A Day of Compassion: Connecting, Serving, and Learning at Jubilee Mandiram ❤️🙏

Community Service Day - I

                                           

Rather than the B.Ed. curriculum’s 10-day tour, our group of eight embarked on a meaningful journey at Jubilee Mandiram, Kottarakara. On the first day, we familiarized ourselves with the surroundings, taking in the serene and welcoming atmosphere of the place. The institution is a haven for the elderly and the needy, offering essential services, including a dialysis unit managed by two technicians and a full-time doctor. The space is thoughtfully divided into two sections—one for bedridden patients receiving hospice care and another for those who are still active and contribute to daily chores.

                    Our first interaction was with the residents, whom we fondly called Ammachis(grandmothers) and Appachans(grandfathers). We had heartfelt conversations with Princy Chechi who had been on a wheelchair since an accident 12 years ago and was at Jubilee Mandiram since then, Chinnu Ammachi who loves to sing many devotional songs, Baby Ammachi who loves to interact with others, and Podi Ammachi who remains silent most of the times, among others. Some of them had no family to care for them, making our visit even more significant. They shared memories of their native places, friendships, and past lives, filling the air with nostalgia and warmth. It was a touching experience to listen to their stories, which spoke of resilience, longing, and an appreciation for companionship.

Beyond conversations, we also actively took part in the daily routines of the Mandiram. The residents who were physically able assisted with various tasks like watering plants, maintaining the surroundings, and chopping vegetables. 

                   We joined in by helping to clean tapioca, a task that, despite minor injuries, everyone contributed to with enthusiasm. Additionally, we assisted in serving food at the community mess and cleaning the kitchen, ensuring that mealtime was smooth and enjoyable for all.

The day ended on a heartwarming note as we spent leisure time with the elderly, sharing laughter, stories, and simple joys. Their smiles and affectionate words reminded us of the importance of kindness and service. It was a truly enriching experience that left a lasting impression on all of us, setting the tone for the rest of our stay at Jubilee Mandiram.