Dehradun. In celebration of the International Day of Older Persons, the extraordinary story of 113‑year‑old Thakur Das from Majri Grant, Doiwala, shines a light on a life forged through discipline, independence, and a wealth of experience.
Having lived through the British Raj, witnessed the upheaval of the 1947 Partition, and observed the rise of a modern India, Mr Das now shares his home with the fourth generation of his family. Despite his centenarian status, he remains actively involved in daily chores, needing no external assistance.
Life in Full Swing at 113
Thakur Das continues to supervise his farmland, track crop cycles, and even makes personal trips to the bank for essential transactions. Neighbours frequently comment on his vitality and the self‑sufficient way he manages his affairs.
When reflecting on more than a century of change, he emphasizes that today’s youth are the engine driving the nation’s future progress.
A Message for Young Minds
In his talks with youngsters, Das delivers a clear directive: steer clear of every form of addiction. He attributes his lifelong sobriety to a strict, disciplined routine.
He also urges the younger generation to work hard, uphold discipline, and cultivate a positive mindset. Voting, he stresses, is a civic responsibility that must never be taken for granted, and every citizen should feel a duty toward the country.
Finally, Das reminds those who are able to lend a hand that helping those in need is not just kindness—it is a moral imperative.
