We are very happy to share about the 191st week of Sangamam, which was held on 12th September at Sivasailam with a unique and engaging concept. This week’s Sangamam was organised as a special gathering where the elders themselves took responsibility for planning and conducting the activities. The entire day was designed around the theme of “Elders for Elders,” giving them an opportunity to actively participate in cooking, serving, games, discussions and other activities.

More than 40 elders participated in the programme. The programme began with a prayer, followed by an interactive activity in which the elders were encouraged to take responsibility for preparing the lunch. Some of the women elders showed great interest in preparing the food themselves. Therefore, we requested the kitchen team to provide only the necessary support, while the elders took responsibility for the major activities.

The elders discussed and finalised the menu, which included Veng Poosanikai Pal Koottu, Sambar, Vendakkai Pachadi, Rasam and other dishes. They selected the vegetables, cleaned and cut them, and took responsibility for the various cooking activities. Three women elders took the lead in preparing the food and coordinated the cooking process with great enthusiasm and confidence. It was inspiring to see the elders working together, sharing responsibilities and enjoying the experience.

After completing the cooking activities, we conducted fun and engaging games, including puzzles, word games and activities that required the elders to find solutions. Many elders participated enthusiastically and enjoyed solving the puzzle and word games. The activities created a joyful atmosphere and encouraged interaction and teamwork among the participants.

Following the games, lunch was served. The elders themselves actively participated in serving the food and supporting one another. They carried out the responsibilities with great enthusiasm and happiness, making the lunch a truly memorable experience.

After lunch, we conducted an interaction session where the elders openly shared their life experiences, particularly about their families, the love and care they had given to their family members, and the efforts they had made throughout their lives for the happiness and well-being of their families. The sharing session created an emotional and meaningful space for the elders to express their memories and experiences.

After the interaction session, tea and snacks were served to all the participants. The elders spent the entire day actively participating in the activities, sharing their experiences and enjoying each other’s company. At the end of the programme, all the elders returned to their respective homes safely and happily.

The 191st week of Sangamam was a meaningful and memorable gathering, demonstrating that elders can actively contribute, take responsibility and lead activities for their own community. The programme also highlighted the importance of giving elders opportunities to participate, share their skills and experience, and enjoy a sense of togetherness and purpose.

Thank you to all the elders and the supporting team for making this Sangamam a successful and memorable day.