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Saturday Milan (சனிக்கிழமை சங்கமம்) - 50

50th Week of Saturday Sangamam at Sailam 1 a memorable event successfully held on 1st July 2023.

More than 260 people gathered. Vama endeavoured to bring the presence of all elders who came to Sailam all these Saturdays. Many surprised, wondered, eagared, were glad, astonished, appreciated and proud to be part of the event. Lot of memories and recollected moments – happy, togetherness, sad, surprising, proud, etc.

Smt and Sh Srividya Mahesh and Dr Durairaj of Vaikarai graced the occasion with their presence.

Sh Kannaya sir who conceptually crafted the purpose of Saturday Sangamam spared time to see the value brought by Vama for elders through the program. The author acknowledged and validated that the events as meaningful.

Sh Subramanian, Sh Lakshmanan Sh Arumugam Trustees and others welcomed the guests and elders. Some of the elders accompanied with their relatives to share and show case their new role in their life.

As early as 6 am, 8 elders from V k Puram came and started decorating the place with their expertise KOLANGAL, RANGOLI, Flowers decorations and Annapurni prayers etc

Event started with prayer song at 9.45 AM followed by wonderful dance performance of Ms Rohini of Thiruvalluvar College Papanasam – Marainthirunthu Paarkum Marmam Enna and மார்கழித் திங்களல்லவா மதிகொஞ்சும் நாளல்லவா – இது

கண்ணன் வரும் பொழுதல்லவா

ஒருமுறை உனது திருமுகம் பார்த்தால் விடை பெறும் உயிரல்லவா (2)வருவாய் தலைவா வாழ்வே வெறும் கனவா – excellent performance. All amazed. Post enjoying dance and sipping Horlicks, the program headed towards elders performance- Kavithai about Vama by Sh I Lakshman, Kümmei, Kollattam, One minute Mandram by Mr Arumugam, blessings by Sh Veerai Muthaiya, Mr Sankarnarayanan Sh Subramainan and others

Dr D Durairaj delivered guest speech and shared activities at Vaikarai and conducted meditation session

Ms Srividya gave a short and sweet speech and sung two beautiful old bit golden songs – : மலர்ந்து மலராத பாதி மலர்

போல வளரும் விழிவண்ணமே

and

மாலை பொழுதின் மயக்கத்திலே நான் கனவு கண்டேன் தோழி.

Vama team briefed about summer camp activities and facilitated students with certificates and coordinators and teachers a special cash prize.

Selva kumar an young emerging director picturised a short film Vama’ s NEST and show cased to guests and elders. All appreciated the short film.

Very good lunch was served – Sambar, Aviyal and pal payasam.

Post lunch elders continued with singing old songs and vidukathai and small games. Elders greeted each other for their successful 50 weeks of Sangamam. As it was drizzling, enjoyed block cardamom coffee elders departed back to their home. Vama team.

வாமா அறக்கட்டளையின் 50வது வார சனிக்கிழமை சங்கமம் சைலம் 1, ஜூலை 1, 2023 அன்று வெற்றிகரமாக நடைபெற்ற ஒரு மறக்கமுடியாத நிகழ்வு. 260க்கும் மேற்பட்டோர் கூடினர். இந்த சனிக்கிழமைகளில் சைலத்திற்கு வந்த அனைத்து பெரியவர்களின் முன்னிலையில் வாமா முயற்சித்தார். நிகழ்வின் ஒரு பகுதியாக இருப்பதில் பலர் ஆச்சரியப்பட்டனர், ஆச்சரியப்பட்டனர், ஆர்வத்துடன், மகிழ்ச்சியடைந்தனர், ஆச்சரியப்பட்டனர், பாராட்டப்பட்டனர் மற்றும் பெருமைப்பட்டனர். நிறைய நினைவுகள் மற்றும் நினைவுகூரப்பட்ட தருணங்கள் – மகிழ்ச்சி, ஒற்றுமை, சோகம், ஆச்சரியம், பெருமை போன்றவை. வைகறையைச் சேர்ந்த ஸ்ரீமதி மற்றும் ஸ்ரீவித்யா மகேஷ் மற்றும் டாக்டர் துரைராஜ் ஆகியோர் கலந்து கொண்டு விழாவை சிறப்பித்தனர். ஷ், கண்ணையா, சனி சங்கமம் நிகழ்ச்சியின் நோக்கத்தை கருத்தியல் ரீதியாக வடிவமைத்தவர், நிகழ்ச்சியின் மூலம் பெரியவர்களுக்கு வாமா கொண்டு வந்த மதிப்பைக் காண நேரத்தை மிச்சப்படுத்தினார். நிகழ்வுகள் அர்த்தமுள்ளவை என்பதை ஆசிரியர் ஒப்புக்கொண்டு உறுதிப்படுத்தினார். சுப்ரமணியன், லட்சுமணன் ஆறுமுகம் அறங்காவலர்கள் மற்றும் பலர் விருந்தினர்கள் மற்றும் பெரியவர்களை வரவேற்றனர். சில பெரியவர்கள் தங்கள் உறவினர்களுடன் தங்கள் வாழ்க்கையில் தங்கள் புதிய பங்கைப் பகிர்ந்து கொள்ளவும் காட்டவும் சென்றனர். காலை 6 மணிக்கே, வி.கே.புரத்தில் இருந்து 8 பெரியவர்கள் வந்து தங்கள் நிபுணத்துவத்தால் அந்த இடத்தை அலங்கரிக்க ஆரம்பித்தனர். கோலங்கல், ரங்கோலி, மலர்கள் அலங்காரங்கள் மற்றும் அன்னபூரணி பிரார்த்தனைகள், முதலியன. நிகழ்வு காலை 9.45 மணிக்கு பிரார்த்தனை பாடலுடன் தொடங்கியது, அதைத் தொடர்ந்து திருவள்ளுவர் கல்லூரி பாபநாசம் திருமதி ரோகிணியின் அற்புதமான நடன நிகழ்ச்சி – மறைந்திருந்து பார்க்கும், மர்மம் என்ன மற்றும் மார்கழித் திங்களல்லவா இது வரும். ஒருமுறை உனது திருமுகம் பார்த்தால் விடை பெறும் உயிரல்லவா (2)வருவாய் தலைவா வாழ்வே வெறும் கனவா – சிறந்த நடிப்பு. அனைவரும் ஆச்சரியப்பட்டனர். நடனத்தை ரசித்து, ஹார்லிக்ஸைப் பருகிய பிறகு, நிகழ்ச்சி முதியோர்களின் நடிப்பை நோக்கிச் சென்றது- ஷ், ஐ லக்ஷ்மன், கும்மெய், கொல்லாட்டம் எழுதிய கவிதை, திரு.ஆறுமுகத்தின் ஒரு நிமிட மந்திரம், ஷ, வீரை, முத்தையா, திரு.சங்கர்நாராயணன், சுப்ரமணியன் மற்றும் ஆசிர்வாதம். மற்றவர்கள் Dr. D Durairaj delivered guest speech and shared activities at Vaikarai and conducted meditation session Ms. Srividya gave a short and sweet speech and sung two beautiful old bit golden songs – : மலர்ந்து மலராத பாதி மலர் போல வளரும் விழிவண்ணமே மற்றும் மாலை பொழுதின் மயக்கத்திலே நான் கனவு கண்டேன். தோழி. கோடைக்கால முகாம் நடவடிக்கைகள் குறித்து வாமா குழுவினர் விளக்கமளித்தனர் மற்றும் மாணவர்களுக்கு சான்றிதழ்கள் மற்றும் ஒருங்கிணைப்பாளர்கள் மற்றும் ஆசிரியர்களுக்கு சிறப்பு ரொக்கப் பரிசு வழங்கினர். வளர்ந்து வரும் இளம் இயக்குனரான செல்வ குமார், வாமாவின் நெஸ்ட் என்ற குறும்படத்தை படமாக்கி விருந்தினர்கள் மற்றும் பெரியவர்களுக்கு காட்சிப்படுத்தினார். அனைவரும் குறும்படத்தைப் பாராட்டினர். சாம்பார், அவியல் மற்றும் பால் பாயாசம் – மிகவும் நல்ல மதிய உணவு பரிமாறப்பட்டது. மதிய உணவுக்குப் பிறகு பெரியவர்கள் பழைய பாடல்கள், விடுகதைகள் மற்றும் சிறு விளையாட்டுகளைப் பாடிக்கொண்டே இருந்தனர். சங்கமம் வெற்றிகரமாக 50 வாரங்கள் நிறைவடைந்ததற்கு பெரியவர்கள் ஒருவருக்கொருவர் வாழ்த்து தெரிவித்தனர். தூறல் பெய்ததால், ஏலக்காய் காபியை மகிழ்ந்த பெரியவர்கள் தங்கள் வீட்டிற்குத் திரும்பினர்.

