For most senior citizens, retirement means playing with grandchildren and relaxing in front of television. But for 70-plus Prof A.N. Gupta, a resident of Ramakrishnapuram in Secunderabad, it is the time to give back something to society. For the last ten years, he has been on a special journey – to motivate students of government high schools and make a difference in their lives. He has also released a book A Journey with Children encompassing all his experiences of visiting different schools and talking to the young boys and girls.
The special feature of his ‘journey’ is that he does all this free of cost. From different chapters like purpose and start of the journey and theme of lectures to meeting different students in schools and the significance of ‘Bharatiya’ way of greeting and world peace… the book with its simple narration makes for an interesting read.
Gupta, an M.Tech graduate has vast experience in different fields. From army (where he served for 20 years and was awarded for his meritorious service by the President) and working in a private industry and ophthalmic lenses factory to teaching business management in Hyderabad, his career is filled with exhilarating moments. Gupta recalls the day when he made the decision to motivate less-privileged students. “The journey started on September 21, 2002 during my morning walk near my house in Secunderabad cantonment,” smiles Gupta.
He felt an innate desire to talk to children who cross his way and teach them moral values like a grandfather does. “I visited the Zilla Parishad Boys’ school in Trimulgherry and my journey began,” he says.
His sessions are a mix of wit and his personal experiences. “I talk to them at their level. I once narrated how I was poor in maths but took help from my friends and my life changed. I tell them to look at the sacrifices their poor parents are making to send them to school and that they should not neglect their studies and become successful and good individuals.” Language was the major problem as he is not good at Telugu and his sessions are mostly in Hindi. He also revisits a few schools to talk to the new students. In all these years, he has covered more than 1000 government schools (a few private schools). He makes use of his wisdom, vast experience, discipline and clarity to clear students’ doubts too.
Since the summer vacation has ended and schools have reopened, his energy levels are high now. “I have to visit more schools and talk to more youngsters,” he says as a parting shot.
