Navi Mumbai: The 8th biennial convention of the Mumbai Regional Chapter of the Maharashtra Senior Citizens Federation (Maharashtra Jyeshtha Nagarik Mahasangh) was held with great enthusiasm at Vishnudas Bhave Auditorium in Vashi on Thursday.

The event was inaugurated by Maharashtra’s Forest Minister Ganesh Naik, while Annasaheb Tekawade, President of FESCOM (Federation of Senior Citizens Organizations of Maharashtra), presided over the function.

Highlight of the evening: Renowned actor Prashant Damle was felicitated with a prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award for his outstanding contribution to Marathi theatre and cinema.

Among the dignitaries present were ISKCON Mumbai President Digambar Chapke, former FESCOM President Arun Rode, Mumbai Regional President Suresh Pote, executive members, and senior office-bearers from across Maharashtra.

Welcoming the guests, President Suresh Pote urged everyone to make the most of the joyous occasion.

In his heartfelt address, Prashant Damle advised seniors to embrace peace in the evening of life – through meditation, pursuing hobbies, and staying cheerful. “True happiness lies in simplicity and inner calm,” he said.

Forest Minister Ganesh Naik, interacting with the audience, expressed serious concern over rising incidents of elder abuse. “Children must care for their parents instead of harassing them. Today’s youth will be tomorrow’s seniors – they must remember this,” he stressed. In a special request, Naik urged Prashant Damle to produce a powerful play on elder abuse, assuring full government support.

FESCOM President Annasaheb Tekawade praised Navi Mumbai as a senior-friendly city, highlighting numerous recreation centers and a dedicated Senior Citizens Cell at the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation.

Health awareness sessions added immense value: 

• Milind Sardar from Madhavbaug delivered an insightful session on heart care for seniors.
• Representatives from Apollo Hospital, Madhavbaug, Pitambari, and Sanjeevani Blood Group App shared practical health tips and services.

The programme was flawlessly anchored by Mrs. Pallavi Deshpande.

Behind-the-scenes heroes who ensured seamless execution included Sharad Dicholkar, Pratibha Saraf, Swati Phadke, Latta Powar, Shreeram Shivdekar, Dilip Gadekar, Dilip Dharkar, and Balwant Patil.

The convention concluded on a patriotic note with the rendition of the National Anthem.

A resounding success, the event reaffirmed society’s responsibility towards its elders while celebrating their wisdom, resilience, and joy of living.