Day: May 13, 2024

Are you looking for a way to give back to your community and make a difference in the world? Consider the concept of Dasvandh in Sikhism. Dasvandh, which means “tenth part,” is the practice of giving 10% of your income to support the community and those in need. But it’s not just about money. This tradition goes beyond monetary aid; it’s about investing time and energy into making someone else’s life better. Whether it’s volunteering at a local shelter or offering skills and knowledge to empower others, Dasvandh fosters a deep sense of community and belonging.

The principle of Dasvandh is based on the Sikh concept of Vand Chhako, which means to share what you have with others. It is a way of recognizing that everything we have comes from the Divine, and giving back is a way of showing gratitude and building trust in the Infinite. By giving to the Infinite, we trust that the Infinite will give back to us in abundance.

Dasvandh is not just a religious obligation, but a way of life for Sikhs. It is a way of practicing personal piety and communal service. The practice has been around since the time of Guru Nanak Dev, and many Sikhs continue to carry it out today.

But what makes Dasvandh so important? By giving back to the community, we can make a real difference in the lives of others. Dasvandh supports the Sikh Langar, a community kitchen that provides free meals to anyone in need, regardless of their background or beliefs. It also supports other community initiatives, such as education, healthcare, and disaster relief efforts.

The human side of Dasvandh is what makes it so powerful. It’s not just about giving money, but about connecting with others and building relationships. By volunteering your time and efforts, you can make a real impact in the lives of those around you. And by giving back to the community, you can create a sense of belonging and purpose that is truly fulfilling.

How You Can Make a Difference

You’re invited to join this journey of kindness and compassion. Here’s how you can contribute:

• Donate Online: Your financial contributions can make a significant impact.
• Volunteer: Dedicate your time and skills to uplift others.
• Spread the Word: Share the message of Dasvandh to inspire more people.
• Sponsor a Family: Extend your support to a family in need.

In the spirit of Diwali, the festival of lights, our visit to Mata Gujri Sukh Niwas Old Age Home in Khanpur Kharar on this auspicious day of Dhanteras, 10th November 2023, was a profound experience of sharing joy and warmth. The celebration was not just about lights and decorations, but about illuminating the lives of those who often remain in the shadows of society – the elderly.

A Diwali to Remember

As we entered the vibrantly decorated premises, adorned with flowers and intricate Rangoli, a sense of warmth enveloped us. News 18 was present, capturing this special event, highlighting the importance of caring for our elders. The celebration was modest yet deeply meaningful, involving our wheelchair patients who came to share heartwarming moments with the senior citizens.

Spreading Warmth and Joy

Our team distributed warm clothes, Diwali sweets, and snacks accompanied by tea, bringing smiles to many faces. It was an emotional moment, engaging in heartfelt conversations, exchanging stories, and sharing happy moments. Each senior citizen we met had a unique story, a life rich with experiences, yet tinged with the sadness of being left by their families.

New Bonds of Family

What stood out was the resilience and hope that shone in their eyes. Despite the heartbreak of abandonment, they had found a new family within the walls of Mata Gujri Sukh Niwas. The staff and fellow residents had formed bonds of care and affection, proving that family isn’t just about blood relations, but about who stands by you in your hour of need.

Learning from Our Elders

The day was not just about giving but also about receiving – receiving blessings, wisdom, and insights from lives well-lived. Their stories were a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the capacity for love and forgiveness.

Reflecting on Society’s Role

The visit was a stark reminder of the societal neglect often faced by the elderly. It’s heartbreaking to witness such abandonment, raising questions about our duties towards our aging parents. However, the light of hope and the spirit of togetherness shone brightly, reminding us that compassion and empathy can make a significant difference.

As we left Mata Gujri Sukh Niwas, we carried with us not just memories but a renewed sense of responsibility towards the elderly in our society. The SHSG Team’s appreciation for the Old Age Home was profound, and the experience was a reminder that together, we can indeed make society a better place. As Helen Keller aptly said, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” This Diwali, let’s pledge to spread more light and love, especially to those who need it the most.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the significance of visiting old age homes during festivals?

