ESAF Foundation Communications
20 June 2025
STORY
At 75, She Organises Gatherings, Learns Drumming and Refuses to Be Left Behind
ESAF Foundation Communications
20 June 2025
Radha, a retired health worker from Thrissur, brings elders together each month for laughter, learning and community. Despite her own health challenges, she stays active, learns traditional drumming, and inspires ESAF Santhwana staff with her energy and quiet leadership.
In a small ward in Nadathara Panchayat, Thrissur, the community hall often echoes with laughter, conversation and the steady beat of a traditional Kerala drum. Behind these gatherings is Radha, 75 years old, retired, and still deeply engaged in community life.
Radha lives in Poochetty with her sister’s family. She never married, having spent most of her life caring for others. Her career began early with the Kerala State Health Services, and her earnings supported her parents and two younger sisters. Although she retired from government service two decades ago, her sense of purpose remains strong.
She admits to feeling lonely at times. Living with limited resources and dealing with health issues, she has every reason to retreat. But Radha chooses otherwise. She focuses on staying active, connected and useful to those around her.
She first joined the sessions for elderly residents conducted by ESAF Foundation’s Santhwana initiative in partnership with the Nadathara Panchayath. She attended regularly, took interest in the topics, and soon began helping to organise future sessions. Her leadership extended to her own ward, where she brought together older residents and even helped arrange a special session for parents at a nearby Anganwadi.
Each month, she ensures that the elderly in her neighbourhood gather at the local community hall. They spend time in conversation, play games, and sometimes plan outings. Radha often invites the ESAF Santhwana staff to join them, believing that their presence makes the sessions more engaging. When she needs support, she is not hesitant to call them either.
Recently, she started learning “Kottu,” a traditional Kerala drum performance. She attends classes with participants of all ages. Despite the physical strain, she enjoys the rhythm and finds joy in picking up a new skill. For her, the learning is not about age but about spirit.
Though she lives with health challenges, Radha continues to visit neighbours and take the initiative in community activities. Her ability to keep others motivated, even when she is going through a difficult time herself, stands out. The Santhwana team often speak of her as a quiet inspiration.
Radha studied up to the tenth standard, but her learning never stopped. She continues to grow in experience, wisdom and enthusiasm. Her outlook and energy have become a source of strength not just for her peers, but also for the younger staff who work with her.
At 75, Radha has not slowed down. She continues to shape community spaces, foster connections, and lead with quiet persistence. Her story is one of resilience, generosity and the power of staying involved, no matter the stage of life.
