Minutes after the lights faded at the South Indian Film Chamber Theatre for the screening of Kadhalikka Neramillai , silence prevailed in most seat corners while some couples were cheerfully whispering to each other as the film progressed. The launch of the five-day Dignity Film Festival with the yesteryear hit film here on Saturday was like revisiting old Madras for some or another occasion to meet like-minded peers.
The festival is being organised by Dignity Foundation, a non governmental organisation working in the area of care for the elderly, as part of the Dignity Donor Privilege programme where members above 50 years can avail themselves of a host of benefits and services.
Anbe Vaa, Server Sundaram, Madhumati and Thillana Mohanambal are the other films that would be screened, revisiting the era from 1950s to 1970s.
Lakshmi Natrajan, retired administrative officer, has already seen Vyjayanthimala and Dilip Kumar-starrer Madhumati five times. There is charm watching some of these old films again, she says.
Earlier, speaking at launch of the event actor Lakshmi Sivachandran asked senior citizens to tap their talents as well as teach them to the younger generation. She said they must make good use of their twilight days by helping the less-privileged.
K. Radhakrishnan, Director, Dignity Foundation Chennai, said around 700 members have taken the Dignity Donor Privilege Card in the city and its helpline (044 – 4213 3002) is receiving an average of 150 calls a day.
Devasena, wife of director Sridhar, was also present.
Published - April 19, 2010 01:49 am IST