Vishranthi

This year in 2011, we did not celebrate Diwali as a mark of respect for my departed brother. Every year, we used to discuss within our family as to how fortunate we are  to be with all the relatives and also remark that on such days, we must visit places where there are people with no such luck showered on them. But, every year due to the celebrations, pooja and relatives visit, we used to shelve the idea for the next occasion. This year, we chose to visit a home for destitute women "Vishranthi" at Palavakkam in Chennai. As there will be lots of sweets brought in by visitors we took some fruits that could be consumed by the elders and presented ourselves at the home, with the cool October weather of Chennai , playing hide and seek. 

The home was housing about 150 aged women, starting from the age of 60 and reaching upto 93. Many were able to move around while for others there is a separate ward, with attenders. The home run by a Trust with the support staff of around 30 was well kept and maintained, the staff were very courteous and affable and were happy to welcome us. They took us around the home and I was saddened to find many old 'paattis' , who have once held good positions such as Head Mistress and Govt officials  but now find themselves deserted by their own kith and kin. We were also moved to find some young children right from the age of 5, wishing us Happy Diwali and at the end of the small tour, I was choked with the emotion. I was astonished to know that these elders are being maintained here without any fees. When we find it difficult to support and nurture our own elders, how come this group is maintaining around 200 !! I am sure this noble act of supporting elders and their warm blessings will take these to greatest heights in life.

 I wish everyone of us visit such homes to be aware of the status of some of the elders and also be mentally prepared should this beckon us also, as we grow!