Bhubaneswar, March 14: In a heartwarming tribute to the elderly and their invaluable contributions to society, the Shree Jagannath Nagarika Manch of Kushamati, Jatani, honored three veteran football players, all around 90 years of age. The distinguished players—Nagendra Behera, Mana Gobinda Subudhi, and Sankar Sahoo—are from the Kushamati-Chhanaghar village.
The event, presided over by Balakrushna Samantray and assisted by Durga Charan Sahoo, took place at the Santorum Sanctum of the Shree Jagannath Temple in Kushamati-Chhanaghar village. The ceremony was attended by hundreds of senior citizens, retired individuals, and local social workers.
The three veterans expressed their gratitude for the recognition and shared insights into their active lifestyles, which have kept them fit and healthy despite their advanced ages.
Nagendra Behera,88, a retired railway employee, recalled his passion for football during his youth. Though no longer playing, he still enjoys watching the game, both in the village and on TV. He attributed his well-being and longevity to his stress-free life, strong family support, and unwavering faith in God.
Mana Gobinda Subidhi,86, a special-class contractor, expressed his joy at being honored. A former football forward player who competed at the state level, Subidhi credited his health and vitality to his daily routine—rising early at 4 AM, walking for an hour, and meditating regularly. His love for nature and peace, combined with his strong belief in God, has contributed to his enduring wellness.
Sankar Sahoo, 91, a retired railway employee, thanked the Manch for the recognition. A former footballer, Sahoo stays active by tending to his family, gardening, and maintaining a joyful attitude, which he believes are the secrets to his disease-free life.
BhaktaBandhu Das and Brajabandhu Nayak, from the Jatani Senior Citizen Forum, were also present and spoke about various issues affecting the elderly community. Other notable attendees included Major K. Chandaya, Benudhar Behera, Kshetra Mohan Satapathy, Padma Charan Chhotary, Hrudanand Sahu, Jajati Mohanty, Ratan Rautray, Nityananda Jena, and Kalu Rautray.
The event was successfully organized by Chhanaghar Sarpanch Subasini Biswal, journalist Rabi Swain, and social worker Srinivash Sahoo.