Saturday Milan (சனிக்கிழமை சங்கமம்) - 49

We are glad to inform you that 49th week of Sailathil Saturday Sangamam was held yesterday.

Around 95 elders gathered from Mannarkoil, V K Puram, Kalidaikurichi, Ambasamudram, Chettikulam, Alwarkurichi, Sivasailam and Kalyanipuram. Event started with prayers to Sree Soundarya Ganapathy and remembering Nabigal Nayagam and Jesus Christ by sharing quotes. Sh Muthaiya said that we have to pay the wages to labourers before their sweat is dried. Then discussion started on the arrangements for next week i.e. celebration of 50th week of Sailathil Saturday Sangamam. Sh. I Lakshmanan, Arumugam, Rengasamy, G.K sir, Subramanian Sir, Amuthaamma, Mukkammal and other members of the organising committee suggested various events and finalised the proposal. Sipping Hot Horlicks they suggested that it would be windy and we need to be careful in our activities. Elders parted in groups and started preparation for Kolattam, Gummi, Singing, speaking etc.

Mannarkoil elders started preparing food at the new kitchen. Rice Pulikuzhambu, keerai kottu and Pumpkin kottu with buttermilk and fresh manago pickles were served at lunch. Elders talked about the Source of Food and its effects. Sh Kumar shared the story of Smt Sudha Murthy’s “How I Taught My Grandmother to Read” which purely reflected on the elders and enjoyed those golden days narrated in the story. Vama team offered that they would enable elders whom are interested to learn computers. Mini Library containing the display of the books on various subjects was referred for reading. Mudhumai Ennum Poonkgatru and other small tamil magazine were liked by others. Some offered to bring books from their home. Some suggested keeping books on Ambal and Sivan stories.

In the evening while enjoying the tea, team delibrated on the timings to start from V K Puram, number of trips and other arrangements and left around 5 P.M.

WE REQUEST YOUR KIND PRESENCE WITH YOUR TEAM ON 1ST JULY 2023 TO CELEBRATE 50TH WEEK OF SATURDAY EVENT AT SIVASAILAM.

Saturday Milan (சனிக்கிழமை சங்கமம்) - 48

Sailathil Saturday Sangamam – 48th week was held yesterday 17/6/23.

As usual 87 elders and 12 others gathered and started with prayers to Sree Soundarya Ganapathy. Hot Horlicks was prepared at new Happy Kitchen and served at around 10.30 am. Everyone visited the new building and felt highly happy to be in the kitchen building and dining hall. One of the members mentioned that she was so happy to be there for the dignity extended by Vama team to take them to the new building and show it to her. Her own brother who recently built and inaugurated his new building did not take her to the new building but here she was so well treated and happily everyone was showing each item in the new building as if her own father or brother.

Post visit to happy kitchen, elders started deliberations on thr arrangements for the ensuing 50th Week of Sailathil Sangamam. Vama team shared the details captured in Vama’s website about the Sailathil Sangamam from its 1st week to 47th week. Everyone watched and saw their photos ans recollected each and every activity mentioned in the News and Events in the website. Amazing 48 weeks and the sweet memories. After watching the website, elders came out and Sh Subramaiam shared his experiences particularly his 20 visits to Varanasi and Siva thathuvam. He mentioned several information such as Nattukottai chatram, Kasi Viswanathan temple and pujas at Sree Visalakshi Amman temple, burial ground and free lunch and courtesy extended by North Indians.

Lunch was ready and served at the new building 3 sessions of 32 elders sat and enjoyed the food. Vama team existed in serving and having the food at the new building. Post lunch, Elders started practicing singing songs under the guidance of Sh Subburaj. Time passed fast in singing and hearing old songs with a lot of sweet memories. Hot tea was served at 4.15 pm.

We invite you to join us on 1st July 2023 to celebrate the 50th Week of Sailathil Saturday Sangaman.

Saroja madam and Sh I Lakshmanan informed about the demise of Ms Muthulakshmi last Thursday. Vama team and others shared information about Ms Muthulakshmi.

Ms Muthukakshmi aged 50 years was one of the beneficiaries of Vama and was hale and healthy till last November. When she first visited Tirunelveli Highground hospital with a complaint that she could not eat and felt pain in swallowing. Doctors post taking several tests in months time identified and informed the family about her suffering from Cancer.

One of three daughters of a farmer. Her elder and younger sister got married.

Mother of Muthulakshmi is surviving and is a much affected person.

All along Muthulakshmi was working in the paddy field as a wager and living with her mother in a small village in Tenkasi District.

Muthulakshmi was suffering from vomiting and continuous high fever. Not able to take any solid food for more than six months now. Vomiting whatever took place even in liquid form.

Treatment was suggested to have Concurrent Therapy. She underwent 25 radiotherapy out of total 30 suggested at Madurai and also tested flower treatment.

Since she has the Poverty Medical card, she got admission for treatment. Medicines are not covered and purchased by pledging her mother’s one gold chain.

Vama supported for travel expenses to Madurai by car as she could not travel by Train/Bus and medicines

Very active and bold lady.

Caring her mother as the breadwinner of the family.

Supported elder and younger sister regularly with the vegetable and others cultivated in the field.

Had lot of wishes for taking her mother to several temples in Tamil Nadu, caring other elders similar to her mother and wanted to render service through NGOs

Two minutes of silence was observed for the peace of the departed soul.

With heavy heart hearing all this info about Ma Muthulakshmi, elders left from Sailam. Vama organised a van for travelling of elders who wanted to go and console Muthulakshmi madam’s mother at Theertharapuram near Papankulam.

Saturday Milan (சனிக்கிழமை சங்கமம்) - 46

Sailathil Saturday Sangamam was celebrated well with IAS aspirants from Madurai on 3rd June 2023.

7 (Three girls and four boys) IAS aspirants from Madurai joined elders this week to celebrate the sangamam event.

To take the education related activities to the new height, VAMA team invited IAS aspirants from Madurai to understand the complexity and opportunity for students to undergo the skill training in IAS administrative and professional courses. VAMA team has been deliberating on the commitment to Sh. Kalyana Raman, USA on of the funder to set up the Digital Facilitation Centre, to equip and bring the colours in Mannarkoil and Sivasailam graduates who aspire to crack Competitive Exams and/or to become Accounting/Secretarial Professionals. For this purpose, it is in the process of understanding the course requirements and started sowing the seeds on 2nd June 2023 (Vaikasi Visagam Day). We had a good time with the Aspirants who have come from Madurai and recently appeared for their IAS exams on 28/5/23.

Understanding the Saturday Sangamam program on 3/6/23, youngsters stayed there and participated in the 46th Event of Saturday Sangamam. Due to summer holidays and having their grandchildren at home, some of the elders from V K Puram and due to road repairing activities at Ambasamudram ARCH, elders from Ambai, Kallidai and V Nallur could not join. Still there were around 82 elders and 10 others participated in the event.

Event started with the introduction of the IAS aspirants from Madurai and they shared details of their family, academic activities and their 18 months of experience in skilling themselves for IAS prelim exams. They shared that they are all from rural parts of Madurai and Theni Districts and are staying at Alanganallur to attend this course. An NGO supported with corporate social responsibility (CSR) funds is conducting the program at free of charge. They have been selected through written and personal interviews. Some of them are confident to get through this time and some of them mentioned it was tough this time. Elders present there explained their dreams and also shared what is happening all these 46 weeks at Sailam. Wondering the efforts of Vama, one of them mentioned that the Care Centre is normally for children and others but for elders it is very important and different. Youngsters and elders mingled and connected to remove the generation gap and played various roles, games and activities. Time fly like anything – Karpagam, one of the Aspirants from Madurai mentioned.

Very good lunch – Rice, Moorkuzhambu and Kothavarangai paruppu uusili was served and all enjoyed it.

