“Two roads diverged in the woods, and I took the road less traveled by.” – Robert Frost.

Well, we also took the road that traveled to the woods to celebrate our 14th birthday this July. The Moonies took a two-day bus trip to Silvassa – derived from the Portuguese word “Silva,” which means “woods.” Tall coconut trees, vast expanses of seas, beaches, and lush green landscape marked the most memorable trip EVER.

The year 2023 was yet another attempt to leave our imprints in the Hall of Moon. We have always been unconventional and believe the journey is far more satisfying than the destination. July and Monsoons are a cracking combination – a month of open hearts and building strong bonds for revival and rejuvenation. Coincidentally, this marks our foundation month.

14 years ago, we incepted this venture with a promise to deliver and always be passionate about everything we bring to the table. And as the Moonies, we always aim for the Moon Technolabs, flagging our glory.

When Rain Gods finally decide to roar and pour with all their might, they pave a fresh road ahead, brimming with greenery and blooming with the prettiest scents of wet mud. And on the Moon, it’s an opportunity to launch and land yet another adventure filled with excitement, thrill, and suspense – Moon14.

Inception

Inception

We started our anniversary week at the inception site – our workplace. We prepared our trajectory by celebrating different days to adjust the energies and balance all our mission mates’ serotonin and dopamine levels. On the evening of launching, we were at our highest when we boarded our vehicles to start our journey to reach the desired orbit.

The journey was no less than an extravaganza where everyone was in a mood to set the ball rolling from the word get-go. The buses echoed with the yells, laughter, and music blasting from the speakers. Some Moonies took the time to settle in by gracing their eyes with the changing landscape through their window screens. As we set the engines to start, the rains welcomed us with open arms.

Cruising

Cruising

It was half-past night when we set off from our launching site. It took no time to see the first light of dawn through the rain droplets as no one was in the mood to sleep. As we approached our first halt of the trip at Tithal Beach, Valsad, we rested our aching backs, heavy eyes, and hungry stomachs. The break at the Swaminarayan Temple’s lodging was a respite for the tiredness from a long journey.

As we freshened up with a delicious meal and tea, the surroundings increased our appetite for our destination even more. The morning fog and mist covered the expanse till our eyes could see; coconut trees swayed as we walked amongst them. And the sound of the waves splashing the beaches delighted our hearts and gave that extra energy boost to keep the momentum going.

Hovering

Hovering

Once our bodies got the needed fuel, we returned to our vehicles, where the rest of the journey awaited. With bated eyes and pumping hearts, we again set ourselves for another round of music, jamming and yelling at the top of our voices. After another two hours, we landed at our destination – Treat Resorts, Silvassa. The roads leading to this small village in Daman and Diu, at the Gujarat border, looked all the more refreshing.

Train tracks were visible as we took the bridge over the Daman Ganga River flowing beneath. The road to Silvassa was none less than an old Portuguese colony – Churches made in 1897 and colorful houses lined up. Wildlife sanctuaries, markets selling handicrafts, Warli paintings, and bamboo crafts – the excitement was palpable when we finally saw our landing site gates.

Touchdown

Touchdown

The destination was finally in front of us, and we were still reeling from another incredible sight we saw on the way – the boards of “Bar and Restaurant.” Coming from Gujarat, seeing these boards is another achievement because Silvassa also has tax-free alcohol! Hurray for the ones who love a peg or two beers to chase the nights away. Settling our luggage in extra spacious and comfortable rooms – we were in for one of the most luxurious experiences.

The resort was elite, the rooms were technologically advanced, the lobby was adorned with top-class amenities, the dining rooms smelled of a hearty menu, and the best part – the pool had the most admirable view of blue water with swings. The resort had everything we could have asked for in this two-day minibreak to celebrate our 14 years of dedication, commitment, and client satisfaction. 

Launching

Launching

The weekend was electrifying as we wore our best outfits for two back-to-back parties – the pool party followed by the DJ night. The pool party rejuvenated all the tired muscles from the trip as the Moonies gave themselves the freedom to let loose. Soon after this refreshing experience, the night was still young, with a banquet ready to let all groove to the beats of the DJ. The first night ended with everyone having the time of their lives, like there was no tomorrow. The wee hours were a little mellow when everyone chilled on the swings, talking, reminiscing, and getting ready for another supercharged Sunday – the launch day.

Activating

Activating

The Sunday began in a rush when everyone prepared for Judgment Day. Last-minute finishes, setting up cameras, mic testing, screens, and the seating plans – everything had a touch of finesse. The main event that we all have been waiting for was finally here. The stage was all set with blue and white combinations adorning the banquet hall, and the outsides filled with fresh water droplets of morning rains.

The Big Event – Moon14

The Big Event - Moon14

The ceremony started with a warm welcome to our CEO, Mr. Jayanti Katariya, and Mrs. Katariya as they graced us with their entry. The seniors were called on the stage to light up the Diyas on this special occasion. As Mr. Katariya addressed the whole team, he didn’t shy away from thanking everyone for their contribution towards bringing innovation, overcoming obstacles, and always setting the bar high for new people. With this address, he guided us all to be a beacon of light for the future and nurture everyone from the community of Moonies.

As the evening unfolded, we saw some hidden shining stars where guitarists, singers, comedians, and skit masters ruled the stage with their performances. The event was complete with awarding the performers on and off the stage at the workplace whose efforts have brought laurels to the company. There were awards for every category – marketing teams, best project, managers, team leaders, front-end and back-end. To keep the atmosphere light, there were some humorous awards to bring the balance.

The two days of sheer enjoyment, hearty waves of laughter, and memorable moments gave us a new sense of determination. As we keep pushing the limits of perfection, we aim to leave a lasting impression. Join our community as we look forward to celebrating the next anniversary with new Moonies like YOU!

About Author

Jayanti Katariya is the CEO of Moon Technolabs, a fast-growing IT solutions provider, with 18+ years of experience in the industry. Passionate about developing creative apps from a young age, he pursued an engineering degree to further this interest. Under his leadership, Moon Technolabs has helped numerous brands establish their online presence and he has also launched an invoicing software that assists businesses to streamline their financial operations.