In my high school years in a small town of Bengal, I used to be a terrible student. I use the word ‘terrible’ because I had lost interest in my studies, did not like my teachers and was trapped in a vicious cycle of criticism. After four years of not performing well came the time of the board examinations. Following this, it was decided I would relocate to Calcutta for better academic opportunities. My parents were sure it would be quite challenging given my high school academic record.

In Calcutta, my mother took me to a coaching centre near my house. They gave me a test. I performed poorly, leaving the owner — an aged teacher with a house full of books — disappointed. The owner, Nishit Sir, asked me to come back another day and meet the English teacher at the centre. The next day, this English teacher asked me a few interesting general knowledge questions which I couldn’t answer. Clearly, I was a lost cause.

I went home dejected but a few days later, Nishit Sir called saying the English teacher wanted to take me under his wing and had convinced him. For the next two years, I didn’t just study the literary texts in the syllabus, but every book, poetry and story that I could lay my hands on. He taught me to read voraciously, believe in myself and be constantly curious about the world.

Years later, before Nishit Sir passed away he told me how he had been convinced. My teacher had told him, “This girl has unrealised dreams and a hunger for knowledge that she isn’t aware of. If I don’t show her the beacon light today, she will be lost like many others.” That was my #MyMagician – a teacher who had gifted me a new lease of life. If it wasn’t for him, I wouldn’t have half the confidence to explore new territories, learn new things and find eternal joy in the company of books. Every time I think of my journey, I thank him profusely and hope that every student finds a teacher like him.

Have you taken a pause to acknowledge your #magicians ?