Reviving Smiles: Fayaz Ahmed Lone Brings Joy To Senior Citizens Through Bhand Pather

Sopore, Dec 10: Fayaz Ahmed Lone, a dedicated Tehsil Social Welfare Officer in Sopore, is on a mission to revive the cultural gem of Bhand Pather, using it as a source of joy for senior citizens enrolled with the department.
With a passion for preserving cultural roots and fostering community spirit, Fayaz has embarked on a journey to breathe life into the forgotten folk tradition of Bhand Pather.
This tradition, long languishing in obscurity, has now become a recreational tool aimed at bringing smiles to the faces of senior citizens in Sopore town and its adjoining villages.
“We use storytelling to narrate tales of local legends and historical events, and address issues like drug abuse with the senior citizens,” Fayaz, a resident of Sumbal Naidkhai, said, adding that his mission is simple: to see smiles on the faces of senior citizens.
Amidst their stories of sadness, familial problems, and the loneliness experienced after being left alone by their own children, Fayaz aims to bring happiness through Bhand Pather.
As a Social Welfare Officer, Fayaz, along with his team at the department in Sopore, is making a remarkable impact by organising tours across the valley, hosting performances for senior citizens, and providing them moments of joy through an old traditional art form.
“We take senior citizens on tours and picnics, and engage them in indoor and outdoor games, organise free medical camps for them, besides Bhand Pather performances,” he explained.
For these senior citizens, the activities by Fayaz and his team serve as a respite from their daily struggles.
Bhand Pather, in particular, plays a crucial role in providing them with a break from their hectic and often torturous routines.
Fayaz shared a poignant story of an elderly citizen from a Sopore village who receives a government-allocated old-age pension.
“This pension, in turn, shields him from the hardships imposed by his family. Sharing a few bucks from the old age pension among his grandchildren shields him from his family members,” he added.
Listening to such stories motivates Fayaz to continue his efforts to bring joy to these senior citizens.
Another social welfare employee at Sopore told Rising Kashmir that through departmental schemes and funding, this initiative not only provides moments of happiness but also serves as a reminder to value and care for our elders, respecting them for their wisdom and contributions to society.
While acknowledging the temporary relief they provide, Fayaz emphasised the need for a permanent solution to address the challenges faced by these senior citizens.
He highlighted their importance and held a Bhand Pather event during a picnic, involving youth to educate them on the value of elders in families and the importance of treating them with respect.
Fayaz Lone is not just organising events; he’s creating a bridge between generations, fostering understanding, and, most importantly, bringing smiles to the faces of those who often feel forgotten.