Lucknow: Senior citizens and grassroots contributors from rural belt were felicitated at the Mayan Mahotsav-2026, held at Kamla Kutir in Gadela village of Itaunja on Sunday.The annual festival, which brings together people from villages and the city was dedicated this year to honouring elderly citizens and highlighting the need for dignity and care in old age.Seven persons, including three women, were honoured with Mayan Samman for their contribution to society.Among them was Padma Shri awardee Kaleemullah Khan, known for developing multiple varieties of mango on a single tree, along with Santosh Singh, Jagdev Yadav, Ramji, Shivdulari Chaurasia, Aruna Kumari and Madhurani, who have worked in areas including agriculture, education, social service and women’s empowerment.The event also featured cultural performances. Singer Prabha Srivastava presented songs of Geeta Dutt, while young artist Master Aman Azam performed Sufi renditions. The programme was conducted by media personality Aftab Alam.Chief guest, historian Ravi Bhatt, appreciated the initiative and stressed need to strengthen connections between urban and rural communities and to promote greater social sensitivity towards senior citizens.Apart from villagers, several guests from the city attended the festival. Visitors also enjoyed traditional rural cuisine and cultural activities.Organisers said the festival, now in its fifth year, aimed to promote social awareness and provide a platform to recognise individuals who have contributed to society despite challenges. The event was organised under the guidance of Anand Prakash Maheshwari, retired DG-CRPF, with support from social organisations, volunteers and students.