Post lunch also, the activities continued with elders and at 4.30 pm forcefully they had to give farewell to children from Madurai. Yet another enticing event for elders.

Saturday Milan (சனிக்கிழமை சங்கமம்) - 45

Sailathil Saturday Sangamam held yesterday 27/5/23 at Sailam. After spending food 5 weeks with Children- Connecting Generation- since 26/4/23, it was proposed to schedule a Pattimandram to bring out elders ability and wishes. Sh I Lakshmanan of Agasthiarpatti coordinated during the last days brought the topic of “Whether happiness and content fullness of life is in City life or Village life”. Initially three members team was planned from each side to debate with the Nadavur of Sh S Lakshmanan of Ambasamudram, then expanded by another two and finally five members from each side formed as team to debate. Sh Lakshmanan sir started with a preamble and set the context of the deliberations. All ten members debated on their own style and originality without any shyness or fear. They quoted their own life experiences and incidences they came across both in the city life and village life. Many wondered and thanked god to grace them all to enjoy both the life. Appreciating various points brought out by the elders, Sh Lakshmanan Naduvur supported the debate by the team representing Village life. Many thanked Vama to set this kind of platform to showcase their inner ability. Someone mentioned that it was Vama and the encouragement received from the elders here enabled her to recollect and reflect her past life in village which many of the young children missing. Post the debate session, lunch – Kottanchuru and Curd rice with fresh Mango pickles prepared there was served to all. Due to school holidays nearing end several elders from Mannarkoil could not present. Post lunch elders present started deliberating on the celebration to be planned for the 50th week of Saturday Sangamam which would be on 1st July I will be 2023. Many astonishingly realised that the days just flies like anything. Several elders remembered the day they first came to Sailam and for some it was 25th week and for some 34th week likewise. A 10 member team was formed to plan and work on the schedule and event for the 50th week. When tea was getting ready, son of Mr Lakshmanan who is working in Trivandrum in CRPF joined and entertained the elders with his Karki age old song of Hindi movie Bhabhi and elders also joined and sung several songs and enjoyed. With enjoyment of tea and biscuits the event came to end at around 4.30 pm and elders left with old memories.

நேற்று 27/5/23 சைலத்தில் நடைபெற்ற சைலத்தில் சனிக்கிழமை சங்கமம் .26/4/23 முதல் குழந்தைளை மூத்த தலைமுறையுடன் இணைக்கும் 5 வாரங்கள் செலவிட்ட பிறகு, முதியவர்களின் திறன் மற்றும் விருப்பங்களை வெளிப்படுத்த பட்டிமன்றத்தை திட்டமிட முன்மொழியப்பட்டது. அகஸ்தியர்பட்டியைச் சேர்ந்த நான் லட்சுமணன் கடைசி நாட்களில் ஒருங்கிணைத்து “வாழ்க்கையின் மகிழ்ச்சியும் உள்ளடக்கமும் முழுமையா நகர வாழ்க்கையா அல்லது கிராமத்து வாழ்க்கையா” என்ற தலைப்பைக் கொண்டுவந்தார். ஆரம்பத்தில் அம்பாசமுத்திரத்தைச் சேர்ந்த எஸ்.எஸ்.லட்சுமணனின் நடுவராக விவாதம் நடத்த ஒவ்வொரு தரப்பிலிருந்தும் மூன்று பேர் கொண்ட குழு திட்டமிடப்பட்டது, பின்னர் மேலும் இருவரால் விரிவுபடுத்தப்பட்டது, இறுதியாக ஒவ்வொரு தரப்பிலிருந்தும் ஐந்து பேர் விவாதம் செய்ய குழுவாக அமைக்கப்பட்டது. லட்சுமணன் சார் முன்னுரையுடன் தொடங்கி, விவாதத்தின் சூழலை அமைத்தார். பத்து உறுப்பினர்களும் எந்த கூச்சமும் பயமும் இல்லாமல் தங்கள் சொந்த பாணியிலும் அசல் தன்மையிலும் விவாதம் செய்தனர். அவர்கள் தங்கள் சொந்த வாழ்க்கை அனுபவங்களையும் சம்பவங்களையும் மேற்கோள் காட்டினார்கள். அவர்கள் நகர வாழ்க்கையிலும் கிராம வாழ்க்கையிலும் சந்தித்தனர். பலர் ஆச்சரியப்பட்டு நன்றி தெரிவித்தனர். அவர்கள் அனைவரும் இருவரும் வாழ்வில் மகிழ்ச்சியடைய இறைவன் அருள் புரிவானாக. பெரியோர்கள் எடுத்துரைத்த பல்வேறு விஷயங்களைப் பாராட்டி, கிராம வாழ்க்கையைப் பிரதிநிதித்துவப்படுத்தும் குழுவின் விவாதத்திற்கு ஷ லக்ஷ்மணன் நடுவூர் ஆதரவளித்தார். தங்களின் உள்ளார்ந்த திறனை வெளிப்படுத்தும் வகையில் இந்த மாதிரியான தளத்தை அமைத்ததற்கு பலரும் வாமாவுக்கு நன்றி தெரிவித்தனர். இது வாமா என்று ஒருவர் குறிப்பிட்டார், இங்குள்ள பெரியவர்களிடமிருந்து கிடைத்த ஊக்கம் கிராமத்தில் தனது கடந்த கால வாழ்க்கையை நினைவுகூரவும் பிரதிபலிக்கவும் உதவியது, பல இளம் குழந்தைகளைக் காணவில்லை. விவாத அமர்வு, மதிய உணவு – கொட்டாஞ்சூறு மற்றும் தயிர் சாதம் மற்றும் புதிய மாங்காய் ஊறுகாய் தயார். அங்கு அனைவருக்கும் பரிமாறப்பட்டது. பள்ளிக்கு விடுமுறை விடுவதால் மன்னார்கோயிலில் இருந்து பல முதியவர்கள் வர முடியவில்லை. மதிய உணவிற்குப் பிறகு வந்திருந்த பெரியவர்கள், ஜூலை 1-ஆம் தேதி நடைபெறவிருக்கும் சனிக்கிழமை சங்கமத்தின் 50-வது வாரத்தில் கொண்டாட திட்டமிடப்பட்டது. நான் 2023 ஆக இருப்பேன். நாட்கள் எதையும் போல பறக்கின்றன என்பதை பலர் வியக்கத்தக்க வகையில் உணர்ந்தனர். பல பெரியவர்கள் சைலத்திற்கு முதலில் வந்த நாளையும் சிலருக்கு 25வது வாரமும் சிலருக்கு 34வது வாரமும் நினைவுக்கு வந்தது. 50 வது வாரத்திற்கான அட்டவணை மற்றும் நிகழ்வைத் திட்டமிட்டு வேலை செய்ய 10 பேர் கொண்ட குழு உருவாக்கப்பட்டது. தேநீர் தயாரானதும் திருவனந்தபுரத்தில் CRPFல் பணிபுரியும் திரு.லக்ஷ்மணனின் மகனும் இணைந்து, பாபி என்ற ஹிந்தி திரைப்படத்தின் கார்க்கி வயதுப் பாடலைக் கூறி பெரியவர்களை மகிழ்வித்தார். தேநீர் மற்றும் பிஸ்கட் சாப்பிட்டு மகிழ்ந்த நிகழ்வு மாலை 4.30 மணியளவில் நிறைவடைந்து பழைய நினைவுகளுடன் பெரியோர்கள் புறப்பட்டனர்.

Saturday Milan (சனிக்கிழமை சங்கமம்) - 44

Sailathil Saturday Sangam – 44th WEEK – was celebrated last Saturday – 20/5/23.

It was a Triple Dhamaka for all present over. Just after the day of 10th results, the day was full of events. Incidentally Sh Rengan sir who was present to greet the children for completing Summer Camp and participating in the Career Guidance program organised through All Career Guru, celebrated his 74th birthday.

Celebration of event started with Children from Soubhagya Illam and followed with a prayer and a small way of Yoga. Smt. Lakshmi of AOL team conducted Yoga session.

Everyone wished Rengan sir and prayed for a happy and healthy life. He distributed sweets and mixture.

Kannan Bhattar performed Puja for Sree Soundarya Ganapathy and Sarkarai Pongal was distributed as Prasadam.

