Visit to Sevalaya Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Old Age Home

Grades Involved: 9 to 12
Date of Visit: 30.08.2025
Venue: Sevalaya Old Age Home
SDG Focus: SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities
Timings: 8.45am -2.30pm

Introduction

On 30.08.2025, our classes from 9 to 12 grade ,42students along with 5 Educatorrs had the opportunity to visit Sevalaya Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Old Age Home, an institution that provides shelter, care, and dignity to elderly individuals who have no family or financial support. The visit was organized to help us understand the importance of empathy, social responsibility, and the value of caring for the aged members of our society. It was not just a trip but a meaningful experience that left us with lessons for life.

About Sevalaya

Sevalaya is a well-known charitable institution inspired by the ideals of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, Swami Vivekananda, and Mahatma Gandhi. It runs multiple service projects including free education, medical care, and homes for the elderly and destitute. The old age home that we visited is part of this noble initiative, and it accommodates elderly residents who are provided with food, clothing, medical facilities, and above all, love and respect.
The primary objective of the visit was to foster empathy, compassion, and a sense of social responsibility among students while creating awareness about the living conditions and emotional needs of senior citizens.

This visit aimed to:

• Understand the challenges faced by the elderly population.
• Promote intergenerational bonding and respect for senior citizens.
• Encourage students to actively participate in community service and support Sustainable Development Goals.

The visit began with a warm welcome by the staff at Sevalaya. Students were briefed about the mission and operations of the old age home. They were then divided into groups to interact with the residents, engage in meaningful conversations, and assist in small activities.

Highlights of the session included:

• Interactive Sessions: Students spoke to residents about their life stories, experiences, and challenges.
• Cultural Program: A few students performed songs, dances, and skits to entertain and engage the elderly and the elderly also performeed singing some songs. Some spoke about the struggles they had faced, while others recalled the joys of their younger days. What stood out most was their desire for companionship and the happiness they felt when people spent time with them.
• Games and Activities: Simple games like Antakshari and memory games were conducted.
• Reflection Circle: After the visit, students participated in a reflection session to discuss their experiences and insights.

By the end of the visit, students were able to:

• Demonstrate empathy and respect toward the elderly.
• Recognize the importance of social inclusion and mental well-being.
• Appreciate the role of community support in ensuring a dignified life for senior citizens.
• Develop communication skills and emotional intelligence through real-world interaction.
• Understand their role in achieving SDGs, especially SDG 3 and SDG 10, through active civic engagement.

The visit to Sevalaya Old Age Home was a deeply enriching experience for the students. It provided them with valuable life lessons beyond the classroom, fostering a sense of community and humanity. What stood out most was their desire for companionship and the happiness they felt when people spent time with them. It made us realize how important it is to show love, patience, and respect towards the elderly. The activity not only brought smiles to the faces of the residents but also instilled in the students a long-lasting sense of responsibility toward society. Initiatives like these are essential to build compassionate future citizens who are committed to sustainable development and inclusive growth. The serene environment of the premises, surrounded by greenery and simplicity, created a peaceful atmosphere.

Lessons Learnt

1. Value of Respect: The elderly deserve dignity and respect, and it is our duty to ensure they do not feel neglected.
2. Importance of Service: Even small gestures of kindness—like a smile, a conversation, or holding someone’s hand—can bring immense happiness.
3. Social Responsibility: Every individual has a responsibility towards society, especially towards vulnerable groups like the aged.
4. Inspiration from Ideals: The vision of Sevalaya, guided by Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa’s spiritual teachings, reminded us of the importance of leading a life based on compassion and service.