104-year-old Haleema Andikkadan flagging off the mega excursion at Kottakkunnu, Malappuram, on Tuesday.
| Photo Credit: SAKEER HUSSAIN
October 7, 2025 etched itself into the memories of over 3,000 elderly souls from Malappuram municipality as they embarked on an unforgettable journey to Wayanad on Tuesday.
Thanks to a pioneering and bold initiative by Malappuram municipality, the mega excursion claimed the title of the largest elderly outing ever undertaken in the world.
As many as 3,180 seniors, spanning ages 60 to 104 from all 40 wards of the municipality, united for this historic adventure. Most of them said they never experienced such bonhomie and joy in recent memory.
Orchestrating a logistical marvel, the municipality defied conventional travel norms by deploying 83 luxurious coaches, with additional backups stationed at Thamarassery and Kalpetta.
Umbrellas creating a kaleidoscopic canopy of bright green and yellow at Kottakkunnu, Malappuram.
| Photo Credit:
SAKEER HUSSAIN
Six spacious auditoriums were secured to host breakfast, lunch and dinner. A dedicated corps of medical professionals comprising doctors, nurses and pharmacists accompanied the entourage with five ambulances, ensuring a safe and joyous experience for all.
“This grand tour is more than just a visit to Wayanad. It is a testament to our love and support for our elderly. We want to assure them, without a doubt, that they hold a cherished place in our hearts. We also want to assure them that we will stand by them always,” said municipal chairman Mujeeb Kaderi.
An aerial view of the elderly people before they set out on their historic excursion to Wayanad on Tuesday.
| Photo Credit:
SAKEER HUSSAIN
The day’s excitement began at Kottakkunnu, the scenic table-top tourist hotspot in Malappuram town, as 104-year-old Haleema Andikkadan flagged off the picnic at 6.30 a.m.
Moments later, 3,180 umbrellas gifted by the municipality blossomed into a kaleidoscope of yellow and green, creating a breathtaking spectacle that delighted photographers, who captured stunning drone footage of the colourful display.
The procession started as 83 buses left Malappuram carrying elderly passengers. Many had their first outing experience. Karthyayini, likely in her 80s, smiled, saying, “this is my first-ever excursion like this.”
A group of participants during a photo op with Malappuram municipal officials.
| Photo Credit:
SAKEER HUSSAIN
People welcomed the excursion by showering flower petals on the buses at various points along the route. The Churam Samrakshana Samiti, a dedicated voluntary group focused on preserving the Wayanad ghat road, lent a helping hand to minimise traffic congestion. Through social media, they requested the people to refrain from visiting Wayanad on Tuesday in order to allow the Malappuram elderly a hassle-free trip.
As many as 320 volunteers joined the trip, providing guidance and support to the elderly. The group explored Pookode Lake and Karapuzha Dam in separate groups, and made their way back down the Wayanad hills by evening.
A few elderly women sharing their joy during the trip to Wayanad on Tuesday.
| Photo Credit:
SAKEER HUSSAIN
Representatives from Universal Records Forum (URF) joined the trip to verify and document the event, aiming to confirm a world record for the largest elderly excursion.
“It is indeed a record; but what is more significant is the emotional connection it creates – a heart-warming experience for everyone involved,” said Mr. Kaderi.
The municipality spent ₹40 lakh for the trip, combining its plan funds with additional sponsorships to make the event possible.
Published – October 07, 2025 10:13 pm IST
