Junagarh: At a time when teachers in government schools often play truant and take salaries without duties, here is a 60-year-old man who cycles 40km everyday to teach scores of needy students.
Binod Bihari Majhi of Junagarh, who will retire February 28, 2018, has been selflessly pursuing his passion of imparting education to the students of this village for 12 years now, winning respect and appreciation for his noble cause.
“Winter, summer or rain. He is there at school on time. He considers work to be worship. He has never demanded anything but only given free education,” a student of Majhi said. Born in Brahmaniguda under Charbhati panchayat of Junargarh block, Majhi started his career in February 10, 1979.
Initially, he was posted at a school in Kaniguma village under T Rampur block in Kalahandi district. Then, he was transferred to Surani and Rampadar schools of the same block before he joined Sapamundi Primary School in 2006.
His day starts with a prayer. Then he freshens up and takes his cycle and pedals up to Dundelmal panchayat from his house. Due to bad condition of the road, he keeps his cycle at a local’s house and treks through a dense forest to reach school.
After school, he again treks down the hills to Dundelmal panchayat from where he takes his cycle and pedals back home. This is the daily routine of Majhi for 12 years.
Even though senior officials are aware of his dedication and commitment, no one has recognized his work. But, he has no time for that. He prefers to believe in his principles and work.
“I don’t want recognition and prizes. I’m happy with my work as it is my passion to teach. I’m happy that I’m able to give back to society what I received from it. Many a time, I also have wished to enjoy a blissful life by joining a school in urban area, but my commitment to educate the poor has always helped me stay grounded,” Majhi said.
When contacted, locals expressed gratitude to Majhi for helping their children to gain education. If it wasn’t for Majhi, our children would have been tending cattle and working in farmlands today, a local said. PNN