To make the day more interesting, Vama team organised the closing ceremony of Summer Camp. More than 84 children were present and described their experiences during these 22 days of the camp. Rengan sir made them into 14 groups of 6 students and made them to discuss in group and the group leader is to speak on their behalf. Also asked them to name their team. Children joyfully started discussing and recollecting their memories of the activities done during these 20 day. They named their groups with flowers like Lotus, Lily, Sunflower, Neithal, Marutham, Pallai, Kurunchi and Mullai, and some named in their favourite hero’s name. Students spoke excellently and narrated the activities. Some of the students thanked their teachers and elders for such a wonderful event. Some students thanked not only Vama team, teachers but also driver Ramesh Anna, House keeping Murugan Anna and Pandit who provided very tasty Prasadam such as coconut rice, lemon rice, Tamarind rice, Sarkarai Pongal and Kulukattai.

Sh. Subramanian, Sh. Lakshman, Trustees Sh. Rengan, Sh Venkadesh, Sh Raja, Sh Ananatha from Covai Koodu foundation, Sh. Vignesh and Smt Lakshmi Subramaiam graced the event.

Excellent lunch – Sambar, Aviyal, Kuttu, More and Payasam was served to add delight to stamah.

Team deliberated on the success stories of Summer Camp and activities done in the culinary arts, arts and crafts and traditional games. Many elders have volunteered and contributed their best to the children and enjoyed as of with their grandchildren for various activities to connect with the young generation.

Allcareerguru team spent good time on Friday afternoon and also Saturday with students of 10th grade and 12th grade on their career plans. They shared what can be the best for their studies and also their life. experiences. Sh Venkadesh also shared his golden days when he went to IIT Lucknow to do his Engineering. All the three members from Allcareerguru are stalwarts in IT domain and suggested how to select colleges for higher studies.

Yet another excellent day at Sailam and with Vama Team.

Surya kumari one of the students in the centre secured 428 marks out of 500. Sh Rengan was present and gave Rs 500/- instantly to celebrate her success with their parents.

Saturday Milan (சனிக்கிழமை சங்கமம்) - 43

Sailathil Saturday Sangam – 43 WEEK – was celebrated on last Saturday 13/5/23

With the purpose of connecting generation, Saturdays from 29/4/23 to 20/5/23 are planned to have event with students and elders. As planned elders and students spent good time in playing traditional games, through ball, story telling and singing songs etc

Good crowd big event big Patti Thatha Veedu – Vama family. More than 80 students and 90 elders gathered.

14/5/23 being Mother’s Day students shared their experiences about their parents particularly mother and I. Good stories were shared by elders also.

To add meaning to the momentum Smt Pushpa Sankarraman from Ayikudi Tenkasi joined the event. Knowing the kitchen getting ready for preparation of food for elders, Pushpa madam donated Stove, Milk Cooker and Thalti. Great memorable moments with Pushpa madam.

As usual good lunch rice, Sambar , poriyal, more and thuvaiyal was served and enjoyed by all.

Saturday Milan (சனிக்கிழமை சங்கமம்) - 42

Sailathil Saturday Sangamam – 42 week was held last Saturday 6/5/23. More than 130 elders and 145 students gathered at Sailam. Connecting generation was the concept and both elders and students entertained each other and forget all their other activities. 8 groups of 30 people were made and elders of all age and students of all grades were equally distributed. Incidentally another 64 tourist from Chennai joined and sponsored lunch for all. Mr Anand of Alwarkurichi called last Thursday and informed about Chennai team and requested for accepting lunch arranged from Ramanas Ambasamudram. With certain degree of hesitation Vama team accepted for the sponsorship as Avvaiashram only referred to one of the Trustees. With God’s grace Chennai team also came to south for a spiritual tour to Tiruchendur. They informed that they are from Andal Trust and every month they come to Thiruchendur and last month they came to Alwarkurichi and met Sh Anand. Mixed of several family members easily mingled with Vama family members and moved well with Students. They wondered the arrangements made and also the acoof Vama Trust. 42 week and overwhelming response from elders and summer camp activities for children with elders recap of their childhood games. A different experience for all.

Saturday Milan (சனிக்கிழமை சங்கமம்) - 41

Sailathil Saturday Sangam – 41st WEEK – was celebrated on last Saturday 29/4/23

With the purpose of connecting generation, Saturdays from 29/4/23 to 20/5/23 are planned to have event with students and elders. As planned from 26th April onwards Summer Camp activities are started at Sivasailam and Mannarkoil. Students from v k Puram, Sammankulam, Pattalpudur, Mannarkoil, Alwarkurichi and other adjoining places started coming and participating. Some of the elders like Sh Lakshmanan VK Puram, Subburaj, Rengasamy started taking charge and traditional games and activities are conducted. Making more elders to participate, Saturday students and elders gathered at Sailam. More than 240 people were there. It looked like last week’s Car Festivel Theer Thiruvizha. Sailam was filled with elders and children annamazing combination. Big crowd big event big Patti Thatha Veedu – Vama family. Adding to grandmas, Mother Nature also showered with her kindness. Started with drizzling all enjoyed Kodai Mazhai. Sheltering under the shed, Hut and new kitchen dinning place made more togetherness amongst people gathered there. Singing dancing and sharing thoughts were activities around. Lunch Kottanchoru was planned but changed to Sambar cum

Bisi bele bhath – a spicy, rice-based dish with huge vegetables was prepared and served. Elders served the food to children as being cared their grandsons/daughters by them at home. Children reciprocated the elders by assisting in serving water, putting salt and showing courtesy by asking “Vera Venuma” innum kunjam venuma. All enjoyed hot and spicy Sambar rice and nice curd rice in the drizzling climate.

As it had been raining more than expected with the concurrence of all present the event came to end.

Saturday Milan (சனிக்கிழமை சங்கமம்) - 40

Sailathil Saturday Sangam – 40th WEEK – was celebrated yesterday.

The day was full of events as our elders started the day with a prayer and a small way of Yoga. Smt. Lakshmi of AOL team was shifting her residence from Tirunelveli to V.K. Puram and the housewarming program was scheduled on 23/4/23. Smt. Lakshmi requested that she is not able to invite all Vama Family to her residence and Sailam is the joyful residence of all of us, lunch for the day was her sponsorship. Lakshmi mam invited all members to visit her place tomorrow. Everyone wished Lakshmi Madam and her family a happy and healthy life. Yoga and meditation activities reflected Smt Lakshmi’s absence.

Post prayers and warm up session, Amutha madam took charge and narrated the event for the day. She shared her knowledge on the Hunuman’s communication skills which she understood from Kamabaramanyanam. She briefed Sundarakandam in very simple and easy to understand way to all. All appreciated her interest in such reading and sharing her knowledge. Mr. Thirumalai Murugan distributed sweets to all on his birthday. All greeted hima long and healthy life.

To make the day more interesting, Smt. Srividhya, Sh. Mahesh and Sh. Mahesh’s sister and brother in law from Chennai, who came for religious tour to temples in and around Papanasam, Tenkasi, joined around 11.30 AM. They were amazed seeing the elders around there and thanked everyone for such a gathering and caring for themselves. Sh. Lakshman of V.K. Puram (who has accompanied Smt. Srividhya along with his wife in the morning to Papapnasam Koil), Smt. Amutha, Sh. Thirumalai Murugan, Sh Rengasamy, Sh. Sadasivam, Sh. Uzhaganathan, many more shared their experience during these 40 weeks of attending Sangamam. Sh. Subbaraj, dragged Smt. Srividya and Sh. Mahesh to join in singing songs. Srividhya madam’s singing of “Malai Poluthinela Thozhi”, “Malarnthum Malaratha” song and Sh. Mahesh’s Jesudas song “Kanne Kalai Manne” songs gave a lot of joy to the elders present. Guests shared that it was a memorable event for life long and assured that they would visit certainly along with their extended family soon.

Sh. Subramanian, Sh. Lakshman, Trustees Sh. Sundaram, Sh. Subbhai Advisors and Kumar Sir were also present. They interacted with children from Avvai Ashram and introduced to Smt. Srividya and team.

Excellent lunch – Sambar, Aviyal, Pusanikai Kuttu, More and Payasam was served to add delight to stamah.

Team deliberated on the forthcoming Summer Camp and activities planned for the same. Many have volunteered to contribute their best for various activities to connect with the young generation.

