In a small village in Kerala, a heart-warming story is winning the admiration of many. A 105-year-old man, who has seen the world move from bullock carts to bullet trains, has now stepped into the digital age by learning how to use a smartphone and other basic digital tools. His achievement has been described by local officials as both extraordinary and inspiring, showing that learning truly has no age limit.

The centenarian, who grew up in an era when formal education was limited and even a radio set was considered a luxury, now takes pride in swiping a screen and making video calls to his relatives. For the younger generation, this may appear a small task, but for someone of his age, it is nothing short of remarkable.

A Journey into the Digital Era

According to reports, the elderly man from Kerala had always been curious about the world around him. Over the last few years, he would often watch his grandchildren use mobile phones and wondered how such small devices could connect people across the globe. It was this curiosity that encouraged him to take the first step towards digital literacy.

With the help of a local digital literacy programme supported by panchayat officials and volunteers, he was introduced to the basics of operating a smartphone. Starting from learning how to unlock the device, he was gradually trained to type simple messages, search for information and even participate in online video calls. His instructors were surprised by his patience and eagerness, qualities that helped him overcome the natural challenges of eyesight and slow reflexes that come with old age.
The training sessions also highlighted the emotional side of the story. For the first time, the old man could see his relatives living abroad without travelling anywhere. When he succeeded in making his first video call, his family broke into applause. What was ordinary for the younger generation became extraordinary for him, turning that day into a landmark in his long life.

A Symbol of Inclusion and Change

Kerala has always been known for its high literacy rate and progressive social policies. Yet, digital literacy remains a challenge, particularly among the elderly and rural population. The story of the 105-year-old highlights how inclusive programmes can transform lives.
Officials from the state’s Akshaya digital mission pointed out that such efforts are not only about technology but also about creating social awareness. Digital illiteracy often isolates aged citizens and prevents them from enjoying government services that are now largely online. By learning how to use a smartphone, the elderly man has symbolically joined the mainstream of India’s rapidly changing digital society.

Neighbours and villagers have lauded his effort, saying that he has become a local role model. His determination has also encouraged other senior citizens in the area to come forward and seek training. This has given a fresh push to the digital literacy movement, which is being widely promoted across the country to ensure that no citizen is left behind.
‘Learning Has No Age Bar’
In interviews with local media, the 105-year-old expressed his happiness at being able to learn something new even at this stage in life. With a broad smile, he remarked that he now feels connected with the modern world, and jokingly added that he will no longer require his grandchildren to read messages aloud to him.

Health experts have observed a positive dimension to this achievement too. For elders, keeping the mind active through engaging activities such as learning technology helps in reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness. It also gives them a sense of empowerment, which contributes to overall well-being.
The centenarian’s digital literacy has quickly become a subject of public celebration. Local officials are considering recognising him as one of the oldest beneficiaries of the state’s digital literacy drive. For many, this is not only a personal success story but the starting point of a wider social change.

A Message for the Future

The story of the Kerala elder has spread far beyond his village, travelling through news channels and social media platforms. Many people have expressed admiration, while some have shared how their own parents and grandparents are also trying to learn digital skills. The narrative has sparked a larger discussion on how society must continue to create more opportunities for elderly citizens to embrace technology.

As India continues to march swiftly towards becoming a digital-first country, examples like this stand out as reminders that technology is not only for the young. It can and must be inclusive, reaching even those who have crossed a hundred years of age.

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