A new study from Kolkata challenges the idea that once people pass 60 their wish to work, their joy, their relationships and their right to make their own decisions fade away. Ahead of the International Day of Older Persons on 1 October, Anjali, an organisation working on mental-health rights, has published a report called Cultures of Ageing, Ei Samay reports.
The report draws on conversations with 55 women in Kolkata aged 60 to 90, of different castes, classes, religions and occupations. It was planned by Paromita Chakravarti, professor of English at Jadavpur University and former director of its School of Women's Studies. For many of the women, work is not only a source of income but also of identity and self-confidence.
Jharna Sikdar, who once drew applause as a circus gymnast, now spends her days on housework and says deep sadness takes hold as evening falls. Theatre director Anasuya Sen, by contrast, has been learning new technology to teach online since Covid and has no wish to leave the stage.
The report also challenges the idea that older women no longer have personal desires or a need for relationships; several participants spoke openly about new relationships. It says a family's protection can turn into excessive control, and that treating capable older people like children, without letting them decide for themselves, harms their independence. Neighbours, self-help groups and friendships are an important support for many.
Chakravarti said older women must be given room to speak for themselves, and their lives, wishes and decisions must be taken seriously rather than treating age as a problem. Ratnaboli Ray, founder of Anjali, said discussion of ageing focuses mostly on illness and treatment, while independence, leisure, social relationships and mental well-being matter just as much.
The report was written for Ei Samay by Anirban Ghosh and Rohit Paramanik.
Source: Ei Samay
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