Our Correspondent
Kohima, April 30 (EMN): As many as 159 senior citizens above the age of 80 years from the four khels of Kohima village turned up to celebrate the ‘Friends of 80 plus’ 17th foundation day after a gap of two years on Saturday.
In a span of two years, 54 of them have passed on, informed Vilakuolie Mere, chairperson of the foundation day celebration held at T Khel community hall in Kohima. The village recorded a total death of 54 persons above the age of 80 years — 15 from Dapfhütsumia (D) khel, 10 from Tsütuonuomia (T) khel, 15 from Pfuchatsuma (P) khel and 14 from Lhisemia (L) khel.
Mere also informed that out of 159 elders, 40 are from D khel, 34 from T khel, 21 from P khel, and 64 from L khel. The group was formed in 2002 by like-minded people from Kohima village.
Convener of Friends of 80 plus, Neidonuo Angami, in the editorial of a photo book that was released on Saturday wrote, "Every year, they yearn and eagerly wait for the get-together to celebrate friends of 80 plus day, as it gives them an opportunity to meet each other and feast together".
The enthusiasm and joyful participation of the senior citizens humbles and reminds them of how such a small initiative has created memories and led to a grand celebration of lives, she stated.
Angami Public Organisation (APO) President, Razouvotuo Chatsu graced the occasion as a guest. He lauded the friends of 80 plus for taking the initiative to show respect and honour to the elders.
He said to be encouraged at the sight of the elders above 80 years when life expectancy has been decreasing over the years, especially among the Angami tribe. He further prayed for the longevity of the elders and sought their guidance and blessings upon the community.
President of the Kohima Village Doctors Association (KVDA), Dr. Viketoulie Pienyü, shared tips on how to live a healthy life. The senior psychiatrist shared that elders should not be locked behind four walls and should be allowed to sunbathe, socialise with friends, exercise, brush their teeth regularly, eat more greens and fruits and be stress-free.
A medical camp for the participants was also conducted by doctors of KVDA after the conclusion of the formal celebration.