Setting out on a Melodious Journey at 72
An inspiring story of Ravindra Sutar (Khyaal Community Member)
“My name is Ravindra Sutar. I am 72 years old from Mumbai. I worked in the Education Department of Maharashtra for 38 years and retired in 2011. When I started working in my younger days, I also took up a part-time job with the Association of Oral Implantologists in the evenings to earn extra income and provide a better life for my family. My wife passed away in 2008, leaving me and our two daughters. It was a tough time, but slowly and gradually, we moved on.
Throughout my life, I had a very busy schedule, so I didn't have many hobbies apart from reading. I am an avid reader and enjoyed reading whenever I used to travel or had some free time. Since I worked in a college, I regularly visited the college library. Marathi, being my mother tongue, I love diving into Marathi literature. I have created a small library at home with books ranging from fiction to autobiographies and much more. I enjoy reading articles from magazines as well. I believe that there is no better teacher than books; they make you wiser and a better person.
After retirement, I finally had the time to pursue something I have always wanted to do: singing. I joined a singing class post-retirement and started learning from the basics, like "sa re ga ma." My singing classes were held two times a week, and I attended them regularly. Since COVID, I have shifted to online classes. I have been diligently working on my singing skills for almost 12 years now, practising every day with karaoke. Initially, I lacked the confidence to sing and had stage fright, but my teachers and classmates always encouraged me. My singing quality has improved significantly, and I am more confident now. I can sing and present songs well. We are given the opportunity to sing at various events organized by our singing class, and I am always encouraged to perform at family functions. I also participated in the Khyaal Karaoke Idol and was selected for the semi-finals. My favourite singer is Kishore Kumar, and I love singing his songs.
Along with singing, I discovered a hidden talent of anchoring too. I write the anchoring scripts, providing some information about the song and its background. I have developed my own style and truly enjoy it. I am fortunate to have been given the opportunity to anchor at various events. Singing has given my life meaning and fulfilment; it provides calm in the chaos of life. This hobby has led me to meet many like-minded people who became my friends. It has helped me know myself better and has completely changed my life.
I am a disciplined person and love having a routine. I go for walks every day and do household chores, which keep me active. I am thankful to Khyaal for helping me stay engaged. I enjoy attending their informative sessions and playing tambola. I have a pet cat, and caring for him keeps me on my toes. Additionally, I continue working at my part-time job and travel for work conferences twice a year. I also enjoy going on trips with family and friends. I have learned to enjoy my own company and find happiness within myself. At 72, I am enjoying every moment of life. My advice to my fellow seniors is to learn to adapt to changes and go with the flow. Life is not perfect, but try to find your own happiness.” - Ravindra Sutar (Khyaal Community Member)