“When I started the home, I thought it would only be about preparing two square meals for the seniors,” she chuckles. Six years later, Madhuri, the founder of Vatsalya Valli Foundation admits that running an old age home is anything but that simple. From fixing mobile phones to finding rubber bands, from bindis to emergencies—she does it all.
A Single Mother’s Vision
The woman founder of Vatsalya Valli Foundation embodies resilience and care in every gesture. As a single mother who started this home in 2019, she has transformed what could have been just a care facility into something far more meaningful. She plays the role of an all-rounder, addressing the smallest needs with the same dedication as major emergencies. Her philosophy is simple yet profound: taking care of seniors isn’t about fancy gestures, but about small acts of love, affection, and respect.
“All that they want is someone who can hear them, who can provide them that human touch, and who can give them a sense of love, affection and respect.” — Madhuri, Founder, Vatsalya Valli Foundation
A Gathering of Unique Journeys
Meeting the senior ladies at Vatsalya Valli felt like encountering the warmest group of women. All above 80, with the oldest being 94, they represent diverse backgrounds and rich life experiences.
Among them: a Hindi teacher who served for 30 years speaking in Hyderabadi style, a woman with Kerala roots who still craves her native cuisine, and “Rajamata”—the 94-year-old nicknamed for her regal style who stays active writing Rama Nama. Their backgrounds span from military families in Chennai to B.A. History graduates, from Vijayawada to various corners of South India. Several visually impaired seniors also form part of this diverse, warm community.
FAMILY ATMOSPHERE: The home operates like one big family—residents gather together to make pickles, vadiyalu, and sweets on different occasions, creating bonds through shared activities and care.
Bonds Forged in Shared Moments
Questions about favourite colours and foods drew abundant laughter. The games session was filled with joy as residents pulled each other’s legs, showcasing the sisterhood that has flourished in this community.
A beautiful sisterhood shines through their group interactions, reminding us of the possibility held by old age homes—of becoming communities of laughter, care, and sharing rather than places of abandonment. It is this sense of community that is the key to ensuring that old age, despite all the issues that come with it, becomes a golden period in a person’s life.
Towards the end of the conversation, the senior women longed to be engaged in more such conversations and activities, a sign that it is important for young people to come forward as facilitators of care and connection for the elderly.
FAVORITE SWEETS: Payasam • Jalebi • Gulab Jamun • Ladoo • Mysore Pak • Double Ka Meetha
BELOVED FILMS: Malleshwari • Gundamma Katha • Satya Harishchandra • Chanti • Lava Kusha • Annamaiya
“Their wellbeing will bring wellbeing to my children. This sincere belief drives everything I do here.” — Madhuri, Foundation Founder on her motivation
At Vatsalya Valli Foundation, care transcends mere service—it becomes family. Through shared meals, collective activities, and endless small gestures of love, this space has transformed into what every old age home aspires to be: a community where laughter echoes, stories are cherished, and every resident feels valued and heard.