Samarth aug 2016

Extend Your Family. Enjoy Your Age!

www.samarthlife.org | Volume 01 | Issue 01 | August 2016 | `50

Feature

Your home is your retirement nest.

Plan ahead Money matters

Independence till Your Last Breath

Sowing the Seeds of Learning Why retired banker Abhay Singh was not swayed by lucrative job offers post retirement. Pg: 38

Download the Samarth App at the Google Play Store

Flashback

The Silent Era of Silver Screen

Robert Browning

from the editor Asheesh Gupta

“The best is yet to be...”

Why should age or aging shadow our lives? Each day is a new dawn and promises a new beginning. samarth team

“R

Grow old along with me. The best is yet to be!” obert Browning, the English poet whose

Gaurav Agarwal Chief Operating Officer

famous works include the Pied Piper of Hamelin, said these words to paint an

inspiring picture of “successful aging”. It reminds us that it is possible to enjoy the later years in a way that exceeds your expectations.

Dinesh Budhiraja Leader, Care Technology

It is my privilege to present the maiden issue of Samarth magazine to you. Samarth, meaning “capable” or self-reliant, was conceived not just as a magazine or a publication, but really as a sincere attempt to connect

Swati Mukherjee Care Consultant

with and to serve senior citizens in India; to help them enjoy and live life on their own terms.

In the pages that follow, we bring you news, information, stories and poems you can use and enjoy,

Nitin Jain

Care Operations Associate

activities you may want to take up, places you may want to go to and people who may inspire you. This is a starting point, we hope to evolve, improve and make this more exciting as we go. Please send your feedback, suggestions and contributions to me at editor@samarthlife.org.

Bhupinder Sharma

Controller of Care Operations

Sangita Thakur Varma Managing Editor

August 2016 | samarth | 1

38

The Giving Tree

Sowing the Seeds of Learning

Why retired banker Abhay Singh was not swayed by lucrative job offers post retirement...

Feature

Tech for Silvers 12

Feature

What kind of technology do senior citizens need?

Enjoy life

Janpath – India in Microcosm 19

Take a memorable walk down People’s Path in Lutyen’s Delhi.

2 | samarth | August 2016

Your home is your retirement nest. Plan ahead.

26

Homes are one-time buys where we often end up investing our life’s savings.

Flashback

The Silent Era of Silver Screen 32

Cinematic excellence of India is best seen in its silent movies.

Cover Design: Haridas Balan

contents | August 2016

Barometer

Video Calls – Your Window...

36

Now technology can take you closer to your loved ones.

Money Matters

Independence till Your Last Breath 50

Reverse mortgage promises senior citizens an assured income and a home to stay till their last days.

Gourmet

56

Oh! Calcutta

Get authentic taste and flavours of the City of Joy in the heart of Delhi. A must visit!

dfork

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Editorial Editor: Asheesh Gupta Coordinating Editor: Deepak Garg Managing Editor: Sangita Thakur Varma Deputy Managing Editor: Sanjay K Ojha DEsign Sr. Art Director: Anil VK Associate Art Director: Shokeen Saifi Visualiser: NV Baiju Sr. Designers: Haridas Balan, Peterson PJ Charu Dwivedi, Pradeep G Nair & Manoj Kumar VP PHOTOGRAPHY Sr. Photographer: Jiten Gandhi Production & Logistics Manager Operations: Rakesh Upadhyay Manager Logistics: Vijay Menon Asst Mgr Production & Logistics: MP Singh Executive: Mohd. Ansari OFFICE ADDRESS Published, Printed and Owned by Samarth Life Management Pvt. Ltd. Published and printed on their behalf by Asheesh Gupta.

Published at D-278, Basement, Sarvodaya Enclave, New Delhi. Printed at Tara Art Printers Pvt Ltd., A-46-47, Sector-5, NOIDA (U.P.) 201301 For any customer queries and assistance please write to together@samarthlife.org

Regular Sections 01 | From the Editor 04 | Around the World 1 6 | Q&A 54 | Mind Benders P lea s e recyc le t h is m a g a z in e a n d rem ove in s er t s b efo re recyc lin g

August 2016 | samarth | 3

Around the World | NEWS Senior Citizens are Fastest Growing Community on Facebook Facebook is fast becoming popular among elderly community. In fact, senior citizens happen to be the fastest growing demography on this social website. According to a Penn State University research report published in the journal Computers in Human Behavior, the reasons found were the same that motivated youngsters to get hooked to the Facebook a decade ago. The study investigated the reasons behind senior citizens using Facebook

Haryana govt to train people to help elderly The rapid rise in the number of nuclear families in India, has meant many elderly and disabled people have been left alone. To provide much-needed care, Haryana government has launched an initiative called the ‘Caregiver’ in the state. Under this two-month programme, the government will train people

and how they participate in specific activities to satisfy

to work with elderly and the

their needs. An online survey on 352 senior citizens of

persons with disability and

60–86 years old was conducted. It revealed four primary

will equip them with basic

motivations viz social bonding, social bridging, curiosity,

medical knowledge, first aid,

and responding to family member requests – as reason

counselling and consultation

to log on to Facebook. The urge to see what their kids

skills. The government will

and friends are doing happens to be one of the biggest

make a list of the trained can-

factors to log on to Facebook. Social bonding is a major

didates and anyone needing

motivation for seniors to participate in most activities on

a ‘caregiver’ can approach

Facebook. In addition, message-based interactivity fea-

the social welfare department

tures like posting on other people’s wall and chatting with

of the district administration

others leads to greater Facebook use. Senior citizens are

for the service at nominal

not motivated to actively participate on Facebook when

charges.

family and friends push them to use the website.

4 | samarth | August 2016

NEWS

Train Berth Quota for Senior Citizens Enhanced by 50% The berth quota in trains for senior citizens has been increased by 50 per cent by the Ministry of Railways, with effect from April 01.

The berths were increased in accordance with Railway Minister Suresh Prabhuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s announcement during Rail

Sleeper, AC-3 tier and AC-2

and three lower berths per

Budget presentation in Parlia-

tier classes was earmarked for

coach in AC-3 tier and AC-2

ment. Now, elderly will have

them. In 2015, Railway dou-

tier classes. However, in Rajd-

about 90 reserved berths

bled the existing quota of two

hani, Duronto and fully air-

available for them in a train.

lower berths to four lower

conditioned Express trains,

The reserved quota for senior

berths per coach in Sleeper

the quota in AC-3 tier class

citizens was introduced in

class. In 2016, the berths were

will be four lower berths per

2007 and a quota of two

enhanced to six lower berths

coach as against three lower

lower berths per coach in

per coach in Sleeper class

berths per coach.

of National Policy for Elderly in India. The petition, filed by

SC Issues Notice to Centre on Old-age Homes in Each District

former Union law minister Ashwini Kumar, pleaded for the establishment of an adequate number of old-age homes in each district across the country to enable them to live a life of dignity. As per him, the draft National Policy on Senior Citizens was prepared in 2011, but has yet not been finalised.

Acting on a public interest

to the establishment of old-age

The apex court has appointed

litigation (PIL), the Supreme

homes in each district. The PIL

Helpage India, an NGO, as an

Court of India has issued

noted that the constitutional

amicus in the case and has

notice to the Centre and

rights of the senior citizens

asked Nalsa to inform the court

the National Legal Services

are being violated, because

of all the schemes and pro-

Authority (Nalsa), with regard

of the non-implementation

grammes meant for seniors.

August 2016 | samarth | 5

NEWS

More Elderly Residing in Rural Areas; Female Silvers Outnumber Men The population of persons aged above 60 years has increased substantially, with silvers residing in rural areas outnumbering elderly living in urban areas. According to a report Elderly in India 2016 by

(5.6 per cent) to 103.9 million

females) live in rural coun-

the Ministry of Statistics and

(8.6 per cent) during 2001-

tryside, while 30.6 million

Programme Implementation,

2011. Among these 103.9 mil-

(15.1 males and 15.5 million

the population of senior citi-

lion seniors, 73.3 million (36

females) reside in urban areas

zens increased from 77 million

million male and 37.3 million

of the country.

grow older, if they follow

for days or months before

one-child policy. Now, those

being released.

senior Chinese one-child par-

Meanwhile, faced with

ents are finding that promise

mounting population prob-

hollow. On April 18, many

lem of elderly, a mandarin

one-child parents gave peti-

in Shanghai, recently, has

tion at National Health and

warned local residents of

Family Planning Commission

being enlisted in a credit

headquarters in Beijing, ask-

blacklist, being refused a

ing for better social support,

bank account or loans, among

according to media reports.

others, if they neglected their

Elderly One-child Parents Left in Lurch in China

These elderly were, however,

elderly parents. According to

put in Beijing’s Jiujingzhuang

the official China Daily news-

petitioner service centre, an

paper, these people would

extralegal detention facility.

be treated as miscreants and

The silvers in China are

The media reports said that

categorised as hit and run

distraught and dismayed with

there were no petitioners left

drivers, or those jumping sub-

the ‘insensitive’ act of the

outside the family planning

way ticket barriers, etc. They

Chinese Communist Party. In

headquarters by April 20.

can also face other punish-

1980s, Chinese government

Petitioners in detention facil-

ments under the law passed

had promised to take care of

ity are usually held, and fre-

in 2013 if they don’t visit their

Chinese couples when they

quently tortured and abused,

aged parents regularly.

6 | samarth | August 2016

NEWS

Govt Sets up Welfare Fund to Use Unclaimed Money The Government of

line with National Policy on

a year. The nodal ministry

India has established Senior

Older Persons and National

for the administration of the

Citizens Welfare Fund to use

Policy on Senior Citizens. The

welfare fund shall be Min-

unclaimed fund lying in gov-

report said, “The Senior Citi-

istry of Social Justice and

ernment accounts estimated

zens Welfare Fund shall be

Empowerment. Every institu-

to be in excess of `9,000

an interest bearing account

tion which has the unclaimed

crore. According to a Finance

in the Public Account of the

deposits in their small sav-

Ministry notification on March

Union of India and shall be

ings accounts shall prepare

18, the deposits that remain

administered by the Commit-

list of unclaimed deposits in

unclaimed for seven years in

tee.” The Committee will be

the accounts and notify to

Public Provident Fund (PPF)

headed by Secretary in the

the public. The rate of inter-

and Employees’ Provident

Ministry of Social Justice and

est for the money lying in

Fund (EPF) and small saving

Empowerment who shall be

the Fund shall be determined

schemes such as Post Office

the ex-officio chairperson.

and notified by the Central

Savings Accounts, Post

The members will be officials

Government in the Minis-

Office Recurring Deposit

(not below the rank of a Dep-

try of Finance on an annual

Accounts and National Sav-

uty Secretary) from Depart-

basis, the notification said.

ings Certificates, will be

ment of Financial Services,

Union Finance Minister Arun

transferred to the newly cre-

Ministry of Health and Fam-

Jaitley in his Budget 2015-16

ated Fund within one year.

ily Welfare, Ministry of Rural

speech had proposed the

The move by the government

Development and Ministry

creation of the fund using

is aimed to finance schemes

of Labour and Employment,

unclaimed deposits of about

for the promotion of the

among others. The Commit-

Rs 3,000 crore in the PPF, and

welfare of senior citizens in

tee shall meet at least twice

Rs 6,000 crore in the EPF. August 2016 | samarth | 7

NEWS of elderly by their children.

Even the Constitution of India recognizes the rights of the elderly and in its set of directive principles has laid out: “The state shall, within the limits of its economic capacity and development, make effective provision for securing the right to work, education and public assistance in cases of unemployment, old age, sickness and disability, and in other cases of undeserved want.”

The Government of India last year constituted the

In Distress, Indian Elderly Need Care Lack of awareness and sensitisation is leading to rising abuse of senior citizens in India. HelpAge India reports almost 50 per cent of elderly in India are facing abuse.

National Council of Senior Citizens (NCSrC), renaming the National Council for Older Persons (NCOP) under Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment. NCSrC is mandated to advise the central and state governments on the

A rather disturbing video

June 15, 2006 by the Interna-

entire gamut of issues related

went viral on social media

tional Network for the Preven-

to the welfare of senior

in January this year – a

tion of Elder Abuse and the

citizens, including policies,

CCTV video of a woman beat-

World Health Organization at

programmes and legislative

ing her elderly mother-in-law.

the United Nations, WEAAD,

measures. Besides, Ministry of

The video garnered more than

the purpose is to provide an

Health & Family Welfare, dur-

six million views and the social

opportunity to the people

ing Eleventh Five Year Plan

media erupted. The video

around the world to recognize

period, launched the National

effectively raised the issue of

this malaise and promote a

Programme for Health

elderly abuse in India, till now

better understanding of abuse

Care of Elderly (NPHCE)

an issue conveniently swept

and neglect of older persons.

to address various health

under the carpet.

