This year marked a significant milestone for Wake Up India Foundation – Ranchi Chapter as we celebrated our 15th anniversary. A journey that began with a dream to create meaningful change in the lives of the underserved has now blossomed into a community of changemakers committed to kindness, dignity, and empathy.
To honor this special occasion, we chose to spend the day with the unsung elders of our society — the residents of DAV Nandraj Old Age Home in Ranchi. The theme of the day was simple yet profound: “Celebrate with those who have given us the roots to grow and the wings to fly.”
A Day Filled with Smiles, Music, and Heartfelt Connections
From the moment we stepped into the serene compound of DAV Nandraj Old Age Home, we were welcomed with gentle smiles and warm eyes. The elderly residents, some quiet, some playful, all held within them decades of stories, wisdom, and love waiting to be shared.
We kicked off the celebration with a round of introductions and a prayer for togetherness. Then, the real fun began! Our volunteers organized a series of interactive games and musical sessions that brought joy and laughter echoing through the halls:
- Passing the Parcel had everyone on the edge of their seats, with small dares, fun questions, and even a few impromptu dance moves!
- A heartfelt antakshari session turned into a beautiful blend of old classics and evergreen melodies, bridging the gap between generations.
- There were rounds of memory games and laughing yoga, which not only lifted spirits but created a sense of shared camaraderie.
A Touch of Warmth Beyond Celebration
But it wasn’t just about the fun. It was about connection. Many of the elderly shared stories from their youth, their struggles, and even their forgotten talents. We listened — truly listened — and in return, they gifted us something priceless: their trust and affection.
We also distributed comfort kits including warm shawls, personal care items, and snacks to each resident as a token of love from our team. It was heartening to see their eyes light up, not from the gifts themselves, but from the feeling of being remembered and valued.
A Moment to Reflect
The event served as a reminder of what Wake Up India Foundation stands for. Over the past 15 years, our work has touched thousands of lives — but the magic lies in the moments, like this one, where human hearts connect without judgment or expectations.
Spending the day with the elderly reinforced an important truth: the greatest gift we can offer is our presence. In a world that often moves too fast, pausing to listen, play, and simply “be” with someone is a radical act of love.
Looking Ahead
As we step into the next chapter of our journey, we carry with us the lessons from this beautiful day. Wake UP INdia Foundation remains committed to working at the grassroots level, creating experiences that not only uplift others but also remind us of our shared humanity.
To all our volunteers, supporters, and the lovely residents of DAV Nandraj Old Age Home — thank you for making our 15th anniversary truly unforgettable.
Let’s continue to wake up to kindness, inclusion, and purpose — one act at a time.
