By Jerardin D'Souza
Mangaluru, Oct 5: "What is the one thing that is important in life..?" asked Lion Sadashiva Kini to the gathering of elders, inaugurating the Gandhi Jayanthi cum elders day at KMC Nava Chaitanya, at 'Sushrutha Hall, KMC, Attavara.
The elders responded with 'peace of mind', 'money for needs', 'good health' and many others. "It is being creatively engaged and doing some activity which you love that leads to peace of mind and in return good health and long happy life," revealed the 79 year 'young' Lion Sadashiva Kini.
He was speaking after the director of KMC Nava Chaitanya Dr Prabha Adhikari who said, "Next year I will be eligible to join Nava Chaitanya and I will be there with all of you as an active member and enjoy all the fun that you people have," to a resounding applause from the members whom she has such an umbilical bond with.
Lion Hema, president Lioness Club, narrated her life story saying she lost her parents early and is blessed to be with these elders whom she considers on par with her parents. She too promised to join forces with Dr Prabha in serving the cause of our elders.
Kusuma, president read the annual report. Dr Anusuya Salian and the multi faceted B T Salian read out the prizes for the various activities. Lion Hema and Lion Kini distributed the prizes.
Asked to speak after Lion Sadashiva Kini's long inspiring Speech, chief guest Jerardin D'Souza, founder, Mangalore Alzheimer's Association - MAA self mocking at himself for his big build, sent the gathering into peals of laughter when he said, "After a speech of elephantine strength and wisdom, a person looking huge like an elephant can not do much justice."
Manjunath, secretary, KMC Nava Chaitanya, delivered the vote of thanks. Kamath and Kini were the brilliant comperes.
A brilliant show of talent by the elders followed. The star was of course Narmada who stole the show with her mesmerizing dance.
Dr Anusuya, Kusuma, B T Salian, Manjunath, Honora Pereira, Lily presented a hilarious skit on marriage alliance.
There was a lovely ramp walk by the ladies and gentlemen in various costumes. Many groups sang songs.
There was a beautiful yoga demonstration with various asanas done by the Bejai active ageing centre of KMC Nava Chaitanya.
On October 1 'world elders day' was observed with Lion Arvind Shenoy, president Lions delivering an emotional address.
Dr Anand Venugopal, medical superintendent, KMC Hospital, Dr Unni Krishnan, associate dean, KMC, Dr Damodar Shenoy, HOD, medicine, KMC and Jerardin D'Souza, founder, Mangalore Alzheimer's Association- MAA were guests of honour.
Dr Prabha Adhikari, director, KMC Nava Chaitanya was the prime mover.
The program was followed by great cultural activities by the elders of KMC Nava Chaitanya.