OSM, M.W. The Grand Master in January 2009 and again on 18th September 2009.

  5. The community in general has the facilities for various non-medical aid programs, as such it was decided by the Brethren of Lodge Fellowship to render a worthwhile service to the children who are deaf and mute as also hearing and speech impaired, accordingly, Lodge Fellowship set up the "LODGE FELLOWSHIP No. 140 G.L.I. LAB FOR HEARING and SPEECH IMPAIRED" at Ahmedabad at a cost of nearly Rs. 4 lacs. This has been rendering continuous service to the hearing and speech impaired.

ONE PROGRAMME INTERACTING WITH NON - MASONS

  1. On 19th September 2009 a Masonic Education Program was held at Hotel Metropole which was attended by large number of Masons, Non-Masons and Ladies as also members of the Press. The Chief Guest was Mr. Mukesh Patel a renowned Tax Consultant and orator. The Masonic Education Program was also addressed by M.W. The Grand Master and R.W. The Regional Grand Master.
  2. On the occasion of Universal Brotherhood Day on 24th June 2009, the Brethren of Lodge Fellowship met at a slum of Ahmedabad where hundreds of Non-Masons, women and children were present. On this occasion the Brethren of Lodge Fellowship interacted with the Non-Masons.
  3. On occasion of the medical camps which are conducted on 4th Sunday of every month our brethren interact with hundreds of non masons who throng the center.
  4. Our official website www.masonrymagic.org which was adjudged the best website during 2005, 2006 and 2008 has been attracting a no. of non masons for the quality of contents which give an insight into freemasonry and its origins in general and to the activities of Lodge Fellowship in particular. By visiting our website 3 new members joined us who had got highly impressed by the contents of the website. We have started working on a unique concept of starting an interactive Masonic Quiz competition on our website, the content for which is under development and will be launched within the current year. The visitors, both Masons and Non-Masons will be able to visit our website and participate in the quiz competition which will have different difficulty levels. A person who scores the highest will be duly awarded by Lodge Fellowship No. 140.

SUBSCRIBING TO THE GRAND MASTERS RUPEE CLUB and TO THE SQUARE and COMPASS

  1. Out of a total strength of 63 subscribing members as on date of this report, we have 14 non resident members, thus there are 49 regular subscribing local members. Out of 49 regular local subscribing members 43 brethren of Lodge Fellowship are Regular Subscribers to the "Square and Compass" for the year 2009 viz. 88% of the total strength. The non - subscribers are the non - resident members, some staying abroad.
  2. Out of a total strength of 63 subscribing members as on date of this report, we have 14 non resident members, thus there are 49 regular subscribing local members. Out of 49 regular local subscribing members 33 brethren of Lodge Fellowship are currently members of "The Grand Masters Rupee Club" for the year 2009-2010 viz. 68 % of the total strength. One of our brethren is a Life Member of the Grand Masters Rupee Club.


OTHER DETAILS / ACHIEVEMENTS OF LODGE FELLOWSHIP

  1. Our Lodge has been adjudged as "THE LODGE OF THE YEAR" for the second consecutive year, 2007-2008 and 2008-2009 – A unique achievement.
  2. Our Lodge has been awarded the Prestigious R.W. Bro. Dinshah Madon Trophy (Charity) for 2006-2007 and 2008-2009 by R.W. The Regional Grand Master of W.I.
  3. Our Lodge was awarded the Prestigious R.W. Bro. D.B. Engineer Trophy for Social Service Project for the year 2008-2009
  4. Our Secretary W. Bro. Rajiv Sethi was declared as the "Outstanding Mason Of The Year" by R.W. The Regional Grand Master of W.I., during the Half Yearly Special Meeting of R.G.L. of W.I. on 19th Sept’09.
  5. Our Treasurer was awarded the Best Treasurer Award for 2008-2009 by R.G.L. of W.I., this was the 3rd time that the award was given to our Tresurer.
  6. Our Lodge had the distinction of getting the 1st prize in the G.L.I. Lodge website competition for 3 years during 2005, 2006 and 2008.
  7. Our Lodge was awarded the 2nd prize under the G.L.I. 7 star program continuously for 3 years during 2005, 2006 and again in 2007.
  8. We actively participated (14 brethren) in the Area Meeting held at Surat and the power point presentation delivered by our Secretary was highly appreciated by R.W. The Regional Grand Master of W.I.
  9. Every year we contribute towards the publication of the Masonic Year Book of the R.G.L. of W.I.
  10. Twelve brethren from our Lodge attended the Annual meeting of G.L.I. at Mumbai.
  11. The following brethren of our Lodge were given Past Ranks for the year 2009 by The G.L.I. at it’s meeting at Mumbai :

    • W. Bro. Dr. Iqbal Hakim – Past Dy. Grand D.O.C.
    • W. Bro. Bhanu J. Dave – Past Dy. Grand Swd. Br.
    • W. Bro. Dr. Bipin Naik – Past Asst. Grand Secy.
    • W. Bro. Rajiv Sethi – Past Asst. Grand Swd. Br.
    • W. Bro. Alok Kapoor – Past Asst. Grand Std. Br.
    • W. Bro. Suresh Mehra – Past Grand I.G.
    • W. Bro. Mehmood R. Desai – Past Grand Tyler

  12. Our Lodge successfully hosted the Special Half Yearly meeting of The Regional Grand Lodge of W.I. at Ahmedabad on 19th and 20th September 2009.
  13. The services of the following brethren of our Lodge were recognized by The Regional Grand Lodge of Western India and at the Special Meeting at Ahmedabad on 19th September 2009 and they were awarded as under :

    • W. Bro. Rajiv Sethi – OUTSTANDING MASON OF THE YEAR
    • W. Bro. Manjot Singh Oberoi – Regional Grand Masters Plaque
    • W. Bro. Samir Desai – Regional Grand Masters Plaque
    • W. Bro. Ratan Vadvan – Regional Grand Masters Plaque
    • W. Bro. Dr. Vinod Kr. Jain – Regional Grand Masters Plaque
    • W. Bro. Mukesh Shah – Regional Grand Masters Plaque
    • Bro. Madhav Patel – Certificate of Merit
    • Bro. Girish Mishra – Certificate of Merit
    • Bro. Gagan Atreja – Certificate of Merit
    • Bro. Kanhaiyalal Maheshwari – Certificate of Merit
    • Bro. Rajendra Pd. Verma – Certificate of Merit
    • Bro. Vijay Sakarlal Shah – Certificate of Merit

  14. Eight Brethren of our Lodge attended the Annual Investiture meeting of the R. G. L. of W.I. at Nagpur.
  15. The following brethren of our Lodge were given Active and Past Ranks for the year 2009 by The R.G.L. of W.I. at it’s meeting at Nagpur :

    ACTIVE RANKS

    • W. Bro. Suresh Mehra – Sr. R. G. Warden
    • W. Bro. Rajiv Sethi – Regional Grand D.O.C.
    • W. Bro. Madhav Kulkarni – R. G. Supdt. Of Works
    • W. Bro. Ratan Vadvan – R. G. Std. Br.
    • W. Bro. Manjot Singh Oberoi – R.G. Stwd.

