Gonda: The Muslim Intellectual Forum (MIF), Gonda, observed the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad by visiting an old age home in Forbesganj, Gonda, where members interacted with elderly residents and distributed food items, fruits and clothing as part of a community outreach initiative.
Members of the forum enquired about the well-being of the residents and spent time interacting with them. According to the organisers, the old age home currently houses 85 elderly residents, including 50 men and 35 women. Some of the residents are also living with mental health challenges, disabilities and other illnesses.
Addressing the gathering, District Social Welfare Officer S.P. Singh said the visit was not intended merely as an expression of sympathy but reflected a broader commitment to empathy and solidarity with senior citizens.
Forum patron Latif-ur-Rahman spoke about the teachings of Prophet Muhammad concerning respect and care for parents and elderly people. He emphasised that caring for one’s parents and respecting elders are fundamental values that should be reflected in everyday life.
Reflecting on the growing number of elderly people living in care homes, Latif-ur-Rahman expressed concern that society had not fully succeeded in following these teachings. He said families should strive to create an environment in which elderly parents can live with dignity and receive care and affection within their homes.
He stressed that respect for parents and service to them should be regarded as a moral responsibility, particularly in light of the teachings associated with Prophet Muhammad.
The programme was presided over by Dr. Mahmood Alam. Vice-President Mushfiq Ahmad, social worker and journalist P.P. Yadav, former Additional Commissioner (Commercial Tax) Mr. Singh, social worker Najeeb Ahmad and other members of the forum were also present.
The initiative concluded with the distribution of essential food items, fruits and clothes to the residents, with organisers highlighting the importance of compassion, dignity and care for senior citizens.
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