It's Time For Samvaad - Let's Get Social 2023

Intergenerational dialogues rock our boat. And the ramp too! Here’s all about collaborating on fashion between generations at our upcoming mega event — Samvaad: Let’s Get Social 2023!

Ravi Acharya never quite thought he would find himself walking down the ramp in a fashion show. But he is all set to do that this Saturday, as Silver Talkies celebrates Samvaad- Let's Get Social 2023. Samvaad is a unique event that brings together members of the Silver Talkies Club and the younger generation. The event focuses on active ageing and cooperation between different generations.

What made Ravi agree to a ramp walk? His candid reply is that with fewer inhibitions and a lifetime of learning, why not try this out too? Ravi is no stranger to intergenerational associations, having been part of a social movement with many youngsters in his neighbourhood. Many members of The Silver Talkies Club, like Ravi, are trying new experiences at Samvaad. They are participating in a fashion show, a musical extravaganza, an art show, a dance, and a theatre performance.

WHAT IS SAMVAAD- LET'S GET SOCIAL 2023

The theme of World Elder’s Day 2023 (which was on Oct 1) is "Fulfilling the Promises of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights for Older Persons: Across Generations." By the mid-2050s in India, we will have more people aged 65 and above than those under 15. SAMVAAD -- Let's Get Social 2023 will present talented seniors from the Silver Talkies Club, working with the youth in an attempt to change mindsets and turn stereotypes on their heads.

One of the highlights at Samvaad is the fashion show called Journey Back to Youth. In this show, members of the Silver Talkies Club will walk the runway, styled and choreographed by students from the JD School of Design powered by JD Institute of Fashion Technology. This special show tells the story of life, featuring the best of each life stage and their values. It shows how each generation adapts to the present. With stylists and designers of today and models who have gained all the wisdom of the world, this show is definitely one of a kind.

Homai Baria, an enthusiastic Silver Talkies Club member from Chennai is all set to twirl on stage, something close to her heart from the younger days. Homai's first feel of fashion was at 18, when she was "full of josh" and went for an evening outing with a cousin after visiting the beauty parlour. "I was wearing a pretty mini dress, high heels, matching earrings and accessories. We danced away the night and I felt on top of the world," Homai says. Since then, the vibrant grandmother, dancer and actor has not consciously followed fashion but has always been aware of the trends. Kurtas, midi dresses and churidars were her regular wear, much like Mumtaz, her fashion icon of that time. 

"Mumtaz's beehive hairdo, churidars and short tops and dupattas were the rage of that time."- Homai Baria, Silver Talkies Club member

Ravi found one of the students he was working with resonating his own interpretation of fashion or at least personal style. "The student admired her grandmother's fashion sense and loved her neat and crisp cotton sarees." It reminded Ravi of the habit of neatness he inherited from his own father, a well-groomed gentleman, whose way of being immaculately dressed had a deep impact on his own life."

For stylist Anshul Rander too, the older generation has been an inspiration. "My grandmother has been a great inspiration throughout my life, influencing my fashion choices as a child, and even encouraging me to pursue fashion designing. Even at the age of 85, she was perfectly skilled in threading a needle and stitching or making amends in older garments. Upcycling is a very important value I've learnt from her," Anshul says.

Suma M, Academic Manager, JD School of Design powered by JD Institute of Fashion Technology, says the highlight of the event is the focus on the seniors who are illustrating the beauty of intergenerational connections. "In today’s time, every group of elderly is becoming fashion forward and have a deep inclination towards technology. Be it asking gazillion questions about mobile phones, smart watches or TV to their kids or grandkids or learning to experiment with their outfits and style by imbibing the energy of youngsters, the elderly population shows the impact that today’s generation is making and how the learning channel is both ways."

"In a world often divided by generational gaps, this fashion show fosters empathy, understanding, and shared experiences that break down the barriers, and showcase how we are all connected, regardless of our age.”

- Suma M, Academic Manager, JD School of Design powered by JD Institute of Fashion Technology.

Being understood by the younger generation boosts energy levels and broadens horizons. During SAMVAAD-Let's Get Social 2023 preparations, it was fascinating to hear stories of participating members adding new words to their vocabulary, such as "Bumble", during rehearsals with young professionals. SAMVAAD means "conversations." Silver Talkies created SAMVAAD for meaningful conversations that promote awareness, exclusivity, and inclusion. SAMVAAD- Let's Get Social 2023 is an opportunity for two generations to come closer, collaborate and in the process, gain empathy and compassion towards each other.

- Nidhi Chawla, CEO & Co-Founder, Silver Talkies

"I really feel fashion is what you make of it," says Homai, who loves all things bright and beautiful and celebrates age and the opportunities it has brought her, very often through the bonds she shares with younger people around her. There couldn't be a better summary for this vibrant intergenerational event than that.

We hope you are going for Samvaad-Let's Get Social 2023. Share the joy with us by posting your thoughts about the show here or on our social media page!