Shradha Parv-A Day to Honor our Elders

Shradha Parv is that day of the year when we pay tribute to our parents and other very important people of the society who have spent a large part of their lives for the wellbeing of mankind. This day is celebrated every year on 2^nd October across VJM centers in India and around the world. VJM families eagerly await this day as it gives the young an opportunity to honor the seniors while seniors enjoy the special gestures of love from their children and young ones.

Shradha Parv is an initiative taken by Vishwa Jagriti Mission to revive the Indian values and deep-rooted culture of showing respect to the elders. And not just the elders in the family, but also other elder persons who need support. They deserve much-needed care so they can live with self-respect.  Parents sacrifice their youth in bringing up their children. They always go the extra mile to give their children a comfortable life, irrespective of their own desires. And the most heart-breaking thing is to see these children jumping to the opportunity of claiming their parents’ belongings but shy away from their responsibilities.

In the olden days, there were children who were orphans, but now it is the parents who are orphaned as these young adults choose to place their parents into ‘old age homes’. Everyone is afraid of old age, the time when the body and senses become weak. With this fear, hope also keeps growing inside that their children will become their support system. But when this hope does not materialize there is nothing but sheer disappointment.  The old feel disrespected and ignored. They start recalling the days when they did everything for their children, from providing them food and clothes to creating precious moments and spending sleepless nights.  It should be every individual’s responsibility to look after their parents, their first teachers, and all elders.

Therefore, on Shradha Parv express your deepest gratitude towards your parents and other elders in the family. Do not shy away from showing them what they mean to you and recollect the good times you spent together. Take your parents on a picnic or a fun day trip, visit any old memorable place, eat something special, or help them fulfill any wish they may have. Spend time with them, create memories by clicking pictures, making videos and make them feel special. By doing so it is not just them who would feel contented, but you will also get to revive and strengthen your innate bond with them. Keep this culture of ‘always respecting your parents’ alive, so that your children and their children will follow this tradition too.

Shradha Parv is a social responsibility, a resolve with a noble purpose that we need to promote among the youth and bridge the generation gap. Shradha Parv must be celebrated not only on one day but 365 days of the year.