Expressing Joy through Creativity at 78

An inspiring story of Harshvadan Shah (Khyaal Community Member)

“My name is Harshvadan Shah and I am 78 years old. Santacruz has been our home for 70 years now. This is where I completed my schooling and then college. My work life began with a few years in private service, but I eventually joined Canara Bank in 1971 and worked there for 30 years. I took VRS and retired in 2001 at the age of 54. During my time at the bank, I developed an interest in photography, and eventually, it became my part-time profession. I did wedding photography for 40 years, starting when I was still working at the bank, and continuing well into my retirement.

In addition to photography, I also ventured into working as a real estate agent. Even after retirement, I kept myself active, particularly through my passion for music and dance. In my childhood, I was not as active in school programs, but I enjoyed dancing at picnics and gatherings. In college, I choreographed Garba dances, and that became a regular activity. Over the years, I developed my talents. My passion for Garba grew as well, and I started dancing professionally at events for many years. I particularly love to dress up and perform. Whether it's a small group event, a family celebration, a wedding or Navratri, I love performing. I have participated in various Gujarati singing competitions and won 17-18 prizes for my singing.

I have even won prizes in fancy dress and dance competitions. I used to actively participate in festive rallies as Gandhi Ji, walking long distances. Fancy dress has been a lifelong interest of mine. My first performance was portraying Mehmood in the song 'Hum kale hai toh kya hua dilwale hai', where I performed a dance in a lungi, and entertained everyone. This was back in 1964 during a family picnic. I have done numerous fancy dress performances for e.g. Nagin dance, often winning prizes for my unique portrayals. I consistently participate in various contests organised by Khyaal as well. I had participated in the Khyaal Talent Showcase where I had performed on “ Sar jo tera chakraye ya dil dooba jaye…”. Over the years, I have performed at weddings and other social gatherings, even when I was not feeling well.

I also have a talent for writing poems and songs. When I am inspired, I even compose songs spontaneously. For example, during an online singing program, when I heard about the demise of Pankaj Udhas Ji, I quickly wrote and performed a tribute song for him. Creativity comes naturally to me, and I act on it immediately whenever the feeling arises. I have a variety of musical instruments at home, like dafli and congos, which I play occasionally for enjoyment.

Cooking is another skill I developed, thanks to my father, who was a master in the kitchen. He often took charge of the cooking at weddings and family picnics, and I inherited his talent. Even today, I cook regularly, making traditional dishes and sweets for my family. Many times I used to cook for our community events for free. People love the taste and often ask me to take professional orders. But I never do anything for money or profit. I perform and cook from only one sincere desire, which is to make others happy. Making others smile brings me joy and happiness.

Alongside these creative pursuits, I am greatly involved with community work. We observed that there was lot of pollution caused by the smoke from the crematorium. Hence, we decided to do something about it. We renovated the crematorium. The new crematorium is run by PNG gas operators instead of traditional wood-burning methods, which reduces carbon emissions and pollution. I was a pioneer in this project and it was a great success for me as it aligned with my desire to contribute to the community in a meaningful way.

I have been practicing yoga for over 18 years. I teach others as well, sharing my knowledge of yogic exercises and breathing techniques. Yoga has been an essential part of my life, keeping me physically and mentally fit. I try to do everything I set out to do with total dedication, which helps me to build discipline and inner strength. For example, once I fasted for five days without eating anything and only drank water. It is about making up your mind and harnessing your internal power.

At 78, I feel youthful and full of enthusiasm. By the grace of God, I am healthy and do not have any ailments. I go with the flow, believing that each day brings new surprises. I love to be merry and spread joy around. My advice to fellow seniors is: Age is how you feel inside. You can have the mindset of a 28-year-old, even at 72. Seek out what brings you joy and fulfilment.” - Harshvadan Shah (Khyaal Community Member)