The United Nations General

India passed Maintenance

related problems of elderly

and Welfare of Parents and

people. The Programme is

Assembly, in its resolution

Senior Citizens (MWPSC) Act

presently being implemented

66/127, designated June 15 as

in 2007 empowering rev-

in over 100 districts of the

World Elder Abuse Awareness

enue department officials to

country under National

Day (WEAAD). Launched on

intervene and enforce care

Health Mission scheme.

8 | samarth | August 2016

NEWS Despite these measures,

sons and daughter-in-law are

ings point to the need for

the neglect, abuse and aban-

the primary culprits with sons

sustained sensitization and

donment of elderly has con-

accounting for 73 per cent of

awareness building pro-

tinued and in fact multiplied.

elders abused, followed by 15

grammes across the country

According to the report Elder

per cent abused by daugh-

for all age groups, starting

Abuse in India-2013, released

ters-in-law.

with children. HelpAge India

by HelpAge India on June

What is dismal is the

also suggests building a

16, 50 per cent of the elderly

fact that more than 79 per

robust social security system

suffer abuse in the country.

cent of elderly abuse cases

network to ensure income

The survey reported that

goes unreported. The find-

security for the elderly.

An App that Takes Care of Elderly If you are a senior citizen in the US, you may want to try this mobile app. Called eSeniorCare, the app takes care of silvers in numerous ways. It creates a personalized socio-ecological construct around the seniors, and helps the elderly connect with care and questions as text or voice

and brain fitness of seniors

recordings. Even healthcare

residing in independent living

workers can reach out to

communities. It helps elderly

seniors via this app, when they

to track a variety of health

A lot of personalized

need help, without violating

goals and features medication

support and compan-

their independence. The app

scheduling and management,

ionship is offered by the

intimates workers when medi-

medication history, medica-

Samarth app. This app

cations arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t being followed

tion reminders and medica-

is available for free on

properly or renewed on time,

tion adherence. The app is

Android phones and will

thus helping workers to inter-

loaded with brain games

soon come to iphones

vene to address the problem.

viz crossword, Sudoku puz-

as well. It can also be

Developed by the University

zles and other games, etc.,

accessed on our website

of Notre Dame researchers,

designed to enhance cogni-

www.samarthlife.org

the app is aimed at enhanc-

tive health and avoid impair-

ing the physical health, vitality

ment of mental function.

August 2016 | samarth | 9

Source: All stories collated from media reports

providers by sending concerns

Quick Facts

11.5 Crore

Number of elderly in India. This is roughly 8% of all population and makes India an â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;ageingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; country as per UN definition

12,000 Average increase in the number of elderly in India likely to happen everyday for the next 10 years

25%

Of all new toys are purchased by the elderly in the US

10 | samarth | August 2016

36

million Number of older people who live without spouses. That is more than the population of Australia

Quick Facts

80% 0.032%

Percentage of all luxury travel in the US accounted for by the elderly

Share of GDP the government spends on senior citizens in India

500%

The increase in Indian population of oldest elderly (80 plus) between 2006 and 2050, as compared to overall population growth of 40% in the same period

1/3

rd

Proportion of the elder population over the age of 65 falls each year in the US. The risk of falls increases proportionately with age. At 80 years, over half of seniors fall annually.

Falls account for 25% of all hospital admissions every year in the US. Samarth offers a safety audit or fall-proofing of homes to its care members August 2016 | samarth | 11

Stay current | feature

Silver Tech for Grey Heads “I’m young at heart, but slightly older in other places.”

By Subha Chandrasekaran

12 | samarth | August 2016

feature

of the new age technology

The device could keep a

doesn’t specifically cater to

family member updated on

‘silver’ citizens, their con-

when their elderly parents

sumption is pretty much

woke up, walked for a while,

limited to a Skype call with

left the perimeter of the

a grandchild or exchanging

house, etc. But for an active

Whatsapp messages among

senior citizen, this can be

a group of senior friends.

extremely intrusive and also

Thankfully the spotlight is beginning to shine on this

is now shifting to remote-

space – companies trying

health monitoring for regular

to understand how technol-

feeds on blood pressure,

ogy can be made more use-

sugar levels, etc. The trick is

ful and relevant to senior

to allow for blips and aber-

citizens - Silver Tech as it is

rations so that every swing

being called.

from normal does not lead

The focus till a few years back was to force-fit tech-

W

misleading at times. Focus

to excessive medication being prescribed.

The way to tech-enable a senior citizen is not by simply handing them a smartphone...they may not be comfortable... hat kind

nology that works for the

of tech-

younger generations to

enable a senior citizen is

nol-

seniors. For example, wear-

not by simply handing them

ogy do

ables like fitness bands were

a smartphone. Smart they

seniors

becoming a rage among

still are, but maybe not that

really need? Senior citizens

young working men and

physically comfortable with

today have not been blind-

women. It became a natural

handling such a gadget. A

sided by technology. They

extension to assume that

typical smartphone needs

have seen the rapid changes

seniors would be okay to

quite a bit of work to make

and many have been quick

wear such a device all day

it ready for comfortable use

to adopt too. Yet, as most

and be monitored so closely.

by a senior citizen. Think

Similarly, the way to tech-

August 2016 | samarth | 13

feature about it - you would need to

phones just aren’t designed

passing on critical informa-

put the phone is a no-slip,

to be used by them.

tion in a timely manner.

easy to grip in case; increase

A lot of good work is hap-

This can also allow for a

the default font size; update

pening to focus on Silver

great degree of customisa-

names as appropriate for

Tech. Phones with larger

tion and focus on senior

Favourites lists and Fre-

text, colour coded icons for

citizens. Such systems typi-

quently Called names; set up

easy usage and emergency

cally involve a small pendant

chat applications like What-

buttons are now available

or clip that is worn always.

sapp or Skype and explain

in India and overseas. And

This is connected to a base

once, twice or thrice how

a key to a great user experi-

device in the home. In the

it works (mute the group,

ence may be to voice enable

event of a fall or accident,

Dad but don’t keep exiting it

a lot of basic functions in

the wearer just needs to trigger the device on them. This will in turn activate the base device to message, call, alert the required family members and seek medical help.

Here again the technology has started taking the next step of being available for the active senior citizen who may not always be indoors, yet the same emergency situation can occur.

Accurate fall-alert technology is critical and combined with a durable yet comfortable device to be worn; this is a win-win for elderly folk on their own and their families.

with a swipe!); pre-set all the

a simple manner as it’s not

regular wi-fi networks; help

always easy to type or touch

latest buzzword in the finan-

them get their way around

with an arthritic hand or the

cial services space, FinTech,

auto-correct; etc!

shake of Parkinson’s.

is able to deliver solutions

After all this you would

Speaking of arthritis and

And finally we hope the

that the elderly can get

be lucky if they have locked

the like, did you know, falls

excited about. Even in its

their screen so that you

are the leading cause of

simplest form, today man-

don’t keep getting FaceTime

both non-fatal and fatal

aging a savings account

calls every time they touch

injuries among those aged

is cumbersome for many.

the phone! And all this,

65 and over? Medical alert

Being able to transact online

for no fault of theirs. The

systems can be a lifesaver,

is almost a necessity - to

14 | samarth | August 2016

feature see your account statement since banks don’t issue pass-

through IVRs of call centres.

Giving them financial inde-

mobile as you want to be.

G et bill payments set up

books anymore; to check

pendence online opens up

to auto-debit your account

if you received the regular

a world of possibilities for

or card or send you a trig-

credits related to pension

senior citizens living alone

ger to pay with one click

and from your loved ones; to

or spending most of the day

so that you aren’t spend-

Accurate fall-alert technology is critical and combined with a durable yet comfortable device to be worn; this is a win-win...

ing hours in long queues.

Simple health monitoring devices like a BP monitor or Sugar level tester for a quick check to quell any panic that things are not okay.

Technology should not just aid but empower the consumer. The idea is be

pay bills without needlessly

by themselves. From hailing

independent and self-suffi-

stepping out of your home.

a cab to ordering lunch to

cient to the largest extent

buying their favourite book

possible. And if young folks

designed for a savvy user.

without having to rely on

start thinking more about

Multiple pins and passwords

someone else.

how a product can help their

Yet the systems are

to remember and sometimes

As a senior citizen, it’s not

grandma or grandpa live a

very convoluted navigation

necessarily a long wait for

little more comfortably, Sil-

screens making sure that

the write tools. Even today

ver Tech will surely deliver

bill will never get paid! With

with a little effort and help

on its promise!

the increasing reliance on

from family, you must enable

OTP (an SMS code sent to

yourself with a basic smart-

the linked mobile number),

phone and learn how to set

Subha is an ex-

multiple devices are required

up a few features that will

banker with over

to be accessed to finish any

make daily life easier.

15 years of opera-

transaction online. Technol-

tions and large

ogy that works on voice

A food delivery app that

recognition for a customer

lets you pay cash once the

experience at Citibank NA. She is

profile like senior citizens -

food is delivered – for

now running her own process,

typically regular set of trans-

those days when you are

people and finance consulting

actions and not very high

just too tired to whip up a

firm, RainKraft. She blogs at

value - would be a real boon.

meal or your crave variety.

www.dolphindives.in and loves

This could enable them to

A taxi app with cash pay-

to look at how technology can be

transact more online from the

ment option or linked to

simplified and made useful to

safety of their home and also

your son’s or daughter’s

young and old alike.

seek help without wading

card so that you can be as

team management

August 2016 | samarth | 15

Q&A

Q&A with

Samarth Founding Team

“Our vision is that all senior citizens in India enjoy a highquality, independent lifestyle...”

Personal pain point over the trauma and guilt that accompanies ‘less than the best’ support for senior citizens in their families led a group of concerned “children” to launch Samarth with the aim to serve senior citizens and their sons, daughters and well-wishers.

By Sangita Thakur Varma

Q A

What led to the idea of

‘less than the best’ support

ing capable) that aims to

Samarth?

for senior citizens in our own

serve senior citizens and their

We believe that senior

families. Senior care, an

sons, daughters and well-

citizens deserve a life

established, large and rea-

wishers.

that is comfortable, safe and

sonably mature business

enjoyable – a universal wish

sector in developed markets

we have for our parents and

like the US, is in a very

elders. But a lack of adequate

nascent stage in India and

care for them is a real issue in

represents a huge gap.

India cutting across economic

All of us co-founders are

Q A

What is the vision and mission of Samarth?

Our vision is that all senior citizen in India

enjoys a high-quality, inde-

strata. Many of us have per-

passionate about filling this

pendent lifestyle without hav-

sonally witnessed the trauma

vacuum and therefore, we

ing to move out of their

and guilt that accompanies

launched “samarth” (mean-

community. Our mission,

16 | samarth | August 2016

Q&A

Q

How does Samarth make its services

available

A

We have a membership program for senior citi-

zens to join the Samarth community. They can subscribe themselves or as we have seen many times, their children who subcribe them to the program. Members can

(LtoR) Asheesh, Gaurav, Nitin, Swati and Dinesh

select from among the various options or customise their plans. Member care subscription options all of including come with a 24X7 emergency support at home or outside

therefore, is rather straight-

be building trust with the

are currently available in

forward: to bring peace of

elderly. While in major cities

Delhi NCR. The community

mind and happiness to the

there are organizations offer-

subscription is open across

elderly and their children who

ing a range of services and

the country. The members as

care about them. We realized

products, the reason why

well as their family can

that to do this, we have to act

elderly hesitate in accessing

access Samarth through an

like the son or daughter or a

them is the lack of trust.

assigned care-manager, who

trusted friend of the elderly. Â

Samarth offers support not

stays in regular touch and

only for physical needs such

meets them personally, our

How does Samarth help

as security, safety, medi-

call-center or through our

elderly?

cal services, home mainte-

mobile app. The app allows

We did a lot of research

nance, out-of-home tasks

children to setup and track

with elderly Indians, their

but also emotional needs

reminders, track location,

children and family members

such as companionship and

request and track services

living in India as well as over-

entertainment, and even

for their elderly parents in

seas. That and our own experi-

volunteering or part-time

addition to calling for emer-

ence taught us that our

engagement depending on

gency assistance if needed.

number one priority ought to

what members want.

