Noida: ‘Sakhies’, the group of 60+ years old ladies of Jal Vayu Vihar, Sectors 21 and Sector 25 Noida, celebrated Saawan and Hariyali Teej on the 12th of August, Monday.
Green was the order of the day
They came decked up as per the theme ‘Saawan & Hariyali Teej’. Ladies enjoyed the Ramp walk, Traditional Teej Queen Contest, Queen of Sheba game, Tambola, cake-cutting by the Birthday ‘girl’ and a delicious lunch spread.
Traditional Teej and Saavan songs were sung by one and all
Keeping the tradition alive in the true spirit of Shravan (Saawan) which heralds monsoon season and brings rejuvenation to nature, Sakhies sang and danced on Saawan and Teej songs which signify hope, happiness, health, beauty and human bonding.
‘Party with a Purpose’
Vandana Saxena (67), a Former KV Teacher says, “Sakhie’s motto is ‘Party with a Purpose’. We primarily celebrate the birthdays of Sakhi members but also rejoice in cultural and religious festivals, observe National days, create awareness of health and the environment, offer charity, revive the forgotten art of knitting and crochet, encourage talent for singing, dancing, dramatics, painting, writing, culinary skills, etc. Most importantly we aim at maintaining human connection for better Community living”.
‘From 7 to 75 members’
Pam Yashpaul Madan (73), Former School Principal says, ” Sakhie’s group was conceptualised 5 years ago with just a handful of 7 ladies. Today there are 75 members. The basic aim was to meet at Society Park every second Monday and celebrate the birthday of ladies in their silver years. To make especially those Sakhies feel truly special on their birthdays whose children are away in distant lands.”
Prem Dhingra (86), Former Librarian says, ” Sakhie’s group is a boon in my age. It keeps me mentally and socially engaged and stimulated. I take part in all the activities that involve art and literary creativity.”