‘True education refines heart, mind, says our tradition’

RAJU MANGAL, Principal, Bhartiya Vidya Mandir, Kitchlu Nagar, has dedicated 28 years to the field of education, nurturing young minds with a balance of academic rigour and moral grounding. The focus has always been on curiosity, creativity and compassion as the pillars of learning. At the same time, she has embraced new pedagogical approaches to meet the demands of a rapidly changing educational environment. Here she talks more about education and students with Principal Correspondent Shivani Bhakoo.

Can ever-rising competition be too stressful for ‘average’ students?

Healthy competition can be motivating, but when it turns into excessive pressure, it becomes harmful. At our school, we draw inspiration from our cultural teachings that emphasise balance and inner peace. We encourage students to focus on self-progress rather than comparison. By instilling values such as contentment, perseverance and faith in their own abilities, we ensure that even average students feel confident and motivated without being burdened by undue stress.

Your message to parents and teachers for shaping their children’s future?

Parents and teachers play a pivotal role in shaping students futures by working together to set clear goals, providing regular feedback and maintaining open communication. When teachers and parents work in harmony, they provide both guidance and emotional support, just as roots support a growing tree. We always emphasise this partnership of guru and guardians/parents to cultivate values like humility, respect and integrity, alongside academic achievement. This holistic approach ensures that students grow into well-rounded individuals, who carry forward our cultural ethos.

Has education become very expensive? Why do parents raise hue and cry over rising cost?

It is true that education today feels like a financial burden for many parents. However, when we see education as an investment in character, knowledge and cultural grounding, its value becomes immeasurable. Our school makes every effort to keep education affordable, while still providing quality resources. At the same time, we guide students to practice simplicity and gratitude, values that are deeply rooted in our culture, so they appreciate what they have rather than focusing only on material aspects.

How can we shape future of students in a better way?

Shaping the future of our students requires more than academic success. As our tradition teaches, true education (vidya) is that which refines the heart and mind. At our school, we integrate academic rigour, creative expression and emotional intelligence with value-based education. Through project-based learning, opportunities for creativity and teachings inspired by cultural wisdom, we equip students with life skills such as critical thinking, problem solving and resilience. This way, they grow into responsible citizens, who contribute positively to society.

Is competition among students for better grades healthy?

Competition is beneficial only when it motivates without harming. In our cultural teachings, it is said that every individual has a unique path and potential. We remind our students that their goal should be self-improvement and not constant comparison. By appreciating effort and sincerity over marks alone, we create an atmosphere where competition inspires learning, but values like cooperation, humility and respect remain intact.

What are some of the difficult situations you face with students and parents?

Being at a responsible position in the education system, I encounter complex challenges that require thoughtful solutions- sometimes students struggle with academics or behavioural issues, while parents may have concerns or high expectations. In such moments, we follow the principles of patience, empathy and dialogue, which are deeply ingrained in our cultural values. By listening with compassion and guiding with firmness, where needed, we try to resolve issues in a way that benefits the students’ overall growth. Our emphasis remains on harmony and mutual respect.