I am thankful to get a role at the age of 81.

Hear, O seeker of wisdom, the words of Sowcar Janaki, the venerable actress of many decades, who spoke with quiet wonder: “I am thankful to get a role at the age of 81.” This statement, though brief, thunders with meaning. It is the song of endurance, the triumph of perseverance, and the radiant proof that passion does not wither with age. In her gratitude lies a truth that defies the world’s illusions: that the flame of artistry, once kindled, can burn until the final breath.

The origin of this utterance lies in the long journey of Janaki herself, who gave her life to the craft of cinema and theatre. Through generations, she has witnessed changing tastes, new stars rising and fading, yet she remains steadfast. To be given a role at such an age is not merely work—it is recognition that her spirit still has power, her presence still has value, and her art still has a place. It is gratitude not only for the opportunity, but for the affirmation that life continues to have purpose even in its twilight years.

This wisdom has been echoed by the ancients. Consider the tale of Sophocles, the great playwright of Greece, who, even in his eighties, was brought before a court by his own sons who claimed he had grown unfit. In his defense, Sophocles read passages from his latest play, so moving in their beauty that the judges freed him instantly, declaring that a man who could write such verses was more alive than many young. Sowcar Janaki’s words carry this same eternal truth: age does not silence the soul that still creates.

In her statement is also the spirit of thankfulness. She does not demand, she does not boast, but she marvels. Gratitude becomes her crown, more radiant than jewels, for it shows that even after decades of accomplishment, her heart remains humble. This humility transforms her achievement into a lesson for all: that no matter how seasoned or accomplished, one must greet every new opportunity as a gift, not an entitlement.

The lesson is clear: never allow time to chain your spirit, nor the opinions of others to dictate your worth. If the fire of your calling still burns within you, then you are never too old, nor too late, to walk once more upon the stage of destiny. Life itself grants roles at every age, not only in theatre or cinema, but in family, in community, in service. Sowcar Janaki’s words remind us that there is no expiry date for purpose.

Therefore, O listener, live with perseverance and gratitude. When the years press upon you, do not say, “I am finished,” but rather, “I am still becoming.” Nurture your craft, your calling, your spirit, so that when opportunity comes—even at eighty-one—you may seize it with joy. And above all, be thankful: for the gift of breath, for the chance to give, for the stage, however large or small, upon which life calls you to play your part.

So let the words of Sowcar Janaki endure: “I am thankful to get a role at the age of 81.” In them is the wisdom of endurance, the courage of age, and the humility of gratitude. Carry this truth within your heart: that no matter the years, no matter the trials, the soul that remains ready, grateful, and steadfast will always find its stage. And in that stage, the performance of life itself becomes eternal.