Annual Founder’s Day Dinner of OMANE Celebrates the Legacy of La Martinière and Honors Martinians’ Strong Bond

The evening commenced with a welcome from Kaplesh Kumar, OMANE trustee and one of the co-founders of the organization, followed by a poignant tribute to Neeraj Chandra read by Syed Ali Rizvi, President, (and another co-founder of OMANE). The tribute highlighted Chandra’s family values, successful career, and his strong connection with fellow Martinians. Following this, Vijay Gupta, a senior Martinian and long-time attendee,  who travels from New Jersey for these annual events, was recognized for his dedication and his role as OMANE’s “in-house Mart historian.” To acknowledge his contributions, Sidharta Jeewan, OMANE’s treasurer, presented him with a Martinian lapel pin.

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A standout feature of the annual gatherings is the proud display of a custom-crafted La Martinière coat of arms, skillfully handcrafted years ago by artisans from Lucknow. This exquisite piece, gifted by Sameer Punn, an esteemed alumnus of La Martinière Lucknow, showcases intricate ZarikariWork by the city’s renowned craftsmen. Originally commissioned by Punn’s father, the coat of arms is displayed at each OMANE event, symbolizing the enduring connection to La Martinière’s rich heritage.

The event also highlighted the legacy of Claude Martin, a visionary Frenchman who served Asaf-Ud-Daulah, the Nawab of Oudh and the British East India Company. Martin’s architectural prowess is evident in Constantia, his grand residence in Lucknow, which now houses La Martinière College.

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His contributions to Indian architecture were so remarkable that historian William Dalrymple described La Martinière as “the East India Company’s answer to the Taj Mahal.” Martin’s deep generosity is reflected in his will, which provided for the establishment of La Martinière schools. He ensured the institution would offer education to students of all faiths, while also making provisions for scholarships and pensions.

The Persian influences found in the architecture of Constantia and La Martinière further reflect Martin’s cultural integration and vision of creating educational institutions that transcend boundaries. Today, these schools are recognized for their academic excellence, with La Martinière Girls’ College in Lucknow recently ranked as the second-best girls’ school in India.

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Throughout the evening, Martinians shared personal stories and reflections on their alma mater, recounting how the La Martinière experience continues to foster a lifelong bond. Sameer Vora, a Kolkata Martinian who has been in Boston since 1999, attended the dinner for the first time and expressed his joy at connecting with fellow alumni. Several members, who were unable to attend due to travel commitments, were dearly missed.

The gathering concluded in true Martinian spirit with a rousing rendition of the school anthem, “Hail! Hail! The Name We Own”, with all Martinians, joined by their spouses, proudly singing along. The evening was commemorated with a group photo capturing the camaraderie and warmth of the gathering.

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Traditionally, OMANE’s Founders Day Dinner is held around September 13th, the birth date of Claude Martin, honoring the enduring legacy of the schools. This annual celebration is an opportunity for Martinians in New England to reconnect and honor their shared heritage.

OMANE welcomes all Martinians in the region to join this vibrant and close-knit community. For more information, please contact Kaplesh Kumar (Trustee), Rajiv Sharma (Vice President), Sidharta Jeewan (Treasurer), or Syed Ali Rizvi (President)