For Usha Venkateshan, retirement was never about slowing down. Instead, it became the beginning of a new purpose.
Originally from Nagpur, Usha spent much of her life moving from one city to another because of her husband’s career in the defence forces. After retiring as the Eastern Division Head of Human Resources at Shapoorji Pallonji in Kolkata, the couple returned to Nagpur, expecting a quieter phase of life.
But during the pandemic, something unexpected changed her routine. A domestic worker approached Usha and asked if she could teach her child, who had been sitting at home with little to do. She agreed. Slowly, more children from similar financial backgrounds began coming to her for help as word spread in the area.
Today, her home turns into a small evening classroom where children from different age groups gather to study. Along with teaching them, she also helps with books, notebooks, and stationery whenever she can. Her only condition is simple. The children should be those who genuinely cannot afford private tuition or additional academic support.
For Usha, the problem is not only about money. She believes many children from underprivileged families often miss out on something equally important, personal attention and encouragement.
The impact of her efforts is already visible. One of her Class 10 students scored 93 per cent, while several others also passed with excellent results. But for Usha, marks are only part of the achievement. What matters more is knowing that children who may have otherwise struggled alone are now getting a chance to move ahead with confidence.
Her story is also a reminder that meaningful social change does not always require large platforms or institutions. Sometimes, it simply begins with a little time, an open door, and the willingness to help.
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