    PAST RANKS

    • W. Bro. Dr. Iqbal R Hakim – Past Dy. R.G. Master
    • W. Bro. Dr. Bipin R. Naik – Past A.R.G.M.
    • W. Bro. Rajiv Sethi – Past R.G. Registrar
    • W. Bro. Alok Mirhoutra – Past R. G. DOC
    • W. Bro. Mehmood R. Desai – Past Sr. R. G. Deacon
    • W. Bro. Ashok Bhatia – Past R. G. Br. Of VSL
    • W. Bro. Ganesh Nayak – Past Asst. R. G. DOC
    • W. Bro. Dr. Arun Atrey – Past R. G. Marshall


2008

MINIMUM NET ADDITION OF 2 INITIATE MEMBERS

  1. We have initiated 2 New Members between January 2008 till Sept. 2008 and 3 members have joined during the period, 2 members resigned – As such a total of 3 subscribing members have been added to our Lodge during this period. The details are as under
    1. Bro. Ashish Vora initiated on 28th June 2008
    2. Bro.Madhav Patel initiated on 26th July 2008
    3. W. Bro. Col. R. D. Ganguli joined on 20th January 2008
    4. Bro. Basant Bakaliya joined on 20th January 2008
    5. W. Bro. Alok Mirhoutra rejoined on 28th June 2008

  2. The total subscribing membership now stands at 56 as against 53 during the last year.

ONE MASONIC EDUCATION PROGRAMME

We regularly conduct Masonic Education Programs every month for the Brethren of the Lodge.

  1. Our Lodge Website www.masonrymagic.org is continuously updated and carries very interesting aspects of Freemasonry which are read by Masons and Non-Masons.
  2. Prior to holding any regular meeting we conduct a Lodge of Instruction meeting during which the D.O.C. and other Sr. brethren of the lodge explain the significance of the various rituals to the brethren.
  3. During our regular meetings the brethren read papers on Masonic Education collected by the Secretary so as to instill Masonic knowledge amongst the brethren. Preference is given to new initiates to prepare and read papers. All our summons carry the item as an Agenda.

ONE EDUCATION AID PROGRAMME

  1. Since a long time it was the desire of the brethren of Lodge Fellowship to immortalize the name of our Late Bro. Subbu, who was instrumental in reviving Lodge Fellowship and was a leading light in Freemasonry. With this aim in view and considering his cherished dream of educating the under privileged, the brethren of Lodge Fellowship decided to set W. BRO. M.N. SUBRAMANIAN, LODGE FELLOWSHIP YOUTH DEVELOPMENT CENTRE . A centre which would reach out to those youth who cannot afford to go to premier private schools or tuitions, yet dream of wanting more knowledge through good learning methods and better exposure to the modern world., where youth can be subjected to a holistic personality development program.

    Along with UNNAT , an NGO run by one of our brethren, Col. Dr. Yashavant Joshi, we were finally able to set up this project which was inaugurated on 20th January 2008 by R.W. Bro. Vasudev Masurekar, R.W. The Regional Grand Master of W.I. in the presence of R.W. Bro. Meher Gimi, The Regional Grand Secretary and W. Bro. Tushar Zaveri, ARGM.

    The centre has been set up at Nobel Nagar in the outskirts of Ahmedabad which is inhabited by people from lower income group and is presently equipped with a Library and a Computer learning centre having 8 computers with multi media projection system, furniture, toys and games. The centre conducts youth development activities like personality programs, spoken English classes, adventure activities, creation of youth forums and takes care of overall development of children as also rehabilitates the women of the area by teaching them sewing skills etc., to make them self reliant. Most importantly, this centre is meant to fill the deficit in the overall development of the children from backward socio-economic background.

    The initial establishment expenses amounting to Rs. 1.20 lacs have been met from the generous contributions received from the brethren of Lodge Fellowship. However, to run this centre, recurring expenses of nearly Rs. 6,000/= p.m. are required for the first 2 years till it starts generating its own income to become self reliant. The R.G.L. of W.I. donated Rs. 12,000/= towards 2 months expenses. The monthly recurring expenses are presently being met by the generous contributions from the brethren Lodge Fellowship.
  2. Brethren of Lodge Fellowship have been continuously sponsoring the education of a child from the weaker section of society. Till 2006 we had adopted Neelofer and had sponsored her education for 5 years till she graduated with flying colors. Since 2007 we adopted Ms. Dhruvi Deepak Shah and are committed to support her with all her education expenses including books, stationery, tuition fees, college fees etc. till her Graduation/Post Graduation. A sum of Rs. 3,000/= was dispersed to her for the education expenses during the year 2008.
  3. The country’s first Braille Language Laboratory set up by the brethren of Lodge Fellowship No. 140 at Blind Peoples Association, Ahmedabad and named LODGE FELLOWSHIP No. 140 G.L.I. BRAILLE LANGUAGE LABORATORY continues to educate the visually impaired students from KG till graduation level. The project continues to get accolades from across the world and has the distinction of getting the award from Hon. President of India as a unique innovation and invention. Articles about this project have been published in Freemasonry Today, U.K. as also in New York Times, USA, apart from all leading dailies in India, copies attached herewith. The Braille Lab which was inaugurated by M.W. Bro. Dilip D. Udeshi, OSM, has also been visited by M.W. Bro. Arun Chintopanth, OSM, M.W. The Grand Master of G.L.I. during March 2006 and by M.W. Bro. Justice Devendra Gupta, OSM, M.W. The Grand Master of G.L.I. during January 2008. A no. of foreign delegations keep on visiting the Lodge Fellowship Braille Language Laboratory.

    After a lot of deliberations and as per the feedback received from various Institutes and Schools for the need of a learning aid for the speech and hearing impaired it was concluded that we should develop a Language Laboratory for the speech and hearing impaired who could have a device which could help them in developing their talking and educational skills. Accordingly Lodge Fellowship No. 140 set up a unique computerized Lab for the Hearing and Speech Impaired at a cost of nearly Rs. 4 lacs, which was inaugurated on 12th March 2006 by M.W. The Grand Master, M.W. Bro. Arun Chintopanth, OSM, in the presence of The Past Grand Master, M.W. Bro. Dilip D. Udeshi, OSM, R.W. The Regional Grand Master of India, R.W. Bro. Vasudev Masurekar and other Sr. officers of The G.L.I. and R.G.L of W.I. The above Hearing impaired language laboratory has since proved to be very useful for improving the talking skills, lesson grasping and task reproducibility of the speech and hearing impaired through a self assertive learning device. And will serve the hearing and speech impaired for years to come. The Lab is a permanent installation in a classroom for 10 students with an individual seating arrangement and each student having dedicated equipment for learning by them even in the absence of a teacher. This new unique computerized system of learning has proven to be a pleasurable experience for the hearing and speech impaired and is a novel way of studying by the hearing and speech impaired. The Lab has been widely acclaimed as a unique project. The lab has also been visited by M.W. Bro. Justice Devendra Gupta, OSM, M.W. The Grand Master of G.L.I. in January 2008.

ONE MEDICAL AID PROGRAMME

  1. Since the inauguration of Lodge Fellowship Youth Development Center our Lodge has been conducting regular Medical Camps, both, Health Check up and Specialized Camps. These are held at Lodge Fellowship Youth Development Centre on the 4th Sunday of every month. Leading Specialists from various medical faculties provide the necessary consultations and medicines including health food are distributed free of cost. The medicines are donated by Zydus Cadila and addl. Medicines required are purchased from the market from the contributions donated by the brethren. From February 2008 till August 2008 over 2000 patients have attended the various camps. Proper records of each patient are kept at the center for future reference. One week prior to the medical camp, printed leaflets are distributed in the nearby colonies detailing the program of the medical camp etc. so that maximum patients can avail free consultation and medicines.
  2. Brethren of Lodge Fellowship had set up the Centre for Paraplegic patients in association with Blind Peoples Association at Bhuj in Kutch for free life long treatment of paraplegic patients affected by the earthquake. The center has been rendering regular service and has helped rehabilitate a no. of patients including children. The building was adjudged as the most easily approachable building in India by a person with any disability.
  3. From the generous contribution of Rs. 21,000/= received from R.W. Bro. Mehar Gimi, we sponsored free cataract operations of 6 patients including the cost of lens. The operations were organised by our W. Bro. Dr. Bipin Naik.
  4. Our Lodge also met the expenses of Rs. 5,000/= required by a needy person for restoration of his eyesight.
  5. W. Bro. Dr. Bipin Naik is also providing free consultation and treatment to the children at our new project, Lodge Fellowship Early Intervention Centre for Multiple Disabled Children
  6. Our W. Bro. Dr. Iqbal Hakim has been rendering yeoman’s service by providing free psychiatric treatment regularly to the people who cannot afford professional help.
  7. With the support of The Regional Grand Lodge of W.I., Lodge Fellowship has been continuously supporting the children suffering from curable cancer at the Gujarat Cancer Society, Ahmedabad.

