At the start of this year, in January, Madras [most self-respecting Anglos will prefer to use the former over 'Chennai'] played host to the 11th World Anglo-Indian Reunion. As an Anglo-Indian from Bombay, I didn't have much of an exposure to the community at large, except at family weddings and other small celebrations. Curious, I signed up to attend some of the events at this weeklong tribute to the community. Hockey matches, photo exhibitions, excursions, food fests, and yes, the grand ball — all of it was part of the itinerary.

At a session to trace the literary connect with the community, as I heard scholar Daman Singh, daughter of former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh speak warmly of their contribution and how it had inspired her book (Kitty's War), I felt a sense of immense pride. What was intended to be a fly-on-the-wall visit was turning out to be an eye-opener as I stumbled upon new layers to my community.