Mangalore, 02 Oct 2013: AGE – Mangalore, organized the celebration of World Elderly Day during a function held at Roshni Nilaya School of Social Work auditorium, here on Tuesday October 1. AGE – Mangalore is the one of the NGOs working for betterment of elderly people in the city.
Mangalore Airport retired director M R Vasudev was the chief guest inaugurated the programme here on Tuesday afternoon.
AGE – Mangalore president M Raghavan and member Zaheed Hussein Baji were also present on the occasion.
Vasudev felicitated senior citizens Juliana Lobo, Kakkady Abdul Kader and retired Professor Vasant Rao during the programme.
Professor Vasanth Rao in his address highlighted some problems like physical, financial and ignorance which are faced by elderly people in present time.
M R Vasudev shared his grievances about the present situation in India, which always had a great respect and reverence towards elderly people but now our country has lost that value. New generation use their parents for their selfish needs as long as they are useful. Thereafter, either they abandon them on the street to die or put them in some old age homes. He questioned why elderly people are considered unproductive and useless by the society. The society forgets that it is the hard work and sacrifice of old people because of that they are able to enjoy present facilities and comforts. Thus, he encouraged elderly people not to fear rather speak out against injustice and rejection done to them by society. Elderly people have vast experience and knowledge to share with this present generation which would help them to embrace value and lead ethical life, said Vasudev.
The inmates of St Joseph’s Prashant Nivas - Jeppu, Little Sisters of Poor – Bajjodi, Inner Wheel Club, Abaya Ashram and other old age homes staged variety cultural shows after the stage programme.
The prizes were distributed to the winners on the occasion. Vanamala sang the prayer song. Laura D’Souza proposed vote of thanks.
Nearly 300 elderly people participated for programme from various old age homes from across the city.