ONE NON - MEDICAL COMMUNITY AID PROGRAMME

  1. The Lodge Fellowship Youth Development Center which was set up in January 2008 conducts youth development activities like personality programs, spoken English classes, adventure activities, creation of youth forums and takes care of overall development of children as also rehabilitates the women of the area by teaching them sewing skills etc., to make them self reliant. Most importantly, this centre is meant to fill the deficit in the overall development of the children, youth and women from backward socio-economic background. Street Plays (Nukkad Nataks) etc. are organized which stress the need of education and taking care of the environment. One such event was witnessed by R.W. The Regional Grand Master of W.I. in January 2008.
  2. Lodge Fellowship is the first lodge to have started collecting alms for Dhanyadhan at all its meetings. The total contribution is then used to buy grains to be distributed to the needy. A separate account is kept for this purpose exclusively. On the occasion of the Universal Brotherhood Day on 24th June 2008 grains worth Rs. 5,000/= were distributed to the poor families of Nobel Nagar from Lodge Fellowship Youth Development Center. This solemn occasion was attended by the local corporator, Mrs. Kodwani, who presided over the function and appreciated the gesture of the brethren of Lodge Fellowship.
  3. The Lodge Fellowship Early Intervention Centre for Multiple Disabled Children set up by the Brethren of Lodge Fellowship at a cost of nearly Rs. 1.5 lacs. in collaboration with Blind Peoples Association has been acclaimed in Ahmedabad as a unique project. This is a continuous project of our Lodge and is equipped with modern developmental equipments, exercise equipments, electrical therapy equipments, parallel bars, exercise cycle and other equipments for the muscular development, positioning and motor development of the children with multiple disabilities. The Assessment Room is equipped with the following :

    Vision screening through vision drum, color wheel and toys
    Auditory screening and perception through toys and equipments having different sounds
    Parallel bar, mats, drum and staircase for assessing balance and walking ability
    Awareness of different senses through sensory box and resonance board

    All the children are assessed by doctors before they come to the center and hence the assessments described above are functional and commonsensical. Based on the above assessment, individual training program is developed. The progress of children is monitored from time to time and they are helped to acquire new set skills for independent living. The Center was inaugurated by M.W. Bro. Arun Chintopanth, M.W. The Grand Master on 4th October 2006. This is the only such center in this part of the country that provides intervention as early as in children aged 6 months and above. The center was also visited by M.W. Bro. Justice Devendra Gupta, OSM, M.W. The Grand Master in January 2008.
  4. The community in general has the facilities for various non-medical aid programs, as such it was decided by the Brethren of Lodge Fellowship to render a worthwhile service to the children who are deaf and mute as also hearing and speech impaired, accordingly, Lodge Fellowship set up the LODGE FELLOWSHIP No. 140 G.L.I. LAB FOR HEARING and SPEECH IMPAIRED at Ahmedabad at a cost of nearly Rs. 4 lacs. This has been rendering continuous service to the hearing and speech impaired.

ONE PROGRAMME INTERACTING WITH NON - MASONS

  1. On the occasion of inauguration of Lodge Fellowship Youth Development Center there was a gathering of nearly 300 non masons, women and children. This occasion provided the right platform to interact with non masons. Our brethren informed the gathering about the principles and various activities of Freemasonry in general and Lodge Fellowship in particular. A no. of their questions and queries were answered. On this occasion R.W. The Regional Grand Master of W.I. and The Secretary of The R.G.L. of W.I. also interacted and addressed the gathering.
  2. On the occasion of Universal Brotherhood Day on 24th June 2008, the Brethren of Lodge Fellowship met at the Lodge Fellowship Youth Development Center where hundreds of Non-Masons, women and children were present. On this occasion the Brethren of Lodge Fellowship interacted with the Non-Masons.
  3. On occasion of the medical camps which are conducted on 4th Sunday of every month our brethren interact with hundreds of non masons who throng the center.
  4. Our official website www.masonrymagic.org which was adjudged the best website during 2005 and 2006 has been attracting a no. of non masons for the quality of contents which give an insight into freemasonry and its origins in general and to the activities of Lodge Fellowship in particular. By visiting our website we got 3 new members who had got highly impressed by the contents of the website. We have started working on a unique concept of starting an interactive Masonic Quiz competition on our website, the content for which is under development and will be launched within the current year. The visitors, both Masons and Non-Masons will be able to visit our website and participate in the quiz competition which will have different difficulty levels. A person who scores the highest will be duly awarded by Lodge Fellowship No. 140.

SUBSCRIBING TO THE GRAND MASTERS RUPEE CLUB AND TO THE SQUARE AND COMPASS

  1. Out of a total strength of 56 subscribing members as on date of this report, we have 12 non resident members, thus there are 44 regular subscribing local members. Out of 44 regular local subscribing members 40 brethren of Lodge Fellowship are Regular Subscribers to the Square and Compass for the year 2008 viz. 91% of the total strength. The non - subscribers are the non - resident members, some staying abroad.
  2. Out of a total strength of 56 subscribing members as on date of this report, we have 12 non resident members, thus there are 44 regular subscribing local members. Out of 44 regular local subscribing members 29 brethren of Lodge Fellowship are currently members of The Grand Masters Rupee Club for the year 2008 viz. 66 % of the total strength. One of our brethren is a Life Member of the Grand Masters Rupee Club.

OTHER DETAILS / ACHIEVEMENTS OF LODGE FELLOWSHIP

  1. Our Lodge has been awarded the Prestigious R.W. Bro. Dinshah Madon Trophy (Charity) for 2006-2007 by R.W. The Regional Grand Master of W.I. at the Special Meeting of The Regional Grand Lodge of W.I., held at Bhopal on 22nd September 2007.
  2. Our Lodge had the distinction of getting the 1st prize in the G.L.I. Lodge website competition 2005 and again in 2006.
  3. Our Lodge was awarded the 2nd prize under the G.L.I. 7 star program continuously for 3 years during 2005, 2006 and again in 2007.
  4. We actively participated (13 brethren) in the Area Meeting held at Rajkot and the power point presentation delivered by our Secretary was highly appreciated by both M.W. The Grand Master and R.W. The Regional Grand Master of W.I.
  5. We have contributed towards the publication of the Masonic Year Book of the R.G.L. of W.I.
  6. Three brethren from our Lodge attended the Annual meeting of G.L.I. at Chennai.
  7. The following brethren of our Lodge were given Active and Past Ranks for the year 2008 by The G.L.I. at it’s meeting at Chennai :
    W. Bro. Rajiv Sethi – Asst. Grand Std. Br.
    W. Bro. Dr. Iqbal Hakim – Past Dy. Grand Sword Br.
    W. Bro. Bhanu J. Dave – Past Grand Supdt. Of Wks.
    W.Bro. Dr. Bipin Naik – Past Asst. Grand D.O.C.
    W. Bro. Suresh Mehra – Past Asst. Grand I.G.
    W.Bro. Alok Mehrotra – Past Asst. Grand I.G.

