A break from the regular day's activities, the Badakhana is one evening where all the formalities take a backseat and everyone -- right from the General to the Colonel -- have dinner prepared by the army cooks.

About 2,000-odd families, including those of the officers and men of the EME were present at the function organised at the Eugene stadium.

``It is called the Badakhana because armymen from all ranks come on the same platform and enjoy the evening together,'' said an army official.

Even entertainment programmes were organised as a part of the Badakhana. Short skits based on disciplinary actions taken by the army officials against the jawans were held on the occasion. ``This is one occasion when even army officials do not mind if their ways are copied or if they are made fun of,'' said another army official while talking to Express Newsline.

He added that a professional troupe was also invited for a dance programme. A competition for the best rangoli display, on the theme decided by the participants, was also held. Later, prizes were distributed to the winners.