Rons Bantwal

Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai

Mumbai, Oct 13: As part of the centenary celebrations of the BSKB Association, Senior Citizens’ Day was celebrated with great grandeur on Sunday, October 5, at Aashraya, Nerul.

The event was inaugurated by the chief guest, Santosh Kumar Jha, chairman and managing director of Konkan Railway, who lit the ceremonial lamp. The guests of honour included Kumar Hebbar, head of sales and operations at Mantic, Sharad Prasad, chief technical officer of RCIL, Dr Suresh Rao, president of BSKB Association, and senior resident of Aashraya, Satyanarayana.

Jagadish Acharya compered the programme and outlined the day’s proceedings. Rajaram Acharya, President of Aashraya’s executive committee, delivered the welcome address, extending warm greetings to the dignitaries and the gathering.

The cultural segment featured a vibrant mix of Bollywood music, drama, and dance performances under the theme Jindagi Ka Safar. The presentation highlighted the values of life, youthful optimism, and the wisdom that comes with age, depicted through film songs and theatrical expression. The performance was a major source of entertainment and involved participants aged from five to ninety years, including residents of Aashraya and members of Gokul. The play was written and directed by Rajaram Acharya, while the choreography was done by Anita Acharya and Krithi Chadaga.

Following the entertainment programme, the formal session commenced. The chief guests and guests of honour were felicitated with flower bouquets and shawls by the president, vice-president, and honorary secretaries of BSKB Association. Former vice-president of BSKB Association, Lakshmeesh Acharya, explained the purpose of the Star Award instituted by the association.

Aashraya coordinator Chandravathi Rao spoke about the objectives of Aashraya, the residents’ experiences, and the significance of the Star Awards. Madhav Damle received the award in the men’s category, while Vijayalakshmi was honoured in the women’s category. Volunteers, doctors, and Aashraya staff who dedicate a day each week in service were also recognised and felicitated.

In their addresses, the dignitaries appreciated the cultural performances and commended the efforts of the organisers. Dr Suresh Rao shared insights into Aashraya’s future plans and lauded the dedicated service of Chandravathi Rao.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by BSKB Association’s honorary secretary, A P K Poti. The evening ended on a melodious note with a lively orchestra performance by the Swar Ganga team, which was thoroughly enjoyed by all attendees.