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What makes teachers so very special?

Last Updated 08 September 2011, 12:01 IST
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''It’s more the sort of thing girls would notice,'' said Satish, “but I have observed that her slippers are nearly worn out.” “Rani Ma’am’s saris are awful too,” said Jane. “We’ve seen her in that faded orange several times, besides an ancient blue. On special occasions she wears her one and only...”

“Purple silk!” finished Aruna.

Rajesh laughed. “Girls think of nothing but clothes,” he said. “Has it occurred to you that Rani Ma’am may not be well off?”

“Of course I know that,” said Aruna. “In fact, very few at school are as privileged as the four of us. Little Sarita hardly visits the cafeteria because she finds even the subsidised snacks expensive. I believe her parents can barely afford to educate her. As for Rani Ma’am,” went on Aruna, “I don’t mean to sound scornful. She’s a wonderful teacher and a fine human being. I just wish she were better dressed for her own sake. I’ve heard her colleagues make unkind comments.”

“I wonder why Rani Ma’am is so poorly turned out,” said Satish. “After all, teachers’ salaries — in our school, at least — aren’t too bad. Other members of the staff don’t strike me as impoverished.”

“There could be problems at home,” said Jane. “I heard that there was illness in Rani Ma’am’s family a year ago. Maybe she incurred a lot of medical expenses then, and is repaying loans.”

“It’s no use wondering where her money goes,” said Rajesh briskly. “As Aruna says, Rani Ma’am is a good person. How about doing something for her?”

“Great idea!” agreed Satish. “A present would be perfect.”

“Footwear,” said Jane promptly.

“Purse,” suggested Aruna.

“We’ll leave that to both of you to decide,” said Rajesh, smiling. “Satish and I will share
the cost.”

The foursome waited impatiently for the 5th of September. They had spent generously from their pocket money, and were so excited about the handbag and sandals they had got their teacher that they kept whispering to each other during class.

“Whatever is the matter?” demanded Rani Ma’am. “Is there something wrong with the way I look?” This was so near the mark that Aruna, Satish, Jane and Rajesh could not help giggling.

On Teachers’ Day, after the usual celebrations and the departure of the other students, the four of them lurked in a small room, waiting for Rani Ma’am to lock up her books and leave for home.

Much to their annoyance they spotted Sarita in the corridor. “What on earth is she doing here?” hissed Aruna. The last thing the children wanted was for anyone to see them handing over the parcel.

Rani Ma’am was evidently expecting Sarita, for she greeted her warmly. “Sorry I’ve left it till the last minute, dear,” said the teacher.

“A circular came round this afternoon, stating that fees must be paid by the 6th.” Handing Sarita an envelope, she added: “Give this to your mother as soon as you get back, and tell her to make the payment tomorrow morning.”

As they watched Rani Ma’am and Sarita leave the premises, Aruna, Satish, Jane and Rajesh forgot the Teachers’ Day gift. Somehow, Rani Ma’am’s appearance didn’t seem to matter anymore. As far as the children were concerned, although she was far from elegantly attired, she was a model — their role model.

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(Published 08 September 2011, 12:01 IST)

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