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The United Nations has designated October 1 as The International Day of Older Persons (IDOP).
The UN theme for 2017 is about enabling and expanding the contributions of older people in their families, communities and societies at large. It focuses on the pathways that support full and effective participation in old age, in accordance with old persons’ basic rights, needs and preferences
Shanti Niwas celebrated IDOP on October 7, 2017 at its centre at Onehunga in Central Auckland, showcasing talent of seniors.
Among the highlights were multicultural performances and entertainment choreographed and executed by the seniors and stalls which provided information on health and wellbeing, face painting, Henna, Photo Booth and other items.
Senior Indian Idol
The main attraction of the event was the First New Zealand Senior Indian Idol.
70 seniors were auditioned, from which 16 finalists were selected to compete for the first-ever New Zealand Senior Indian Idol.
Dhansukhlal Jamnadas was the first New Zealand Seniors Indian Idol, and received one-night accommodation (by two Sudima Hotels & Resorts), Meena Phondge (First Runner-Up), Jashu Bhai Patel, Second Runner up and Kaushik Chandra Soni, Third Runner up. The winners received trophies, food vouchers from Little India and Shivani Restaurant and cash prizes from the family of Rukmani Ramakrishnan and Joginder Luthera.
Inspiring confidence
Shanti Niwas Charitable Trust General Manager said, “The idea behind the senior Idol, apart from the entertainment value was to increase the confidence of the seniors and create the deserved respect in their families and community. I think we were successful in achieving our aim to empower the seniors by showcasing their talents and skills”
The event was attended by Members of Parliament Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi, Dr Parmjeet Parmar (National), Michael Wood, Priyanca Radhakrishnan (Labour), Race Relations Strategic Advisor Rakesh Naidoo, Maungakiekie-Tamaki Chair Josephine Bartley, Onehunga Community Police Constable Don Allan and other community leaders.
For more information please call (09) 6221010.
www.shantiniwas.org.nz
Photo Caption:
- Sandhya Badakere honours Dhansukhlal Jamnadas
- Winners of the Senior Indian Idol Contest