A: Visiting old age homes during festivals like Diwali is significant because it brings joy and a sense of belonging to the elderly, who often feel isolated and neglected. It’s a way to share the festive spirit with those who may not have family around.

Q: How can individuals contribute to old age homes?

A: Individuals can contribute by volunteering their time, donating necessities like clothes and food, or simply by spending time and engaging with the residents, providing them with companionship and emotional support.

Q: What are the common challenges faced by the elderly in old age homes?

A: Common challenges include feelings of loneliness, health issues, and sometimes a sense of abandonment. Regular interaction and proper healthcare facilities are essential to address these issues.

Q: How can society help in improving the lives of the elderly?

A: Society can help by raising awareness about the importance of caring for the elderly, supporting old age homes through funding and resources, and encouraging family members to maintain strong bonds with their aging relatives.

Q: Can visits to old age homes be educational for younger generations?

A: Absolutely. Visits to old age homes can teach younger generations about empathy, respect for the elderly, and the importance of family and community support in every stage of life.

As the festival of Diwali heralds the triumph of light over darkness, Infosys recently extended this ethos beyond the realms of symbolism by hosting an inclusive Diwali event. It wasn’t just any event; this was a platform where the brightest sparks were the radiant smiles of the wheelchair champs who graced the occasion. These individuals, overcoming their physical challenges with grace and determination, were not mere attendees but stars who lit up the venue with their handcrafted creations.

The Beacon of Inclusivity

Infosys, a name synonymous with innovation, showcased its commitment to social inclusion by inviting these extraordinary talents to partake in their Diwali celebrations, spanning from October 31st to November. An email invitation was the harbinger of this beautiful synergy. And as seamlessly as light blends into the dawn, our champs accepted, ready to merge their spark into the Diwali festivities.

A Stall of Triumphs and Dreams

Upon the grounds of Infosys, a stall stood proudly for two days—a small universe where hope met determination. Here, our champs—our warriors in wheels—presented an array of woolen wonders, all masterfully crafted with crochet hooks that danced in their skilled hands. Bags, key rings, toys, tablecloths, baby dresses, phone covers, and more; each item was a whisper of their creativity and a shout of their undying spirit.

Crafting Joy and Independence

Picture this: a creator, despite being bound to their bed, weaves magic through yarns, colors, and textures. With every knot and loop, they stitch a piece of their heart, interweaving tales of resilience. This is not just about making items to sell; it’s a testament to their unyielding zest for life. Crafting these beautiful items does more than fill their time; it fills their soul with joy, pumps their heart with pride, and wraps their identity in a cloak of worthiness.

The Currency of Confidence

When our champs earn from their crafted art, it’s not merely a financial transaction; it’s an exchange of respect and acknowledgment. This commerce is infused with a newfound confidence, where every sale rings a bell of victory, echoing, “I am capable, I am independent, and I am an achiever.”

A Fusion of Festivity and Fulfilment

This Diwali event was more than a celebration of light; it was a festivity of fulfilment. It exemplified how every individual has a spark that can ignite hope, and when given a chance, they can shine brilliantly. As Helen Keller aptly said, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” Infosys didn’t just celebrate a festival; they celebrated humanity, potential, and the power of inclusiveness.

The resounding success of our champs at Infosys’s Diwali event is a beacon that guides us toward a future where every individual, regardless of their physical abilities, can participate in the joyous celebrations of life and contribute meaningfully to society. It’s not just about helping them to earn a living; it’s about rekindling the flame of self-worth and independence within them. As the echoes of Diwali’s fireworks fade away, the luminance of these champs’ spirits continues to glow, inspiring us all to look beyond disabilities and see the power of possibilities.

In the words of Mahatma Gandhi, “Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will.” At this event, the indomitable will of our champs was the real Diwali light—flickering with hope, burning with ambition, and shining with the light of a brighter, more inclusive tomorrow.