Gold Club for Senior Citizens Launched in Gaibandha
Photo: Agamir Somoy
The Gold Club, a special social initiative by Agamir Somoy for senior citizens, has officially launched in Gaibandha, becoming the first district in the country to do so. The inauguration ceremony was held on Monday afternoon at the District Shilpakala Academy auditorium, with the presence of over 150 elderly men and women.
Under the slogan “We Stand with Our Elders,” the Gold Club activities were inaugurated by centenarian Alhaj Hafiz Md. Nurul Islam from the district. In his inaugural remarks, he said, “May Allah shower His mercy upon you. May Allah grant success to your efforts.”
During the inauguration, 50 senior citizens joined him on stage. Members of the Bahumatrik Foundation had earlier presented each elderly participant with a rose. The remaining attendees in the audience welcomed them with applause.
The program was hosted by Rayhan Kabir Ratul, president of the Bahumatrik Foundation. It began with a welcome speech by Naemul Ahsan Pamel, Gaibandha district correspondent of Agamir Somoy.
Speakers highlighted the invaluable contribution of senior citizens to society and nation-building, noting that their knowledge, experience, and wisdom are an essential resource for the younger generation. However, many elderly people face loneliness and social isolation as they age. They said the Gold Club is not just a club but a warm platform for mutual support, mental well-being, and active living.
“This initiative by Agamir Somoy is unique and remarkable. People often overlook the elderly, but this newspaper has taken the initiative to highlight them. We appreciate them,” said one senior participant.
Expressing commitment to bringing seniors together on a single platform, Gold Club President Dantyas Rowshan said, “We want to place our seniors in positions of respect, dignity, and love. Gold Clubs will be established across the country. We will listen to our elders. Their advice and opinions will guide us.”
At the event, seniors shared memories and experiences from their long professional lives and expressed hope that the Gold Club would create a vibrant social environment where they could exchange experiences, build friendships, and engage in creative activities.
The program also featured cultural performances interspersed throughout the event. Songs, poetry recitations, and nostalgic reflections by senior members filled the auditorium with emotion and warmth.
Organizers expressed hope that the initiative would bring new light into the lives of senior citizens and make their everyday lives more meaningful and joyful.
Among others, District Cultural Officer Md. Asad Sarkar and Head of Creative, Research and Events at Agamir Somoy Shimul Salahuddin were present at the event.
