At an age when most of the elderly people are perceived fit for either visiting temples or morning walks by their family, Ramnath Gupta of Gwalior is determined to obtain a Masters degree in literature despite being an octogenarian.
By Ashok Pal
Gwalior, March 30 : At an age when most of the elderly people are perceived fit for either visiting temples or morning walks by their family, Ramnath Gupta of Gwalior is determined to obtain a Masters' degree in literature despite being an octogenarian.
Ramnath was driven to take up studies due to the void created by his beloved wife's demise. He developed a desire to learn something new. And, today, he has already cleared his first year exams and presently taking the final year exams as well from Gwalior's Madhav College under Jivaji University.
"After the death of my wife, I used to read a lot of newspapers, which even included English newspapers. I thought of utilizing my time by appearing in the Master degree exams," said Ramnath Gupta, the octogenarian.
He already holds a Bachelor's degree in commerce that he did in 1950. But didn't study further due to then being family's only breadwinner. He took up a job in accounts and retired as an auditor with the office of the Accountant General.
But he didn't leave his passion for studying just anything. It added to his confidence of passing the examination and obtaining a Masters' degree.
Ramnath's children; a son and a daughter are doctors by profession. But he lives a lonely life here.
His willingness to continue studies at such an age even impressed his college Principal.
"In private studies, there is no age bar. Last year, he (Ramnath) appeared for M.A first year exams and now he is giving the second term. After noticing him, all I can say is that one should have the zeal and positive outlook towards life. He is eager to learn something new, which is truly inspiring for the young generation in particular," said Krishnakant Monge, the Principal of Gwalior's Madhav College.
Today, Ramnath Gupta is a living inspiration for all those who give up too early in life by citing 'growing age' as excuse.
ANI