  8. Six Brethren from our Lodge attended the Special Half Yearly meeting of The Regional Grand Lodge of W.I. at Bhopal on 22nd September 2007 as also the Special Half Yearly meeting of Regional Grand Lodge of W.I. at Nashik on 27th September 2008.
  9. Three brethren from our Lodge attended the Half Yearly meeting of Regional Grand Lodge of N.I. at Ajmer on 20th September 2008.
  10. Five Brethren of our Lodge attended the Annual Investiture meeting of the R. G. L. of W.I. at Nagpur.
  11. The services of the following brethren of our Lodge was recognized by The Regional Grand Lodge of Western India and at the Special Meeting at Bhopal on 22nd September 2007 they were awarded as under :

    W. Bro. Suresh Mehra – Regional Grand Masters Plaque – 2007
    W. Bro. Madhav S. Kulkarni – Regional Grand Masters Plaque – 2007
    Bro. Dilip C. Davawala – Regional Grand Masters Plaque – 2007
    W. Bro. Dr. Arun Atrey – Certificate of Merit
    Bro. Manjot Singh Oberoi – Certificate of Merit
    Bro. Samir Desai – Certificate of Merit

  12. The following brethren of our Lodge were given Active and Past Ranks for the year 2008 by The R.G.L.I. at it’s meeting at Nagpur :
    W. Bro. Rajiv Sethi – Regional Grand D.O.C.
    W. Bro. Suresh Mehra – Past Sr. R. G. Warden
    W. Bro. Alok Mirhoutra – Past Sr. R. G. Deacon
    W. Bro. Mehmood R. Desai – Past Jr. R. G. Deacon
    W. Bro. Ashok Bhatia – Past R. G. Sw. Br.
    W. Bro. Madhav Kulkarni – Past Asst. R. G. Secy.
    W. Bro. Ganesh Nayak – Past R. G. Std. Br.
    W. Bro. Ratan Vadvan – Past R. G. Marshall
    W. Bro. Vikas Arora – Past R. G. Marshall
    W. Bro. Dr. Arun Atrey – Past R.G.I.G.

  13. During the year we added 2 brethren from Northern Region and one brother from overseas as members of our Lodge, who were inspired after having viewed the various unique projects undertaken by our Lodge on our Website.

2007

OUR LODGE WON THE SECOND PRIZE UNDER THE SEVEN STAR PROGRAM FOR 2007

MINIMUM NET ADDITION OF 2 INITIATE MEMBERS

  1. We initiated 3 New Members between January 2007 till Sept. 2007 and 2 members had joined As such a total of 5 members were added to our Lodge during this period. The details are as under :
    1. Bro. Dr. Satyajit Dixit initiated on 24th Feb. 2007
    2. Bro. Lt. Col. Himmat Singh Kaushal initiated on 24th March 2007
    3. Bro. Col. Dr. Yashavant Joshi initiated on 28th July 2007
    4. W. Bro. Harshadray Joshi joined on 27th January 2007
    5. W. Bro. Harshadray Joshi joined on 27th January 2007
  2. The total membership now stands at 54 as against 49 during the last year.

ONE MASONIC EDUCATION PROGRAMME

We regularly conduct Masonic Education Programs every month for the Brethren of the Lodge.

  1. Our Lodge Website www.masonrymagic.org is continuously updated & carries very interesting aspects of Freemasonry which are read by Masons & Non-Masons.
  2. Prior to holding any regular meeting we conduct a Lodge of Instruction meeting during which the D.O.C. & other Sr. brethren of the lodge explain the significance of the various rituals to the brethren.
  3. During our regular meetings the brethren read out papers on Masonic Education prepared by them so as to instill Masonic knowledge amongst the brethren. Preference is given to new initiates to prepare & read papers. All our summons carry the item as an Agenda.

ONE EDUCATION AID PROGRAMME

  1. On the occasion of the Universal Brotherhood Day our Lodge contributed a sum of Rs. 5,000/= to Unnat Gram Samaj Nirman Kendra, an N.G.O. for Education of Slum & Anganwadi children.
  2. Again on the occasion of the Universal Brotherhood day our Lodge contributed a sum of Rs. 5,000/= to F.D. Education Society for starting certain special activities for the children as also meet the expenses of children who cannot afford education. F. D. Education Society runs a school till the board level at Juhapura in Ahmedabad. The Principal and teachers of the school who were present on the occasion thanked the brethren of Lodge Fellowship for their noble gesture. Both the above reports have been reported in "Square & Compass"
  3. Brethren of Lodge Fellowship have been continuously sponsoring the education of a child from the weaker section of society. Till last year we had adopted "Neelofer" and had sponsored her education for the last 5 years till she graduated with flying colors. In the current year we adopted "Ms. Dhruvi Deepak Shah" and are committed to support her with all her education expenses including books, stationery, tuition fees, college fees etc. till her Graduation/Post Graduation. A sum of Rs. 3,000/= was dispersed to her for the expenses during the year 2007.
  4. The countrys first Braille Language Laboratory set up by the brethren of Lodge Fellowship No. 140 at Blind Peoples Association, Ahmedabad and named "LODGE FELLOWSHIP No. 140 G.L.I. BRAILLE LANGUAGE LABORATORY" continues to educate the visually impaired students from KG till graduation level. The project continues to get accolades from across the world and has the distinction of getting the award from Hon. President of India as a unique innovation & invention. Articles about this project have been published in Freemasonry Today, U.K. as also in New York Times, USA, apart from all leading dailies in India, copies attached herewith. The Braille Lab which was inaugurated by M.W. Bro. Dilip D. Udeshi, OSM, has also been visited by M.W. Bro. Arun Chintopanth, OSM, M.W. The Grand Master of G.L.I. during March 2006. A no. of foreign delegations keep on visiting the Lodge Fellowship Braille Language Laboratory.
  5. After a lot of deliberations and as per the feedback received from various Institutes and Schools for the need of a learning aid for the speech & hearing impaired it was concluded that we should develop a Language Laboratory for the speech & hearing impaired who could have a device which could help them in developing their talking & educational skills. Accordingly Lodge Fellowship No. 140 set up a unique computerized Lab for the Hearing & Speech Impaired at a cost of nearly Rs. 4 lacs, which was inaugurated on 12th March 2006 by M.W. The Grand Master, M.W. Bro. Arun Chintopanth, OSM, in the presence of The Past Grand Master, M.W. Bro. Dilip D. Udeshi, OSM, R.W. The Regional Grand Master of India, R.W. Bro. Vasudev Masurekar & other Sr. officers of The G.L.I. & R.G.L of W.I. The above Hearing impaired language laboratory has since proved to be very useful for improving the talking skills, lesson grasping and task reproducibility of the speech & hearing impaired through a self assertive learning device. And will serve the hearing & speech impaired for years to come. The Lab is a permanent installation in a classroom for 10 students with an individual seating arrangement & each student having dedicated equipment for learning by themselves even in the absence of a teacher. This new unique computerized system of learning has proven to be a pleasurable experience for the hearing & speech impaired & is a novel way of studying by the hearing & speech impaired. The Lab has been widely acclaimed as a unique project.

