Mangalore: Fitness has become a casualty with changing lifestyles, even among those in their 30s and 40s. But at 100, Michael D’Souza’s faculties are sharp and he dabbles in many an activity.
The Mangalore resident goes about his daily chores without the help of anybody. Having celebrated his 100th birthday recently, he is only growing younger at heart. His driving capabilities at this age can stump even young drivers.
He is perhaps the senior-most driving licence holder in Mangalore. D’Souza’s licence was renewed recently with a validity of five years and he hopes to get it renewed again.
“The RTO has told me that they are ready to renew my licence as and when its validity ends,” he said with an air of pride. He was speaking at an interaction and felicitation programme organised by a group of civilians in the city on Monday.
Born and brought up in Ooty in Tamil Nadu, Robert settled in Mangalore post-Independence. He spent 10 years of his youth as a soldier in the Indian army during British rule and quit the job to join the Public Works Department (PWD).
He vividly remembers his days with PWD in Mysore, when he got an opportunity to work for the KRS dam under the guidance of Sir M Visvesvaraya.
“I have seen him at least 15 times, when he used to visit the construction spot to give instructions,” the centenarian says, adding that he had also worked with Field Marshal Cariappa during his stint in the military. Retired life brought him boredom, thus he kept himself busy by venturing into various fields.
“I ran a shop, was a mechanic, was a driver of heavy vehicles and what not. I have tried my hands at almost everything,” he says.
Proper intake of food is the secret of his health, says D’Souza. “Food used to be organic till a few decades ago. Now, I make it a point to eat less, so that my system is not overloaded.”People close to him say that he was never admitted to a hospital and has not taken medicines. However, on his 100th birthday, Robert felt slightly uneasy due to which he could not attend the celebrations.
When asked what was his message to the youth, he said, “Do not drink and drive. Drinking and driving will result in accidents and please don’t harm the lives of others.”
