I don’t know when it began, but I have always had a sense of affection toward the elderly. Over time, looking back at the friends I have, I notice a lot of silver-haired, gold-hearted people. Clearly, there has been something about their grounded, wise, and simple ways of looking at life that has brought me joy, and I notice the youth in their eyes as well when we are together. Intergenerational friendships are as special as any other bonds, if not more.

But as I have gone through life and spoken to more people, I realize over 15 million elderlies in India live by themselves. While they may have found ways to fulfill their utility needs, they often lead isolated lives be it because of the loss of a companion or genuinely busy families.

Today, by my side, stands a small but strong group of empathetic young graduates and professionals, who just like myself have found friends and love in elderlies in their own life, and now wish to bring the same bonds and friendship to many who seek it.  

After a successful beta test over several months full of learning, we have come to realize this is in fact the right way. We believe in this with full hearts, we believe in the love and comfort a bond between generations can bring, and we will continue to pursue it with all the empathy and sensitivity we can muster.

With the trust and faith that our Grandpals and their families have put in us, I can say with great confidence: The Goodfellows are Coming!
~ Shantanu Naidu, Founder