The exhibition Zest for Life: Remembering General Sethna was a mesmerizing journey into 100 years of India, seamlessly weaving together the life of the soldier through his meticulously kept diary entries along with physical artefacts that brought his legacy and history to life, notes a write up on the six-day exhibition sent to Parsiana by the organizers. Each panel unveiled a new chapter of his extraordinary experiences, offering visitors an intimate look into the mind of a man whose life was as vibrant as it was impactful.
In commemoration of Gen Adi Sethna’s birth centenary, the exhibition, held at the Kamladevi Exhibition Hall, India International Centre (IIC), was inaugurated on November 24, 2024 and ran until November 29, drawing visitors from across the globe. The IIC, Delhi, Parzor Foundation and Sethna’s four daughters — Dr Niloufer Shroff, Rukshana Shroff, Prof (Dr) Shernaz Cama, and Shireen Sethna Baria — came together to host the exhibition.
From top: exhibition; Gen Adi Sethna
From l: Prof (Dr) Shernaz Cama; Ambassador Diana Mickevičienė
The event commenced with ceremonial lamp lighting by guest of honor Ambassador Diana Mickevičienė of Lithuania. Accompanied by nostalgic army songs cherished by the Sethna family, the exhibition offered a glimpse into the General’s multi-faceted life. Chief guest, politician Dr Karan Singh, despite health challenges, joined virtually to share heartfelt memories of a fellow Doon School colleague and lifelong friend. "Adi was a man of great enthusiasm, integrity, and achievement,” he said, underscoring Sethna’s invaluable contributions to the armed forces, the country as well as the Parsi community.
Mickevičienė highlighted historical and cultural ties between Parsis and Lithuania, revealing intriguing connections. Cama, in an emotional address, showcased her research going back to Adi’s school days from when he kept a diary, Scratches of my Pen. From Bulsar, through Doon School and Allahabad University to Government House which became Rashtrapati Bhavan, right till her father’s pivotal role in the National Commission for Minorities (NCM), India Australia Consul and establishing the Spinal Injuries Centre it was the story of a true zest for life. His optimism even during his battle with cancer was apparent. "He always said, ‘I’m still here, and that’s reason enough to celebrate,’” she recalled.
For six days, attendees were captivated by an array of personal treasures, each with its own unique story. Sethna’s collection of iconic hats and the much-admired typewriter — quickly dubbed the exhibition’s "star attraction” — stood out as symbols of his journalistic career, distinct style and discipline. The wedding chairs of Khorshed and Adi, preserved with care, hinted at cherished moments of his personal life, while his family clock ticked on, a silent witness to his tireless spirit.
A particular highlight was the display of an Indonesian kris and Japanese Samurai sword, each blade steeped in history and intrigue, sparking conversations about their origins and the tales they carried. His medals and awards, gleaming under the exhibition lights, spoke of a lifetime of service and achievement. Meanwhile, his dilruba, a rare and enchanting musical instrument, inherited from his grandmother, revealed a softer, artistic side of the General.
Adding to the narrative were photographs of his grandparents, grandchildren and beloved dogs and horses, beautifully juxtaposed with his professional uniform hat, ties, gun and swords. These items, displayed with artistry, offered a multifaceted portrait of a man who was not just a decorated officer but also a beloved family member, a published author and an artist. Together, they painted a vivid, compelling picture of a life lived with passion, purpose and unyielding zest.
The exhibition was more than a tribute to Sethna’s illustrious career; it was a celebration of his vibrant personality and the countless lives he touched. Among the distinguished guests were friends from Kullu and Manali, as well as his grandson Kersi, who travelled from San Francisco to honor his grandfather’s legacy. Curator Neeraj Sahai spoke of the privilege of exploring the General’s life, describing the experience as deeply enriching.
Even at 97, renowned musician Dr Shanno Khurana attended, recalling Sethna’s encouragement of her art and the recording of Tappa music for Parzor. Other attendees, including vice chairman of the NCM Kersi Deboo and pianist Kerman Mehta, emphasized Sethna’s enduring influence on his community and beyond.
Maj Gen S. N. Sharma, a sprightly 101 years young, stole the show with his fond and funny memories of his lifelong friend. "Adi and I go way back to our days at Allahabad University’s Muir Hostel,” he said with a twinkle in his eye. "He was a fantastic friend, always full of wisdom and good humor. There was never a dull moment with him.”
A hilarious tale was shared by Sharma’s equally spirited wife, Kumudini. "When officers join the army, they’re told to stitch their final uniform a bit loose so it’ll fit on their last day of service,” she began, grinning. "Well, Adi being Adi, stitched it loose, but by the time he retired, it didn’t fit him anymore. There was a grand farewell party with none other than the President of India, and Adi, determined as ever, sucked in his breath, tucked in his stomach, and squeezed into that uniform. He managed to pull it off — literally holding everything in place — throughout the entire ceremony. But the moment the President left, so did Adi’s resolve. He let out a massive sigh of relief, and with it went two buttons of the uniform flying across the room! We couldn’t stop laughing, and neither could Adi. That was our Adi.”
As guests enjoyed traditional Parsi delicacies and admired the intricate chalk patterns crafted by Gulnar Motishaw, the exhibition became a celebration not only of Sethna’s life but of the values he upheld. It concluded on a poignant note, leaving visitors inspired by his legacy of service, resilience, and boundless energy. A fitting tribute to a life truly lived with zest.