Sunset years turn gold in Agra

Taj Mahal, the monument of love is said to look spectacular on a full moon night. But, if a fast growing section of its residents are anything to go by, then this city is perfect at sunset (read sunset years). Well, according to its locals, over the years, Agra has become a popular destination among of many senior citizens and retirees to settle down and celebrate their silver years. A very socialising culture that the city inhibits is its greatest advantage, points Arinudh Kumar. "Many of my father's colleagues, who were transferred during their last few years of service settled down here. Agra is unlike other metro cities, which are very fast placed and have a very nuclear setting. There's a lot of socialising and people give each other a lot of time," he says. Agrees Ashit Kumar Das, who worked for a tea company in Tundla. Though his native place is Kolkata, Das chose to drop anchor in Agra because, "People in Agra are helpful and do not let you feel that you are an outsider." Add to that a wholesome environment. Yes, thanks to a world heritage monument, polluting industries have been banned in the vicinity of the city. So, that makes it a metro city were one can breathe clean air! Most of the senior citizens from up north, near the capital, also consider factors like safety and cost of living. Says Ipe M. Ipe, former principal of Agra's St John's College, "The law and order situation is much better than in Greater Noida or Gurgaon. And people with modest means can also own a house in Agra." Moinuddin Raja, who retired from a government job two years ago, also points out that the power situation in Agra is much better than in most other cities of Uttar Pradesh. "And the connectivity to Delhi allows us to visit our relatives and holy places around too." "So, here we can afford a home and a quality life with our retirement funds, as the savings are often used up for the education and marriage of our children," he says. And if for nothing else, then maybe Retired Col. Shiv Kunzru's concept may suffice, "Who would like to live in a nondescript place, an address that can lead to several supplementary questions? Agra needs no definition, go to any part of the world."