JAMMU, Oct 19: Home for the Aged & Infirm (Vridh Ashram), Ambphalla, Jammu, celebrated the auspicious occasion of Mahanavami and Durga Ashtami with a sacred Havan and traditional Kanya Pujan.
The occasion also marked an important milestone with the newly equipped Fully Automatic Kitchen including Roti Maker, Dough Ball Kneading Machine, Dough Ball Cutter, Potato Peeler, Vegetable Washer, Rice Maker and Steel Racks for covering and properly storing utensils.
This facility will improve kitchen efficiency, hygiene and the timely preparation of meals for the residents, strengthening the Ashram’s commitment to providing hygienic, nutritious meals and better care to its elderly residents.
The sacred Havan was performed with devotion, with elderly residents actively participating in the rituals and praying for peace, good health and the well-being of all.
This was followed by Kanya Pujan, during which Er. Pankaj Gupta, President; Dr. Dinesh Gupta, Secretary; Sat Pal Sharma, Managing Committee Member; and Dr. Bharat Bhushan Sharma, Medical Officer, worshipped the young girls as manifestations of Maa Durga and distributed traditional offerings.
The most touching moments came when the elderly residents looked at the little girls with affectionate smiles and moist eyes. For many, the children brought back memories of their own granddaughters – their innocent smiles awakening cherished emotions and a longing for family bonds. As the residents showered blessings upon the girls, the atmosphere was filled with love, tenderness and a profound sense of belonging.
The occasion beautifully combined spiritual devotion with meaningful progress in elder care. While the new kitchen will help nourish the residents through improved facilities, the Kanya Pujan brought warmth and happiness to their hearts, reaffirming that the spirit of Vridh Ashram lies not only in caring for the elderly but also in ensuring that they feel loved, valued and connected.