Bhubaneswar/ Bargarh: On the sacred occasion of Maha Shivaratri, when devotees across India immersed themselves in fasting, night-long Jagara celebrations and prayers to Lord Shiva, a doctor couple from Bargarh transformed the spirit of devotion into a living tribute to humanity. Dr. Ramakrishna Purohit and his wife Mamata Purohit chose to celebrate the festival not merely through temple rituals but by honouring ten centenarians of the district, turning faith into a heartfelt salute to longevity and wisdom.
Under the banner of the Bargarh Health Education Foundation, the couple organised the Shatayu Samman ceremony with the awareness theme “Ame Shatayu- Try to Live Hundred Years.” Seven women and three men, all aged between 100 and 109 years, were felicitated for leading long, healthy and disciplined lives. The ceremony unfolded in a spiritually uplifting atmosphere with the chanting of the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra and the resonant blowing of conch shells. Each centenarian was honoured with floral garlands, sandalwood tilak, ceremonial turbans, gifts, citations and coconuts. In a deeply emotional moment, organisers and guests bowed to touch the feet of the elderly and sought their blessings, creating a scene that moved everyone present.
The event was graced by Bargarh Member of Parliament Pradeep Purohit as the chief guest. Addressing the gathering, he said, “This initiative beautifully blends our cultural traditions with social responsibility. It is a message that devotion should extend beyond rituals and reflect in how we honour and respect life.” He further announced, “During the upcoming Lok Sabha session, I will raise a special demand urging the Government of India to consider celebrating a Shatayu Samman Mahotsav at the national level.” He personally greeted each centenarian and received their blessings.
The honoured elders, radiant with dignity and simplicity, shared insights into their way of life. They attributed their longevity to disciplined routines, natural food habits and a stress-free mindset. Many of them stated that they had rarely faced serious health issues in their lifetime. Avoiding chemically processed food, consuming simple home-cooked meals, seasonal fruits and staying physically active were practices they credited for their well-being. They advised the younger generation to remain close to nature, uphold moral values and respect elders as essential steps toward a meaningful and healthy life.
Dr. Ramakrishna Purohit, President of the Bargarh Health Education Foundation, elaborated on the objective behind the initiative. He said, “Festivals should not remain limited to ritual celebrations. They must become platforms for spreading awareness about health, social responsibility and intergenerational respect.” Highlighting an important observation, he added, “Nearly 80 percent of centenarians are found in rural areas. In urban centres, it would not be an exaggeration to say that such age groups are rarely seen. Rural lifestyles are simple, food habits are natural and daily routines are physically active.” Referring to the statements of the centenarians present, he remarked, “Most of them have never faced serious health problems and therefore rarely required medical treatment. It would not be an exaggeration to say that they seem blessed with what we may call a ‘slow ageing gene.’”
He further pointed out, “After the state government increased the old-age pension to Rs 3,500, many elderly people are no longer financially dependent on their children. This financial independence has given them mental satisfaction and emotional stability. Such factors strongly support their overall health and well-being.”
Professor Dr. Pradeep Kumar Nayak of Veer Surendra Sai University, Burla, attended as the keynote speaker and spoke about the scientific and social dimensions of longevity. He emphasized preventive healthcare, balanced nutrition and positive thinking as pillars of long life. Bargarh Sub-Collector Prasanna Kumar Pandey was present as an honoured guest. The programme was smoothly conducted by senior journalist Ranjan Kumar Debata, while the welcome address and vote of thanks were delivered by Mamata Purohit, Managing Director of Purohit General Hospital.
This marked the second consecutive year that individuals above 100 years of age in Bargarh district were felicitated during the Maha Shivaratri and Jagara Yatra celebrations. The initiative has set a remarkable benchmark in community observance, replacing mere ritualism with meaningful social engagement. By honouring centenarians as living embodiments of resilience, discipline and wisdom, the doctor couple has delivered a powerful global message that true devotion lies in respecting life, valuing health and celebrating those who exemplify endurance and grace.
Through this humane and visionary effort, Dr. Ramakrishna Purohit and Mamata Purohit have inspired society to aspire not merely for a long life, but for a life lived with balance, dignity and compassion.