Vama Team also planned for Career guidance and Counselling sessions for 10th, 11th and 12th Grade students at Sivasailam (11.00 to 12.00) and Mannarkoil (4.30 to 7.30pm) with the expertise of Sh. Subbiah and other trustees.

Yet another peaceful performance by Vama Team.

Saturday Milan (சனிக்கிழமை சங்கமம்) - 39

Sailathil Saturday Sangamam- 39th Week was celebrated yesterday

Event started with yoga and meditation by Smt Lakshmi madam of AOL Tirunelveli. Followed by puja at Sree Soundarya Ganapathy. Today prayer is made for the wellness and happiness of Sh Rengan of Mannarkoil. Sh Ammaiyappan of Kallidaikurichi performed Thiruvasagam mutrothal along with a set of elders and prayed for good health and happiness of all and in particular The donors and well-wishers of Vama Charitable Trust.

Elders started sharing their experiences of visiting car festivals at Alwarkurichi and V K Puram last Thursday. Everyone appreciated the support extended to them to visit the car festival. One of the ladies present there remembered her golden earlier days and thanked the Vama team for organising the visit after 28 years. She added that although she is in Mannarkoil just 7 km away from Alwarkurichi, she could not come for the car festival for the last 28 years and her wish came true now.

Another set of elders from Mannarkoil who visited V K Puram and enjoyed the courtesy extended by VK Puram elders Sh Lakshmanan, Sh Rengasamy, Sh Sadasivam, Sh Subburaj Sh Vanaraj, Sh Thirumalai Murugan Smt Mukkammal, Smt Ulaganathan, Smt Saroja, Smt Esakkiammal and many more. V K Puram team mentioned that they enjoyed a lot of serving devotees at Vama’s Thanneer Panthal by providing Lemon juice and Nannari Sarbath. They remembered their school days and took Vama team of elders from Mannarkoil and Alwarkurichi to have Dharshan of Sree Ulagammai Sametha Sree Papanasaswamy Papanasam. Very dedicated service and an involved support to extend courtesy by them.

Vama again experienced the proud moment of creating new friendships and the same age group gathering of elders.

Smt Lakshmi who saw the new arrival of a handbook Bhagavad Gita and started sharing her knowledge stating that the Gita is set in a narrative framework of dialogue between Pandava prince Arjuna and his guide and charioteer Krishna. Nice and simple way of narrative approach of Smt Lakshmi helped elders to refresh their memory of the Gita.

Many elders Sh Subbaraj Sh Rengasamy, Smt Amutha Smt Pushpam and more started singing songs of Lord Krishna and enhanced the momentum.

Delicious lunch – Tamilnadu Tirunelveli’s special Sodhi Kuzhambu, Urulai Podimas, Inji thuvaiyal and more was served and more than 140 elders enjoyed the feast provided by Sh Rengan Family. “Annadata Sukhibhava !”

Meanwhile a set three beautiful young nurses from the adjoining Government Medical sub health centre visited and checked blood pressure and sugar of elders present there. Around 65 elders volunteered and checked their health status. Due to paucity of time nursing staff requested that balance check up would be planned for next week

Post lunch elders resumed to discuss on their support for Summer Camp being planned from 26/4/23 to 20/5/23. They deliberated and offered their expertise to share to students during the camp. Many mentioned their interests such as participating in culinary activities, Embroidery work, Poo Kattuthal, Rangoli – Kolangal, Traditional Games like Pallankuzhi, Thayam etc. Sh Rengasamy discussed the traditional games and expressed his support for all games.

After having tea and biscuits Mannarkoil team left and V K Puram started discussing the increasing trend of elders from V K Puram and adjoining areas. Some of them expressed concern on all 54 and above members in a single vehicle and even the two trip extended this time was not solving their request. It was finally agreed to send one more vehicle together with Vama’s Mobile Home- Vehicle from next week to support their commutation. Immediately Vama team organised another vehicle to enable elders to travel comfortably then onwards. Great support by Vama team.

Yet another grand event organised by Vama team and we salute them for their services.

Saturday Milan (சனிக்கிழமை சங்கமம்) - 38

Yesterday Sailathil Saturday Sangamam 38th week program went well

Week’s activity was planned with an approach of Equity and Compassion. A trip to Gandhigram Shanthi School for the Deaf Sivasailam and Dr Soundaram Special School, Avvai Ashram, Sivasailam. Both these schools are run by Gandhigram Trust to care children with special needs (disabilities)

Every elder has moved with the children very well not with sympathy but more of their compassion. They learnt quickly some sign language to clap, thank you, smile and names.

At Dr Soundaram special school elders could see how the children with special needs are cared with love and passion. They greeted teachers and others there. Everyone wanted to do something for and with the children. Immediately they pooled whatever they had and a sum of Rs 912/- was ready grt some gifts for the children. Since there was nothing immediately get arranged, they handed over the amount to Sh Sabapathi of Vama Trust to get something for the children and they will come again on 22/4/23. Many mentioned that we all will organise for a lunch from our end to serve the children.

As usual good lunch – Sambar, Rasam, potato curry, Pusanika kottu, payasam butter milk etc was served and other courteous care was extended by Sh Balamurugan, Dy Correspondent Selvi Srirangam, Secretary and entire staff and teachers. A great moment for the elders to see and appreciate the life of people with special needs.

In the afternoon, discussed and shared their experiences of visiting places of children with special needs. Vama team mentioned that they can refer to anyone in their place who needs such support for specially abled and get admission at these Schools. Some of them – Saroja madam, Devi madam of B K Puram mentioned that they could not resist their feelings on seeing some of the children who are suffering from disability. Many cried and prayed for the strength to care these children. The momentum led to another shocking news of a great soul Mrs Mariammal( Mari Akka) departed the world last Thursday.

Everyone had heavy heart for more than half hour and remembered Mari Akka’s involvement and smiling face.

Mari akka, aged 43 years came to our centre four month back with a request for lunch support as she was suffering from Cancer (Carcinoma Cervix) Stage III. Survived with two sons and one daughter. Daughter is married and living in a nearby village. Elder son is working as a helper on daily wages basis. He rarely spares any money and addicted to alcohol worrying about his mother’s disease. She alongnwith Her younger son was running a tea shop nearby Sri Sivasailanathar Temple. Until 2019, Mariammal was running the tea shop alone to run the family.

Staying in a rented house and there was No saving; all the money got spent during the COVID and also for her daughter’s marriage. All observed 2 minutes silence and prayed for the peace to the soul.

To bring normalcy Sh Lakshmanan of Ambasamudram shared his thought on life as a river. River never expects anything nor differentiates anyone. He mentioned the holiness of water and rivers. Sh Lakshmanan of VK Puram mentioned that next week we would celebrate Tamil New Year. He mentioned that after being with Vama trust , he started enriching his Tamil language and he could read several books. Discussion furthered on the Tamil new year on 14/4/23. Next week lunch and activities reviewed by Health committee and education committee.

Saturday Milan (சனிக்கிழமை சங்கமம்) - 37

Yesterday Sailathil Saturday Sangamam 37th week program went well

As Panguni uthira Thiruvizha started in many of the temples around, we organised Anmiga sorpolivu ஆன்மீக சொற்பொழிவு by Smt Gomathi thirunavukkarasu madam. She delivered a great speech on the uniqueness of Panguni month and Lord Murugan. She spoke about thirupugal, Arunagirinathar, Muthai tharu Pathi . She also told stories about Thiruvannamalai kili kopuram and two Sannathi in that Arunachaleswarar Koil. She talked about Courtalam Arulmigu Coutralanathar ThirukKovil which was originally a Vishnu temple and changed by Agasthya as Shiva temple. Many wondered that the have several times visited these temples but didn’t know about such facts.

Post the speech, there was an announcement about Eye camp at Alwarkurichi Paramakalyani hospital on 12/4/23. Sabapathi sir mentioned that every year this camp is organised and any one wants get further consultation they can plan and go there for check up. Some of the elders shared their experiences during the eye camp and subsequent visit to Tenkasi. Overall everyone expressed their thanks to Vama team for such arrangements Trustee sir present there requested the Health Team – Smt Essaki Ammal, Mukkammal, Devi and Vanaja – to involve more and bring completeness.

As usual good lunch – Sambar, Avviyal was served and other courteous care was given.

