Transformational Change
by Avinash Kumar
With great joy, we are celebrating Pujya Tai Ma’s 88th birthday and my congratulations to the entire Veerayatan family. I pray to Bhagwan Mahavir to bless Pujya Tai Ma with a long life so that we continue to be showered by her love and affection for years to come.
Dear Pujya Tai Ma, you are akin to the eternal Kalpavruksh (wish-granting tree) when it comes to maternal love, warmth and humanitarian service. Thousands of students like me, will always wish you from the bottom of our hearts, for all you have done for us, and it is my good fortune to be able to participate in your birthday celebrations. It’s true that when the night is at its darkest, some noble soul comes around lighting up people’s lives with knowledge and compassion. You are the light, piercing the darkness of so many lives.
Veerayatan’s impactful presence is not only felt in Lachhuar and Pawapuri’s schools and eye care centres, but also across Gujarat’s Jakhania, Rudrani and Palitana and Rajasthan’s Sanchore and Osian centres. Before the commencement of Tirthankar Mahavir Vidya Mandir School, there was no school imparting education and values in the very birthplace of Bhagwan Mahavir. Lachhuar, being in the midst of Naxalite activities, had no access to education and opportunities for the kids. The whole atmosphere was filled with despair, frustration and remorse. With your footsteps, the region saw growth, education, health, kindness and your presence was nothing short of a miracle. The school was a moment of truth for all the locals and everyone saw a glimmer of hope – a hope for a brighter future for their children. Among these children, I, Avinash too got access to education and your blessings – from enrolling in nursery to securing an excellent result in my class 10th. I completed my 12th with good grades and completed my B. Com from Banaras Hindu Vishwavidyalaya with first division. I am now pursuing my Chartered Account certification from Patna, all with your blessings.
In 2015, when Bhagwan Mahavir’s idol was stolen, we were all shocked and prayed – only for it to be found the next day. You instilled faith in us and showed us the power of prayers. When I was a child, I could never imagine becoming a Chartered Account – but thanks to your vision, supported by Sadhvi Sampragyaji and with the guidance and motivation of teachers at the Veerayatan school, I have had a chance to redefine my life. Though it was a Naxalite ridden region, Sadhvi Sampragyaji’s determination was akin to the Himalayas blocking all adversities and giving strength to our teachers.
Wherever I may be, I will always live by the knowledge and principles taught by Pujya Tai Ma and keep working with the spirit of service to humanity.
