Sevasadan: A rich century of educational service

 

 

WHEN you plant a simple sapling, good soil alone isn’t enough; it requires daily watering, nourishment, and meticulous care. One must protect it with a parental instinct for it to transform into a tree. Today, the majestic tree named ‘Sevasadan’ has witnessed many seasons, and its shade is turning a hundred years old. I consider it a personal honour to work under the canopy of this venerable institution. I have served as the President of the institution since 2007. It was the persistent encouragement of Bapusaheb Bhagwat, Vasanti Bhagwat, and Rohini Godbole that led me to accept this significant responsibility. In the years that followed, we introduced the Junior College, CBSE School, Senior College, and NDA courses.

 

The campus has been beautified, and the school’s popularity has soared, which brings me immense joy. The journey of a hundred years has seen extraordinary progress, but the path was never easy. This milestone has been achieved by overcoming numerous struggles and obstacles. When I took over as President, the foundation had already been laid. A R Gokhale started the school, but it was the older generation of dedicated individuals who built the ‘Sevasadan Family’ through sheer hard work. I joined this family as a newcomer. The veteran members of the institution still strive for its betterment, and they have provided invaluable support in implementing new changes and initiatives. The grand stature that the institution holds today is a credit to their collective efforts. My late mother-in-law, Bhanutai Gadkari, had completed her Montessori training at this very institution; thus, I was well aware of its work and reputation. ‘Teamwork’ is the hallmark of Sevasadan.

 

Every individual here possesses an incredible sense of ‘parental’ ownership toward their duties. There is a deep-seated feeling of dedication, free from any internal skepticism. Trust and affection bind us together. If a decision falters, the spirit is not to blame, but to support and rectify. This unity is why the institution has flourished over the decades and continues to earn widespread acclaim. What greater success can there be than having every individual in an organisation driven by the singular goal of celebrating its centenary with excellence? Though I have worked with many organisations, I had no prior experience in the educational sector. Leading an institution that carries the mantle of Ramabai Ranade’s vision was a challenge. I had basic knowledge about her, but I spent time reading her biographies, understanding her struggles, and learning about her immense contribution to the women’s education movement. This understanding made my work easier. Most importantly, everyone in the institution accepted and integrated me warmly. Bapusaheb and Vasanti Bhagwat are senior to me in age and experience, and their support is exceptional. Sevasadan is their very breath.

 

The idea of the ‘Ramabai Ranade Smriti Shikshan-Prabodhan Puraskar’ was proposed by Bapusaheb Bhagwat. We decided to confer this award not upon an individual, but upon organisations working with a spirit of total dedication in the field of education. Despite her towering legacy, there was no award in Ramabai’s name; we changed that in 2016. Initially, we invited applications, but Nitin Ji (Nitin Gadkari) advised us to proactively search for deserving organisations instead. Today, this award is considered a prestigious honour in the educational world. We have embraced change with the evolving times. Recognising the need for digital education, we introduced smart boards. While some modern trends may be hard to reconcile with, we focus on how we can use change to enlighten students and society. The institution does everything possible to mould ‘ideal citizens.’

 

This has fostered an excellent rapport between teachers and parents. Since many students come from underprivileged backgrounds, our teachers have taken on the ‘emotional guardianship’ of the parents as well. From the 5th to the 10th grade, we strive to ensure students memorise one Stotra (hymn) every year. The vibrations, values, and significance of these hymns reach their homes through them. Many parents are labourers who work tirelessly to sustain their families. When these children bow down to greet elders or guests at dusk, the parents witness the true essence of the values (Sanskar) imparted by Sevasadan. From January 2, 2025, Sevasadan will embark on its centenary year celebrations. This year will be one of new resolve and fresh determination. We intend to begin the next phase of our journey through diverse initiatives throughout the year. Every step we take is aimed at making this journey more enriching. Knowledge brings humility; humility leads to worthiness. Worthiness leads to prosperity; prosperity enables righteous action (Dharma), and through Dharma comes true happiness. Educational service is our ‘Dharma,’ and by fulfilling it diligently, we aim to set an example for the world. Vidya Dadati Vinayam, Vinayadyati Patratam | Patratvaddhanamapnoti, Dhanaddharmam Tatah Sukham || (The author is President, Sevasadan Education Society.)