In her welcome address, Dr. Jamuna Ravi, CEO of Vayah Vikas, emphasised the importance of building environments that enable seniors to stay engaged, confident, and purposeful. This was followed by a keynote address by Mr. Kris Gopalakrishnan, Chairperson of Vayah Vikas, who spoke about the power of strong communities in fostering healthy and active ageing. He said that 80 is the new 60 and that people should aim to be productive and active for longer.
“Maggi Pustaka” producer Chinnaswamy Yathiraj and senior artist Mysore Ramananda were present. Mr Ramananda, a senior citizen himself, urged elders to keep their creativity alive and stay active in society. Participants also visited various stalls, gathering information and enjoying interactive displays.
Dr. Alexander Thomas, Founding Board Member of Vayah Vikas, reflected on the organisation’s journey and the growing significance of community-led initiatives for senior well-being. The highlight of the afternoon was the address by the Guest of Honour, Justice Santosh Hegde, Former Solicitor General of India. He described Hiriyara Habba as a powerful reminder that ageing is a stage enriched with wisdom, dignity, and continued contribution. He urged seniors to come together to make the society of their dreams. Applauding the senior participants for their confidence, creativity, and spirit, he presented the inaugural Vayah Vikas Senior Excellence Awards, honouring outstanding achievements across diverse fields.
Awardees :
Social Service and Community Impact: Rtn. Jayaraman, recognised for his longstanding work in eye donation awareness, community learning initiatives, digital access in schools, and senior care.
Education and Lifelong Learning: Dr Arvind Kasturi, honoured for his leadership in geriatric care, community health services, research, and training at St John’s Medical College.
Arts, Culture and Sports: Ms Pavithra Muddaya, celebrated for five decades of work sustaining India’s handloom heritage and supporting weavers through Vimor.
Actor Deepak Rai Panaje, remarked that he was moved by the vitality and imagination displayed by seniors throughout the festival.
The day included engaging cultural and interactive sessions, Karnataka’s folk dance, Veeragase, Kathak, and an energetic performance from the Diana Tholloor Academy of Movement and Drama. Numerous stalls showcased products and services relevant to seniors, capturing their interest and adding to the day’s lively rhythm.
Throughout the event, seniors made active use of the Ekta Hub Experience Zone, which brought together will writing and legal awareness, cyber security and financial guidance, digital literacy and technology support, and an extensive range of health and wellness assessments
The day concluded with a Lucky Draw. Prizes were distributed by the Kantara Team. Ms. Pavithra Reddy, COO of Vayah Vikas, expressed deep appreciation to the community, Vayah Vikas team, volunteers, families, and well-wishers whose support made Hiriyara Habba 2025 a memorable success.
Through Hiriyara Habba, Vayah Vikas reaffirmed its mission of celebrating seniors as active, valued contributors to society.
