Daijiworld Media Network – Bantwal
Bantwal, Nov 23: Have you ever seen a 90-year-old teacher still taking classes every day? In Bantwal taluk of Dakshina Kannada district lives such an inspiring teacher — K Subraya Bhat, who has dedicated his entire life to Kannada and to improving the quality of education for rural children.
A retired headmaster, Subraya Bhat now resides at an old-age home in Mura near Bantwal. Every morning, he travels by auto-rickshaw to Kedila Aided Higher Primary School, where he teaches Kannada and mathematics till noon — without accepting any remuneration. Instead, he spends his own money to support students and contribute to the school’s development.
Bhat completed his schooling at the same Kedila school and began his teaching career there in 1956. After serving for 37 years, he retired as headmaster in 1993. He later moved to Bengaluru and lived there for a few years. After his wife’s passing, he returned to his hometown and resumed his passion for teaching. For the past three years, he has been teaching again at his alma mater, finding joy and purpose in being around children.
Subraya Master strongly believes that children must learn to read and write Kannada accurately, develop clear pronunciation, and maintain neat handwriting. To strengthen their Kannada foundation, he revises lessons taught by other teachers while also teaching Mathematics and encouraging students to love the subject.
He rewards students who demonstrate good handwriting, clear pronunciation, correct recitation of multiplication tables, and academic excellence with gifts like pens, books, and utensils. He also distributes moral storybooks and epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata to instil values in them. For his students, he is not just a teacher but a beloved mentor.
The Kedila School, established in 1907, had witnessed a steep decline in student enrollment over the years. Determined to save his beloved institution from closure, Bhat donated Rs 15 lac from his savings for the school’s development. He also raised over Rs 3 lac from the public to pay guest teachers’ honorariums.
His tireless efforts helped revive the school. English classes were introduced alongside Kannada, leading to a significant increase in student numbers—nearly doubling or tripling in recent years. Though age now limits him to teaching only till noon, Bhat continues to dedicate his time and resources to nurturing children and helping the underprivileged.
Even at 90, K Subraya Bhat stands as a shining example of selfless service, unwavering commitment to education, and a deep love for the Kannada language — truly a model teacher and an inspiration to all.