195th Week of Saturday Sangamam

Elders’ Participation in Preparing Deepawali Sweets and Savouries – Celebrating Deepawali with Dignity

We are happy to share a brief report on the 195th week of Saturday Sangamam held yesterday, 17th October 2026 at our Senior Citizen Centre at Sivasailam. It provided an opportunity for the elders to celebrate Navratri with devotion, togetherness and heartfelt prayers. In a simple and meaningful observance, the elders offered prayers seeking wellness, happiness, peace and a healthy life for everyone.

With particular affection and gratitude, they prayed for the wellbeing of the donors and well-wishers who continue to support VAMA Charitable Trust, as well as all the elders associated with VAMA. The prayers reflected the elders’ appreciation for the people who stand by them and their desire to see everyone blessed with good health, happiness and prosperity.

This observance was a gentle reminder that the relationship between VAMA and its supporters extends beyond giving and receiving. It is built on mutual affection, gratitude, goodwill and a shared commitment to human dignity.

The Navratri celebration, together with the preparations for Deepawali, beautifully reflected the spirit of Saturday Sangamam — bringing people together through faith, cultural traditions, care and meaningful participation.

The event had a special focus on preparing for “Deepawali – Celebrating Elders with Dignity.”

As part of our Deepawali preparations, we held a discussion with the participating elders on preparing traditional sweets and savouries for distribution to elders and others, enabling them to celebrate the festival with happiness, dignity and a sense of belonging.

The discussion was particularly encouraging, as several elders enthusiastically volunteered to contribute their traditional culinary skills. They suggested a variety of items they could prepare well, including:

Pazhaniammal, Eswarathammal, Avvaiyar Patti, Karaikalammal, Esakki Annachi, PalavesamThatha, Vellammal Atchi, Mookammal and Senbagavalli Patti were among those who showed particular interest and enthusiasm in taking part in the preparations and volunteered as lead.

3. Immediate Action and Finalised Preparation Schedule

The enthusiasm translated into action immediately. A group of elders prepared samples of thengaipal murukku and Mysore pak at the Centre, demonstrating their willingness to contribute actively to the celebrations.

Some elders also volunteered to come on 21 and 22 October 2026 to prepare additional samples and help finalise the items and preparation arrangements.

After discussion, it was agreed that the elders would participate in groups from 3 to 5 November 2026 to prepare the selected sweets and savouries for the Deepawali celebrations.

The distribution of the prepared items, along with other festival provisions, is planned for 6 and 7 November 2026.

4. Saturday Sangamam – A Platform for Experience in Action

The most heartening outcome of the 195th Saturday Sangamam was the active participation of elders not merely as recipients of support, but as contributors who bring their skills, experience and enthusiasm to community initiatives.

At VAMA, we believe that ageing should not mean the end of an individual’s contribution to society. Our Experience in Action approach seeks to recognise and enable older people to continue sharing their knowledge, talents and life experiences meaningfully.

The willingness of the elders to take ownership of the Deepawali preparations reflects the strength of Saturday Sangamam, built consistently over 195 weeks. It demonstrates how regular engagement, mutual trust and a sense of belonging can help older people rediscover their purpose and remain active contributors to society.

The VAMA team was genuinely happy and encouraged to witness this spirit of participation. It reinforces our conviction that the true strength of VAMA lies not only in serving elders, but also in creating opportunities for elders to serve, contribute and lead.

5. Looking Ahead

As we move towards the 200th week of Saturday Sangamam and the beginning of VAMA’s tenth year, these preparations are especially meaningful. The Deepawali initiative is becoming more than a festival distribution activity; it is an opportunity to celebrate the dignity, abilities and continuing contributions of older people.

We are grateful for your continued encouragement and support, which motivate us to build initiatives that go beyond immediate assistance and create lasting social value.

We look forward to your continued association and would be delighted to have your presence during the Deepawali celebrations.