Veeramma Kali Temple Initiative Brings Smiles to Elders in Tripura
Gandachhera Oct 3: Amid the festive atmosphere of Durga Puja, Gandachhera subdivision under the Dhalai district of Tripura witnessed a deeply moving event dedicated to honoring the elderly on the occasion of the International Day of Older Persons. The programme, held on October 1, stood out as a shining example of compassion, social responsibility, and cultural respect for the elderly members of society.
The initiative was spearheaded by T. Veeramani, a philanthropist from Tamil Nadu and founder of the Veeramma Kali Temple near Neermahal in Melaghar. Determined to uphold the dignity of senior citizens, Veeramani and the temple authorities organized a large-scale outreach programme that extended assistance to nearly three hundred elderly people representing diverse communities and tribes of the Gandachhera subdivision.
As part of the day’s programme, the temple authorities distributed clothing and essential items among the senior citizens. The gesture, though simple, carried profound emotional weight. Joy, relief, and gratitude were clearly etched on the faces of the elderly participants, who felt seen, respected, and valued. Many attendees expressed that this was the first time they had experienced such a collective acknowledgment of their contributions to family and society.
The event was more than just an act of charity; it was a celebration of wisdom, experience, and the irreplaceable role that older generations play in shaping society. At the conclusion of the programme, a temple authority official reminded everyone present that “senior citizens are the repository of society’s experience and wisdom. To show them respect is to honor the very foundation on which our communities are built.”
He further stressed that the blessings of elders provide guidance and inspiration to the younger generation. Such blessings, he noted, are invaluable in sustaining social values across generations.
The organizers also extended heartfelt gratitude to local residents and community volunteers who helped make the event a success. They emphasized that such large-scale initiatives are only possible with collective goodwill and cooperation. The support of the community, they said, demonstrated the shared belief that honoring the elderly strengthens social solidarity and intergenerational harmony.
Importantly, the temple authorities announced that this would not be a one-time event. Similar initiatives, aimed at uplifting and honoring senior citizens, would continue in the future as part of the temple’s broader mission. Their stated goal is to foster an environment of respect, compassion, and love in society, where senior citizens are not marginalized but celebrated as invaluable pillars of wisdom and guidance.
The day’s programme left a lasting impact not only on the elderly who were directly benefitted but also on the younger participants and observers. It served as a lesson in humanity, underscoring the importance of standing by senior citizens and preserving their dignity.
In the end, the International Day of Older Persons celebration in Gandachhera transformed into more than just an event—it became a remarkable symbol of unity, respect, and social harmony in Tripura, setting an example for others to follow.
