The moving photofeature, on R. Ushakumari, the only teacher of the Kunnathumala Agasthya Eka Adyapaka School inside a biosphere in Kerala, is the highest honour that can be conferred on her (Section 2, ‘Framed’ page, “The lone teacher”, September 23). It is nothing but the sheer passion to teach poor children that must be the driving force behind her all these years. When every vocation, including teaching, has become money-oriented, here is a special person who has been doing her job quietly and efficiently. She stands head and shoulders above the others. It is not known whether she has been honoured by the State and Central governments.
V. Lakshmanan,
Tirupur, Tamil Nadu
Ms. Ushakumari’s story is amazing — travelling from her home by scooter, to getting on a ferry, even helping the boat man, and then trekking to the school in the jungle for the sake of poor tribal children. In an age where teachers seek teaching assignments in towns, cities and metropolitan areas, this teacher’s noble attitude to ensure that the children get a proper education is stunning. It is surprising why the Central government is oblivious of her existence.
J.P. Reddy,
Nalgonda, Telangana
Every week, the ‘Framed’ pages continue to amaze the reader. The teacher’s story reminded me of the literary masterpiece, The Legends of Khasak by O.V. Vijayan. Each picture depicting the life of the teacher and her students conveyed life and warmth. The image of the children waiting for the arrival of their beloved teacher was riveting. The one with the bulldozer was depressing.
Sajid T.S.,
Kochi, Kerala