DOBARA seniors knit bonnets to honour Princess Niloufer’s legacy
HYDERABAD: In a heartfelt tribute to Princess Niloufer’s birth anniversary and enduring legacy, DOBARA (Dignity of Being Actively Respected in Ageing) came together at Niloufer Hospital. From 11:30 am to 2:00 pm on Monday, the gathering wove together moments of kindness and remembrance, shining a light on the Princess’s pioneering efforts for mothers and children.
Moreover, Princess Niloufer, born on January 4, was a celebrated figure known for her humanitarian work and advocacy for healthcare. Since 2017, following the initiative of eminent historian Arvind Acharya, DOBARA has annually marked her anniversary, drawing attention to her vital role in the establishment and support of healthcare for mothers and newborns in Hyderabad.
This year, the celebration blossomed with even greater energy and heart. Alongside the cherished tradition of seniors knitting baby bonnets for premature infants, volunteers lovingly created soft, cozy blankets. Especially in a touching ceremony at the hospital, more than 200 hand-knit bonnets and 100 blankets were shared, each one a heartfelt bridge between generations.
“This celebration is not only about remembering Princess Niloufer’s legacy but also about enabling our seniors to continue contributing meaningfully to society through acts of care and connection,” said Mateen Ansari, founder of DOBARA.
Elaborating on the spirit of the day, Mateen Ansari added, “At DOBARA, the celebration of Princess Niloufer is a tribute to women and child health inspired by her legacy. It comes to life today through Niloufer Hospital, the participation of seniors, and volunteers whose handcrafted warmth and shared presence reflect purpose, joy, and meaningful ageing. This reinforces our commitment to fostering belonging, dignity, and intergenerational bonding.”
Presentation on Princess Niloufer’s legacy
Following the distribution, an informative presentation on the life and legacy of Princess Niloufer was held from 1:00 pm to 1:45 pm. Students from MESCO School, hospital faculty, doctors, and nursing staff attended. The session provided historical context and highlighted the values of compassion, service, and social responsibility that defined the Princess’s work.
Meanwhile, a hospital representative present at the event noted, “The continued involvement of seniors and students through DOBARA brings warmth and humanity into healthcare spaces, reminding us that healing extends beyond medicine.”
The Princess Niloufer’s birth anniversary concluded by reinforcing the community spirit and intergenerational bonding central to DOBARA’s mission of promoting dignity, purpose, and inclusion in ageing.