Q A

August 2016 | samarth | 17

Q&A How did you go about

the senior citizens but also

are doing this? But once they

building Samarth

their children who want to pro-

are convinced, you can see the

vide them the best possible

relief they feel that now they

In our view, trust and

and reliable support. In our

can perhaps live life on their

sensitivity are the two

most recent samarth milan,

own terms. It also puts a lot of

most important aspects for

the get-togethers we organize

pressure on us to deliver. We

serving the elderly. Our single

for our members, we were

have an 85 year old member in

minded focus is on delivering

completely humbled by how

South Delhi who has three sons

on these two aspects. Our

confident and happy they felt

but lives alone in her house.

community building is largely

having Samarth by their side.

Our Care manager is the goto

through referrals and word of

All of us in the team meet

person for her for everything

Q

community?

A

mouth. Our members are the best, and most trusted, means to reach other seniors. If one of them believes in and experiences our work and sees our passion, they introduce other friends or family to our community.

We also have an outreach program where we work with Senior citizen forums, RWAs, associations and organizations involved with senior citizens to develop tailor-made options for seniors. Even though our care services are limited to a

We have a membership programme for senior citizens... They can subscribe themselves... or, their children who subcribe them to the program.

few locations, our community

from doctorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; appointment to buying stuff, organizing everything in her home. There is a member couple in Gurgaon who visits us atleast twice a week at our office to spend time with our team. Another member works for a couple of hours every alternate day with us.

Almost every week we get requests from concerned family members, who come to know about Samarth, to offer our care services in this city or that wherever their parents stay. We have plans to cover

program is available to senior

many groups of senior citizens

the entire country but we want

citizens everywhere in the

every week â&#x20AC;&#x201C; in condominiums,

to do this without compromis-

country. Anyone above the

clubs, in mornings in gardens

ing on quality of our service.

age of 50 years can become a

and parks, at RWAs. In almost

This means expanding our full

member via our website www.

all discussions, people share

services slowly. However, our

samarth.community and ben-

stories of how they were not

community offering is available

efit.

treated well or taken advan-

across the country.

What has been the

tage of or the compromises

response of people

they have made due to lack of

seniors can be very demand-

especially senior citizens to

reliable support. Many people

ing and we have to constantly

this initiative?

also question us â&#x20AC;&#x201C; about us and

meet their exacting standards.

There is clearly a strongly

our people, how we fund this,

But the love and affection we

felt need not only among

how we ensure quality, why we

get, makes it all worth it.

Q A

18 | samarth | August 2016

Having said that, many

enjoy life | leisure Little India: Janpath street where you can find high street fashion comingling with heritage pieces from all nooks and cranies of India.

janpath

India in Microcosm Take a stroll down Janpath and discover sheer nostalgia amid its quaint shops with old world charm.

By Sangita Thakur Varma

August 2016 | samarth | 19

janpath

Iconic: Depaul’s, a landmark store in Janpath square, has generations of patrons hooked to its coffee and care.

Highstreet Fashion: Janpath export market is a must visit for branded clothes.

D

Famous! The bookstore that takes you back three generations. Nothing has changed here, only evolved.

elhi is a shop-

the popularity of this ultimate

End road and Tees January

per’s paradise

global tourism destination.

Marg in the south.

and Janpath

The historical anteced-

Post Independence, Jan-

Market is the

ent of Janpath or ‘people’s

path lost its royal commuters

mecca of any

path’ makes it even more

and also its name. It became

diehard shopper from India

interesting. In 1931, Janpath’s

a street on which com-

and abroad. To call Janpath

antecedents lie in royalty. In

mon people trod daily and

Market, the artery of India

1931, it was named Queen’s

a street bazaar for masses.

wouldn’t be far-fetched.

Way, as it was an important

Over the years, Janpath

The long road with its pic-

part of ‘New Capital’ of India

evolved into a microcosm of

turesque row of tiny shops

designed by Edwin Lutyen.

India, lined with shops repre-

fronted by designer pave-

It starts as Radial Road 1 in

senting almost all its states.

ment, is not representative

Connaught Place, adjacent

Despite Delhi’s rapid devel-

of the national capital alone,

to Palika Bazaar, runs north-

opment, Janpath has managed

but a microcosm of India in

south perpendicular to, and

to retain its quaint charm. The

motion—colourful, vibrant and

past Rajpath (erstwhile King’s

shops here are multi-genera-

milling with chaotic crowds.

Way). Janpath road stretches

tional in business for the past

The thousands of visitors you

in the north from the Con-

six decades or more.They still

may see here on any given

naught Place and winds up at

sell their signature ware and

day, except Sunday when the

the intersection of Aurangzeb

though have evolved to cater

market is closed, prove the

Road and junction of South

to the newer generations,

20 | samarth | August 2016

janpath due to this relationship that most of these stores cater to three generations of clients.

Indraprasth is among the oldest stores in Janpath square.

Indraprasth too began as a stall by Satyapal Vij, a migrant from Lahore at the time of Partition. Still today, it retains its reputation as a quality hosiery and intimatewear The Bazaar for All: First offs and fakes, you can find all brands here.

store. According to Manoj Vij, the current owner, the quality

retain their older patrons.

of Janpath is irreplaceable.

of services which has continu-

Take for instance Depaul’s.

Famous Book Store is itself

ously evolved is the hallmark

It once boasted of clients like

like a time machine. Rewind

of Janpath. This is why it has

erstwhile maharajas, celebri-

to 1970s or 80s—the same

evolved from a circuit hall to a

ties, top bureaucrats and the

musky smell of books assails

prime market, he says.

who’s who of Delhi in the 70s

your senses as you enter and

and 80s. Ashwani Kathpalia,

you are immediately in sea

stores and outside on the

current generation propri-

of thousands of books. The

pavement sit the hawkers, who

etor says, “Depaul’s played

book store was begun by

too trace their lineage here

the best grooves in Delhi.”

Arora’s father when he chose

back to three generations. This

Depaul’s has had three gen-

to stay in India post Partition.

is the heart of Janpath, and the

erations coming for its signa-

“In Pakistan, we had three

milling crowds are a testimony

ture cold coffee. Interestingly,

shops. But when we migrated

that here you can get a good

Depaul’s which was originally

to India in 1947 my father had

bargain for the authentic curios

named Dharampal’s, after the

to start from scratch.”

and garments. from around

founder, changed to D’Paul

The store owners in Janpath

Tucked in between these

India. From the 70s and the

upon the suggestion of a

Bhawan were initially allotted

80s generation, for whom Jan-

French customer and over

stalls on Janpath in the 50s.

path was the coolest hangout

time got shortened to Depaul.

In 1971, the stores relocated

to Gen-Y, Janpath has paved

Sixty years on, the store

to their present address. It

its way to everyone’s heart

remains the same. Today, for-

is not just the stores’ ambi-

with its indescribable charm.

eign visitors take their photo-

ence that speaks of an era

graphs in the backdrop of the

gone by. Speak to any of the

store, much like Taj Mahal or

storekeepers here, and their

To join an assisted walk

Eiffel Tower.

genteel mien and demeanour

on Janpath and relive

becomes apparent. These are

the joy, call Samarth on

of Famous Book Store is

family stores who found life-

8800699599

convinced that the charm

long friends amid clients. It is

Sanjeev Arora, proprietor

August 2016 | samarth | 21

place Jodhpur

Colour Me Blue: Jodhpur, the Sun City, is drenched in hues of blue. The colour has a historical antecedent.

Jodhpur

In this Sun City, the World Looks Blue Jodhpur, the second largest city of Rajasthan, beckons the intrepid senior traveller with its rich royal heritage and famous folklore.

By Binita Singh

I

t’s royal, no doubt and

ramp. It also has a signature

the royal Rathods. Jodhpur

blue! Defying all notions

world famous cuisine – the

is the second largest city of

that purple is the colour

original mawa kachoris for

Rajasthan and while the best

of royalty, its epony-

which flights have been

season for tour of this intrigu-

mous sartorial avataar has

delayed famously.

ing desert city is between

graced many a royal prince

We are talking about Jodh-

October and March, it is best

and continues to rule the

pur, the erstwhile seat of

to start planning ahead as

22 | samarth | August 2016

place Jodhpur is a popular desert destination with travellers – both domestic and foreign.

The Thar desert, bodering the township, is hot and dry, making Jodhpur a bright and sunny spot to be in. The Footloose Fancy: Mojris or Jodhpuri jootis are today a must have item for all wardrobes.

city enjoys a typical desert weather for most parts of the year and depending on your physical tolerance level, you can plan your itinerary.

unleash a riot of colours with

Going to Jodhpur is easy,

revellers wearing bandhani

as it is the destination of

odhanis in bright hues. The

several bus services, trains

world renowned Jodhpuri

and flights around the year.

jootis, and members of the

The royal abode beckons

erstwhile royals of Rajasthan

one and all. However, a road

and the gentry in their trade-

trip to Rajasthan, if you can

mark jodhpurs and bandhgala

bear the long hours in a bus,

jackets are a sight to behold.

offers its own indescribable

The melodious strains of

charm. If you want to make your trip more memorable and royal, book a trip on the Palace on Wheels — Royal Rajasthan on Wheels. The

folk music and the rythmic Rural Art Deco: Terracota windchimes, built to last and chime in the desert winds. These can be seen hanging atop doorways in rural homes in Jodhpur.

regal chariot that leaves

beat to which the local folk artists perform are mesmerising. With the full moon enfolding the entire festivities in a pale white glow, the

Delhi Railway Station under-

The Marwar festival, which

visitor feels as though trans-

takes a seven-day round

takes place in October, is one

ported to an enchanted land.

trip of Rajasthan, taking the

such not to be missed events

The magic of the desert and

traveller to all the erstwhile

on Jodhpur’s social calendar.

the dancers cajoles you into

princely states of Rajasthan.

Held in the auspicious

shedding all your inhibitions.

Meanwhile, be prepared to

month of Ashwin, it was

Dance into the twilight or

be pampered like members

known as Maand in ancient

just sit around enjoying the

of India’s royalty, as you

times. The days are warm and

rhythmic beats of the tradi-

travel ensconced in ultra luxe

sunny leading to cool and

tional drums.

surroundings, reminiscent of

pleasant nights at the time.

Rajasthan’s royal yore.

The festival is celebrated on

ballads are based on the

a full moon night and the

Jodhpur’s romantic folklore

you to attend famous festi-

desert air assails your senses.

and recount the tales of

vals and events of Jodhpur.

The two-day long festivities

love and war, lives of great

Planning ahead will enable

The folk dances and the

August 2016 | samarth | 23

Jodhpur princes and princesses and

feel transported to another

their royal riders displaying

the smaller warlords and local

era, of the royal, the rich, the

redoutable equestrian skills.

folk heroes. In the backdrop

brave and their intrigues, pas-

The camels come here annu-

of all this festivity stands the

sions, pains, loves and life.

ally for tattoos at the camel

imposing Mehrangarh Fort,

At the polo match held on

tattoo show and show off

the captivating Umaid Bha-

the occasion, you can wit-

the inking skills of local folk

wan Palace and Mandore. You

ness magnificent horses and

artistes.

Also include the Rajasthan International Folk Festival in your itinerary, which is held around the same time at Mehrangarh Fort. Musicians, storytellers, dancers and singers from Rajasthanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s folk communities descend here for the festival, apart from a select gathering of national and international artistes.

The soul stirring Indian

Grind Machine: This ancient spice grinder is a rural innovation. Bullocks used to turn this industrial whole spice grounder.

music and local traditional oral fare that these artists present, takes you on a cultural trip that extends well into the night.

Jodhpur International Desert Kite Festival held in January and the World Sufi Spirit Festival in February at Mehrabgarh and Nagaur respectively are other festivals that you can plan to catch while on a visit here.

History Unbound: An enchanting view of the architectural marvel called Mehrangarh Fort.

Recent attractions to the historical cultural festivals in Jodhpur, these are now extremely popular with visitors to Jodhpur.

Heritage Staycation: Ajit Bhawan, an erstwhile palace, functions today as a heritage hotel offering royal stay to visitors.

24 | samarth | August 2016

place

Heritage Restored: Umaid Bhawan Palace is today part heritage hotel and part musem.

Block of Art: Sanganeri block printing is a textile handblock printing art that flourished towards the end of 17th and in the 18th century. It is still the most sought after handloom textile today.

Explore the Mehrangarh Fort, the reason why the city houses are painted blue, giving Jodhpur the nomenclature of Blue City. The highest castes painted their homes blue in a show of allegiance to the father of the city â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Rao Jodha, chief of the Rathore clan. Rao Jodha lay the foundation of Jodhpur in 1459

Bandhej or Bandhani: A famous tie and dye technique that is native to Jodhpur.

Do not forget to collect a couple of vivid odhnis!

and gave the city his name.

