Dedication beyond retirement: Two octogenarian teachers who never stop inspiring

It is often said that retirement breeds rest and silence, but not for everyone. Some individuals, even in the twilight of their lives, continue to live with unmatched energy and purpose. On this Teacher’s Day, we bring to you the stories of two extraordinary teachers from Odisha whose post-retirement lives are more active and inspiring than ever.

Also Read: President honours two Odisha teachers on Teachers’ Day in New Delhi

In the small village of Kasei under Dharakote block in Ganjam district, 85-year-old retired teacher Dinabandhu Pradhan continues his daily ritual. With a towel on his shoulder, a pen in his hand, and a newspaper tucked under his arm, he walks briskly to the same school where he spent most of his service career.

Even now, without any salary or obligation, he arrives before the morning bell to teach children. His voluntary teaching has turned him into a living legend in the village. He simplifies the entire curriculum across all grades, and his passion for education has made him a role model among fellow teachers.

Equally inspiring is Chintamani Rout, an 85-year-old teacher from Kelapada village in Kujang block of Jagatsinghpur. Although he retired 25 years ago, he has never stopped teaching. For the past 26 years, he has been educating village students in a government school in Paschimeshwar—completely free of cost.

From mathematics and literature to English, his command of subjects is deeply respected. Many of his former students now hold prestigious positions in India and abroad. Proud of their success, Rout is regarded as an ideal teacher in the surrounding villages.

Both men are deeply concerned about today’s education system. Chintamani Rout believes that teachers today are often burdened with non-academic responsibilities, reducing their focus on teaching itself. Despite these changes, these two teachers exemplify the eternal values of dedication, discipline, and devotion to knowledge.

From ancient times to the modern era, teachers like Dinabandhu Pradhan and Chintamani Rout prove that while careers may end, the calling of a true teacher never does.

“Children are like the incarnations of God. Interacting with them and teaching them are matters of immense pleasure. By teaching them, I pass my leisure time, and they also benefit. Hence, I never feel tired at this age,” Dinabandhu Pradhan expressed.

“The present-day education system and the system of our times are completely different. The state government has been pressurising the school teachers in such a way that they are not in a condition to teach. They are keen to save their jobs instead,” Chintamani Rout said.

Reported By: Manoj Muni, Ramakanta Nayak