A Life Well-Lived: Kishori’s Story of Rediscovery and Hope


Kishori sitting at her desk in an office, surrounded by books, papers, and portraits of Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar on the wall behind her

Retirement often marks a new chapter one filled with opportunities to rediscover passions, build connections, and leave a legacy. For Kishori, retirement has been a time to reflect on a life filled with love, challenges, and resilience. Her story is one of strength, inspiration, and the power of community.

From Village Fairs to Global Adventures: A Life Full of Stories
Kishori’s life began in the serene town of Manipal, where she was surrounded by simple joys. As a child, she loved attending village fairs, watching colourful processions, and experiencing the vibrant culture of her community. Her days were filled with music, poetry, and the excitement of local festivals like the rathod sawas, a unique temple procession she still cherishes in her memories. These early moments shaped her appreciation for art, culture, and community, values she carried with her throughout her life.

As she grew older, Kishori’s thirst for knowledge led her on an extraordinary journey. She excelled in many fields, from science to music to literature. Though she initially studied commerce, she later pursued English literature and advanced music studies, proving that her curiosity knew no bounds. Kishori became the first woman lecturer in her university, breaking barriers in a world dominated by men. Her passion for teaching and her commitment to gender equality left a lasting impact on her students and colleagues, many of whom still remember her as a guiding light.

Her love for learning also took her around the world. As a Commonwealth Fellow and a Rotary Group Study Exchange Fellow, Kishori presented papers and attended conferences in places like the United States, the UK, and Hong Kong. She explored Shakespeare’s homeland and Wordsworth’s countryside, immersing herself in the beauty of literature and culture. Despite her many achievements, Kishori’s heart remains humble, filled with gratitude for the life she’s lived. She often reflects on these moments with a warm smile, grateful for the paths she’s walked.

Kishori gazing at the ocean during a serene sunset, standing by a railing in a peaceful moment of reflection.

Overcoming Loss and Finding Strength in Community
Life hasn’t always been kind to Kishori. Over the years, she faced profound losses her parents, her husband, and close friends. When her husband passed away in 2012 after battling lung cancer, Kishori found herself alone, grappling with the emptiness of a quiet house. The echoes of laughter and conversation had faded, leaving her with silence that felt overwhelming. Her once-busy days were now filled with loneliness, and the friends she relied on had either moved away or passed on.

But Kishori’s story is not one of defeat. It is one of resilience and courage. She chose to face her loneliness head-on, finding strength in her memories and purpose in her passions. She focused on her career, which became a source of stability and fulfilment. After retirement, she turned to travel as a way to heal. She visited new places, embraced new experiences, and rediscovered the beauty of life each journey helping her rebuild the parts of herself she thought she had lost.

Kishori’s ability to keep going, even in the face of heartbreak, is a lesson for us all. Her story shows us that even when life feels empty, there is always a way to fill it with meaning again. It may take time, but with patience and hope, new joys can emerge.

Cherishing Small Joys and Inspiring Others
Kishori’s life is a testament to the beauty of small joys. She finds happiness in the fragrance of a blooming flower, the soothing sound of a flute, and the peaceful moments of quiet reflection. Her love for classical music, though hindered by health challenges, remains an integral part of her spirit. Even though she can no longer sing for hours as she once did, her passion for music continues to inspire her and those around her.

She often reminds us of the importance of patience, persistence, and kindness. Her advice to "act, not react" is a philosophy she lives by. It’s a reminder to approach life with thoughtfulness, to listen before responding, and to choose grace in difficult moments. These lessons resonate deeply, encouraging others to embrace a calmer and more compassionate way of living.

Through her journey, Kishori inspires seniors to embrace their stories, no matter how challenging, and to find joy in the present moment. Her life proves that it’s never too late to reignite old passions, make new friends, and create lasting memories. Her courage and determination light the way for others to see retirement not as an ending, but as a beginning.

Conclusion: A Life Worth Celebrating
Kishori’s life after retirement is a beautiful example of resilience, love, and the strength found in rediscovery. Her story is a reminder that every chapter of life has its own beauty, and every person has a story worth celebrating.

If you’re a senior citizen looking for connection, support, and a renewed sense of purpose, Sukoon Unlimited can give you the space to heal, grow, and inspire. Together, we can create a community filled with joy, laughter, and meaningful connections. Let’s celebrate life, one story at a time.



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