With each generation of his clan, the Fort got some additions and by the end it, Mehrangarh Fort had transformed into a heritage masterpiece. Past the Fort lies the sprawling city at its foot-

10 km 16th century city wall.

who built it. The palace is

hills. The city extends to the

Jaswant Thada is about

relatively new as a monu-

Samarth organizes special tours for elderly members to places of interest. It is like a trip with friends and family with everything taken care of door to door.

Call us on 8800699599 for queries

a kilometre from the fort. It

ment as it was completed in

is a beautiful white marble

1944. Visit the heritage hotel

cenotaph built in honour of

and the museum housed

Maharaja Jaswant Singh II.

in it today. The museum

The Umaid Bhawan Palace

has a famous vintage car

is another iconic heritage

and watch collection. Stroll

piece of architecture. Atop

through the famous Umed

the Chittar hill, the palace

Garden with its museum,

is an architectural marvel

zoo and aviary.Jodhpur is a

exhibiting influences of colo-

touristâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s delight with many

nial era brought in by British

hidden gems waiting to be

architect Henry Vaughan,

explored.

August 2016 | samarth | 25

Feature

Your home is your retirement nest. Plan ahead.

Homes are one-time buys where we often end up investing our life’s savings. For those planning to buy one, planning a multigenerational house is sensible, while those who already own their home, they can still be made comfortable for the senior members.

By Sangita Thakur Varma

T

he Govern-

ment – permanent. Shouldn’t

often end up paying EMIs

ment of

then they be designed to so

well past retirement.

India’s Acces-

as to allow the home owner

sible India

to age in it gracefully? Unfor-

an added cost and most

Campaign to

tunately, planners and archi-

people can ill afford to get

achieve uni-

tects in the country are yet

their homes redesigned to

versal accessibility for Per-

to perceive the importance

suit the needs of advanc-

son’s with Disability (PwDs),

of the principle of universal

ing age. In western coun-

though late is laudable. How-

design while building homes.

tries though, people do pull

ever, universal accessibility

Periodical renovations are

In a country where roti,

down their homes to get it

is not something required

kapda are still the two pri-

rebuilt for aging occupants.

by PwDs alone. For senior

mary necessities for which

However, designers and

citizens too accessibility is

more than half of its popu-

architects abroad are now

a major issue, often even at

lation is still striving for,

actively adopting universally

their homes.

makaan, the third require-

designed multi-generational

ment, is often a lifetime

house plans, as increasing

like India, with a large middle

dream and achievement for

life expectancy means more

class population, homes

Indians. They invest their

homes will have grandpar-

often are a one-time invest-

life’s savings in a home and

ents living longer even as

In a developing country

26 | samarth | August 2016

Feature

Home is where the Heart is:

Build multi-generational homes or just carry out a few basic changes for the comfort of elderly family members. Relocating can be painful in old-age. It is better to build homes that are meant to last generations and accommodate at least three of them at once.

August 2016 | samarth | 27

Feature parents are aging.

cially if they will age in one

switch far from the beds and

home. In India, this is true

without remoteâ&#x20AC;Śthe list goes

has been steadily climbing in

for majority of homebuyers.

on. Kitchens generally remain

the past decades, thanks to

People buy homes in their

out of bounds.

better nutrition and health-

30s to 40s with the sole pur-

care. In 1960, the average life

pose of living in it till they

us are condemned to grow

expectancy was around 42.

breathe their last.

old in such a space that we

In India too, life expectancy

In the next four decades it

In the West, architects

Unfortunately, most of

have built lovingly yet with-

improved, climbing to around

are now focussing on multi-

out foresight to address

48 in 1980, 58.5 in 1990 and

generational homes and

our basic requirements. But

around 62 in 2000. In fact, life

retirement house plans that

donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get disheartened yet. A

expectancy since 2001â&#x20AC;&#x201C;2005,

attempt to accommodate

few thoughtful features can

had gone up by five years in

individuals at all stages of life

transform your home into a

2011-2015, from 62.3 years

and the changes that may

universally accessible abode.

for males and 63.9 years for

come into their lifestyle as

If you are a young buyer,

females to 67.3 years and

they grow older. This also

you will not require to move

69.6 years for males and

means that from grandchil-

your aging parents to a more

females respectively.

dren to grandparents, all can

thoughtfully built retirement

The principle of universal

live under the same roof, if

home because your house

design being adopted agres-

desired, without cramping

is out of bounds for them,

sively, is partly rooted in the

the lifestyle or the needs of

and if you are old, there is

concept of creating a univer-

one another.

no need to move out to a

sally accessible environment

How many of homes in

senior citizens community, as

for the disabled population.

India are built with such

your own home has become

The aim of planners and

an eye on the future? Not

a death trap. Alternatively,

architects is to build an envi-

many. The result being that

you may need a live-in nurs-

ronment that would cater

senior members of the fam-

ing attendant, which is nei-

to as wider a section of the

ily become confined to a

population as possible and

small space, mostly their

that too for the longest part

bedrooms. The doorways

of their lives.

are too narrow, steps are

Samarth offers a comple-

One of the first archi-

steep, toilets are low, floors

mentary home safety

tects of universal design

slippery, entrance to homes

audit to its care members

was Selwyn Goldsmith, the

have steps and no ramps,

which includes a 98 point

first designer who created

stairways to upper storeys

check and recommenda-

a dropped curb for wheel-

are without balustrade, etc.,

tions on how to make

chairs. Since growing fraility

etc. Even the furniture is not

each space more elderly-

makes the elderly lose vital

designed to address their

faculties, the principles of

requirements. Low sofas, din-

universal design caters to

ing chairs without armrests,

their growing needs, espe-

beds sunk to the floor, light

28 | samarth | August 2016

friendly, less prone to falls, and more safe.

Feature ther comfortable (having an

attractive. Today, with liv-

can create some uncomfort-

outsider constantly amid the

ing area and kitchen on one

able scenarios. Such living

family), nor affordable for all.

floor and the bedrooms on

conditions are harsh for both

another, life is no longer a

parties â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the elderly and their

or buying multi-genera-

picnic.

children. In an ideal home, all

tional homes are plenty. For

â&#x20AC;&#x192;If for some purpose you

open spaces should be wide

instance, you can modify and

cannot have a single-storey

enough to allow maneuvering

adapt the functional spaces

house or already own one

of wheelchairs and walkers.

of your house to your chang-

that has several floors, or if

When it comes to corridors,

ing lifestyle. These spaces

you live on the upper storey,

they too need to be wide to

like the sitting room, dining,

get an elevator installed.

allow unhindered passage of

gardens, etc., are designed

In India, home-owners are

seniors who may be using aids.

to incorporate space for

doing this, even in small cit-

extended family and are

ies like Patna and Patiala, to

or hurt a foot and were

eco-friendly, as their design

make life comfortable for the

required to hobble around

is meant to be relevant for

elderly.

on one foot or take a shower

much longer period, lead-

â&#x20AC;&#x192;Most homes, especially

on one foot, you are already

ing to lesser requirement for

bathrooms, have narrow door-

familiar with the pain and

remodeling.

ways. Elderly are forced to use

the practical impossibility of

bedpans or have to be carried

such a scenario. Now imagine

ers should look out for when

into the bathrooms. Those

your aging parents standing

building or buying homes

without 24-hour care, have

under the shower, bending

that are meant to accom-

to wait for someone to help

each time to fill a mug from

modate senior members of

them to the bathroom and this

the bucket of water to pour

The benefits of building

Here is what home buy-

If you have ever sprained

the household or where you intend aging yourself. These modifications can also be done in homes where seniors are living to make them more livable.

Single Floors & More As a child and a young adult, you were sprinting up and down the steps. Today, you need support to climb step by step. You may even be requiring a stick or a walker.

When you were young, duplex homes or multi-storey ones seemed ideal and August 2016 | samarth | 29

Feature on themselves? If you are old, well, you can vouch for this.

Yes, life can be made a lot easier for the elderly, if we equip them with assistive aids. These simple, thoughtful measures can be taken by the elderly themselves to ease their life. A bathing chair in the bathroom under the shower, strong basins that can support them while brushing, shaving, washing, etc., raised toilet seats (you get the kinds that can be fitted atop the existing toilets)

67.3 The number of years an Indian male is expected to live. Females life expectancy is 69.6 years. There was a five year leap from 2001â&#x20AC;&#x201C;2005 to 20011-2015.

just for TV, but blinds, curtains, air-conditioners, fans and light switches too, if possible, makes life comfortable.

The seniors can then sit in peace and at night, need not trouble others or themselves, if they need the light on to visit the bathroom or switch off the airconditioner.

Doorknobs, faucets, water taps that need to be twisted open or close, are a pain for old knobbly hands that may even be arthritic by now. It is a good idea to have lever

or a toilet chair with armrests

reaching lower drawers/

doors that need only a small

if the toilet seat is low or if

shelves or the top ones is dif-

swing to open. Additionally,

the seniors cannot leverage

ficult as you grow older and

heavy doors, latches, chairs,

themselves up from seats

weaker.

kitchen utensils, plates, and

without support, can make

Slip Proof Flooring: Have

even glasses, should be

life more enjoyable for them.

you ever had a dog and seen

banned. As we grow older,

Also, install grab bars in the

him grow old? Remember,

our strength wanes and man-

bathroom walls especially

how difficult it became for

aging any force more than 2

near the showering space

him to stand or walk on the

two kg drains their strength.

and basins, while you are car-

floor as he kept slipping?

rying out these renovations.

Well, humans have similar dif-

apartments have open floor

ficulties when they grow old.

plans combining drawing,

Slip resistant flooring all

dining and kitchen areas.

For Easy Living

It is good that modern

If on a wheelchair, reaching

over the house and especially

Apart from providing space

into your wardrobe can be a

the bathroom is mandatory

to manoeuvre walkers and

pain. The room should be set

to prevent the elderly from

wheelchairs, open floor plans

up in such a way that there

slipping. Remember, bones

are also open to rearrange-

is space for the wheelchair

grow fragile as you age and

ments of furniture forever.

around the wardrobe. If you

take longer to heal. Hence,

You can organise your sit-

donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t already have it, get the

here prevention is the best

ting, dining or even kitchen

sold wood doors of the ward-

cure. In case the flooring

space as per your increasing

robe replaced with lighter

cannot be changed, thick

requirements. While at it,

sliding ones. Get the shelves

wall to wall carpeting helps.

it also makes sense to have

redesigned as pullout or pull

It also cushions a fall.

kitchen counters and any

down versions. Remember, 30 | samarth | August 2016

Remote control and not

other that you may have in

Feature

your home fixed at different

varieties of flat panel switches

posal, are other important

heights. It will make working

are also easier to operate than

concerns when planning a

around the kitchen and the

the older narrow switches.

home or redoing one for old

house easier for each mem-

Windows can be widened and

age or multi-generation liv-

ber of the family.

glass panelled and wooded

ing. Single storey houses

Fading eyesight, cataract,

doors replaced with glass ones

can easily be converted

and just general aging process

to allow more natural light into

into green homes with solar

lead to our faculties becom-

the house.

panel roofs and gardens

ing less sharp over the years.

The empty-nester house

that work as water harvest-

Green homes with glass panels

plans, where parents live on

ing pools. Water recycling of

allow more natural light to flow

their own, are ideally single-

washing machines, water fil-

in, a boon both for the envi-

storey and when furnished

ters waters should be made

ronment and the elderly. From

with basements, they make

part of the design. The outer

dusk to dawn, the seniors

life convenient. Water tanks

space or garden can be

will be dependent on internal

can be installed in the base-

made accessible from home

lightings for the smallest work.

ment or it can be an ideal

on wheelchair by making

Discreet lighting or twilight

car parking. Basements

the gardens an extension of

may seem romantic, but for

also function as storage. If

the home with wide sliding

the aged, it could be plain tor-

equipped with hydraulic chair

doorways. â&#x20AC;&#x192;

ture. Install bright functional

lifts, basements become an

light everywhere, especially

extension of the house.

where there are curves, cor-

Water harvesting, solar

ners and alcoves. The newer

panels, easy garbage dis-

No need to break down and rebuild, just make some essential changes to make your nest cozy and comfortable.

August 2016 | samarth | 31

Flashback

Flashback

The Silent Era of Silver Screen Indian cinema has an exciting history. We delve into its genesis and discover some gems.

Once again, an era seems to be ending in the cinematic history of India as we watch single screens die silently, one after the other.

T

By Binita Singh

he evolution of

day become the largest film

then the richness of various

cinematic excel-

industry in the world? More

languages and dialects, from

lence in India

than sheer size, it is the variety

Bhojpuri to Marathi, Konkani

makes for an

of cinematic experience that

and what not, Indian cinema

inspiring story.

