Another Centenarian Celebrated: Mrs Dunmateea Bheenick turns 100
Society
On Saturday, May 10, 2025, a heart-warming celebration took place in Petit Raffray as the Ministry of Social Integration, Social Security and National Solidarity marked the 100th birthday of Mrs Dunmateea Bheenick in the company of her family members.
During the special occasion, Mr Dhanraj Kissoon, Chairperson of the District Council of Flacq, had the honour of presenting Mrs Bheenick with several tokens of appreciation from the government.
Life Journey and Family
Mrs Dunmateea Bheenick’s remarkable life began on May 10, 1925, in Triolet. She grew up in a family of four children and is now the sole surviving member, highlighting the passage of time and the significance of her longevity. Her father’s work evolved from being a fisherman to a self-employed retailer of foodstuffs, showcasing the family’s resilience and entrepreneurial spirit. Her mother dedicated her life to managing the household.
Mrs Bheenick’s formal education extended to Standard III at Plaine Verte Government School. She later married Mr Doorgasingh Bheenick, who dedicated his career to education, first as a primary school teacher and subsequently as a respected school headmaster. Sadly, Mr Bheenick passed away in 1980. As a homemaker, Mrs Bheenick actively contributed to the family’s sustenance by cultivating a variety of produce in her yard, including vegetables, sweet potatoes, tapioca, and bananas. She also engaged in cow rearing, demonstrating a self-sufficient lifestyle.
Their union was blessed with ten children – six sons and four daughters – although two have since passed away. Mrs Bheenick’s legacy continues through her 19 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren, illustrating the rich tapestry of her family.
Secrets to Longevity
When asked about the key to her long and healthy life, Mrs Bheenick credited a diet of locally sourced fresh produce, lifelong physical activity, and her unwavering faith in God, emphasizing the importance of natural foods, movement, and inner peace.
This celebration not only honoured a remarkable individual, Mrs Dunmateea Bheenick, and her century of life, but also resonated as a potent reminder of the enduring pillars that often underpin longevity: the steadfast embrace of family, the vital network of community support, and the conscious cultivation of a healthy lifestyle.
Mrs Bheenick’s milestone serves as an inspiring testament to the strength found in intergenerational bonds, the comfort and security offered by a connected community, and the profound benefits of nourishing the body with natural sustenance and maintaining physical vitality.
Mauritius Times ePaper Friday 16 May 2025
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