Celebrating Senior Talent: AJ Hospital & Vayah Vikas Host Silver Star Talent Show
Mangaluru: The Silver Star Talent Show, a celebration of senior citizens’ talents was conducted on the occasion of World Senior Citizens Day with great enthusiasm at Ambedkar Bhavan, Urwa Stores. The event was organized by AJ Hospital & Research Centre, Mangalore in association with Vayah Vikas. The event showcased the diverse talents of senior citizens, promoting active ageing and community engagement.
The program commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, symbolizing the start of an event dedicated to senior well-being. B. Sudhakar Kotary, General Manager & Circle Head, Mangalore was the Chief Guest.
In his address, Kotary emphasized the importance of seniors staying active and engaged in the community, highlighting, “Our health is in our hands.” He encouraged seniors to participate in such activities, which contribute to both physical and mental well-being.
Dr Prashanth Marla, Medical Director of A J Hospital, spoke on the significance of the event, describing it as a source of joy and fulfillment for the participants. He commended the senior citizens for their vibrant performances and the organizers for their efforts in bringing such a meaningful event to life.
Dr Amitha P Marla, Director of Medical Administration at A J Hospital and the founder of the Vriddhi Elderly Engagement Programme, elaborated on the program’s objectives. She shared that the Vriddhi program is a monthly initiative that includes health talks, Health and general Talks, entertainment, birthday celebrations, and health check-ups.
Dr Amitha said, “Nearly 85 members attend our monthly program, and we are committed to enriching the lives of our senior community”. She also highlighted the collaboration between Vayah Vikas and A J Hospital, with A J Hospital serving as the nodal center for Vayah Vikas, a network that has registered over 700 seniors.
Pavithra Reddy, COO of Vayah Vikas, spoke about the vision and mission of Vayah Vikas and the crucial role A J Hospital plays in their initiatives.
Distinguished guests who addressed the gathering included Dr C V Raghuveer, President of People’s Association for Geriatric Empowerment, Dr Prabha Adhikari, Vice President, People’s Association for Geriatric Empowerment, Dr Rameela Shekar, Mental Health Professional and Director of Manashanthi Counseling, Jeradin D’Souza, Secretary, People’s Association for Geriatric Empowerment, Mohan Raj, Treasurer, People’s Association for Geriatric Empowerment, Shashidhar, Secretary, Mangalore Senior Citizens Association, Ramesh Rao, Founder Secretary, Mangalore Senior Citizens Association, and Kiran Kumar, Corporator, Mangalore City Corporation, Bangra Kuluru. Each shared their perspectives on the importance of such a program in enhancing the quality of life for seniors.
Vijaya Parameshwari, Principal of A J Institute of Hospital Management, welcomed the gathering, setting the tone for a day filled with lively performances.
Roshel Maben, Executive Operations at A J Hospital, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all participants and contributors for making the event a resounding success.
The event was expertly hosted by Primrose Vishnu, Assistant Professor at A J Institute of Hospital Management, and Nikhil Shetty, Blood Bank Technician at A J Hospital.
The Silver Star Talent Show featured a variety of performances by seniors, including singing, dancing, and instrumental music. Competitions were held, and prizes were awarded to recognize the outstanding talents of the participants.
The event concluded on a high note, with everyone looking forward to the next gathering of this vibrant and thriving senior community.