Age is just a number, darling! #FOREVERYOUNG

How dare you call these legends old! Age doesn’t hold back these extraordinary OGs; they’re redefining the very idea of growing older with their unstoppable energy and zest for life. Let’s talk about legends like 107-year-old Late Mani Bhagat, 98-year-old Arnavaz Lelinwala, 94-year-olds Mehroo Baria, Goolbanoo Chenoy, and Thrity Bapooji, along with Ervad Dr. Burjor Antia at 90, and Dr. Kersi Hozdar at 82. Each one of them proves age is just a backdrop to their vibrant lives.

Take the ever-spirited Arnavaz Lelinwala, age 98. I walk into her room, and there’s Arnavaz Lelinwala—a 98-year-old powerhouse with a smile and hug so warm it could light up the whole city. Don’t let her age fool you; she’s a firecracker! Born in Bombay in 1926, Arnavaz studied at the Convent of Jesus and Mary, then went on to St. Xavier’s College, majoring in English and French. After graduating, she didn’t just rest on her laurels—oh no! She started taking morning tuitions and attended evening classes to get a teaching diploma.

This remarkable lady began her teaching career in 1952 and kept going right until September 2023, clocking an incredible 71 years of dedication. That’s right—seventy-one years! Arnavaz has taught generations, starting as a nursery helper and continuing in pre-primary until the school’s closing. Now, that’s commitment! But that’s not all—Arnavaz is a total masti queen! She’s a master of the cha-cha, jive, samba, and rumba, and she’s traveled the world, living life bindass with endless enthusiasm. Hats off to this incredible lady who proves that age is just a number!

OK, Now let’s look at Mehroo Baria from Hyderabad, who at 94 can still whip up a legendary biryani and serve a yum white curry. Recently facing surgery, she calmed her worried friends with her trademark statement saying, “Don’t worry; I’m hale and hearty!” These are the stories of resilience and passion that defy age and bring pure joy. Hats off to these legends!

Through resilience, boundless passion, and pure masti and fun, they’re rewriting the rules on growing older. Each day is an adventure, every smile a testament to joy, and every story a reminder of their unstoppable energy and vibrant spirit. Hats off to these forever Gen Z’s, whose zest for life continues to inspire us all!

(Part 2… Coming soon)

Freny Daruwalla wrote this article in collaboration with ParZor.