I joined a primary school in ahmedabad district in 1951. I started with Gijubhai's philosophy which says, "we do not need to punish or penalise children, rather, there. is need to understand and love children." I started my very first day in school with this view. I offended almost every teacher colleague. They said, "these children are very notorious, unlike urban children. You better forget these good urban ideas." But I was determined to be a teacher !

Bhagwat, a Rajput child had challenged my determination. Seizing an opportunity, he 'broke' my hand and ran away home, about 8 miles away from school. Two days later, I personally fetched him from home and brought him to school. Bhagwat cried when he saw a plaster on my hand - by then he had understood me.

I met Bhagwat's father after ten years. He was very happy man. He told me that Bhagwat had become a police officer. with tearful eyes, he said, "You have transformed my son into a new being. We are very happy."

After almost ten years, the Principal of a B.Ed. college in ahmedabad informed me of Bhagwat's death. I was told that politicians, alcohol traders and criminals had murdered him. They added : "We have lost a honest and competent police officer."

I went to meet Bhagwat's father. He said, "Jyotibhai, I am very proud of Bhagwat. He has brought respect to our village and family. I am really very grateful to you. I had always thought that Bhagwat could never study, that is why I had sent him to you. You not only brought out a good human being in him but also a warrior. He died for his principles. I do not want any thing else from life."

He had tears in his eyes and the feeling of pride and satisfaction on his face cannot be expressed in words.

I got my hand fractured, Bhagwat gave his life ! I remembered the blessing of Gijubhai : love children do not punish them.
 
 

- Jyotibhai Desai