Cultural expectations surrounding the elderly are being challenged. While it was the norm to “slow down” and retreat into a quieter life in the past, more men and women are finding purpose and joy in their golden years. This article shines a light on such men and women from the Vasant Vihar community, who have successfully smashed stereotypes. Their stories are a reminder to all of us to show up everyday, and live life to the fullest
Silver Linings Playbook: Cultural expectations surrounding the elderly are being challenged. While it was the norm to “slow down” and retreat into a quieter life in the past, more men and women are finding purpose and joy in their golden years. This article shines a light on such men and women from the Vasant Vihar community, who have successfully smashed age stereotypes. Their stories are a reminder to all of us to show up every day, and live life to the fullest. Covering one such personality here:
Gurpreet Singh Bindra – President, Vasant Vihar Welfare Association
“I completed my schooling at St. Joseph’s College, Nainital and studied Chemical Engineering at the Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur. The Irish Christian Brothers in my school, gave me a strong foundation of values while at IIT, I learnt the importance of analytical rigour. After working for some years with Union Carbide, I joined my family’s construction business, where I built numerous thermal power stations, ordnance factories, and industrial structures. This decision turned my life around from a mundane corporate existence to a career with purpose. I used my skills to execute meaningful nation-wide building projects.
I learnt a lot from my uncle, Lt. Gen. Jagjit Singh Aurora. His conduct of the 1971 war is still fresh in my memory. No matter what the situation, he handled it. My school motto, “Certa Bonum Certamen”, has also been a big inspiration for me. Translated to English, it means, “Fight The Good Fight”.
I am restless and cannot stay idle. After retiring from active construction, I took on various consulting projects. However, finding that I wanted to contribute more, and with a desire to give back to society, I got involved in the community affairs in Vasant Vihar colony in New Delhi. In 2018, I was elected President of Vasant Vihar Welfare Association, a position I hold till date. During COVID-19, my team led multiple initiatives that made an impact. I am currently spear-heading a waste management project to make us a zero-waste colony.
The work I do is meaningful and keeps me engaged. Retirement is not an ‘end of life’ phenomenon. I would say that it is the beginning of a new phase where you have the freedom to decide what you want to do, be it work, travel, or indulge in your favourite activities. It is, however, important that you don’t lead a sedentary life.”
PS: If you would like to be featured, or know someone who has kept themselves professionally or otherwise engaged post retirement, do reach out to Saonli at saonli.bedi@wisdom circle.com or +91 8447746510