India turns out every year that

has no parallels.

Who could have imagined

is mesmerizing. Bollywood,

in 1913 that India would one

Kollywood, Tollywood and

32 | samarth | August 2016

Satyawadi Raja Harishchnadra, the king who is an

Image Source: http://www.wikiwand.com/en/Silent_film

Flashback embodiment of Indian ideals of

SS Vasan, AV Meiyappan set-

the first film to be adapted

truth and honesty, finds men-

ting up production houses

from Malayalam literature.

tion in several Indian classic

there and churning out Telugu

literature – Aitareya Brahmana,

and Tamil films. Keechaka

ma’s 1925 social melodrama, a

Mahabharata, Markandeya

Vadham, a critically acclaimed

silent film directed by Baburao

Purana, and the Devi-Bhaga-

movie on the characters

Painter. It was in this film that

vata Purana, to name a few.

of Kichaka and Draupadi of the

the legenary V Shantaram

However, it was an eponymous

epic Mahabharata, was the first

made his acting debut as the

film, India’s first feature film,

silent film of south India. It was

young village peasant. Later

made by the legendary Dada

also a resounding commercial

in 1936, a talkie version of the

Saheb Phalke in 1913, which

success.

film was remade by Painter.

immortalised the king. The

The treasure trove of silent

Savkari Pash is Indian cine-

The crowning glory of the

silent movie with English and

films included such gems as

silent era was perhaps the

Hindi titles was to rewrite the

Lanka Dahan (1917), Bhakta

unforgettable Devdas in 1928,

history of world cinema.

Vidur (1921), A Throw of

a silent film based on the

Notably, though the French

Dice (1929), by German-born

introduced moving images, the

director Franz Ostenon on the

credit for motion pictures rests

famous dice game played in

with India. In fact, prior to the

the Mahabharata. In 1921 also

epochal 3,700 feet long Raja

came a silent Bengali film, Bilat

Harishchandra, two short films

Ferat (England Returned). The

were made by Harishchan-

year 1925 witnessed another

dra Sakharam Bhatavdekar,

landmark silent film, an Indo-

namely, The Wrestlers and Man

European co-production,

and Monkey. However, it was

titled Prem Sanyas (The Light

Raja Harishchandra’s official

of Asia in English and Die

Sharat Chandra Chattopad-

premier in Coronation Theatre

Leuchte Asiens in German)

hyay’s novella of the same title.

of Bombay on May 3, 1913,

adapted from the book in

This was the first film adapta-

which broke all records. This

verse, The Light of Asia (1879),

tion of the novella, and many

film was to lead to the produc-

authored by Edwin Arnold.

were to follow later on the

tion of several silent films in

The film depicted the life of

immortalised lovers.

Bombay and Madras. Satyavan

Prince Siddhartha Gautama

Savitri is a 1914 Indian silent

who went on to attain enlight-

cacophonous film industry

film, directed and produced by

enment as Gautam Buddha.

of India today, the silent era

Dadasaheb Phalke, the second feature film created by him.

Book adaptations began in

In the loud, crass and

of films brings back nostalgic

earnest with another silent film

memories of class acts and

Marthanda Varma in 1933. A

direction par excellence. How-

had gained prominence as

black & white silent film, it was

ever, as they say, times are

the epicentre for cinema in

directed by P V Rao and was

changing, and for silvers, it is

India with famous names as

based on 1891 Malayalam novel

just a linear progression to be

Raghupathi Venkaiah Naidu,

by C. V. Raman Pillai. This was

celebrated.

By the mid 1920s, Madras

August 2016 | samarth | 33

Movie Reviews

3 Current movies we recommend you watch

Nil Battey Sannata of themes interwoven in the central narrative that echo humane and social overtones. What is remarkable though is the fact that the film with a theme is a commentary on India’s social reality, manages to be entertaining and not a rhetorical social critique delivered from a high moral pulpit.

The film explores human relationships amid social deprivation, a single mother’s dreams and aspirations, a teenaged girl’s angst and

Once in a while Indian cinema produces a parallel film on smaller budget than the usual high octane Bollywood blockbuster. Nil Battey Sannata is one such film that warms the cockles of your heart. The actors are natural and the film delivers its message effortlessly. It has a number

finally the relationship of a mother Cast: Swara Bhaskar, Ratna Pathak, Pankaj Tripathy Director: Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari

and her daughter. Maths has been used as a metaphor in the film and many of us will empathise with the maths phobia of the young girl.

Highly recommended for the sheer pleasure of watching a good film that leaves you smiling at the end!

Image Source: thebusinessfront.com

Power (Bengali) Guns, goons and the flamboyant cop in the mould of Salman-Ajay Devgan (DabbangSingham), Power, a remake of 2014’s Telugu action thriller Power Unlimited, is a laugh riot with the right template for super-duper boxoffice success.

So here you have ACP Veer Pratap (Jeet), a corrupt cop and Jeetu (Jeet), the wannabe cop with his inimitable and quirky style, two pigtails, wavy auburn hair, the trade34 | samarth | August 2016

Flashback mark aviators and sharp suits. The ACP dies, while the wannabe cop parades around in stolen uniform doing good and winning hearts.

Confusion ensues. Jeet as the ACP is charismatic and as Jeetu, eccentric and lovable.

While the two Tollywood bombshells add their bit of oomph and

Power rises above the slapstick Cast: Jeet, Sayantika, Nusrat, Rajatava Dutta, Kharaj Mukherjee, Dipanjan Basak, Sabyasachi Chakrabarty

and delivers a comedy that is thoroughly enjoyable.

Though sticking close to the original Telugu version, Power has some original dialogues that raise the bar. Two hours and thirtysix minutes of unadulterated

Director Rajiv Kumar

laughathon! A must watch if you

glamour in Power, it is Jeet who

are feeling low or just want to have

with his fine acting ensures that

fun with your gang.

Image Source: moviehulchul.in

Fan

with a frenzied mind, Gaurav is obsessed with Aryan and has plastered the walls of his room with Aryan’s pictures. Gaurav is also not scared of anybody.

On the other hand Aryan, who was also once a middle-class Delhi boy, credits fans for his exponential rise in Bombay and Bollywood. Surrounded by stardom, he routinely waves to his fans from his balcony, who pour out in large numbers outside his swanky home just to have a glimpse of him.

In playing both the superstar as well as the psycho fan, SRK pulls up a stun-

Featuring a double dose of

ning performance. He has broken

Bollywood king Shah Rukh Khan,

his recent image by playing the

Fan is woven around an interesting plot. SRK plays both a superstar named Aryan Khanna, as well as the craziest fan of the super star named Gaurav Chandna.

Gaurav hails from Delhi’s Indra

Cast: Shah Rukh Khan, Waluscha De Sousa and Shriya Pilgaonkar

highly demanding characters in

Director Maneesh Sharma

share of problems, with moments

this intriguing thriller.

Directed by Band Baaja Baaraati’s Maneesh Sharma, Fan has its in the film defying logic. However,

Vihar neighborhood, and looks like

it is SRK’s scintillating double role

the mega star Aryan. Endowed

that makes it worth watching.

Image Source: www.financialexpress.com

August 2016 | samarth | 35

barometer

Barometer

Video Callsâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; Your Window to the World Want to be in touch with your loved ones in real-time? Just learn the tricks of video calling and talk to them one to one.

By Sangita Thakur Varma

T

echnology has its

media forums like Facebook

versation come alive in your

uses. It is a tool

and Instagram, finding long

personal space â&#x20AC;&#x201C; could be

of communica-

lost friends and making new

your home sitting room or

tion with loved

ones. In the digital social

even your garden. There is

ones. Seniors

place, age is no bar and your

a lovely video of an elderly

have had a late exposure

new friends may well be your

couple in the US trying to

to the wonders of technol-

granddaughterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s age.

figure out the webcam.

ogy. Yet, many of them have

One such technology plat-

(You can see it at bt.ly/sam-

adapted with ease to the

form that has special util-

arth001). The goofy hilari-

complicated devices and life-

ity for the seniors is one to

ous video of the US couple

easing apps. There are gran-

one video calls. It erases

though proved that age does

nies posting selfies on social

distances and makes con-

not dampen curiosity and the

36 | samarth | August 2016

barometer

When we relocated to Delhi in 2005 from Ranchi, our daughter was just 3 years old.

It was a painful parting for both the child and her grandparents who doted on her. My mother-in-law, a retired college principal, was at the time in Ranchi trying to master our PC. When we moved out, we had left it for her to carry on experimenting. Some years

65%

of adults now use social networking sites – a nearly tenfold jump in the past decade. Today, 35% of all those 65 and older

down the line, we discovered

report using social

Skype and with a few lessons

media, compared with

via the mobile, we had my in-

just 2% in 2005

laws Skyping. The joy not just of seeing us in real time but

Source: Pew Research Centre

also the pride they felt at mastering the webcam and Skype was indescribable. Now, Skype has become the medium for daily conversations and lessons in science and math for my daughter.

Video calls ensure that the elders in our family are never lonely or feel left out of celebrations in the family,

account to log in

2 Click Contacts in Skype 3F ind the contact of the one you want to call, may be your son

4A tick in a green circle means they are on Skype

5Y ou can call them for free

love for learning new things.

in situations where you can-

on desktop, but mobile and

Elderly in India too are experi-

not be with them physically.

landline call for subscription

menting with webcams and

Here’s how you can also con-

Skype. Good! But we all know

nect with your loved ones

using the millennial genera-

through video calls.

tion devices, be it the PC–laptop or smartphone–landline, and so called easy apps like Skype can be befuddling in the extreme. But once the

6C lick the Call button on screen

7T he screen colour changes and you can hear the ringing

Steps to Setting Up Skype on your Windows Desktop 1 Download and install Skype

elderly master it, the joy on

(it works on Windows 7

their faces is infectious.

and above) and create your

8T he moment the person at the other end picks up the call, you are on a video chat

9 ENJOY! 10 A t the end, press the red end call button.

August 2016 | samarth | 37

the giving tree

Sowing the Seeds of Learning Children need just a little encouragement to flower into admirable achievers. At Protsahan, they speak through the language of learning, all because of that little loving push from their master, retired banker Abhay Singh.

By Sangita Thakur Varma

“H

umko

unconsciously, to step into

rents, Mr Singh is at ease

padha

the realm of teaching. The

and happy. The oppressing

deejeeya,

difference being that for this

heat does not bother him,

humko

teacher, it was teaching the

nor does the kids who are

padha deejeeyay (Please

less privileged rural kids that

at the moment enjoying a

teach us)!” a chorus that

fascinated him.

surprise feast, courtsey a

warmed the cockles of Mr

The lure of post retirement

couple known to Mr Singh

Abhay Singh’s heart. The call

lucrative job offers from

who wanted to celebrate

for tutoring had not come

various corporates had been

their son’s birthday in a more

from his grandkids, but chil-

meaningless for Mr Singh

meaningful way. The teacher

dren of the village border-

when he retired in 2011. He

though is skeptical of such

ing his residence on Noida

wanted to teach but not at

indulgences. He categorically

Expressway. For the retired

colleges and universities.

states that the purpose of

banker (he was with State

Surrounded by village kids

Protsahan, which translates

Bank of India), the call was

at open air school that has

aptly to encouragement in

the signal he was waiting for

a one-room library that he

English, is not to convert

38 | samarth | August 2016

the giving tree Giving the Gift of Learning: Abhay Singh with his students at Protsahan, his library cum school in Gheja Village.

ity in society and was determined to contribute his mite.

“I am a simple person,” he says, and you can see that for him the glitz or the glamour of a high profile job has left little impression. All that it has done is to drive home the need for correcting societal anomalies. He quotes two instances to drive home the inequalities in life. One: the SBI scheme on differential rate of interest to provide loan to rickshaw-pullers at just 4 per cent interest rate, which drove home their plight. Two: when post retirement, he was called to interview probationary officers at Kolkata and Bhubaneswar. the school into a freebies

joined SBI in 1976. The trans-

There were many candidates

zone where the motivation

ferrable job saw him being

from under-priviledged back-

for children to come is the

posted across the country

grounds, a widow’s child, a

occasional cake and party,

with a couple of foreign post-

labourer’s son and the son

rather than studying. There

ings thrown in. SBI has a rural

of a waiter who worked at

are lots of people who want

development department and

Jamshedpur Club, a personal

to contribute to his fledgling

also works for urban poor. Mr

acquaintance of Mr Singh

venture. But at Protsahan

Singh was thus exposed to all

when he was posted in Jam-

gifts and food are welcomed

the nuances of banking – for

shedpur. The one common

only occasionally. They would

big corporate houses as well

thread that ran all through

rather accept studying aids

as the small borrowers under

these interviewees was their

like pen and notebooks and

microfinance. All through his

communication difficulties.

books for their library.

career, he had his post retire-

“The candidates called for

ment goal clear. “I had just

interview are shortlisted from

experienced both the urban

thought of teaching,” he says.

among 2.5 lakh aspirants who

and the rural lives closely. He

He had seen the stark inequal-

sit for the written test. They

The banker has seen and

August 2016 | samarth | 39

the giving tree must be given encouragement,” he says.

