Pallakad: In today's fast paced world, we prefer to leave behind those who can't catch up. Old age is one such anomaly. "After my husband's death, my son physically tortured me...had to approach the police," said Sitamma, an old lady.
Sitamma's is not an isolated story. The "golden years" end up being traumatic for many elderly people, abandoned and banished by their loved ones. Embracing them as her own is a young nurse - 34-year old Raziya Bano - who has devoted her youth and life to taking care of old women in Palakkad, Kerala.
"Nobody cares for these old mothers, so I decided to embrace them," said Raziya.
A young widow at just 20, Raziya fought family opposition to become a nurse.
"I used to visit old age homes. As a nurse I could provide medical care - dress their wounds and also give that much needed emotional support," said Raziya.
It was in 2006 when Raziya rented a house and set up Shantiniketan - a home to three old women to begin with. In no time she was taking care of 12 women all above 70 - providing them with a home that they felt they belonged to.
"Donations from well wishers are helping me in the construction of our new home, so I can accommodate many more mothers," said Raziya.
It's this ambition to serve more and the love she receives in return that keeps Raziya going.
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