In the afternoon Connecting generation activities were conducted with students. Elders enjoyed varieties oh games and activities organised by students.

Saturday Milan (சனிக்கிழமை சங்கமம்) - 36

Yesterday Sailathil Saturday Sangamam 36th week program went well

Being March month, Vama also celebrated with elderly woman and a topic of “குழந்தை வளர்ப்பில் மகளிர் அன்றும் இன்றும்” was put forth for debate. Four members each side of the debate with the Learned Naduvar Smt P Geetha Arumugam from V K Puram made the event joyful and memorable. Mrs Essakiammal Lakshmanan, Mrs Devi, Smt Ullagammal pati, Mrs Lakshmi, Mrs Subbulakshmi, Mrs Soroja, Mrs Mukkaammal and Mrs Parvathi pursued their passion with lot of preparation and quotations. Naduvar Mrs Geetha appreciated the performance of team and also Vama engagement activities with elders. She brought the debate to end with the Theerppu “ – judgement of Today’s Ladies are finding lot of challenges in bringing up children.

Post the Pattimandram, elders started celebrating women – Penkalai Porttruvom event was held some of them sung songs and spoken about success stories of women.

As usual good lunch was served and other courteous care was given.

Saturday Milan (சனிக்கிழமை சங்கமம்) - 35

Saturday Sangamam 35th week on 18/3/23 we have organised an eye camp for elders .The doctor and staff nurse came from Aravind hospital, Tirunelveli. Through this camp nearly 150 elders got benefitted by getting their eyes checked. Dr. Ms Revathy eye specialist and staff nurses patiently checked and gave suitable suggestions and tips to care eyes.Bp and Sugar test were done before their eyes test. Out of 150 people participated in the camp, there was as minimum as 14 elders were only required further treatment and others found their eyes normal. Teachers/trainers/coordinators from Vama’s Digital Facilitation centre volunteered to support administrative activities to support the Team from Arvind Hospital.

Sailam’s Happy Kitchen team prepared and served rice with tasty sambar and chew chew kuttu to all the elders and staff who attended our Sangamam . Preparation is so holy full like an Akshaya pathra to serve whomsoever visited there. Elders particularly Madam Lakshmi always prise the place and people that it is a heavenly atmosphere to have everything unlimited be it a joy, food, fun, kindness, blessings and happiness. Madam Lakshmi also requested elders to make a small habit of praying before eating with a statement of “Annadata Sukhi Bhava” means “Those who are providing me with this food, let them be happy’.

The doctor and staffs were given momento for their service as a token of thanks. Vama team thanked Sh Balakrishnan of Arvind Hospital for his kind presence and also to coordinate the entire process. Elders expressed their gratitude to Vama team members Sh Sabapathi, Sh Muthuvelu and Ms Rajalakshmi and the teachers from Mannarkoil DFC.

சனிக்கிழமை சங்கமம் 35வது வாரம் 18/3/23 சனிக்கிழமை நடைபெற்றது.இதில் முதியோர்களுக்கான கண்சிகிச்சை முகாமுக்கு ஏற்பாடு செய்திருந்தோம். .திருநெல்வேலி அரவிந்த் கண் மருத்துவமனையில் இருந்து மருத்துவர் மற்றும் ஸ்டாஃப் நர்ஸ் வந்தனர். இம்முகாமின் மூலம் சுமார் 150 முதியோர்கள் கண் பரிசோதனை செய்து பயனடைந்தனர். டாக்டர் திருமதி ரேவதி கண் சிறப்பு மருத்துவர் மற்றும் பணியாளர் செவிலியர்கள் பொறுமையாக பரிசோதித்து, கண்களை பராமரிக்க தகுந்த ஆலோசனைகள் மற்றும் குறிப்புகளை வழங்கினர். அவர்களின் கண் பரிசோதனைக்கு முன்னதாக இரத்த அழுத்த பரிசோதனை மற்றும் சுகர் சோதனை செய்யப்பட்டது. முகாமில் பங்கேற்ற 150 பேரில், 14 முதியோர்களுக்கு மட்டும் கண் அறுவை சிகிச்சை தேவைப்பட்டது, மற்றவர்கள் கண்கள் சாதாரணமாக இருப்பதைக் இருப்பதாக மருத்துவர் கண் கூறினார். வாமாவின் டிஜிட் மையத்தின் ஆசிரியர்கள்/பயிற்சியாளர்கள்/ஒருங்கிணைப்பாளர்கள் அரவிந்த் மருத்துவமனையின் குழுவிற்கு ஆதரவாக நிர்வாக நடவடிக்கைகளுக்கு ஆதரவளிக்க முன்வந்தனர் தேவையான உதவிகளை செய்தனர்.

சைலத்தின் ஹேப்பி கிச்சன் குழுவினர், எங்கள் சங்கமத்தில் கலந்துகொண்ட அனைத்து பெரியவர்கள் மற்றும் பணியாளர்களுக்கு குழுவான சாம்பார் மற்றும் சவ் சவ் கூட்டு , போர் , ஊறுகாய் ஆகியவற்றை தயாரித்து வழங்கினர். அங்கு சென் இங்கு வந்த அனைவருக்கும் சேவை செய்ய அக்ஷய பாத்ராவைப் போல தயாரிப்பு மிகவும் புனிதமானது. மகிழ்ச்சி, உணவு, கேளிக்கை, இரக்கம், ஆசீர்வாதம் மற்றும் மகிழ்ச்சி என அனைத்தையும் வரம்பற்ற நிலையில் வைத்திருப்பது பரலோக சூழ்நிலை என்று பெரியவர்கள் குறிப்பாக லட்சுமி மேடம் எப்போதும் அந்த இடத்தையும் மக்களையும் பாராட்டுகிறார்கள். “அன்னதாதா சுகி பவ” அதாவது “எனக்கு இந்த உணவை வழங்குபவர்கள் மகிழ்ச்சியாக இருக்கட்டும்” என்ற வாக்கியத்துடன் சாப்பிடுவதற்கு முன் பிரார்த்தனை செய்யும் ஒரு சிறிய பழக்கத்தை பெரியவர்களிடம் லட்சுமி மேடம் கேட்டுக் கொண்டார்.

மருத்துவர் மற்றும் ஊழியர்களுக்கு நன்றி தெரிவிக்கும் வகையில் அவர்களின் சேவைக்காக நினைவுப்பரிசு வழங்கப்பட்டது. அரவிந்த் மருத்துவமனையின் பாலகிருஷ்ணனின் அன்பான வருகைக்காகவும், முழு செயல்முறையையும் ஒருங்கிணைத்ததற்காகவும் வாமா குழு நன்றி தெரிவித்தது. மன்னார்கோயில் டிஎப்சியை சேர்ந்த வாமா குழு உறுப்பினர்கள் ச.சபாபதி, எஸ்.முத்துவேல், எம்.எஸ்.ராஜலட்சுமி மற்றும் ஆசிரியர்களுக்கு முதியோர்கள் நன்றி தெரிவித்தனர்.

சனி சங்கமம் 35வது வாரம்

மேற்கோள் காட்டப்பட்ட உரையைக் காட்டு

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Saturday Milan (சனிக்கிழமை சங்கமம்) - 34

