The founder, mentor and beloved
godmother of the PSBB Schools, a icon in the fields of education, arts and
culture, Mrs.YGP is no longer with us.
As I
attempt to pen a tribute to the legend that was Mrs.YGP, I balk at the enormity
of the task. A woman far ahead of her times, a multi-faceted personality, a
role model, an inspiration for generations of students and teachers, and above
all, a person overflowing with positivity and zest.
A true visionary, she was able to bring to life the
idea of top-notch, global education with an Indian ethos. She applied herself
with enthusiasm to the task, travelling the world to gather ideas and adapt
these to the needs of her students. Decades before 'learning by doing' became a
norm or even an aspiration, she gave her students laboratories not just for
science but also mathematics and language. She invited parents to observe
classroom activities to understand first-hand the style and quality of teaching
their children were receiving. Ever willing to try new ideas, she gave her
students and teachers the ability to challenge existing wisdom on pedagogy, and
built a great reputation for the school in academic excellence.
Equally, she immersed herself in ensuring all-round
development of students, and encouraged her students to excel in the sports
field and the stage, to appreciate all the fine things in life. At every school
event, she was a rapt observer and perceptive commentator, ever available with
feedback and encouragement.
Apart from her credentials as a world-class
educator, what endeared her further to us, were her credentials as a lifelong
student. What greater inspiration can there be for a student than to see this
dynamic lady studying for her doctorate at the ripe age of 70?
A good friend of mine had the fortune
of meeting her and listening to her give a speech, as succinctly as ever, at
the school annual day just weeks ago. I was not there, but I can picture her,
hear her crisp eloquence, pointed observations and fitting remarks.
It is my belief that she would want us
to not merely mourn her passing, but to celebrate a life well lived, to cherish
and to build on her legacy.
My humble salutations Shri Gurubhyo
Namaha to this teacher of teachers as she leaves, one last time, the
classroom that was her life.
I can almost hear a beaming Sukhi
Bhava in response.
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