Kolkata Book Fair Marks Senior Citizen’s Day with PRSI, Kolkata Chapter and Jagriti Dham Senior Living

Public Relations Society of India (PRSI), Kolkata Chapter, in association with Jagriti Dham, Luxury Senior Living observed Senior Citizen’s Day in the 48th International Kolkata Book Fair on 4th February 2025. Held at the SBI Auditorium, Kolkata Book Fair Ground, the event highlighted crucial topics such as social impact, healthcare, and education for the elderly, making it a significant occasion for community engagement.

The event’s centerpiece was an engaging panel discussion, moderated by Soumyajit Mahapatra, Chairman, PRSI, Kolkata Chapter, the discussion brought together experts from diverse fields who shared their insights on improving the quality of life for senior citizens. The conversation revolved around themes of community engagement, healthcare innovations, and creating a sustainable and inclusive ecosystem for the elderly.

Among the esteemed speakers was Alokananda Roy, renowned dancer and social reformer, who spoke passionately about the transformative impact of art and dance therapy on the mental and emotional well-being of senior citizens. Dr. Dhires Kumar Chowdhury, Managing Director of Banchbo Healing Touch Foundation, shed light on the significance of holistic healthcare for seniors, addressing their physical and emotional needs. Rajendra Khandelwal, Managing Director of Dhanwantary Medicare & Research Centre, shared insights on how healthcare technology can ensure accessibility and affordability for the elderly. Sharmila Majumder, Territory Head (West Bengal, North East, and Andaman) of HelpAge India, stressed the importance of combating social isolation through meaningful community engagement. Sugandha Ramkumar, Principal of ICanFlyy International School, highlighted the need for lifelong learning and skill development programs to keep seniors active and socially included.

The session provided actionable takeaways on how community engagement and innovative solutions can uplift the lives of senior citizens, fostering intergenerational bonding and mutual understanding. Adding a creative dimension to the event, the launch of the book “The Adventures of Appa” was a special highlight. Co-authored by Radhika Singh and Sujatha Murthy and published by Bose Creative Publishers, the book takes readers on a magical journey of adventure, friendship, and life lessons. Its universal appeal struck a chord with the audience, celebrating the timeless connection between generations through storytelling.

During the book launch, Radhika Singh, co-author and Global Lead for Workforce Planning at the British Council, expressed her joy in creating the story, stating, “We wanted to create a story that inspires both young and old, showcasing the beauty of intergenerational relationships.”

Aninda Das, Vice President of Marketing at Infinity Group, remarked, “Infrastructure plays a pivotal role in fostering healthy aging. By creating thoughtful, senior-friendly environments, we ensure dignity, care, and a better quality of life for the elderly.”

Soumyajit Mahapatra, Chairman of PRSI Kolkata Chapter, emphasised the broader significance of the initiative, saying, “This initiative is a step towards reshaping perceptions about senior living. It’s about celebrating their wisdom and ensuring a fulfilling life for our elders. Senior Citizen’s Day at the Kolkata Book Fair is not just about honouring their contributions but also about creating an ecosystem that promotes their well-being and dignity.”

Jagriti Dham, luxury old age home in Kolkata is the key partner in the event, highlighting its mission of redefining senior living through its luxury senior citizen homes. The initiative focuses on creating vibrant, supportive communities for the elderly, bringing comfort, security, and joy to their lives through a holistic approach.

The 48th Kolkata Book Fair, renowned for its cultural vibrancy, provided the perfect platform for such a meaningful event. The celebration of Senior Citizen’s Day at the fair reinforced the importance of addressing societal challenges through actionable solutions. By shedding light on the unique needs and contributions of senior citizens, the event set a benchmark for inclusivity and social responsibility.

The collaboration between PRSI, Jagriti Dham, and other stakeholders demonstrated the power of partnerships in driving positive change for senior citizens. The event paved the way for future initiatives aimed at empowering and celebrating the elderly.