Sailathil Sangamam – 34th Week was arranged yesterday to connect the youngsters with Elders. More than 80 elders assembled. As usual some were busy in preparation of lunch and some were occupied in Puja activities. Sundal as a prasadam was offered to Sree Soundarya Ganapathi and later distributed to all. Hot Horlicks was served to elders to equip them for the day’s activities. Smt. Lakshmi madam, one of the early comer (she reaches around 8.10 A.M. as she catches the first train from Tirunelveli at 7.00 A.M.), started her session with small exercises, meditation and then importance of satsang – special course was delivered. Sh. Subramanian from Alwarkurchi brought a new visitor and introduced to the team. Sh. Lakshman from Ambai, Sh. Rangaswamy, Sh. Lakshman, VK Puram, Smt. Mookammal, Smt. Devi, Sh. Ulaganathan, Smt. Eassaki ammal and Smt. Ulaggammal elders took charge of the day’s event. Vama team organized several games like through ball, falling cups, tail the elephant, Eye the cat, and many games were played with the involvement of active participants. Vama Team invited elders who have not regularly participated due their shyness or have been kept as only viewers all along. Many elders who are above 70 years who did not participate earlier, joined, and enjoyed. Understanding hot climate, lemon juice was served at 12 noon (was an appetizer too). By 1.15 P.M. lunch was served – Rice, Mankottai Pulikuzhambu , kana thovaiyal, Sirukeerai Kottu, butter milk. Many appreciated the Gramathu Virunthu. Many recalled the kai pakkuvam of their parents and grandparents. Kannama akka explained the medicinal value of the day’ food. In the afternoon, team deliberated on the forthcoming weeks plans and also deliberated on the elders contribution for the proposal of Summer Camp arrangements by Vama Team. Many evinced interest to be part of summer camp program and are eager to receive the children as their grandsons/daughters. Some gave ideas such as traditional food and traditional gams can be one of the activities for the camp. While deliberating on the Pattimandram program for March, Sh. Lakshman sir of Ambai suggested for keeping this as women centric as recently on 8th March Ulaga Magalir Dhinam – உலக மகளிர் தினம் was celebrated. “குழந்தை வளர்ப்பில் மகளிர் அன்றும் இன்றும்” is the topic suggested and immediately eight women nominated to participate (although it was suggested for three women for each side ie. Those days and now a days). Lakshman sir mentioned that he would arrange to invite woman naduvar. Session ended happily with several songs sung by elders and good tea and biscuits. By 4.30 P.M. van started for Mannarkoil and then came and dropped V K Puram team.

Saturday Milan (சனிக்கிழமை சங்கமம்) - 33

Sailathil Saturday Sangamam – Free hand open hall session was conducted yesterday – 4/3/23. Due to local holiday on the occasion of Ayya Thunai some elders from Mannarkoil and Ambai could not participate but still 115 elders and others gathered.

The session started with the feed back on Friday’s gathering at Mannarkoil during the Maha Samrosanam (Kumbabisegam) of Arumigu Rajagopala Swamy Kulasekara Alwar temple yesterday. Big crowd was there. During last week Saturday Sangamam, Mannarkoil team invited others to come and attend the Kumbabisegam. Vama organised the Van for picking up elderly people from Kalyanipuram, Alwarkurichi, V.K. Puram and Ambasamudram. More than 60 elders came and had darshan. One of the purposes of gatherings at Sailam on Saturdays is to enable elders to make new friendships. We could witness the courtesy and hospitality extended by elders at Mannarkoil to those who came to attend the Kumbabisegam. Everyone greeted each other and took to their home and served Idly, Vada, etc. They came to our Digital Facilitation Centre also and thanked Vama team for making such a wonderful experience and support. The van was also used for commuting of people from Ambai, Vagaikulam and V. K. Puram to attend Kumbabisegam. We thank you very much for the kind support for purchase of the van.

Elders present thanked the donors for the support to bring them to such a wonderful event and prayed for good health and happiness for each and every donors and their family.

Mrs Lakshmi amazed on the feed back and the inputs shared by elders on the Friday event. She started yoga session and energised them with activities and tips to have a contented and happy life.

Sh Rengan and his nephew Mr Venkadesh from Chennai and Sh Sadaiyan Mannarkoil came and graced the occasion. Sh Sadasivam Tasildar, Sh Subramanian from Alwarkurichi and Sh Subbaiah retired police officer also visited and brought enthusiasm in the gathering.

Sh L Subburaj, Gold Melodies a professional singer who is associated with the great music legends MSV, TMS etc and belong to a Sangeetha vidhvan family also was present and engaged with elders with his melodies.

Very good lunch including Vazhai poo poriyal, While pumpkin Kottu etc was served and all presented appreciated the taste and quality of the food.

Team health care, team hospitality and team events met and discussed on the activities and menu for coming week. Sh Tengan suggested to have one more committee on the skills of elders. He shared the library set up at his apartment and the participation women in maintaining library. He added that Similar success stories can be brought in Sailam also.

Meeting ended with vote of thanks to all present and blessed.

Saturday Milan (சனிக்கிழமை சங்கமம்) - 32

Sailathil Saturday Sangamam – Maruthuva Muham சிறப்பு மருத்துவ முகாம்! was conducted as planned today- 25/2/23. More than 120 elders and others gathered. Since the plan to visit to Sri Mugambiga Hospital, Nagarkoil could not materialise, dental care awareness was organised. Dr Kanthari from Kallidaikurichi kindly consented to visit Sailam. Dr Kanthari with her humbleness moved with elders like anything and everyone interacted with her as if they know other very well. Patiently Dr Kanthari responded to all queries raised by elders. She reiterated that age is not bar to care teeth. She shared what to do and what not to do when anyone feel tooth ache or tooth decay. She mentioned that flossing and brushing regularly to remove or eating food particles may help reduce toothache. She suggested not to just experiment or invent with home old medicine practices. Always consult doctors and care it properly. She gave prescriptions and also mentioned if any elder who is having tooth ache and not financially good to go to doctors, her clinic is always open to care them. Sh Lakshman from Ambai and V K Puram, Sh subramanian from Alwarkurichi, Sh Sadasivam sir, Tasildar from Kallidaikurichi all appreciated Dr Kanthari’s support and interaction with elders. Sh Lakshman also mentioned that her father is associated with Ambai Elakkiya Perravai and her mother is counsellor there. Doctor’s whole family is contributing to the society a lot and we all could witness the same. Vama team thanked Sh Sankaran sir of Kallidaikurichi to introduce and bring Dr Kanthari to Sailam. To reciprocate to Doctor Sh Rangasamy, Sh Ramaiya thatha sang old songs and Sh G Krishnamoorthy demonstrated standup comedy show. Post that session lunch was served. Everyone enjoyed the food from Mannarkoil. After lunch session was deliberations on how to complete and conform to the suggestions. A three member committee was suggested to list out the needs based on the inputs given by the doctor. Also discussed on what is next level Vama to look at its service to elders and what can be planned for next week. Connecting Generations – Session with College students was proposed. Vama team to check on the availability of college students and organise. With a cup and sip of tea the event came to an end. Everyone thanked Vamatrust efforts in caring elders with dignity.

சிவசைலம் வாமா அறக்கட்டளையின் “சனிக்கிழமை சங்கமம்” 32 வது வாரம் மூத்த குடிமக்களுக்கான சந்திப்பு, 25/2/2023 சனிக்கிழமை அன்று நடைபெற்றது.

இதில் சிறப்பு நிகழ்ச்சியாக பற்களின் பாதுகாப்பு மற்றும் முக்கியத்துவம் பற்றி பெரியோர்களுக்கான விழிப்புணர்வு நிகழ்ச்சி நடந்தது.

இதில் பல் மருத்துவர் செல்வி காந்தரரி அவர்கள் கலந்துகொண்டு பற்களின் பாதுகாப்பு மற்றும் சிகிச்சைக்கான எளிய வழிமுறைகளை பற்றி விளக்கினார்.
பல் தேய்மானம் , பல்கூச்சம்,பல் கட்டுதல் போன்றவைக்கான சிகிச்சை முறையை எடுத்துரைத்தார்.

இதில் வி.கே.புரம், அம்பாசமுத்திரம்,கல்லிடைக்குறிச்சி, மன்னார்கோயில், செட்டிகுளம், கல்யாணிபுரம், ஆழ்வார்குறிச்சி மற்றும் சிவசைலம் பகுதியிலிருந்து 120க்கும் மேற்பட்ட முதியவர்கள் கலந்து கொண்டனர்.
நிகழ்ச்சிக்கான ஏற்பாடுகளை வாமா அறக்கட்டளை நிர்வாகிகள் மற்றும் அறங்காவலர்கள் ஏற்பாடு செய்திருந்தனர்
கருத்துக்கேட்பு மற்றும் நன்றியுரையுடன் நிகழ்ச்சி இனிதே நிறைவடைந்தது.

Saturday Milan (சனிக்கிழமை சங்கமம்) - 31

31st Week of Sailathil Saturday Sangamam was held at the Senior Citizen Centre (Athri Bhawan) at Sivasailam yesterday.

More than 130 elders and others participated. As usual, a lot of celebrations, and eventful activities are arranged. Sh. Subramanian, one of the trustee mentioned that the place has emerged well and the participants started enjoying their own way. There is nothing we as a trust need to do, they are well facilitated and enjoying. He added that in Sailam, now there are Kai Manam – Food is prepared by elders on their own with lot of taste; Bakthi Manam – Elders at this age requires lot of spiral understanding and approach hence many activities arranged spiritually to celebrate and Neerai Manam (happiness – content).

