For disciples, a preceptor is believed to be above parents. The tradition of teacher-pupil relations is held sacred.
Some students in Kendrapara were seen upholding this tradition at Kaema Domanda village under the Rajkanika block in a farewell to their guru, who has dedicated 29 years of his life to teaching children.
From a distance, it appeared to be a wedding ceremony. On closer look, it was indeed a grand procession taken out by students (alumni) and villagers to bid farewell to their teacher Nizamuddin Shah, who retired from his service at the local Upper Primary school after 29 years. The retired teacher was seated on a decorated chariot which was moved in a procession in the locality.
People and students lovingly call him Nizam Sir. He is a native of Ersama in Jagatsinghpur. He started his teaching career in 1990 in Kaema Domanda UP School. Many teachers did not like to stay at the school, because of its accessibility. But Nizam stayed in the village and taught students regardless of the accessibility woes.
In the three decades of his teaching, many students after passing out of the school have established themselves in various sectors.
Baijayanti Dhal, one of his students said, "Nizam Sir taught in the school for 29 years. He has even taught the children of some of his students.”
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Biswambar Behuria, a villager said, "We the villagers have a cordial relationship with the teacher. Because of his dedicated teaching, many students have become successful.”
Ratikant Panda, another former student said, "Nizam Sir has retired from his job, but he has not taken retirement from our hearts.”
Beaming with happiness, Nizamuddin said, "I have been a member of the families of my students. The villagers have treated me as their son. I have never neglected my duty toward them. I feel honoured the way they gave me this farewell.”