Nerul: Proving that age is no barrier to enthusiasm and an active lifestyle, over 30 senior citizens from My Retired Life Foundation (MRLF) celebrated Navratri with a vibrant Garba and Dandiya programme on October 14 at Mahaswami Mandiram, within the SIES Nerul Academic Complex.

Dancing to traditional beats and moving gracefully around the Garbo, or sacred Ghat, the participants displayed remarkable energy, coordination and zest for life. The celebration highlighted the importance of physical activity, companionship and cultural participation in healthy ageing.

Extending the festive spirit beyond the dance floor, MRLF members will visit Karuneswar Old Age Home in Nere on October 16. The initiative aims to provide financial assistance and spend meaningful time with residents, helping them feel included and cared for during Navratri.

Established in 2018 by Dr A. K. Sen Gupta, former director of SIES College of Management Studies, MRLF is a non-governmental organisation dedicated to senior citizens’ welfare. With over 400 members, primarily from Navi Mumbai, it organises activities promoting knowledge-sharing, social interaction and community engagement.

Explaining the foundation’s vision, Dr Sen Gupta said, “The objective of this NGO was to create a networking platform where the elderly could engage meaningfully and usher in what we call healthy ageing.”

He added that the organisation combines online programmes with traditional in-person gatherings and continued its activities even during the pandemic lockdown.

Through cultural celebrations and community outreach, MRLF encourages older people to remain active, socially connected and engaged with society. Its Navratri initiatives underline how festivals can become opportunities not only for celebration but also for compassion, inclusion and meaningful human connection.