ONE MEDICAL AID PROGRAMME

  1. Brethren of Lodge Fellowship had set up the Centre for Paraplegic patients in association with Blind Peoples Association at Bhuj in Kutch for free life long treatment of paraplegic patients affected by the earthquake. The center has been rendering regular service & has helped rehabilitate a no. of patients including children. The building was adjudged as the most easily approachable building in India by a person with any disability.
  2. With the support of The Regional Grand Lodge of W.I., Lodge Fellowship has been continuously supporting the children suffering from curable cancer at the Gujarat Cancer Society, Ahmedabad.
  3. Our W. Bro. Dr. Bipin Naik has been regularly performing free eye surgeries for the needy and being a Reiki Grand Master has been serving the society in healing their ailments.
  4. W. Bro. Dr. Bipin Naik is also providing free consultation & treatment to the children at our new project, "Lodge Fellowship Early Intervention Centre for Multiple Disabled Children".
  5. Our W. Bro. Dr. Iqbal Hakim has been rendering yeoman´s service by providing free psychiatric treatment regularly to the people who cannot afford professional help.

ONE NON–MEDICAL COMMUNITY AID PROGRAMME

  1. Lodge Fellowship is the first lodge to have started collected alms for Dhanyadhan at all its meetings. The total contribution is then used to buy grains to be distributed to the needy. A separate account is kept for this purpose exclusively. On the occasion of the Universal Brotherhood Day on 24th June 2007 a sum of Rs. 3,000/= was utilized for providing grains to the needy.
  2. The "Lodge Fellowship Early Intervention Centre for Multiple Disabled Children" set up by the Brethren of Lodge Fellowship at a cost of nearly Rs. 1.5 lacs. in collaboration with Blind Peoples Association has been acclaimed in Ahmedabad as a unique project. This is a continuous project of our Lodge & is equipped with modern developmental equipments, exercise equipments, electrical therapy equipments, parallel bars, exercise cycle and other equipments for the muscular development, positioning and motor development of the children with multiple disabilities. The Assessment Room is equipped with the following :
    1. Vision screening through vision drum, color wheel and toys.
    2. Auditory screening and perception through toys and equipments having different sounds.
    3. Parallel bar, mats, drum and staircase for assessing balance and walking ability.
    4. Awareness of different senses through sensory box and resonance board.
    All the children are assessed by doctors before they come to the center and hence the assessments described above are functional and commonsensical. Based on the above assessment, individual training program is developed. The progress of children is monitored from time to time and they are helped to acquire new set skills for independent living. The Center was inaugurated by M.W. the Grand Master on 4th October 2006. This is the only such center in this part of the country that provides intervention as early as in children aged 6 months & above.
  3. The community in general has the facilities for various non-medical aid programs, as such it was decided by the Brethren of Lodge Fellowship to render a worthwhile service to the children who are deaf & mute as also hearing & speech impaired, accordingly, Lodge Fellowship set up the "LODGE FELLOWSHIP No. 140 G.L.I. LAB FOR HEARING & SPEECH IMPAIRED" at Ahmedabad at a cost of nearly Rs. 4 lacs. This has been rendering continuous service to the hearing & speech impaired.

ONE PROGRAMME INTERACTING WITH NON – MASONS

  1. On the occasion of Universal Brotherhood Day on 24th June 2007, the Brethren of Lodge Fellowship met at the Masonic Temple where a no. of Non-Masons & Ladies were invited. On this occasion the Brethren of Lodge Fellowship interacted with the Non–Masons and our A.R.G.M., W. Bro. Dr. Iqbal Hakim give a lecture pertaining to Freemasonry & the various activities of Freemasons which generated keen interest and resulted in the intake of one new member in our brotherhood from amongst the visitors.
  2. Our official website www.masonrymagic.org which was adjudged the best website during 2005 & 2006 has been attracting a no. of non masons for the quality of contents which give an insight into freemasonry & its origins in general & to the activities of Lodge Fellowship in particular. We have started working on a unique concept of starting an interactive Masonic Quiz competition on our website, the content for which is under development & will be launched within the current year. The visitors, both Masons & Non-Masons will be able to visit our website and participate in the quiz competition which will have different difficulty levels. A person who scores the highest will be duly awarded by Lodge Fellowship No. 140. (Visit www.masonrymagic.org).

SUBSCRIBING TO THE GRAND MASTERS RUPEE CLUB & TO THE SQUARE & COMPASS

  1. Out of a total strength of 54 subscribing members, as on the date of this report 41 members of Lodge Fellowship are Regular Subscribers to the "Square & Compass" viz. 76% of the total strength. The non – subscribers are the non – resident members, some staying abroad.
  2. Out of a total strength of 54 subscribing members, 28 Brethren of Lodge Fellowship are currently members of the "Grand Masters Rupee Club" for the year 2007 viz. 52% of the total strength.

OTHER DETAILS / ACHIEVEMENTS OF LODGE FELLOWSHIP

  1. We have contributed towards the publication of the Masonic Year Book of the R.G.L. of W.I.
  2. Our DOC, W. Bro. Suresh Mehra & Secretary, W. Bro. Rajiv Sethi participated in the Inter Region Ritual working competition & was part of the western region team at New Delhi.
  3. Our Lodge had the distinction of getting the 1st prize in the Lodge website competition 2005 & again in 2006.
  4. Our Lodge was awarded the 2nd prize under the G.L.I. 7 star program during 2005 & again in 2006.
  5. Our Lodge has been awarded the Prestigious R.W. Bro. Dinshah Madon Trophy (Charity) for 2006-2007 by R.W. The Regional Grand Master of W.I. at the Special Meeting of The Regional Grand Lodge of W.I., held at Bhopal on 22nd September 2007.
  6. The services of the following brethren of our Lodge were recognized by The Regional Grand Lodge of Western India & at the Special Meeting at Bhopal on 22nd September 2007 they were awarded as under :
    W. Bro. Suresh Mehra – Regional Grand Masters Plaque – 2007
    W. Bro. Madhav S. Kulkarni – Regional Grand Masters Plaque – 2007
    Bro. Dilip C. Davawala – Regional Grand Masters Plaque – 2007
    W. Bro. Dr. Arun Atrey – Certificate of Merit
    Bro. Manjot Singh Oberoi – Certificate of Merit
    Bro. Samir Desai – Certificate of Merit
  7. Six Brethren attended the Annual meeting of the R. G. L. of W.I. at Pune.
  8. Six Brethren attended the Special Half Yearly meeting of The Regional Grand Lodge of W.I. at Bhopal on 22nd September 2007.
  9. Our D.O.C., W. Bro. Suresh Mehra was given the Active Rank of Grand Steward for the year 2007.
  10. Six Brethren were given Past Ranks by The G.L.I. during the year :
    W. Bro. Bhanu J. Dave – Past Asst. Grand Sword Br.
    W.Bro. Jehangir P.R. Vakil – Past Asst. Grand Sword Br.
    W.Bro. Dr. Bipin Naik – Past Asst. Grand Std. Br.
    W.Bro. Rajiv Sethi – Past Asst. Grand Std. Br.
    W. Bro. Alok Kapoor – Past Grand Marshal
    W.Bro. Alok Mehrotra – Past Asst. Grand I.G.
  11. Three Brethren were given Active Ranks by The R.G.L. of W.I. during the year.
    W. Bro. Dr. Iqbal R. Hakim – A.R.G.M.
    W. Bro. Rajiv Sethi – Jr. Regional Grand Deacon
    W. Bro. Ratan Vadvan – Asst. Regional Inner Guard
  12. Eight Brethren were given Past Ranks by the R.G.L. of W.I. during the year.
    W.Bro. Suresh Mehra – Past Regional Grand Secretary
    W. Bro. Alok Mirhoutra – Past Jr. Regional Grand Deacon
    W. Bro. Mehmood R. Desai – Past R.G. VSL Br.
    W. Bro. Ashok Bhatia – Past Dy. R.G.D.O.C.
    W. Bro. Madhav Kulkarni – Past A.R.G. D.O.C.
    W.Bro. Ganesh Nayak – Past Asst. Regional Grand Std. Br.
    W.Bro. Vikas Arora – Past R.G. I.G.
    W.Bro. Mukesh Shah – Past R.G. Steward
  13. During the year we added 2 brethren from overseas as members of our Lodge, who were inspired after having viewed the various unique projects undertaken by our Lodge on our Website. W. Bro. Harshadray Joshi & W. Bro. Jashwant Joshi joined our Lodge as subscribing members.

