Age is just a Number
When we started the Senior Citizen Kesari Club, I didn't have much experience, but I always believed that age is just a number. With determination and ability, age becomes insignificant. As we age, we encounter various emotional and physical challenges, but it's important to keep a positive attitude. I can confidently say that if Ashwini ji hadn't left me at 62, I might never have felt old or matured. Nonetheless, I continue to face challenges and move forward. Sometimes, I feel very sad. When I'm not in the mood to work, I encourage myself by saying, 'Get up, Kiran, get up and work.' Recently, I had the opportunity to attend Mohan Bhagwat ji's lecture series at Vigyan Bhavan and meet him. He shared important messages with Indians. I wrote about one in my Sunday article, and the other is relevant to everyone over 60. I appreciated the phrase 'Age is just a number,' a statement by Dr. Mohan Bhagwat. He explained simply that age doesn't define a person's identity or abilities. True strength lies in one's thoughts, discipline, and hard work.The biggest example in front of us today is Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Despite his increasing age, his efficiency and routine leave the youth behind. His hard work from morning to late night, his dedication for the national interest and his energy are living proof of the fact that age is just a number. If we look into history, we will find many more examples but there is only a rare one like Modi. Like Mahatma Gandhi gave new momentum to the freedom movement after the age of 60. Acharya Vinoba Bhave started the Bhoodan movement in the latter part of his life and gave a new direction to the society. Ratan Tata was working on new projects and inspiring the youth at the age of more than 70. Lata Mangeshkar ji continued to practice music and sing till the age of 80. Nelson Mandela became the President of South Africa after 70 years. Biden became the President of America even at the age of 80. Sonia Gandhi is an 80+ active leader.
Reflecting on my father, he practiced law until he was 85 and regularly walked long distances, maintaining his fitness diligently. Additionally, our esteemed uncle is still working at 94. Dahiya ji, the head of our Narela branch, is 97 and highly educated, yet he continues to manage the branch efficiently. There are numerous other branch heads aged 70 or 80 and above, such as Kainth ji from Faridabad, Dharam Sagar ji from Gurgaon, Kiran Madan from Punjabi Bagh, Rama Agarwal from Paschim Vihar, Narula ji from Chaukhandi, Harsh Munot ji from Hyderabad, and the most prominent example, Amitabh Bachchan ji.
From the lives of these individuals, we understand that when one has a passion and purpose in life, age cannot be a barrier. If passion and enthusiasm persist, they will continue to create new chapters throughout life. Today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi stands as a remarkable example. Despite his age, his energy surpasses that of many young people. Rising at 4-5 in the morning, practicing yoga and pranayama, staying active in national affairs all day, and making decisions late into the night—these are feats beyond the ordinary.
He demonstrates that with a passion for serving the nation, there should be no obstacles, and one should always be prepared like a leader. I urge all senior citizens that this is not the time to stop and tire; be ready. Be like a leader. Move forward. Stay engaged. Stay joyful. Stay healthy and enjoy life. In the past, people would say they have aged and should not prepare anymore, that it is the time for the younger generation. However, I always say, and will continue to say, that after dedicating your life to your children and society, it is now your time. Dress smartly, remain active within your limits. Live every moment. You are no less than anyone else. Life is a beautiful journey, and since the future is uncertain, embrace it with laughter and song.