Being the Mahashivratri day, which is unique opportunity that will lead us towards peace, understanding and a feeling of oneness, one of the beneficiary Ms. Saroja Vanaraj arranged Bharatanatyam Session by Sree Natiyala of V.K. Puram. Eight children came and performed excellent dances and entertained the elders to feel great.

Mr. S Lakshmanan of Ambai of Ambai Tamil Ellaika Peravai delivered his spiritual session on “Nineth Thirumurai – Centhanar aruliya Thiruppallandu” He shared the story of Centhanar and mentioned that “When the husband and wife with a converged mind of love and service worship the Lord and Its devotees that is the purpose and fruit of the house-hold life.

That is the reason here and in many other places in Thirumurai the glory of such tradition of devotees generation after generation in service of God is spoken.

Sh. Vinayagam from Idaikal and a teacher in Vellanguli High School graced the occasion with his Thirvasaga Mutruodal program and also shared stories about Sivaratri. Sh. Subbiah retired police Inspector of Kalidaikurchi appreciated the efforts of Vama Team.

Tamoto Rice, Curd Rice with Chutney was served and all enjoyed the food as prasadam. Post lunch, committees for Food and events met and deliberated on the food for next week and activities. Deliberated on the proposal to arrange medical camp at Sree Mookambika Institute of Medical Sciences (SMIMS), Padanilam, Kulashekaram, Kanyakumari District. Everyone present showed their interest to visit Kanyakumari as many of them did not have the opportunity/ chance of travelling to Kanyakumari in the past. Considering the long time of 4-5 hours journey, there were suggestion to plan only with limited members. Trustees were of the view that Vama’s intention is arranging tours to places of cultural, historical and religious importance, we will make arrangement to hire comfortable vehicle to travel. The Committee concluded that after checking on the number of elders can be considered from the Hospital, the program can be fianlised.

With a wonderful event atmosphere, the event came to an end.

Saturday Milan (சனிக்கிழமை சங்கமம்) - 30

30th Week “Sailathil Saturday Sangamam “ was held successfully yesterday 11/2/23. Around 90 elders gathered and some started preparations for welcome health drinks and lunch, some gathered to perform Thiruvasaga Mutrruodhal and busy with today’s event – Sirrapu Pattimantrum. Today’s subject was “In the twilight days one require money or relatives”. Pattimandram was headed by Sh Lakshman Sir and three each from team A and B put forth their views. Team A who were in favour of relatives brought the importance of people and relatives who can only do everything and Team B stated that Money can do anything and everything. Mr Lakshmanan completed the session with the Thirppu – People and relatives are important. Post Pattimandram elders enjoyed lunch – Rice, sambar, Vazhai Poo poriyal and white Pumpkin kottu, rasam and buttermilk. All appreciated and thanked the team who prepared such delicious lunch. Today Sh Petchimuthu of Baba medical, Ambai introduced Sh Sadasivam Thasildar, Sh T P Ganeshan Land promoters and Sh S Subramanian, Corporation Ambasamudram. All the three guests wondered what’s happening. Prised the endeavours of the management to keep happy and care elders. Today elders spent some time on the exercise instrument to get relief from leg pain as was suggested by the doctor.

Regards Vama Team

Saturday Milan (சனிக்கிழமை சங்கமம்) - 29

Senior Citizen Centre – Sailam. On 04.02.2023 we organised the 29th event of Saturday Sangamam for elders. This week more than 75 elders and 9 volunteers (Thiruvalluvar College, Papanasam). The event started with regular prayers and some Bhajanas.

Then we requested them to feel on their own and use the event for their convenience

Smt Lakshmi has conducted meditation sessions with some stories. There is a session on why religious activities are important that too particularly for those who are Ageing.

In this week the highlight of the discussion on Connecting Generation with the elders and the youngsters, elders shared their experience for the Volunteers. The seniors were divided into four groups and named The small group of teams could interact more and the volunteers made the program more meaningful. At 1.00 pm lunch was served. Post lunch, Paatukku Paatu – Antakshari was performed by volunteers.

Saturday Milan (சனிக்கிழமை சங்கமம்) - 28

During the last four weeks we were conducting our Saturday program at four different villages specific to their requirements. It is a matter of precautions for the Coronavirus which gave some alarming in the last week of December and also to check the viability to involve local communities to make the program more sustainable. We could see lot of support and guidance from the local community. We have reassembled at Sailam. There are more than 60 elders have joined and shared their experiences during g these 30 days. They awaited for this day as it helped to see many more and also feel the relevance of the program. Smt Lakshmi has conducted meditation session with some stories. There is a session on why religious activities are important that too particularly for those who are Ageing. We will share balance details . Rest of the day yesterday elders deliberated on several topics and two committees were formed to plan and monitor kitchen activities and another to plan and coordinate events at Sailam. As usual hot sukkuthanni with biscuits were served and the meeting came to end. Elders returned with joy and happiness. Post the session trustees and advisory team deliberated on the activities at Sailam. Are we doing things right, a question raised by one of advisers. Another point raised was how long we can do and how we can make it sustainable. Post deliberations it was understood that(1) we are doing it more of Charitable basis. It will be for short term only as long as we get donotions including from the founders (2)to make it sustainable we need to involve communities and college students and work towards forming activities locally at V K Puram and Mannarkoil. After an year or so, V K Puram and Mannarkoil elders to have their care arrangements locally with a coordination from Vama team. Regular medical camp and tour to places of importance need to be planned at respective places. Events can be organised every day evening with students and value education can be a focus point. Vama can bring new set elders from Idaikal, Madhapuram etc in its second phase and equip the elders as was done for current elders from V K Puram and Mannarkoil. Regards. Vama Team.

Saturday Milan (சனிக்கிழமை சங்கமம்) - 25

வாமா அறக்கட்டளையின் 25வது வார சனிக்கிழமை சங்கமம் நிகழ்ச்சி 7/1/2023 கல்லிடைக்குறிச்சியில் நடந்ததுபெற்றது .சுமார் 35 பெரியவர்கள் கூடினர். கல்லிடைகுறிச்சி நிகழ்ச்சி நடைபெற திரு சங்கரன் அவர்கள் அங்குள்ள கல்யாண மண்டபத்தை ஏற்பாடு செய்ததுடன் நிகழ்ச்சியில் கலந்து கொண்டு சிறப்பித்தார்.லட்சுமணன் சார் அங்கு கூடியிருந்த அனைவரையும் வாழ்த்தி அவர்கள் வருகைக்கு நன்றி தெரிவித்தார். AOL இன் ஸ்ரீமதி லட்சுமி தியான அமர்வு மற்றும் சுவாசப் பயிற்சிகளை நடத்தினார். வழக்கம் போல் ஆறுமுகம் சார், பங்கேற்பாளர்களை சிரிக்கவும், .சிந்திக்கவும் நகைச்சுவைகளை பகிர்ந்து கொண்டார். டாக்டர் சதாசிவம் முன்னிலையில் ஒரு இன்ப அதிர்ச்சியை ஏற்படுத்தினார் மேலும் அவர் நிகழ்வின் செலவுகளுக்கு பங்களிக்க முன்வந்தார். கொழுக்கட்டை மற்றும் தேனீர் பரிமாறலுடன் நிகழ்ச்சி நிறைவு பெற்றது. வாமா குழுவினர் அனைவருக்கும் சிறிய பரிசுப் பெட்டியை வழங்கினர்.சனிக்கிழமை நிகழ்வு அவர்களால் அதிக மதிப்புகளுடன் அனுபவித்தது. கரோனா ஆபத்து இப்போது பெரிதாக இல்லை. நாம் செய்து கொண்டிருந்ததை தொடர்வோம். அவர்களின் உள்ளீடுகளைப் புரிந்துகொண்ட வாமா குழுவினர், 21 ஜனவரி 2023 சனிக்கிழமைக்கான பொங்கலுக்குப் பிறகு கோரிக்கையை மதிப்பீடு செய்யலாம் என்று குறிப்பிட்டுள்ளனர்.

Everyday would be like a journey – the racks of a library with sources of great knowledge