2006

OUR LODGE WON THE SECOND PRIZE UNDER THE SEVEN STAR PROGRAM FOR 2006

MINIMUM NET ADDITION OF 2 INITIATE MEMBERS

  1. We have initiated 2 New Members between January 2006 till Sept. 2006 and 3 members have joined – As such a total of 5 members have joined our Lodge during this period. The details are as under :
    1. Bro. Dr. Manoj Gumber initiated on 25th Feb. 2006
    2. Bro. Vijay S. Shah initiated in August 2006
    3. Bro. Aman Preet Singh Saluja joined on 2nd February 2006
    4. W. Bro. Alok Mirhoutra joined on 25th February 2006
    5. W. Bro. Alok Kapoor joined on 24th June 2006
  2. Membership of 1 Bro. C. B. Pradeep Kumar was ceased on account of Non payment of dues. As such there is a net addition of 4 extra members in our Lodge during the period January’06 till Sept’06. The total membership now stands at 49 as against 45 during the last year.

ONE MASONIC EDUCATION PROGRAMM
We conducted 2 Masonic Education Programs for the Brethren during the year.

  1. Though we do not hold any regular meeting in May, we conducted a Lodge of Instruction meeting on 27th May 2006 during which W. Bro. Suresh Mehra & other Sr. brethren of the lodge explained the significance of the various rituals to the brethren.
  2. During our regular meeting on 22nd July 2006 a talk on “Duties of Lodge Officers” was given by our W. Bro. Suresh Mehra to the Brethren of the Lodge to educate them. 

ONE EDUCATION AID PROGRAMME

  1. The country’s first Braille Language Laboratory set up by the brethren of Lodge Fellowship No. 140 at Blind Peoples Association, Ahmedabad and named “LODGE FELLOWSHIP No. 140 G.L.I. BRAILLE LANGUAGE LABORATORY” continues to educate the visually impaired students from KG till graduation level. The project continues to get accolades from across the world and has the distinction of getting the award from Hon. President of India as a unique innovation & invention. Articles about this project have been published in Freemasonry Today, U.K. as also in New York Times, USA, apart from all leading dailies in India, copies attached herewith. The Braille Lab which was inaugurated by M.W. Bro. Dilip D. Udeshi, OSM, has also been visited by M.W. Bro. Arun Chintopanth, OSM, M.W. The Grand Master of G.L.I. during March 2006. A no. of foreign delegations keep on visiting the Lodge Fellowship Braille Language Laboratory.
  2. Brethren of Lodge Fellowship have been continuously sponsoring the education of “Neelofer” since the last 5 years and are committed to support her with all her education expenses including books, stationery, tuition fees, college fees etc. till her Graduation/Post Graduation. At the moment Neelofer is studying in the 12th Standard.
  3. After a lot of deliberations and as per the feedback received from various Institutes and Schools for the need of a learning aid for the speech & hearing impaired it was concluded that we should develop a Language Laboratory for the speech & hearing impaired who could have a device which could help them in developing their talking & educational skills. Accordingly Lodge Fellowship No. 140 set up a unique computerized Lab for the Hearing & Speech Impaired at a cost of nearly Rs. 4 lacs, which was inaugurated on 12th March 2006 by M.W. The Grand Master, M.W. Bro. Arun Chintopanth, OSM, in the presence of The Past Grand Master, M.W. Bro. Dilip D. Udeshi, OSM, R.W. The Regional Grand Master of India, R.W. Bro. Vasudev Masurekar & other Sr. officers of The G.L.I. & R.G.L of W.I. The above Hearing impaired language laboratory has since proved to be very useful for improving the talking skills, lesson grasping and task reproducibility of the speech & hearing impaired through a self assertive learning device. And will serve the hearing & speech impaired for years to come. The Lab is a permanent installation in a classroom for 10 students with an individual seating arrangement & each student having dedicated equipment for learning by themselves even in the absence of a teacher. This new unique computerized system of learning has proven to be a pleasurable experience for the hearing & speech impaired & is a novel way of studying by the hearing & speech impaired. The Lab has been widely acclaimed as a unique project.

ONE MEDICAL AID PROGRAMME

  1. Brethren of Lodge Fellowship had set up the Centre for Paraplegic patients in association with Blind Peoples Association at Bhuj in Kutch for free life long treatment of paraplegic patients affected by the earthquake. The center has been rendering regular service & has helped rehabilitate a no. of patients including children. The building was recently adjudged as the most easily approachable by a person with any disability.  A person with any disability can approach any place in the building without any assistance.
  2. Our W.Bro. Dr. Bipin Naik has been regularly performing free eye surgeries for the needy and being a Reiki Grand Master has been serving the society in healing their ailments.
  3. W. Bro. Dr. Bipin Naik is also providing free consultation & treatment to the children at our new project, “Lodge Fellowship Early Intervention Centre for Multiple Disabled Children”
  4. Our W.Bro. Dr. Iqbal Hakim has been rendering yeoman’s service by providing free psychiatric treatment regularly to the people who cannot afford professional help.
  5. We have also distributed medical aid kits to the poor and destitute  & have conducted medical aid camps during the year in the slums of Juhapura & Khanpur Gate where over 200 patients were examined and free medicines distributed to them. These camps are conducted alternately every month at the above locations. Free medicines worth nearly Rs. 15,000 were distributed.
  6. Lodge Fellowship & the brethren participated in a mega medical camp organized at Sardar Patel Stadium by Sainik Schools Associationof India Foundation. W.Bro. Lt. Col. Vikas Arora was the chief coordinator & W.Bro. Dr. Iqbal Hakim, Bro. Dr. Manoj Gumber & Bro. Dr. Ravindra Mittal rendered free medical check ups, Blood tests, Echo, ECG etc. All medical faculties incl. Ayurveda, Naturopathy & Homeopathy were made available to the public.
  7. Free medicines worth nearly Rs. 10,000/= were distributed to the Leprosy patients at the Leprosy Hospital. These are patients who are generally shunned by the general public. The initiative for this service was taken by the father & son duo of Bro. Surjit Singh Oberoi & Bro. Manjot Singh Oberoi and was financially supported by all the brethren from Zydus Cadila who contributed the medicines.