The interviews took place in July and once back home his commitment was firmed. He rented a room in Gheja Village, the backyard of the swank Noida Expressway, and first tried to encourage and convince Class 12th students to appear for exams like banking.

Though he did not succeed in this, he had the village kids asking to be taught.

The man who sat for his law entrance at the age of 50 along with his daughter has an obvious love for acquiring and sharing knowledge.

The silent crusader is ploughing a lonely furrow, but says he gets help from friends and now has four volunteers to help out.

the determination to complete the course, though his

that the intensity of dropouts

that they don’t leave regular

daughter has dropped out. It

is very high. “The students

school.” This year, Protsahan

is this quest that firmed his

neither have peer pressure

has succeeded in putting

resolution and since Janu-

nor family pressure to study.

17-18 of its students into the

ary this year, he has been

Their mothers go to work at

local schools. These students

visiting the tiny school daily.

7 in the morning and return

come to Protsahan in the

The number of students too

by 9 in the night. For these

evening to study.

has been swelling up, with

children, going to school is

word of mouth appreciation

not an important issue. Some

as a one man endeavour today

from the parents and chil-

wouldn’t go to thier school

boasts of four volunteers. As

dren under his tutelage. “This

after being thrashed or pun-

the expenses increased, Prot-

school opened on October

ished there twice or thrice for

sahan has found some bene-

6, 2013 and we started open

one reason or the other.”

factors. Some of Mr Singh’s

classes on January 1, 2014 for

To overcome the dropouts,

The initiative which began

friends supported him with

the village kids. Since than

and this is an issue the gov-

funds and the SBI also lent

we have been providing basic

ernment is struggling with,

a hand providing the school

lessons to 30-40 students

Protsahan began calling the

with an inverter. “Now, during

before admitting them into

students in the evening to

power cut, we don’t sit in the

local government schools.”

help them complete their

sun…and that’s a big thing,” Mr

homework. “We have to be

Singh laughs.

No mean feat for a lone crusader. Mr Singh regrets 40 | samarth | August 2016

in touch with them to see

Apart from the institutional

the giving tree

For the children, it is an evening well spent amid colourful books and with the added bonus of help in doing their homework. They love being here.

don’t have the bandwidth,” he admits. Today, about 70 children come here and 15 women are training in the tailoring School. I think that I should be satisfied with this.”

However the doughty ex-banker had other plans of expansion. “We thought how could we expand here?

There are two government schools in the area. We began visiting them. We have opened a library (of about 1,000 books) in one of these schools and have also appointed a librarian-cumteacher. The teacher gets a salary of Rs 2,000 and also supplements the resources

It may be a drop in the ocean, but Protsahan is making an impression on the children and their families. For Mr Singh, this is happiness.

of the school, by teaching students there.” Protsahan also organises quiz compe-

support from SBI, help also

at least one book,” he adds.

tition on different subjects

came from Usha the makers

A modest attempt, yet mean-

every Saturday at these

of sewing machines, and Prot-

ingful if you could witness the

schools. In this way, it teach-

sahan has launched a tailoring

excitement with which the

ers is more than 100 children

and sewing training school for

children handle the books.

without the need to expand

the village women.

Their devotion for and ease

to Protsahan’s establishment.

around their “sir” is also fasci-

“The objective is to bring as

nating.

many children as possible

Constrained by lack of resources, Mr Singh is treading cautiously. “There is con-

No wonder Mr Singh does

to the class,” explains Mr

straint and this is not a proper

sometimes think of upgrad-

Singh. As establishing and

school,” he says. Protsahan

ing protsahan into a proper

maintaining a regular school

has divided the students into

school till class eight. “Then

would be much difficult with-

groups under sections A to E,

more children could be

out adequate support and

on the basis of their capability.

inducted into it,” he explains.

resources, “outreach is the

The students belong to differ-

What stops him though into

better way to cover more

ent schools and do not even

putting his plan into action is

children”, says Mr Singh.

have the same uniform. “We

the question of sustainability.

have tried to give them each

“Who would look after it as I

Another attempt at outreach is being made in one August 2016 | samarth | 41

the giving tree Protsahan provides training in sewing to underprivilged women to help them secure their livelihood.

From Curiosity to Learning: Kids turn into avid readers, with the easy availability of books.

Joy Doubled: The kids have become a source of happiness for this teacher.

of the other government

ous about contributing, they

under the light of their shop.

schools, which extends from

should gift children on the day

“Till now, we had heard that

Anganbadi to class five. “We

results of monthly exams are

people like Vivekanand and

go there to teach math every

announced. It will then be a

Rajendra Prasad had stud-

Wednesday and Thursday.,”

motivation for these kids to

ied under streetlights. Here

Mr Singh shares. This again

study here.”

almost every child does it.”

has provided an outreach of

The children though are

Sheela, another of his regu-

about 100 students. “In this

very understanding, says

lar students, was very young

way, we reach 250-300 fami-

their guru and you can see

when Protsahan began. She

lies,” Mr Singh explains.

the gleam of pride in his eyes.

didn’t even know English

Kajal and her younger brother

alphabets. Today, she is a stu-

tives are there to see. The

Lokendra, who are regulars at

dent of class six after joining

teacher underscores the

Protsahan, did excellently at

school directly in class four

value of motivation. And

the spelling test organised on

in a government school. “We

when he discourages people

the campus. “If they are nur-

thought she wouldn’t be able

to distribute gifts and good-

tured well, they have the capa-

to pass class four, but she is

ies unnecessarily, it is for this

bility to perform.” The children

doing well,” he says. Protsahan

reason. “If people are seri-

had prepared for the test

had a big hand in her transfor-

The results of these initia-

42 | samarth | August 2016

the giving tree mation and is scripting many such stories.

Now the kids are also learning computers with one of Mr Singh’s colleagues teaching them.

“Protsahan today is a vital part of me,” says Mr Singh.

The feeling is “indescribable”, he adds. “When you take care of your own kids, you don’t say that you feel satisfaction.

Do you say that you feel satisfied by teaching your kids?

You don’t. Same is the case here. I think my feelings have also evolved. It was very sat-

“When you take care of your own kids, you don’t say that you feel satisfaction... Same is the case here. I don’t have any feelings now. It was very satisfying to begin with, then it was uplifting, but now it’s a part of my daily life.”

isfying to begin with, then it

books, or donate cash.”

was uplifting, but now it’s a

Mr Singh sees nothing

part of my daily life.”

feel that if you teach them three subjects, you can make all literate. These three subjects are critical—English, Math and Hindi for junior level and English, Math and Computer for senior level. If you know these subjects, you can get a job of Rs 15,000 and can have a better life.”

Just to develop reading habits, Protsahan has deposited 1,000 books in the school. “We can’t have perfection,” admits Mr Singh and adds, “We haven’t even reached the desired level.”

Naughty kids are not a no no at Protsahan. The kindly

wrong in this. “People should

“sir’ continues to encourage

do in accordance with their

them to be naughty to some

citizens: “Before retirement,

comfort level. It’s a tough

extent, for he says, “intelligent

you have too many responsi-

decision and tough thing to

kids are naughty. To encour-

bilities. So you are engaged.

continue,” he advises.

age reading habits in these

His message to senior

But post retirement, you are

Moreover, he feels efforts

kids, we ask them to take at

relieved of these responsibili-

like Protsahan are a drop in

least two books every week.”

ties. Keeping oneself engaged

the ocean. “Unless govern-

We saw them squabbling

is very necessary. Disengage-

ments get serious about social

over books they wanted to

ment means not only stagna-

causes, no NGO can make a

take home. The seeds of lit-

tion, but you start waiting

dent, be it Greenpeace, Ford

eracy have been sown here, all

for the day when you finally

Foundation, or any other NGO,

with a little protsahan.

depart. This shouldn’t hap-

The social inequality problem

pen,” he explains.

in India is so gigantic that

However, this kind of work

cumulatively also these NGOs

is physically tough. For many

can make only a small differ-

seniors living in Mr Singh’s

ence. Governments will have

colony, there is the desire

to come up with better facili-

but not all can sustain it.

ties and plans,” he suggests.

“They say they would come,

If we really want to liter-

however they don’t come on

ate India, then two years are

regular basis. They distribute

enough, he is confident. “I

Samarth creates and identifies opportunities for elderly to contribute projects and stay productive. If you have some ideas, let us know.

August 2016 | samarth | 43

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;fn vki Hkh bldk 'kkSd j[krs gSa rks fdlh LFkkuh; lM+d Nki ckWMh vkVZ cukus okys O;fä ds pDdj esa u iM+dj] fdlh vPNs ckWMh vkVZ

VSVw& VSVw ,d çdkj dk LFkkbZ fu'kku ;k fMtkbZu gksrk gSA ftls lqbZ esa jax Hkjdj Ropk dh Åijh lrg ij xksnk tkrk gSA vf/kdrj VSVw vkfVZLV

y?kq ys[k csgks'kh dh nok dk bLrseky fd;s fcuk gh (flykbZ dh e'khu tSlh) ,d gLrpkfyr e'khu ls Ropk dks xksnrs gSaA bl çfØ;k esa dbZ ?kaVs yx tkrs gSaA ,d ckj cuk, gq, VSVw dks gVkus ds fy, vkidks nnZukd vkSj eg¡xh ystj ltZjh ;k fLdu xzkf¶Vax çfØ;k ls xqtjuk iM+ ldrk gSA blhfy, VSVw ges'kk fdlh çksQs'kuy ls gh cuokuk pkfg,A ckWMh ih;flaZx & ckWMh vkVZ ikyZj esa vyx vyx rjhd ls ckWMh ih;flaZx dh lqfo/kk,a Hkh çnku dh tkrh gSaA buesa fyi ih;flaZx] Vax ih;flaZx vkSj ljQsl ih;flaZx çeq[k gSA fons'kksa esa rks fgi ih;flaZx] dkWyjckWu ih;flaZx] dksjlsV (pksyh) ih;flaZx Hkh djokbZ tkrh gSA fdUrq Hkkjr esa fyi ih;flaZx vkSj Vax ih;flaZx gh çpyu esa gSA vktdy vkbZfyM vkSj gksaBks ij Hkh ih;flaZx djokus dk çpyu tksj idM+ jgk gSA

/;ku nsa] VSVw MkbZ fo'ks"kdj yky MkbZ ls dbZ ckj Ropk ij ,ythZ gks tkrh gSA blls VSVw ds bnZ fxnZ jSs'kst gksus dk [krjk c<+ tkrk gSA ;g ,ythZ o"kksZ rd 'kjhj ij viuk çHkko ugha NksM+rhA

3 ;fn vki fdlh ,slh Ropk laca/kh ijs'kkuh ls xzLr gks tk;s (ykyh] lwtu] nnZ vkSj il) rks fdlh Ropk jksx fo'ks" kK ls ijke'kZ vo'; ysaA

4 ckWMh vkVZ ikyZj esa dke djus okys O;fä dke djus ls igys gkFk

/kksys (fdlh dhVk.kquk'kd lkcqu ls) vkSj nLrkuk igu dk dke djus ij tksj nsaA VSVw vkfVZLV vPNh xq.koRRkk ds vkStkjks dk bLrseky djsaA /;ku jgs lqbZ vkSj V;wc] lhy can fyQkQs esa ls fudkysaA

5

6 ih;flaZx 'kq: djus ls igys /;ku j[ksa vkidks bl /kkrq ls ,ythZ rks ugha gSA

1 /;ku nsa] VSVw MkbZ fo'ks"kdj yky

7 vkW fDlMkbZLM /kkrq vkSj iqjkuh

MkbZ ls dbZ ckj Ropk ij ,ythZ gks tkrh gSA blls VSVw ds bnZ fxnZ jSs'kst gksus dk [krjk c<+ tkrk gSA ;g ,ythZ o"kksZ rd 'kjhj ij viuk çHkko ugha NksM+rhA

ToSyjh dk bLrseky dnkfi u djsaA

8 ikyZj ds Mªk;j] Vsfcy] flad iwjh

2 ;fn VSVw cukus okyk vkStkj

9 ih;flaZx ,sls LFkku ij u

laØfer gS rks dbZ çdkj dh Ropk laca/kh chekfj;ka tSls gSfiVkbZfVl ch] gSfiVkbZfVl lh] fVVusl vkSj ,pvkbZoh tSlh chekfj;ka gksus dk [krjk gks ldrk gSA

djok,a] ftlds fy, vkidks iNrkuk iM+sA Nkrh] tka?k ij ih;flaZx ugha djokuh pkfg, D;ksafd ;gka QSV lSYl gksrs gS vkSj laØfer LFkku ij QksM+s gks ldrs gSa

rjg ls dhVk.kquk'kd lkcqu ls lkQ fd;s gq, gksaA

August 2016 | samarth | 45

hobby

Grow your Garden of Colourful Petunias Pink, Purple, Red, White and Yellow…if you love colours, Petunias in their many hues are the right choice to brighten your space.

