From Wellness to Wealth Planning, Odisha Celebrates Older Persons’ Day

Bhubaneswar: Financial planning, physical wellness and stronger family bonds were at the centre of Odisha’s state-level celebration of the International Day of Older Persons 2026, organised by the Social Security and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (SSEPD) Department in Bhubaneswar on Thursday.

The programme brought together senior citizens, government officials, wellness experts and financial advisers to recognise the contributions of older persons and discuss ways to support their health, dignity and security.

The day began with a yoga and wellness session at Indira Gandhi Park. Art of Living senior faculty members Harapriya Mishra and Dr Pritish Kumar Mishra led participants through light physical exercises, breathing practices and techniques for mental well-being.

At the main event held at the State Convention Centre, Lok Seva Bhavan, Ekamra MLA Babu Singh called for greater recognition of senior citizens’ contributions to families and society. He said elders should be celebrated throughout the year for their sacrifices and guidance.

Referring to the lines of Santha Kabi Bhima Bhoi, “Mo jibana pache narke padi thau jagata udhar hou”, Singh spoke about the selfless nature of older persons. He also emphasised the need to preserve traditional family relationships, particularly the bond between grandparents and grandchildren through storytelling, to pass on human values and strengthen family unity.

Financial advice for senior citizens

A session on financial literacy formed a key part of the celebration. Chartered accountant and financial expert Arun Kumar Sabat, who attended as Guest of Honour, offered guidance on tax planning, reverse mortgages, safe lending and estate planning.

He advised senior citizens to plan their finances and safeguard their property to avoid potential disputes among heirs. He also recommended seeking professional advice before making investment decisions and cautioned against complicated stock market ventures.

Sabat encouraged elders to use their savings to travel and explore destinations within the country and abroad, as well as to support the welfare and future of their grandchildren.

The formal programme was attended by SSEPD Commissioner-cum-Secretary Dr Brunda D., Director Parul Patwari and Additional Secretary Deepak Routrai.

The celebrations concluded with a cultural performance by the Sweta Padma Cultural Group, directed by music director Sitansu Sekhar Rout. Singers Tansen Singh, Subhash Das, Srikar Padhi, Prasanta Samal, Anindita Das and Chhanda Mishra presented traditional and popular songs.

The SSEPD Department said it would continue working to promote the dignity, security and well-being of senior citizens through policy initiatives, community outreach and welfare programmes.