ONE NON - MEDICAL COMMUNITY AID PROGRAMME

  1. The community in general has the facilities for various non-medical aid programs, as such it was decided by the Brethren of Lodge Fellowship to render a worthwhile service to the children who are deaf & mute as also hearing & speech impaired, accordingly, Lodge Fellowship set up the “LODGE FELLOWSHIP No. 140 G.L.I. LAB FOR HEARING & SPEECH IMPAIRED” at Ahmedabad at a cost of nearly Rs. 4 lacs.
  2. The Brethren of Lodge Fellowship have also served that section of the society who are generally shunned by the general public. The brethren make regular visits to the Leprosy Hospital & Rehabilitation Centre at Ahmedabad and aid in rehabilitating the Leprosy patients. Lodge Fellowship donated an “Aqua Guard” for the use of the Leprosy Patients so that they may get clean drinking water.
  3. During the visit of M.W. The Grand Master in March 2006, the W.M. of Lodge Fellowship No. 140, W.Bro. Ratan Vadvan announced the start of their new project “ Lodge Fellowship Early Intervention Centre for Children with Multiple Disabilities”. This project set up in collaboration with Blind Peoples Association has since started functioning and has been set up by the brethren of Lodge fellowship at a cost of nearly Rs. 1.5 lacs. The premises have been provided by Blind Peoples Association. This Center is equipped with modern developmental equipments, exercise equipments, electrical therapy equipments, parallel bars, exercise cycle and other equipments for the muscular development, positioning and motor development of the children with multiple disabilities. The Assessment Room is equipped with the following:
    • Vision screening through vision drum, color wheel and toys
    • Auditory screening and perception through toys and equipments having different sounds
    • Parallel bar, mats, drum and staircase for assessing balance and walking ability
    • Awareness of different senses through sensory box and resonance board

    All the children are assessed by doctors before they come to the center and hence the assessments described above are functional and commonsensical.  Based on the above assessment, individual training program is developed. The progress of children is monitored from time to time and they are helped to acquire new set skills for independent living. Though the Center has started functioning it will formally be inaugurated by M.W. the Grand Master, tentatively on 2nd October 2006. This is the only such center in this part of the country that provides intervention as early as in children aged 6 months & above

ONE PROGRAMME INTERACTING WITH NON - MASONS

  1. On the occasion of Universal Brotherhood Day on 24th June 2006, the Brethren of Lodge Fellowship visited the Blind Peoples Association & the venue of our new project, “Lodge Fellowship Center for Multi Disabled Children” & informed the gathering about Freemasonry & the various activities of Lodge Fellowship.
  2. The first ever-Divine Service at Ahmedabad was conducted on 11th March 2006 by M.w. the grand Master, M.w. Bro. Arun Chintopanth, OSM. A large no. of Ladies & Non-Masons were present in a jam packed auditorium and a no. of queries of the general public were answered. The Freemasons interacted with the non masons, who gained an insight into Freemasonry, its philosophy & activities. The ceremony was highly appreciated by the non masons & ladies.
  3. A presentation of the official website of Lodge Fellowship was made by our Bro. Samir Desai on 11th March 2006.
  4. Our official website which was adjudged the best website has been attracting a no. of non masons for the quality of contents which give an insight into freemasonry & its origins in general & to the activities of Lodge fellowship in particular. 

SUBSCRIBING TO THE GRAND MASTERS RUPEE CLUB & SQUARE & COMPASS

  1. Out of a total strength of 49 subscribing members, as on the date of this report 40 members of Lodge Fellowship are regular subscribers to the “Square & Compass” viz. 82% of the total strength. The non - subscribers are the non - resident members, some staying abroad.
  2. Out of a total strength of 49 subscribing members, 25 Brethren of Lodge Fellowship are currently members of the “Grand Masters Rupee Club”; viz. 51% of the total strength.
  3. Out of a total strength of 49 subscribing members, as on the date of this report 40 members of Lodge Fellowship are regular subscribers to the “GLINDIA” viz. 82% of the total strength. The non - subscribers are the non - resident members, some staying abroad.

OTHER DETAILS / ACHIEVEMENTS OF LODGE FELLOWSHIP

  1. We have contributed towards the publication of the Masonic Year Book of the R.G.L. of W.I.
  2. Our DOC, W.Bro. Suresh Mehra participated in the Inter Region Ritual working competition & was part of the western region team at Varanasi which won the 1st Prize.
  3. Our Lodge had the distinction of getting the 1st prize in the Lodge website competition.
  4. Our Lodge was awarded the 2nd prize under the G.L.I. 7 star program last year.
  5. Nine Brethren attended the Annual meeting of the Regional Grand Lodge of W.I. at Mumbai.
  6. Nine Brethren attended the Special Half Yearly meeting of The Regional Grand Lodge of W.I. at Jabalpur.
  7. Five Brethren were given Past ranks by The G.L.I. during the year:

    W.Bro. Girishbhai Mahadevia – Past Jr. Grand Deacon
    W.Bro. Jehangir P.R. Vakil – Past Gr. Std. Br.
    W.Bro. Dr. Iqbal Hakim – Past Asst. Gr. D.O.C.
    W.Bro. Dr. Bipin Naik – Past  Gr. Inner Guard
    W.Bro. Rajiv Sethi – Past Vice Pres. Of Grand Stwd.
    W.Bro. Alok Mehrotra – Past Pr. Grand Stwd.

  8. W.Bro. Rajiv Sethi was awarded the Active rank of R.G.Br. of V.S.L. by The R.G.L. of W.I. during the year.
  9. Twelve Brethren were given Past ranks by the R.G.L. of W.I. during the year.

    W.Bro. Jehangir P.R. Vakil – Past Dy. R.G.M.
    W.Bro. Bhanu J. Dave – Past A.R.G.M.
    W.Bro. Dr. Bipin Naik – Past Sr. R.G.W.
    W.Bro. Suresh Mehra – Past  Jr. R.G. Deacon
    W.Bro. Rajiv Sethi – Past R.G. Swd. Br.
    W.Bro. Mehmood R. Desai – Past R.G. Swd. Br.
    W.Bro. Ashok Bhatia – Past A.R.G.D.O.C.
    W.Bro. Madhav Kulkarni – Past A.R.G. Std. Br.
    W.Bro. Dr. Vinod Kr. Jain – Past A.R.G. std. Br.
    W.Bro. Ganesh Nayak – Past R.G. Organist
    W.Bro. Mukesh Shah – Past R.G. Tyler
    W.Bro. Vikas Arora – Past R.G. Tyler

  10. One Brother, W.Bro. Alok Mirhoutra holds the Rank of Past Jr. R.G. Deacon in the R.G.L. of S.I.
  11. Three Brethren hold Ranks in the R.G.L. of N.I.

    W.Bro. Alok Kapoor
    W.Bro. Alok Mirhoutra
    W.Bro. Rajiv Sethi

  12. Two Brethren are members of the Regional Grand Board of General Purposes of W.I.

    W.Bro. Rajiv Sethi
    W.Bro. Dr. Iqbal Hakim

  13. Lodge Fellowship is the first lodge to have started collected alms for Dhanyadhan at all its meetings. The total contribution is then used to buy grains to be distributed to the needy. A separate account is kept for this purpose exclusively.
  14. During the year we received 2 visitors from abroad on a goodwill visit to our Lodge, who visited us after having viewed the various unique projects undertaken by our Lodge on our Website. W.Bro. Ramesh Desai, P.M. & DOC of Boston Manor Lodge No. 7151 U.K. & Bro. Jaime Royolid of Lodge Cideles No. 131 under The Grand Lodge of Spain.

2005

7 STAR PROGRAMME OF GRAND LODGE OF INDIA

OUR LODGE WON THE SECOND PRIZE UNDER THE SEVEN STAR PROGRAM FOR THE YEAR 2005

MINIMUM NET ADDITION OF 2 INITIATE MEMBERS

  • We have already initiated 4 New Members between January 2005 till Sept. 2005 and 1 member has rejoined - As such a total of 5 members would have joined our Lodge by the end of the year. The details are as under :
    1. Bro. Rachit Arora initiated on 26 th Feb. 2005
    2. Bro. Lalit Vaya initiated on 27 th March 2005
    3. Bro. Mrugendra S.Oza initiated on 27 th March 2005
    4. Bro. Amal Dhru initiated on 28 th Sept. 2005
    5. Bro. Punyakumar rejoined on 28 th Sept. 2005
  • 2 Brethren, Bro. Lt. Col. Lionel Reuben & Bro. Manubhai Patel resigned on 23 rd April 2005 since they were transferred from Ahmedabad, as such there is a net addition of 3 extra members in our Lodge during the year in spite of the loss of resigned members.