By Binita Singh

G

rowing petunias

From purple hues to reds,

ies of this flowering plant

is like nurturing

the colour range of Petunias

and before you jaunt off to

your child. Right

extends all the way to white.

the neighbourhood nursery,

from the seed-

There are hybrid varieties in

it would be a good idea to

ling stage, petunias require

pink, lavender, eggplant or

arm yourself with some basic

special care as the seeds of

maroon. Petunias also don’t

knowledge about Petunias.

this ornamental flowering

grow sparsely or in ones and

plant are tiny. But once they

twos. They sprawl or trail

Grandiflora is the most

bloom, your garden turns

across the garden making a

popular for the large flow-

into a riot of colours.

grand colour statement.

ers it produces.

Petunias also like hot and

Multiflora, as the name sug-

Know Your Petunias

fairly dry climate. What’s

gests produces many blos-

Petunias are often grown

amazing is the ability of newer

soms and though smaller in

as annuals and are tender

varieties at “self-cleaning” –

size makes up for its lack of

perennials that can be grown

the old blooms just drop off.

height with sheer numbers.

throughout the season.

46 | samarth | August 2016

There are several variet-

M illiflora is the smaller

hobby

variety with small, com-

head to come up with the

som and cover your garden

pact flowers.

right answer. Here we discuss

in rainbow hues.

If you are looking for an

both the methods. You can

ornamental plant that

choose the one that suits your

seeds you bought, please

sprawls across your garden,

skills and time availability.

bear in mind, they are not

Groundcover is the perfect

As said earlier, the seeds of

Before sowing the Petunia

to be buried under the soil.

choice. A fast spreading

Petunias are extremely tiny.

These tiny seeds are surface

flowering plant, it lives up to

Smaller than even mustard

sown that is sprinkled on the

its name and covers the

seeds! Add to that they are

top of the soil.

ground fast where it is

expensive. When you buy a

planted. Ideal for creating

packet of seeds, you need to

you can use just coco peat

flower beds or rows.

be careful not to spill and to

or compost mixed with coco

make every seed count.

peat - your choice entirely.

Seeding or Transplanting?

Being the size that the

Prepare the potting mix â&#x20AC;&#x201C;

Know you are handling

A million dollar question, but

seeds are, it is a wonder to

pretty sensitive seedlings

you need not scratch your

see the pretty flowers blos-

and a mix of 80:20 coco peat August 2016 | samarth | 47

hobby seeds 5 to 7 days to germinate. But donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get disheartened if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t see this happening. Some varieties may take longer.

To grow Petunias or in fact anything, you need patience.

Have you noticed the patience on a farmerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s face?

How they water, tend and wait for the seeds to germinate. Lovingly nurturing the babies for they know plants will take their own time. You cannot force them to germinate at will. Tender coaxing and caring is what they need.

Also be sure not to fall in the trap of buying discounted Petunia seeds. Do check the date and never buy expired seeds. Always use fresh seeds, else no matter what effort you are putting in, your Petunias will never blossom.

You need to watch over your petunia seeds diligently. and compost is just perfect.

Water the container or the

rent of water. Sprinkle gently.

Any sign of growth that is

Petunia seeds devour light

the moment you see a seed

pot you want to plant them in

to germinate and since they

sprouting, remove the poly-

thoroughly. But let the water

are tiny, they a have a small

thene. This is to prevent dry-

drain. Now sprinkle seeds on

storage of food for germina-

ing out of the sprouts.

the well drained soil. You can

tion. Next, cover the seeds

even mix the tiny seeds with

with a transparent polythene

Transplant to Propagate

a little sand to make sprin-

sheet, which will protect

Petunias can also be propa-

kling even and easier. Now

them while allowing light to

gated through transplanting.

very gently push the seeds a

pass through and keep the

You can buy seedlings from

little down taking care not to

humidity high helping the

the local nursery and trans-

cover them with soil. Do not

seeds germinate faster.

plant them in your garden.

pour water on the seeds as they may dislodge in the tor48 | samarth | August 2016

Wait for a week and lo and behold! It takes petunia

Transplanting seedlings is certainly the easier option.

hobby However, if you want the pleasure of growing Petunias from your own seedlings, then you will need to transplant the seedlings when they are about a month old.

To transplant, buy softwood cuttings that are green stems that are not mature yet. Now, if the seedling has several leaves, do remove

sunlight. The plants are heat

odically. This is called dead-

them leaving just 2 leaves on

tolerant, hence you may allow

heading, that is, removing

the top. Also remove all the

them to dry out between

flowers that are spent and

buds, as they will exhaust

watering sessions. In fact,

tired. The process helps pro-

the energy of the seedlings

you don’t need to water them

motes flowering of fresh ones

and may slowly kill them.

regularly and can fix watering

and prolongs blooming.

The seedlings or cuttings

schedule for once a week. If

must be pushed down in soil

you see the leaves drooping,

seeds from next cycle, do NOT

or potting mix gently. A good

don’t worry, just water the

deadhead.

potting mix is composed of

plant. Your Petunias will be

soil base mix, with equal parts

standing straight again.

of red soil, compost and sand.

Do take care not to drench

However, if you want to save

Petunias that spread and cover the ground and those that you have planted in

Now cover the container with

them deep as overwatering

containers will require more

the transplants with a plastic

leads to root rot and invites

frequent watering. Fertilising

bag. This is to save the mois-

bacterial and fungus infection.

your Petunias once a month

ture for the plants. If the soil

Adding a handful of com-

is dry, moist it, but do ensure

post to the pot when the plant

that the pot is well drained.

starts flowering, is helpful. You

To stress once again, Petunias need a load of sunlight to

health and growth.

will also need to remove the

So now you have a garden

flowers that start fading peri-

lush with Petunias. Enjoy!

grow. Ensure your transplants get at least four hours of sun-

will promote their good

The Carpet Series covIf you have a hobby

ers your flower bed, with

light. Better still, if you grow

that you are passionate

its wide variety of colours;

them in full sun. The sunnier

about, or want to learn

Sugar Daddy (Petu-

the spot, the more light to

something new, join the

nia Daddy Series), has blos-

grow and more the flowers.

Samarth community

somed into purple flowers

and share your passion

with dark veins and Rose

and interests with other

Star (Petunia Ultra Series)

Keep soil moist. Your Petunias

members.

has flowered into striped

need well drained soil in addi-

www.samarth.community

rose-pink flowers with a

Caring for your Petunias

tion to the steady stream of

white centre.

August 2016 | samarth | 49

Money matters

Money matters

Independence till Your Last Breath Reverse mortgage promises senior citizens an assured income and a home to stay till their last days.

By Binita Singh

L

ongevity comes

our thinking. Today, we are

growing expenses, again it

with its own issues.

strong individuals who like

calls for some calibration.

While improved life

privacy and space. So are

expectancy means

our children. Living together

we will be living longer with

till death do us part, may

Reverse Mortgage to the Rescue

better medical care and

not be the ideal scenario for

In 2007, the Government of

nutrition, it also brings in its

many of us. Taking monetary

India, introduced reverse

wake mounting medical and

help from your children to

mortgage, the answer to

other expenses. Times have

an extent perhaps is fine,

many of the financial issues

also brought in changes in

but since they too have their

faced by senior citizens. If

50 | samarth | August 2016

Money matters Retired from private organ-

estimating the property

isation with no pension? Look

value and subsequent pay-

into reverse mortgage for

ments to the borrower. The

solutions. These and many

payment is not one time, but

other scenarios where post

in the form of periodic pay-

retirement you are left with

outs known as reverse EMI.

a house and a load of prob-

This EMI is paid to the bor-

lems, reverse mortgage can

rower over fixed loan tenure.

come to your rescue.

Payments can be monthly or quarterly, and with each

Decoding Reverse Mortgage

EMI paid to the borrower,

Simply put, when you

is the equity in the house,

approach a bank for a loan,

decreases.

you get a certain sum of

the borrowerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interest that

In such an arrangement, the

money and pay interest on

borrower pledges his prop-

it. The opposite of a con-

erty, but can reside in that

ventional home loan, when

property till the end of his life,

a senior citizen opts for

while also receiving a periodic

a reverse mortgage, the

payment on the property.

lender, that is a bank or a

This makes a reverse mort-

financial institution, pays a

gage ideal for senior citizens.

regular income against the

You receive a regular income

mortgage of his home.

as long as you are alive and

When the borrower pledges his home, the bank calculates

also can stay in your own home for life without tension.

the monetary value of the tors into consideration. These

Are You Eligible for Reverse Mortgage?

include current property

Yes you are, if you are

prices, demand for it, and the

above the age of 60. If your

you own a house you have

general physical condition of

spouse is a co-applicant,

invested your lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s savings

the property.

then she must be more than

property taking various fac-

in and have a small pension

Once the property has

58 years old. Additionally,

to survive on with no other

been assessed and its value

the property you intend to

sources of income, reverse

arrived at, the lending bank

reverse mortgage must be

mortgage can be of help.

will disburse a loan amount

self acquired and occupied

Children are settled abroad

to the property owner. The

by you. It can be a flat or a

or have their own properties?

bank also takes into account

private house and must be

Reverse mortgage can be

a margin for interest costs

located in India. The house

a steady source of income.

and price fluctuations, while

should have minimum of 20 August 2016 | samarth | 51

Money matters years of life left for it to be eligible and should be free from any encumbrances. The house should also be your permanent and primary residence for as long as you live.

What You Must Know about Reverse Mortgage The following guidelines

Since the amount that a borrower receives through reverse mortgage is treated as a loan and not income, it does not attract any tax. The interest rates can be either fixed or floating...

Since the amount that the

The bank then first offers the

have been formulated by

borrower receives through

property to the next of kin

the Reserve Bank of India to

reverse mortgage is treated

to settle the loan along with

help applicants understand

as a loan and not income, it

accumulated interest. In case

reverse mortgage plan.

does not attract any tax.

there is no next of kin or the

The interest rates can either

kin is unable or uninterested

Maximum loan amount that

be fixed or floating and deter-

in settling the loan and inter-

can be availed is 60 per

mined by the rate prevailing

est, the lender recovers the

cent of the value of prop-

in the market.

amount from the sale proceeds of the property.

erty the applicant wants to A borrower can mortgage

How is Reverse Mortgage Settled?

recovered from the sale of

property for a minimum of

Once the last surviving bor-

property exceeds the loan

10 and a maximum of 15

rower passes away, the loan

amount with interests and

years; with some banks

becomes due. It also is con-

other expenses, the bank

offering even up to 20

sidered due, if the borrower

passes on the benefits to the

years.

chooses to sell the property.

next of kin/legal heirs. How-

mortgage

Interestingly, if the amount

Individuals can avail the

ever, if the amount falls short,

payment as per their

the bank bears the loss.

requirements in monthly,

To make it easy for borrow-

quarterly, annual or one

ers, reverse mortgage allows

time payment.

borrowers to prepay the loan

The lender will reevaluate

at any time and that too with-

property once every five

out penalty or charges.

years and if the value of the

More than this, senior citi-

property is found to have

zens who outlive the tenure

increased, the borrower can

of the loan have the assur-

increase the quantum of

ance that they can continue

loan. The lender bank will

to live in their homes. In the

pay the incremental

eventuality that one of the

amount in lump sum.

spouses dies, the other can

52 | samarth | August 2016

Money matters

still continue to live in their

Bankruptcy of the borrower

ing of it, senior citizens must

home. However, the monthly

is another reason leading to

also take into account a few

payments may be stopped

foreclosure.

of its drawbacks.

and the settlement of loan

Making changes in the

The process of applying for

can only be done after death

property, renting out par-

reverse mortgage is com-

of both the spouses.

tially or entire property or

plicated, lengthy and tortu-

The borrower needs to

change in ownership title,

ous and for the elderly this

heed the following to avoid

etc., which may affect the

can lead to difficulties.

foreclosure of loan:

security of the lender can

Since the payments are

lead to foreclosure too.

fixed, if in a month you

Stay in your home. If the

Finally, in cases where the

have some extra require-

borrower does not reside in

government wants to

ments, the bank does not

the house for one year at a

acquire the property under

make any provision for it.

stretch, abandon or donate

statutory provisions for

However, in the long run,

it, the loan may be fore-

health or safety reasons can

reverse mortgage can be the

closed by the lender.

lead the lender to

safest option for senior citi-

Failure to pay property

foreclosure.

zens in India, promising inde-

taxes and insure home can

While, reverse mortgage

pendence and regular income

also lead to foreclosure.

has its benefits, while think-

well after retirement.

