Celebrating a century: Mrs Velliamen Rayappen honoured

Mauritius's new centenarian, Mrs Velliamen Rayappen, was honoured on her 100th birthday during a ceremony organised by the Ministry of Social Integration, Social Security and National Solidarity at the Pavillon Hall in Quatre-Bornes on Saturday 18 July 2026.

The Minister of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy and Fisheries, Dr Arvin Boolell; the Chief Government Whip, Mrs Marie Geneviève Stéphanie Anquetil; and the Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, Mr Vedasingam Vasudevachariar Baloomoody, were among the guests present on the occasion.

Mrs Rayappen was offered several gifts from the Ministry of Social Integration, Social Security and National Solidarity, including a bouquet of flowers, a centenarian medal, a certificate, a cheque of Rs 26,203, and a cookware set. She also received a Special Telephone Service from the Mauritius Telecom. Additional gifts were offered by the Senior Citizens Council and a cheque of Rs 10,000 was also presented to her by the National Solidarity Fund.

The centenarian was born on 18 July 1926 and raised in Benares in a modest family environment. Her father was employed as a field worker at Moulin Benares while her mother was a housewife. Mrs Rayappen was born into a family of six children, comprising three sons and three daughters. She spent her childhood and early years in Benares and did not receive any formal education.

Mrs Rayappen entered into a civil marriage with Mr Ponsamy Rayappen, a resident of Quatre-Bornes. At the time of their marriage, Mr Rayappen was employed as a driver, while Mrs Rayappen devoted herself to family life and assisted her in-laws with agricultural activities. Their union was blessed with nine children. Sadly, Mr Rayappen passed away in 2000.

Mrs Rayappen is now blessed with 18 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren. She has always enjoyed a simple and traditional lifestyle and particularly appreciates vegetable-based meals. In her younger years, she took great pleasure in planting flowers, which was her favourite pastime.

Despite her advanced age, Mrs Rayappen enjoys relatively a good health. She does not suffer from any major illness apart from the natural effects of ageing. She is also known for her sharp memory and remains mentally alert. Mrs Rayappen attributes her longevity to hard work, a hygienic lifestyle, and her unwavering faith in God.

20 July 2026

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Topics: Social Security