Bengaluru, November 25, 2025 – Hiriyara Habba 2025, an inspiring day-long celebration organized by Vayah Vikas, concluded on a high note, bringing together over 1000 seniors and their families at St. Joseph’s Institute of Management. The vibrant gathering was marked by enthusiasm, talent, and profound community bonding, reinforcing the seniors’ role as active and valued contributors to society.
Dr. Jamuna Ravi, CEO of Vayah Vikas, kicked off the event by stressing the need to create environments that keep seniors engaged, confident, and purposeful. Her welcome was followed by a powerful keynote address from Mr. Kris Gopalakrishnan, Chairperson of Vayah Vikas, who championed the importance of strong communities for healthy and active ageing. He made a memorable remark: “80 is the new 60,” encouraging attendees to remain productive for longer.
Senior artist Mysore Ramananda and “Maggi Pustaka” producer Chinnaswamy Yathiraj were also present, with Mr. Ramananda urging elders to keep their creativity alive and stay engaged in society. Participants enthusiastically visited various informational and interactive stalls throughout the venue.
Dr. Alexander Thomas, Founding Board Member, reflected on Vayah Vikas’ growth and the increasing necessity of community-led initiatives for senior well-being. The highlight of the afternoon was the address by Guest of Honour, Justice Santosh Hegde, Former Solicitor General of India. He hailed Hiriyara Habba as a powerful reminder that ageing is a stage rich with wisdom, dignity, and continued contribution. He encouraged seniors to unite to build the society of their dreams.
Justice Hegde then presented the inaugural Vayah Vikas Senior Excellence Awards, honouring exceptional achievements across diverse fields:
Awardees:
Social Service and Community Impact: Rtn. Jayaraman, recognised for his longstanding work in eye donation awareness, community learning initiatives, digital access in schools, and senior care.
Education and Lifelong Learning: Dr Arvind Kasturi, honoured for his leadership in geriatric care, community health services, research, and training at St John’s Medical College.
Arts, Culture and Sports: Ms Pavithra Muddaya, celebrated for five decades of work sustaining India’s handloom heritage and supporting weavers through Vimor.
Actor Deepak Rai Panaje, remarked that he was moved by the vitality and imagination displayed by seniors throughout the festival.
The day included engaging cultural and interactive sessions, Karnataka’s folk dance, Veeragase, Kathak, and an energetic performance from the Diana Tholloor Academy of Movement and Drama. Numerous stalls showcased products and services relevant to seniors, capturing their interest and adding to the day’s lively rhythm.
Throughout the event, seniors made active use of the Ekta Hub Experience Zone, which brought together will writing and legal awareness, cyber security and financial guidance, digital literacy and technology support, and an extensive range of health and wellness assessments.
The day concluded with a Lucky Draw. Prizes were distributed by the Kantara Team. Ms. Pavithra Reddy, COO of Vayah Vikas, expressed deep appreciation to the community, Vayah Vikas team, volunteers, families, and well-wishers whose support made Hiriyara Habba 2025 a memorable success.
Through Hiriyara Habba, Vayah Vikas reaffirmed its mission of celebrating seniors as active, valued contributors to society.