ONE MASONIC EDUCATION PROGRAMME
We conducted 2 Masonic Education Programs for the Brethren during the year.

  • During our regular meeting on 6 th August 2005 a talk on Holy Royal Arch Chapter and its principles was given by our W.Bro. Bhanu J. Dave to the Brethren of the Lodge to further educate them in these side degrees.
  • During our regular meeting on 28 th August 2005 a talk on Mark Degree & Royal Ark Mariners degree, its principles, teachings and working was given by our W. Bro. Rajiv Sethi to the Brethren of the Lodge to educate them in these advanced degrees and motivate them to start a new Mark Lodge And RAM Lodge in Ahmedabad.

ONE EDUCATION AID PROGRAMME

  • The country's first Braille Language Laboratory set up by the brethren of Lodge Fellowship No. 140 at Blind Peoples Association, Ahmedabad and named "LODGE FELLOWSHIP No. 140 G.L.I. BRAILLE LANGUAGE LABORATORY" continues to educate the visually impaired students from KG till graduation level. The project continues to get accolades from across the world and has the distinction of getting the award from Hon. President of India as a unique innovation & invention. Articles about this project have been published in Freemasonry Today, U.K. as also in New York Times , USA , apart from all leading dailies in India.
  • Brethren of Lodge Fellowship have been continuously sponsoring the education of "Neelofer" since the last 4 years and are committed to support her with all her education expenses including books, stationery, tuition fees, college fees etc. till her Graduation/Post Graduation. At the moment Neelofer is studying in the 11 th Standard.
  • A Yoga camp sponsored by Lodge Fellowship was organized for 21 days at Blind Girls School , Ahmedabad by a leading Yoga expert to instill confidence in the visually impaired girls which would further help them to overcome their disability and provide them with an impetus to concentrate on their studies.

ONE MEDICAL AID PROGRAMME

  • Our W.Bro. Dr. Bipin Naik has been regularly performing free eye surgeries for the needy and being a Reiki Grand Master has been serving the society in healing their ailments.
  • Our W.Bro. Dr. Iqbal Hakim has been rendering yeoman's service by providing free psychiatric treatment regularly to the people who cannot afford professional help.
  • We have also distributed medical aid kits to the poor and destitute & have conducted medical aid camps during the year at Blind Girls School , Slums of Juhapura & Slums of Khanpur Gate where over 300 patients have been examined and free medicines distributed to them. These camps are conducted alternately every month at the above locations.

ONE NON - MEDICAL COMMUNITY AID PROGRAMME

  • The community in general has the facilities for various non-medical aid programs, as such it was decided by the Brethren of Lodge Fellowship to render a worthwhile service to the children who are deaf & mute as also hearing & speech impaired. After a lot of deliberations with various agencies, NGO's and schools working with the deaf & mute it was decided to set up a unique lab for the hearing & speech impaired which would be a permanent installation and would serve the community of hearing & speech impaired for years to come. Accordingly, Lodge Fellowship has set up the "LODGE FELLOWSHIP No. 140 G.L.I. LAB FOR HEARING & SPEECH IMPAIRED" at Ahmedabad at a cost of nearly Rs. 4 lacs which is being inaugurated by M.W. The Grand Master in the presence of R.W. The R.G.M. of W.I. and other dignitaries on 14 th October 2005 .
  • The Brethren of Lodge Fellowship have also served that section of te society who are generally shunned by the general public. The brethren make regular visits to the Leprosy Hospital & Rehabilitation Centre at Ahmedabad and aid in rehabilitating the Leprosy patients. Lodge Fellowship donated 100 sets of Bedsheets and Pillow covers to the Leprosy Hospital for the use of the inmates of the hospital.

ONE PROGRAMME INTERACTING WITH NON - MASONS

On the occasion of Universal Brotherhood Day Lodge Fellowship invited Non-Masons with their families and conducted an exclusive program to educate them on Freemasonry and clear their myths and doubts about our organization.

  • A unique audiovisual presentation was made by our W. Bro. Girish Bhai Mahadevia about the principles and teachings of Freemasonry including its history
  • Talks on different aspects of Freemasonry including the charitable works done by The G.L.I., R.G.L. of W.I. and Lodge Fellowship No. 140 were given by W.Bro. Vikas Arora, W.Bro. Bhanu J. Dave, W.Bro. Dr. Iqbal Hakim, W.Bro. Dr. Bipin Naik, W.Bro. Dr. V.K. Jain & W.Bro. Rajiv Sethi
  • A tour inside the temple was conducted for the benefit of the Non-Masons and they were shown the "G", VSL's, the working tools and were explained the significance & importance of the same in ones daily life.
  • A question and answer session was organized wherein various queries put forward by the Non-Masons were answered by our senior brethren
  • A display was organized about our charitable activities together with a display of the various newspaper reports highlighting the activities of Lodge Fellowship.
  • The non masons got time to mingle with the Brethren at the High tea organized by Lodge Fellowship.

(Detailed reports published in the August issue of GLINDIA.)

SUBSCRIBING TO THE GRAND MASTERS RUPEE CLUB & SQUARE & COMPASS

  • Out of a total strength of 44 subscribing members, as on the date of this report 34 members of Lodge Fellowship are regular subscribers to the "Square & Compass" viz. 77.27% of the total strength. The non - subscribers are the non - resident members, some staying abroad.
  • A total no. of 22 Brethren of Lodge Fellowship are currently members of the "Grand Masters Rupee Club"; viz. 50% of the total strength.
  • Out of a total strength of 44 subscribing members, as on the date of this report 34 members of Lodge Fellowship are regular subscribers to the "GLINDIA" viz. 77.27% of the total strength. The non - subscribers are the non - resident members, some staying abroad.

OTHER DETAILS / ACHIEVEMENTS OF LODGE FELLOWSHIP

  • We have contributed towards the publication of the Masonic Year Book of the R.G.L. of W.I.
  • Seven Brethren of our Lodge had the honor of receiving awards and certificates for significant contribution from The Regional Grand Lodge of W.I. at the Special Half Yearly meeting at Nagpur in September 2005.
  • Our Lodge was awarded a Certificate of Merit by R.W. The R.G.M. of W.I. at the Special Half yearly meeting held at Nagpur in September 2005.
  • Nine of our Brethren attended the Special meeting of the R.G.L. of W.I. at Nagpur in September 2005 and actively participated in the same.
  • Six of our Brethren participated in the Annual meeting of The R.G.L. of W.I. held at Bhopal in Feb. 2005
  • Nine of our Brethren participated in the Grand Lodge of India festival held at Mumbai in November 2004.
  • Two of our Brethren were part of the team of The Western Region in the Inter Regional Ritual working competition, which was awarded the 2 nd Prize.
  • Four Brethren were given Past ranks by The G.L.I. during the year
  • Three Brethren were given Active ranks by The R.G.L. of W.I. during the year.
  • Five Brethren were given Past ranks by the R.G.L. of W.I. during the year.
  • One Brother holds a Past rank in the R.G.L. of N.I.
  • One Brother is a member of the Regional Grand Board of General Purposes of W.I.
  • Lodge Fellowship is the first lodge to have started collected alms for Dhanyadhan at all its meetings. The total contribution is then used to buy grains to be distributed to the needy. A separate account is kept for this purpose exclusively.