Seniors were seen having a gala time and merry-making at Shanti Niwas Charitable Trust’s Christmas celebration in Auckland.
The event took place on Tuesday (December 13) at Shanti Niwas Onehunga Centre (14 Spring Street, Onehunga) and was attended by some 150 senior members.
The afternoon saw a drama being staged by the elderly on the life of Jesus Christ, which was enjoyed by one and all. The seniors sang Christmas carols, danced and even received Christmas presents from Santa.
The attendees looked visibly happy, and the twinkle in their eyes was hard to be missed. They expressed their gratitude for being a part of the celebrations.
The organisers were also delighted by the enthusiasm of the seniors. “I am overwhelmed to see the bliss on the faces of our seniors. I am so happy that the celebration was a big success. It is always humbling and satisfying to see our people having a great time at the event, which is what we strive for as a team. Such activities help foster a feeling of oneness among the seniors, and that's why they are significant,” said Krishna Dave, Lifestyle and Activity officer for Shanti Niwas Charitable Trust.
Dave also acknowledged the work of the volunteers in bringing the event together and hosting the celebrations for the seniors. He maintained that it is always good to see our multi-talented seniors energetic and full of life.
One of the guests told Indian Weekender, “Shanti Niwas has been doing an excellent service to the society. The event was well organised, and it was lovely seeing the smiles on the elderly people's faces.”
The event ended with seniors dressed in festive attire enjoying a sumptuous lunch.
For the uninitiated, Shanti Niwas Charitable Trust is a non-profit organisation that has been providing culturally appropriate social support services to senior citizens of Indian and South Asian Origin since 1994. It was established formally in 1994 with just eight persons who attended a monthly support group meeting. Still, it has grown to be recognised as a body that sincerely cares for the elderly and the larger community. Shanti Niwas Charitable Trust is known for celebrating Christmas along with the other main festivals as part of its positive ageing day programmer for the community's senior members throughout the year.