THE OLD GARBATULLA

Garbatulla had public primary and secondary schools. Private schools were unheard of. Students belonging to the rich, middle and poor classes studied in the same school. Our teachers never demanded but always commanded the respect of not only students but also the village elders. The headmaster was always consulted by the village leaders in village matters. Out teachers inculcated in us the values of  tolerance, patriotism,respect for elders and honesty. Independence and Republic days were celebrated with patriotism.

Life was simple and stress-free. We spent our childhood playing out on the dry sandy soil, the open ground for the entire evenings. We played in rainy and dry seasons. We played in mud and clay, but were never discouraged from playing for a long time and we never felt sick because of dust or pollution. We never had heavy homework. Going to school was fun since we could meet all our friends and exchange our eatables. We studied only for examination.

With the memories of my village life. My heart bleeds when I now hear news of negative tribalism/clanism taking place, in the name of politics. How backward have we become in social harmony and political tolerance? Our mindset has become so rigid against peaceful co-existence. Such an ugly transformation is not only confined to the cities but has spread to villages, which had all along protected the rich culture. Will we revert to the golden days?