Aligarh Alumni Association of Washington Annual Summer Picnic Brings Community Together
By Zafar Iqbal, PhD
The Aligarh Alumni Association of Washington, DC (AAA-DC), held its annual summer picnic on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at Bohrer Park in Gaithersburg, Maryland. With pleasant weather and a scenic backdrop, the event brought together alums, families, and friends for an afternoon filled with camaraderie, cultural pride, and cherished traditions.
2025 Main volunteers
The picnic opened with a warm welcome as members rekindled old friendships and built new connections. Children enjoyed games and outdoor activities, while adults engaged in lively conversations that blended nostalgia with community aspirations.
A highlight was the lavish potluck featuring homemade specialties, refreshing beverages, and desserts. Volunteers added to the festive spirit with freshly grilled barbecue and AAA-DC’s signature “pateeli” chai—a tradition that has become a hallmark of the association’s gatherings.
AAA - future leaders
The afternoon echoed with laughter, memories, and mentorship. Senior alumni reflected on their AMU days, while younger members connected with mentors, making the picnic both a social gathering and a bridge between generations.
Representatives from major community organizations, including AIM, UKAA, GBF, HAWMA, Gaithersburg Nawab, and GOPIO-DC, attended and thanked AAA-DC for organizing such a vibrant gathering.
AAA 2025 picnic group
A memorable moment came when Masood Farshori led the singing of AMU’s iconic Tarana, “Yeh Mera Chaman,” uniting voices in a nostalgic tribute to their alma mater. Mr. Mohammad Abdullah, Second Secretary at the Embassy of India, praised AAA-DC for fostering unity among diverse organizations.
AAA 2025 picnic ladies
AAA-DC President Afzal Usmani expressed gratitude to members, families, and volunteers. “Events like this strengthen our community, preserve our cultural heritage, and carry forward the values of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan,” he noted. His thoughtful touch of distributing custom-printed AAA-DC T-shirts, brought specially from India, added a vibrant sense of unity.
AAA 2025 picnic three generations
Special congratulations went to Harris Usmani and the volunteer team for their meticulous planning, ensuring that every guest felt welcomed and engaged.
Picnic 2025 Barbeque team
The day concluded with shared smiles, photographs, and lasting memories. More than a picnic, it was a celebration of heritage, community, and the enduring spirit of Aligarh. AAA-DC looks forward to future events that continue Sir Syed’s mission of education, empowerment, and progress
Picnic 2025 T-shirt group
With Mr. Abdullah of Indian Embassy
