The Unstoppable Spirit: A Passion for the Piano

It is never too late to pick up a hobby. Even at the age of 84, Mr M. Kr Bhattacharya is eagerly learning to play the piano. During a chat with a member of our calling team, he shared his love for music and spoke about the importance of learning new skills.

When we called to speak with our member, Mr. M. Kr. Bhattacharya, he was playing the piano. We immediately requested him to play something for us, and he graciously obliged with a rendition of the popular folk song ‘Shohag Chaand Bodoni Dhoni.’ As he finished his wonderful turn on the keys, we asked him about his diverse range of interests—football, cricket, singing, and piano. A mechanical engineer by profession, Mr. Bhattacharya later worked at a renowned shoe manufacturing company, where he was encouraged to represent the company in football. During his time there, he even played against the Indian team that once toured Indonesia.

His greatest passion, however, has always been singing. Trained as a vocalist, he has performed on stage and appeared on a show on a popular television channel. So, why did he decide to learn the piano? ‘As the years went by,’ he explained, ‘I became acutely aware that with age my voice would lose its sheen and power. I love music too much to give it up and decided to do something about it. Five or six years ago, I visited a store on Park Street that sells musical instruments. They suggested I start learning the piano and even introduced me to a teacher.’ Mr. Bhattacharya embraced the suggestion and began his lessons. He soon found immense joy in playing the piano. Today, he continues his lessons and shows no interest in exploring other instruments. ‘I am really enjoying it,’ he said. ‘I have rediscovered music in a new way.’

Before ending our chat, Mr. Bhattacharya treated us to another taste of his piano skills, playing the rest of ‘Shohag Chaand Bodoni Dhoni.’ The lively rhythm of his playing transported us to another time and place. As we listened, we were deeply touched by his energetic spirit and felt that anything is possible if we put our hearts and minds to it.



(As narrated to Support Elders by our member)