August 2016 | samarth | 53

Mind

Benders Puzzle

Puzzle

1

Matchstick Puzzles

You are given a 10x10x10 cube composed of one thousand 1x1x1 mini-cubes glued together.

Source: puzzles-to-print.com

If you removed the outermost layer, how many mini-cubes would you have removed?

1. Leave just three squares by removing three matchsticks

4. Leave just two squares by removing two matchsticks

2. Leave just three squares by removing five matchsticks

5. Leave just six squares by removing eight matchsticks

3. Leave just two squares by removing eight matchsticks

6. Leave just three squares by removing six matchsticks

Puzzle

Source: brainbashers.com

4

Can you figure out what the top number in the pyramid is? Add each pair of blocks together to find out the number that appears in the block just above them

2

Can you find a five letter word that can suffix (go after) each of these letters: re deva rein over inter under

54 | samarth | August 2016

Source: puzzles-to-print.com

Puzzle

3

Mind Benders

Sudoku Puzzle

igsfy;k¡ 1 yksgk [khapw ,slh rkdr gS] ij jcM+ eq>s gjkrk gS] [kksbZ lwbZ eSa ik ysrk gw¡] esjk [ksy fujkyk gSA 2 rqe u cqykvks eSa vk tkÅ¡xh] u HkkM+k u fdjk;k nw¡xh] ?kj ds gj dejs esa jgw¡xh] idM+ u eq>dks rqe ikvksxs] esjs fcu rqe u jg ikvksxs] crkvks eSa dkSu gw¡\

Source: 7Sudoku

Riddle 1

2

What is as light as a feather, but even the world’s strongest man couldn’t hold it for more than a minute?

Two girls were born to the same mother, on the same day, at the same time, in the same month and year and yet they’re not twins.

How can this be?

Source: Brainden.com

Source: Webduniya.com

dchj ds nksgs frudk dcgq¡ uk fufUn;s] tks ik¡ou rj gks;A dcgq¡ mM+h vk¡f[ku iM+s] rks ihj ?kusjh gks;AA

Source: achhikhabar.com

August 2016 | samarth | 55

gourmet & Cellar

Y

earn to savour

fish curries in tomato or spicy

authentic Ben-

chittagong chicken or mutton

gali dishes

kosha or baked naan, among

in Delhi? Oh!

others. The most popular

Calcutta at

dish here is Kosha Mangsho.

Nehru Place in South Delhi is

The food, the service and

a perfect place to dine. The

the atmosphere here makes

restaurant situated close to

you feel at home. The dĂŠcor

Chitaranjan Park, a Bengali dominated colony, caters to delicious Bengali foodâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;be it 56 | samarth | August 2016

Chittagong chicken or mutton kosha, your choice, though we recommend Kosha Mangoshaâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; original and awesome.

takes you to an old Calcutta club. The restaurant provides several dishes made

gourmet & Cellar

Flavours of Bengal in the Heart of Delhi Oh! Calcutta is a perfect place to dine on Bengali cuisine amid an ambience that recreates the City of Joy, spice, smell and all!

By Sanjay K Ojha

End the meal with Safedar Payesh or Daber Payesh (made of tender coconut) and the Bhape Sandesh. The If you are a fish lover, this restaurant packs quite an authentic punch with a variety of fish dishes, drenched in mustard sauce or tomato curry, very native!

restaurant provides a buffet lunch, where one can get to taste a bunch of their delicacies without expanding too Mochar Chop and Mochar Gonto with surprising ingredients overtakes your senses.

much money. â&#x20AC;&#x192;The vegetarians can go for delicious jackfruit vegetable, and also try the tomato gravy

of fish. These cuisines could

is a surprise to the north

base with mashed green

be fried, cooked in roasted,

Indian palate, a cutlet made

peas. There are many more

a spicy tomato or ginger

from minced banana flower

eatables here to satiate your

based gravy ( jhol) or mus-

that is deep fried, without

taste buds. Rest assured,

tard based with green chillies

even a single drop of excess

you will leave the place with

(shorshe batar jhaal), with

oil on it. For the health con-

a pleasant smile and a full

posto, with seasonal vegeta-

scious, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a whole vari-

tummy. It is an eatery you fall

bles, steamed, etc. So, order

ety of steamed dishes, like

in love with every time you

for fish dishes, if you wish to

Begun Bhaja, Bhaja Moonger

visit. However, avoid visiting

fulfill your cravings for Ben-

Dal, Aloor Dum and Luchi,

the place on weekends as it

gali food. The Mochar Chop

Mochar Ghonto, etc.

is quite crowded.

August 2016 | samarth | 57

dfork

dfork

ns[krs gh ns[krs toku ekยก&cki cw<+s gks tkrs gSa ns[krs gh ns[krs toku ekยก&cki cw<+s gks tkrs gSa--

lkjs ekSgYys dks irk gS--- ij gels Nqikrs gSa fnu รงfrfnu viuh [kqjkd ?kVkrs gSa vkSj rch;r Bhd gksus dh ckr Qksu is crkrs gSa <hyh gks x, diM+ksa dks VkbV djokrs gS]a ns[krs gh ns[krs toku ekยก&cki cw<+s gks tkrs gSa-fdlh ds nsgkar dh [kcj lqu dj ?kcjkrs gS]a

58 | samarth | August 2016

Source: http://hindi.speakingtree.in/

lqcg dh lSj esa dHkh pDdj [kk tkrs gSa --

dfork

vkSj vius ijgstksa dh la[;k c<+krs gS]a gekjs eksVkis is fgnk;rksa ds <sj yxkrs gS]a Þjkst dh oftZ'kß ds Qk;ns fxukrs gS-a ßranq#Lrh gtkj fu;kerß gj nQs crkrs gS]a ns[krs gh ns[krs toku ek¡&cki cw<+s gks tkrs gSa-gj lky cM+s 'kkSd ls vius cSad tkrs gS]a vius ftUnk gksus dk lcwr nsdj g'kkZrs gS]a tjk lh c<+ h isa'ku ij Qwys ugha lekrs gS]a vkSj FIXED DEPOSIT fjuw djrs tkrs gS]a [kqn ds fy, ugha gekjs fy, gh cpkrs gS-a ns[krs gh ns[krs toku ek¡&cki cw<+s gks tkrs gSa-phtsa j[k ds vc vDlj Hkwy tkrs gS]a fQj mUgsa <w¡<us esa lkjk ?kj lj is mBkrs gS]a vkSj ,d nwljs dks ckr ckr esa gM+dkrs gS]a ij ,d nwts ls vyx Hkh ugha jg ikrs gS-a ,d gh fdLls dks ckj ckj nksgjkrs gS]a ns[krs gh ns[krs toku ek¡&cki cw<+s gks tkrs gSa-p'esa ls Hkh vc Bhd ls ugha ns[k ikrs gS]a chekjh esa nok ysus esa u[kjs fn[kkrs gS]a ,yksiSFkh ds cgqr lkjs lkbM bQsDV crkrs gS]a vkSj gksfe;ksiSFkh vk;qosZfnd dh gh jV yxkrs gS]a t:jh vkWijs'ku dks Hkh vkSj vkxs Vyokrs gS-a ns[krs gh ns[krs toku ek¡&cki cw<+s gks tkrs gSa--

August 2016 | samarth | 59

dfork

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60 | samarth | August 2016

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cqtqxZ gw¡] cscl ugha yM+[kM+krk gw¡] detksj ugh lat; dqekj vks>k

cqtqxZ gw¡] cscl ugha yM+[kM+krk gw¡] detksj ughaAA eSaus lfn;ka ns[kh] la?k"kZ fd;s esjs vkjtw Hkh VwVs] ij eukscy ugha Bksdj Hkh feys] ij VwVs vk'kk ugha ehyksa ehy dh jkg lQj fd;s Fkds] ij :ds ugha vHkh rks dbZ iM+ko ckdh gSa esjs dbZ lius v/kwjs gSa cqtqxZ gw¡] cscl ugha yM+[kM+krk gw¡] detksj ughaAA eSaus cPpksa dks cyoku fd;k i<+k;k fy[kk;k] balku fd;k ml balku ls eSa dgrk gw¡ eq>es vc Hkh ne dkQh gS esjs dbZ dke ckdh gSa gka cl ,d eksgyr ns nks eq>s viuk lgkjk ns nks eSa leFkZ gw¡] lkFkZd gw¡ cqtqxZ gw¡] cscl ugha yM+[kM+krk gw¡] detksj ughaAA August 2016 | samarth | 61

EVENTS@SAMARTH

Samarth Milan: Where Minds Meet & Hearts Seniors had a fun-filled time at the June edition of Samarth Milan which aptly had the theme ‘Enjoying Life’.

By Sangita Thakur Varma

T

he Samarth

and make some new friends

lead musician of band and

Milan in month

and enjoy a combination of

a friend of samarth led the

of June provided

food, music, inspiration and

introductions and also capped

an opportunity

advice. The theme of the

the evening with a song from

for members of

event was ‘Enjoying life’ and

yesteryears.

the Samarth community in

the afternoon lived upto the

Dr. Rajesh Verma, Director

Gurgaon and Delhi to meet old

expectation. Vishal Malik, the

of Spine surgery and

Mrs. Pushpa Indernath shares her experience of helping other elders around her as Mr. and Mrs. Agarwal look on.

62 | samarth | August 2016

Audience absorb useful advice from Dr. Rajesh Verma.

EVENTS

Mr. Kamboj, the senior most senior cuts the cake helped by Dr. Chhabra.

Asheesh talkes about upcoming plans.

Orthopaedics at Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon explained how simple steps could lead to better health to enjoy life in older years. He graciously spent time meeting and answering individual queries and interacted with members members after his talk, giving advice and answering queries.

Recognizing that age

Vishal plays and members sing along.

Samarth organises regular entertaining and informative events for elder members, and also arranges logistics support for those who require it.

should not diminish the joy of looking good, Priyanka from Zimmber.com gave away free at-home facial and pedicure treatment vouchers to all Samarth ladies present at the event. The member couples also got their photographs clicked and took away a specially designed ‘magical’ gift from Samarth as a memory of the event.

August 2016 | samarth | 63

Mind Benders

Answers & solutions

Puzzle

Puzzle

4

1

Answer: 488.

You started with 10x10x10 = 1000 cubes.

Removing the outermost layer would leave a 8x8x8 large cube = 512 cubes.

Therefore you would have removed 488 cubes (1000 - 512 = 488).

Puzzle

Sudoku Puzzle

To give: restate devastate reinstate overstate interstate understate.

2

Answer: State.

Puzzle

3

Matchstick Puzzles 1. Leave just three squares by removing three matchsticks

4. Leave just two squares by removing two matchsticks

Riddle 5. Leave just six squares by 2. Leave just three squares by removing five removing eight matchsticks matchsticks

1. Breath 2. The two babies are two of a set of triplets.

igsfy;k¡ 3. Leave just two squares by removing eight matchsticks

1.

6. Leave just three squares by removing six matchsticks

pqacd

2.

gok

dchj ds nksgs vFkZ% dchj dgrs gSa fd ,d NksVs ls fruds dh Hkh dHkh fuank u djks tks rqEgkjs ikaoksa ds uhps nc tkrk gSA ;fn dHkh og frudk mM+dj vk¡[k esa vk fxjs rks fdruh xgjh ihM+k gksrh gSA

64 | samarth | August 2016

There is a fountain of youth: It is your mind, your talents, the creativity you bring to your life and the lives of people you love. When you learn to tap this source, you will truly have defeated age. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Sophia Loren

TM

www.samarthlife.org

Extend your family.

Enjoy your age!

THE SAMARTH CARE WORKS FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY

Our mission is to help the elders enjoy a high-quality, independent urban lifestyle without having to move out of their community.

Join Samarth and say NO to

Samarth care offers a holistic proposition to our members with services* focusing on key areas of concern for senior citizens and their children

Trusted services at home and outside

Emergency response

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»

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