In Chamba, at the age of 107, when most people prefer the comfort of home and rest, Piyar Singh, also known as Master Piyar Singh, chose duty over comfort and stepped out to cast his vote in the Chamba Municipal Council elections on Sunday. His determination to exercise his democratic right became an inspiring moment for the town, reminding people that the spirit of democracy thrives through participation.
A Quiet Determination
A resident of Hatnala Mohalla near the historic Luxmi Narayan Temple, Piyar Singh arrived at the polling station with quiet confidence and enthusiasm, his daughter-in-law Jatinder Kaur said. Despite his age, he was determined to cast his vote and had repeatedly expressed his desire to participate in the democratic process. “He was very enthusiastic about voting and was sure that he would cast his vote,” she said proudly.
Family Support
Jatinder Kaur, originally from Amritsar, was married to Piyar Singh’s only son, Gurcharan Singh, who passed away around eight years ago. Piyar Singh now lives with Jatinder Kaur and his grandson, Aminder Singh, while Kaur’s daughter, who was married in Dharamshala, currently lives in Patiala.
A Life of Service
Born on April 5, 1920, Piyar Singh has witnessed India’s transformation through generations — from the era of kings to modern democracy. Kaur further said that Piyar Singh was a respected teacher who devoted his life to education and served as an instructor in Craft Carpenter Trade and Urdu at Government Boys Senior Secondary School, Chamba. During his student days, he was known for his brilliance in mathematics. Alongside academics, he was also an accomplished sportsman, she added.
Discipline and Resilience
“Even today, his disciplined lifestyle continues to inspire many. He strongly believes in staying active through regular walks and maintaining a simple routine. He is self-dependent even at 107 and manages many of his daily tasks on his own,” she said. However, due to his advanced age, Piyar Singh’s hearing has weakened considerably, and family members often communicate with him through gestures and signs to help him understand things clearly. Yet, despite personal loss and the challenges of age, Piyar Singh continues to radiate positivity and resilience.
