Bhopal: We didn’t score well but we’re doing fine, say professionals

Bhopal: Getting good marks in board examinations doesn’t guarantee success. There are many people in the city who have succeeded in life though they did not score well in board examinations.

Free Press talked to a section of such residents. Excerpts

Sindhu Dholpure, counsellor

I did not score well in MA (psychology) as I was suffering from typhoid during final exam. I was tense. My father motivated me and said it has nothing to do with marks. He stressed on gaining practical knowledge. Now, I get calls from big institutions for counselling only on the basis of my 10 years of experience in the field. I have worked for jail, women police station, MPBSE, women and child commission. I also received awards for this. I never ever thought that I will get name and fame in this field. Self confidence and positive attitude are important to get success in life and not marks or percentage.

Waseem Khan, writer, film and theatre actor

I am class VIII pass. I wanted to study but couldn’t due an accident. But I had great interest in art and culture and I used to read magazines related it. My father also supported me. My career began with a small role of Sipahi in play ‘Rostam Sohrab,’ directed by Ranjeet Kapoor. After that I worked in many plays and movies like Peepli Live, Filmistaan, Jai Gangajal, Ye Hai Bakrapur, Raajneeti. I also got many awards. I have written12 plays including Hirdeshah, Amjhera Ka Raja and Barkatullah Bhopali. Education and knowledge are two different things. Honesty and hard work get you success.

Chandra Madhav Barik, choreographer

I studied till class XII. I couldn’t complete graduation. I was interested in dance. In 1979, I came to Gwalior from Odisha and joined Rangshree Little Ballet Troupe and trained under Prabhat Ganguly and Gul Vardhan for three years. I worked as assistant choreographer in the troupe from 1996 to 2010. I have also worked as assistant choreographer in Rang Vidushak. I have trained more than 500 students till now. I also took choreography workshop on Chhau in many big institution including National School of Drama, Nehru Centre Mumbai, MP School of Drama. I am satisfied with my work and I have no complaint that I couldn’t study more.

Bhajju Shyam, painter

I took up jobs after completing class XII. I came to Bhopal and took up job of security guard and lightman. When I came in contact with my uncle and guru Jangarh Singh Shyam, my life changed. I started taking interest in painting and now I am known for my work. I have conducted workshops in India and abroad. I have also written 12 books on tribal painting. I won many awards. Recently, I was selected for Padmashri award. I get respect, which perhaps government job could not have given me. Now, I am very happy with my work.