“A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops.” – Henry Adams
The Legacy of Chanda Sir: More Than Just a Teacher
He was an octogenarian with thick, completely white hair crowning his intellectual forehead. His regal style, pure accent, and resounding voice captivated us. We admired his age, energy, and wisdom, and his playful puns and mischievous sarcasm remain fond memories. His teachings were like “dev-vani”—true and profound. We laughed when he laughed, and we grew nervous when his brows furrowed. In that small room, huddled with our notebooks, we absorbed every word, believing his teachings would guide us through exams and life.
The teachers of our time didn’t just teach subjects; they imparted life lessons. When he mentioned boyfriends, we blushed; when he cautioned us against poor decisions, we took heed. His words carried weight, and we knew he genuinely wished us well. He wanted us to excel in English and to grow as good human beings. After graduation, I felt proud to have done justice to his teachings by pursuing a Master’s degree and teaching in a school.
I intended to share this news with him, but a few days later, I learned he had passed away. I couldn’t bring myself to visit his house. Every time I pass the gate of his colony, my heart sinks, and my eyes soften with gratitude for the guidance he provided. He taught us to think, dream, and cherish moments in English. That was Chanda Sir. He continues to live within me.
The Quiet Encouragement of Sunderasena Miss: A Lesson in Perseverance
I stood in a corner of the school lobby, nervously scanning my mark sheet. My hands shook, and a chill ran down my spine as I contemplated my parents’ reaction to my results. Suddenly, I felt a gentle touch on my head. It was Sunderasena Miss, our English teacher, smiling at me for what felt like the first time. “I am so happy with your English marks. I never imagined you would score so well,” she said. I smiled back, the first smile I ever directed at her during my school years.
Sunderasena Miss, with her simple taste and ordinary saree, was always a strict teacher. I often felt she was unjust in her grading, favoring my more outgoing and influential classmates. As an introvert, I rarely participated unless pushed, preferring to stay invisible. She would enter the class and start teaching with great seriousness, occasionally sharing childhood memories.
Lessons Beyond the Classroom: Beauty in Thought and Deed
She taught us that beauty isn’t about looks but about our thoughts and actions. She often shared stories about her classmate, the Silver Screen Diva Rekha, who transformed from an awkward young girl into one of Bollywood’s most enigmatic beauties. These stories inspired us to dream of becoming our best selves, even imagining ourselves with wings. Despite my occasional resentment towards her strictness, her final words on result day melted away my frustrations. I felt a sense of unity as I bent down to touch her feet and smiled, realizing she had been rooting for me all along.
Sunderasena Miss remains in my heart, a strict yet loving English teacher who trained us for our board exams. She taught us that discipline, hard work, and inner beauty are the keys to success. Though our interactions were often fraught with misunderstanding, her influence on my life is undeniable.
A Tribute to All Teachers: Shaping Futures Beyond the Classroom
Teachers do more than teach; they shape futures, instill values, and leave lasting imprints on their students. From the playful sarcasm of Chanda Sir to the stern encouragement of Sunderasena Miss, these educators guide us in ways that extend far beyond the classroom. They are the unseen architects of our successes, quietly molding us into who we become.
To all the teachers who have touched our lives, your influence endures. We carry your lessons, wisdom, and love within us, forever grateful for the roles you played. You are not just teachers; you are eternal influences, shaping generations in ways that can never be fully measured.
Happy Teacher’s Day to all the incredible educators who continue to inspire us, wherever you are!
By Bidisha Dutta
An avid traveller and a lover of literature, Bidisha Dutta works as an Editor with a renowned publishing firm. . Writing and reading is her second nature, and she just cannot sit in peace without these. She can be reached at bidishadutta2000@gmail.com.
Facebook Comments