Dehradun. As the International Day of Older Persons is celebrated, the extraordinary story of 113‑year‑old Thakur Das from Majri Grant, Doiwala, offers a vivid glimpse into a life shaped by discipline, self‑reliance, and a wealth of experience.
Having lived through the British Raj, witnessed the upheaval of the 1947 Partition, and seen the rise of a modern India, Mr Das now shelters the fourth generation of his family under his roof. Despite his centenarian years, he remains actively involved in daily chores, never needing external help.
Still Going Strong at 113
Thakur Das continues to manage his farmland, keep a close eye on crop cycles, and even makes personal trips to the bank for essential transactions. Neighbours frequently comment on his vigor and the way he handles his affairs with complete independence.
When he reflects on more than a century of change, he emphasizes that today’s youth are the true drivers of the nation’s future progress.
A Message for Young People
In his conversations with youngsters, Das delivers a clear directive: steer clear of every form of addiction. He attributes his lifelong abstinence from intoxicants to a strict, disciplined routine.
He also urges the younger generation to work diligently, uphold discipline, and maintain a positive outlook. Voting, he stresses, is a civic responsibility that must never be taken lightly, and every citizen should feel a duty toward the country.
Finally, Das reminds those who are able to assist that extending a helping hand to those in need is not just kind—it is a moral imperative.
