If there is one thing that all of us have truly learnt during this lock down then that is the ability to recognize and identify with our true heroes. The very title of a hero is undergoing a redefinition with all of us clearly prioritizing substance over style. In the midst of doing all this, we have in a way still failed; this failure is because we continue to (in a very subtle manner) undermine the capability of our elderly.
To condense this, let me take you to a world that so many of us idolize: the world of films. If you take an observant peek, you will be able to point out how we conveniently narrow down the role of our elderly to “support characters”. Sadly, even in the contemporary world, we look up to them as mere dependents; helpless, weak and in the need of an anchor. We refuse to share our responsibilities or even let them have a say in decision making with the excuse that all of this would prove to be too much for them to digest.
Sure, we all readily acknowledge that they are our moral support system and also our go-to person for advice. Lets face the reality though.How many of us put an effort to look at them from a different light? How many of us even take a minute to consider the greater role that they may be playing beyond the four walls of their houses?
For instance, let us take the case of 85 year old Shanta Pawar who has been trending on social media platforms due to her fantastic martial arts skills. However what really won the hearts of the people across the country was the fact that she was doing this not just out of a burning passion but also because she was the sole breadwinner of her 20 odd member family in the wake of the virus.
Our Prime minister honoured another pioneer in his monthly Mann Ki Baat sessions; the "lake man” of Karnataka, 82 year old Kaamegowda. He has dug around 16 lakes single handedly over the past 4 decades to quench his fellowmen’s thirst, establish a long term solution to the persistent water crisis and provide a fruitful gift to his future generations. Superman, I am sorry but that frown on your face was clearly evident!
This takes me to the first point that I would like to establish. Apart from being our experienced Alexa, ever ready to solve our innumerable queries, our elderly are also our super heroes. They carry commendable grit and dedication along with them as they successfully sail through the various storms that life throws in their path. Mind you, when it comes to protecting their families, they become Baahubalis!
Consider this hypothetical scenario: you win a lottery. This leaves you with enough money for a lifetime. What will you do it? Like every Tom, Dick and Harry, you first splurge on yourself and then treat it with care, envisioning a secure and fun filled future ahead of you. Gangadara Tilak Katnam has different plans though. This 71 year old retired Government servant has spent his entire pension in repairing around 1100 potholes all across Hyderabad. He wants to make his city a much safer place to travel and commute around. Like Kaamegowda and Shanta Tai, an everyday routine for this man on a mission is to make a difference about something other than himself.
John Bunyan once said: “You have never really lived until you have done something for someone who can never repay you.” This instantly rings a bell because we are able to associate with the above warriors the minute we read this quote.
Our elderly are one amongst us; they are our torch bearers who inspire us through their every action. They have a dream and a desire that none of us should ever dispel. For at the end of the day, they are the ones who remind us that no matter how grueling life can be, we always have a loving home to come back to.
On a concluding note, I would like to share an interesting anecdote to show the wonderful and carefree attitude that our elderly inherently possess:
A warder’s first words when Mandela and his ANC (African National Congress) comrades were thrown into jail were: “This is Robbin Island. This is where you’ll die!”
Wonder what Mandela’s response was to this statement after 27 years was?
” Oh, I simply went on a long holiday for 27 years”.
This article is a tribute to all you wonderful folks!
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A totally shocker this article...... From the topic I thought it's going to be something about feeling young ...... You truly took us on a truth ride. An article which justifies the name of your site. Hats off the wonderful people you shared about. Love the ending about the 27 year holiday.
Vander Mataram! Jai Jawan! Salute to all the workers who are protecting the country in their own way. Some are young, some are old but their passion to protect/uplift the country is enourmous. I am really happy that you are refering to some of them in your article. Through your article, I learnt about one such jewel (Mr.Gangadara). Keep writing, Sky is the limit, Keep inspiring! I submit my prayers to my Guru to bless you with all good things in life!
A *Big salute* to such selfless warriors who are mostly unsung heroes. Thank you to you for bringing such heartwarming true stories to limelight. Kudos as always!!