Wayanad, Kerala: Bringing smiles and rekindling forgotten memories, the Wayanad Janmaitri Police organized a heartwarming event titled ‘Vayoghosham’ — a festival dedicated to celebrating the spirit of the elderly. The program, held at the Athimula Panchayat Community Hall, witnessed the participation of nearly 150 senior citizens, who gathered to sing, dance, and relive the joys of their youth, momentarily forgetting the ailments and worries of old age.
The hall echoed with nostalgic melodies as Chandy Antony, a native of Setukun, began singing the folk tune “Memories come to run and play under the yard millet flour…”, prompting the audience to hum along joyfully. His wife, T.P. Mary, joined in with the verses of Changampuzha’s classic poem “Who will buy today…”, drawing loud applause from the crowd. One song after another, the elderly participants took turns at the microphone, singing forgotten tunes and reciting cherished poems — a touching reminder of their undying zest for life.
Beyond the music, the event was filled with laughter and games — from goli play and balloon bursting to cheerful group activities. Grandfathers and grandmothers joined in like children, setting aside their aches and worries. The atmosphere was charged with energy as they danced to the tunes performed by Civil Police Officer Vinod, whose lively music brought smiles all around.
The festival was inaugurated by Wayanad District Addl. SP N.R. Jayaraj, who reminded the gathering that “Every elderly person is a living book, a treasure of wisdom and experience.” Vaithiri Inspector & SHO R.N. Prashant presided over the event, while Retd. SP Prince Abraham served as the chief guest, conducting an awareness session on the importance of senior well-being and community support.
As a mark of respect, senior citizens aged above 80 years were felicitated with gold mementos, acknowledging their contribution to society.
Other dignitaries who attended and spoke at the event included Janmaitri District Asst. Nodal Officer K.M. Sasidharan, SPC Project Asst. Nodal Officer K. Mohandas, Panchayat Vice President Babu, Panchayat Members M.M. Jose and Shahina Shamsuddin, Senior Citizens’ Association President Viswanathan, Secretary Moithin, C.K. Sivaraman, Project Assistant T.K. Deepa, and Civil Police Officer Vinod.
The ‘Vayoghosham’ initiative reflected the Janmaitri Police’s ongoing commitment to fostering community engagement and emotional well-being among senior citizens — turning an ordinary day into a festival of friendship, laughter, and renewed life.
