The applause was loud, the smiles infectious and the confidence unmistakable as elderly men and women walked the ramp with poise, turning a fashion show into a celebration of ageing with dignity.
Residents of the Government Old Age Home at Ramavarmapuram in Thrissur, functioning under the Social Justice department, stole the limelight at ‘Niram 2026’, a State-level fashion show for senior citizens organised by Thavanish, the social service organisation of Christ College, Irinjalakuda, winning four major awards and reaffirming that age is no barrier to self-expression.
Competing against 76 participants from old age homes across Kerala as well as individual entrants, the contestants showcased their confidence through a ramp walk, self-introduction, and talent round.
The biggest honour went to 74-year-old Vatsala, who was crowned ‘Mrs Female Fashion Icon’. She received a cash prize of ₹10,000 along with a crown and memento.
Shashi, 72, finished first runner-up, winning ₹7,500, while Kunjumol, 75, was named second runner-up and received ₹5,000. Mohan, 70, was adjudged the ‘Best Performer’.
Six residents from the Thrissur home—Vatsala, Shashi, Kunjumol, Mohan, Mohanan, 74, and Vijayakumar, 70— participated in the event, representing a generation that refused to let age define its limits.
The achievement assumes greater significance as the home also dominated last year’s edition, with Ms. Vatsala and Mr. Mohan winning top honours then as well. Their repeat success reflects not merely talent but the confidence and enthusiasm that such platforms inspire in older persons.
‘Niram 2026’ brought together senior citizens from institutions including House of Providence, Irinjalakuda; Shanthi Sadan, the Government Old Age Home and Abhaya Sadan in Thrissur; Abhaya Old Age Home, Kalamassery; and Association Karunalayam, Ernakulam. The participants entertained the audience with cultural performances alongside the fashion competition.
Far removed from conventional notions of ageing, the event transformed the ramp into a space where wrinkles became stories, confidence became style and growing older became something to celebrate rather than conceal.
Published - July 29, 2026 08:15 am IST
Source: The Hindu - India News
