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From Streets to the Rashtrapati Bhavan
A tour of Rashtrapati Bhavan is a distinction in itself, but when the journey begins on the streets, it becomes a story worth telling.
Recently, the founder of Pehchaan The Street School had the privilege of taking Deepak, one of the NGO’s brightest and most talented students, to the center of India‘s governance: the Rashtrapati bhawan. They were there to meet an IRS commissioner from the Finance Ministry, a chance to hear his story and the difference that Pehchaan The Street School has made.
Deepak‘s story has been one of grit and perseverance. He was born into a family where education was a luxury, not a right. His father is a daily wager and his mother is a homemaker, who toiled day and night to bring their children up, but monetary problems usually came up in the way of dreams. As the eldest, Deepak learned responsibility at a young age, and as with many others in his circumstance, he could have been pushed to leave school in order to support his family.
But life had other plans. Deepak joined Pehchaan The Street School in 2015 and unlike most children who begin school with hesitation, Deepak embraced learning with open arms. He wasn‘t merely a student—he was a leader in the making. He soon became an active member of Pehchaan The Street School’s family, not only as a student but also as a supporting member. He helped volunteers in organizing the study center, maintaining supplies, and handing out materials. His honesty and commitment melted the hearts of everybody around.
As Deepak continued his studies, many difficulties came along the journey, the largest of which was the COVID-19 pandemic. As schools closed down and lessons went online, students such as Deepak, who did not have knowledge of smart devices or the internet, were in danger of losing out. But Pehchaan The Street School did not let Deepak‘s dreams hit a roadblock. The organization gave him a smartphone and internet connectivity so that he could complete his studies without interruption. With persistent hard work and unwavering encouragement, Deepak not only remained on course but also excelled in his studies. When he entered Class 12, he boldly promised the founder, Akash Tandon: “If I get 75% or above, you‘ll have to purchase me a laptop!” Akash took up the challenge, secretly wishing he would lose. And he did.
Deepak scored a brilliant 83% in his CBSE Class 12 exams, an achievement nothing short of miraculous. As promised, Akash and the Pehchaan team presented him with a laptop—a just reward for his determination.
The trip to Rashtrapati Bhavan was not just any event; it was a milestone. To sit with an IRS commissioner, talking about his success, dreams, and the reach of an institution like Pehchaan The Street School, was a dreamlike experience. This was not just about the success of one student—it was proof of the potential of education, guidance, and faith in oneself.
Pehchaan had been trying for years to bestow Deepak with an identity, a ‘pehchaan.’ And standing in the corridors of Rashtrapati Bhavan that afternoon, a realization struck, it was actually Deepak who truly had given a “pehchaan” to the organization.
Deepak’s achievement is not his alone; it is a triumph for all children who have the courage to dream beyond their situation. He is the first in his family to finish school, leading by example for his siblings and inspiring many more. His story is proof that education is not merely about passing your exams; it is about rewriting futures.
While Pehchaan The Street School keeps up the good work in offering holistic education to underprivileged children, Deepak is the living testament of hope. His story tells us that with proper help and resources, any child has the potential to overcome barriers and make history.
To Deepak, thanks for including Pehchaan The Street School in your success story. Your story is an inspiration, and this is merely the start of a future with so much possibility. To many more milestones ahead!