Seniors Will Lead The Way, Again, On Republic Day

By Manu Shrivastava

Mumbai’s senior citizens, with their reservoir of wisdom and lived experiences, stand as beacons of patriotism, especially on occasions like Republic Day. In the bustling city where life often moves too fast, these elders pause to remind everyone of the essence of national pride, gently weaving lessons of unity, resilience, and respect for the tricolour into the fabric of everyday life.

In Residential Societies across Mumbai, Senior Citizens will lead the way, as always, on Republic Day.

Across residential societies, a heartwarming tradition unfolds each Republic Day, as the eldest member of the community steps forward to hoist the national flag. This simple yet profound act resonates with a sense of honour and respect, not just for the individual but for an entire generation that has steadfastly upheld the ideals of the nation. “Each time I hoist the flag, I feel a surge of pride for the struggles our generation endured to build this country,” says 84-year-old Kamal Mehta, a retired school principal from Borivali. “It’s not just a flag; it’s a testament to our resilience.”

But their contributions don’t end with symbolic gestures. Senior citizens bring a distinct vibrancy to cultural celebrations, transforming them into living repositories of India’s rich heritage. “I make it a point to narrate stories from the Quit India Movement every year,” says Rajan Iyer, 79, a retired railway officer from Mulund. “The youth today have so many distractions; it’s our duty to remind them of the sacrifices that brought us freedom.”

Their storytelling sessions are more than anecdotes; they are vivid recollections of pivotal moments in history, offering younger generations invaluable insights into the struggles and triumphs that shaped the nation. Each tale, told with earnestness and pride, stirs a sense of purpose among listeners, inspiring them to carry forward the legacy with equal dedication.

Beyond the festivities, their actions speak volumes. Whether organising community drives, mentoring youth, or participating in social causes, their engagement exemplifies the spirit of civic responsibility. “We seniors in the society started a cleanliness drive last year,” shares 82-year-old Leela Shah, a former social worker from Juhu. “We believe that keeping our surroundings clean is also a form of patriotism. A clean Mumbai reflects the dignity of India.”

Emerging from the shadows of a pandemic that muted public celebrations, these elders have breathed new life into Republic Day observances. With renewed vigour, they have spearheaded the revival of traditions, ensuring that the spirit of patriotism isn’t just preserved but celebrated with a deeper sense of gratitude. “We missed two years of gathering due to the lockdowns,” recalls Byculla-based 86-year-old  retired bank employee Abdul Karim. “This year, seeing everyone together under the flag was like a prayer answered.”

In Mumbai’s residential associations, Republic Day isn’t merely a date on the calendar; it is a celebration of identity, unity, and shared values, all made richer by the contributions of senior citizens. Their enduring commitment to the nation and their tireless efforts to instill patriotism in the hearts of the community serve as a poignant reminder that the strength of a nation lies not just in its present but in the wisdom and sacrifices of those who came before.

Follow The Draft Colaba: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube