Shanti Niwas Charitable Trust, a non-profit organisation that has provided culturally appropriate social support services to senior citizens of Indian and South Asian Origin since 1994, celebrated Diwali on its premises on October 28.
The event, which was held in Shanti Niwas at 14 Spring Street, Onehunga, saw nearly 110 seniors who turned out in colourful ethnic attire .
The proceedings began with the traditional lighting of the lamp, followed by a welcome address. Variety entertainment ensued, with Shashi Khatter and Suresh singing Bollywood hits such as 'Kya khoob dikhti hoo, badi sundar dikhti ho’ and ‘Hum to tere aashiq hai’.
The soulful rendition of the famous song 'Ek pyar ka nagma hai’ by Allaudin left everyone asking for more.
Violinist Madan regaled the audience and captured the nostalgia of the golden era of Hindustani music.
Shanti Niwas’ Lifestyle & Activity Manager Vishav Sharma thanked the audience and paid special tribute to the volunteers for making the event a success.
"I need to thank every senior of Shanti Niwas for their enthusiasm and for making this event a success. Seeing the smiles on their faces as they enjoyed the event was amazing. I also want to acknowledge the work of the volunteers in bringing the event together and hosting the celebrations for the seniors. It feels good to see our multi-talented seniors so energetic and ready to learn new things and perform with such zeal," Sharma told the Indian Weekender.
The guests, who enjoyed a sumptuous meal after the event, were equally effusive.
Said Sudha Satija :"It was an excellent and wonderful Diwali celebration. Kudos to the entire Shanti Niwas team."
Shanti Niwas offers daily activities for seniors every Tuesday and Wednesday at their centre in Onehunga, and on Thursday in Manurewa and Friday in Mt. Eden . The activities include yoga , dance, and more.
Other programs for seniors include workshops on Hearing Therapy , raising awareness of bank fraud (under the ASB better banking)and how to install medical alarms etc.
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