As D.B.M.S. English School Celebrates its Silver Jubilee, one question that comes to every mind is: “How did a private institution without any government aid bloom to such pre-eminence and glory within a short span of 25 years?” Not only is DBMS the proud originator of English School, but also of a Hindi School and a Women’s Career Academy. Who is behind the great scene, for this meteoric rise? Undoubtedly it is the great lady whose pleasant smile and charismatic personality exudes sheer dynamism. The lady is none but Mrs. Bhanumathi Neelkantan, affectionately known as ‘Bhanu aunty’.
An individual’s biodata is more relevant than just an arrangement of his academic achievements. But rarely does one come across a letter head of an individual like Bhanu auntie’s which speaks volumes of her associations, memberships and achievements, be it Kennel Club, Guides, School of Hope, Rotract, Citizens Forum.. ..soon, other than her first love — DBMS.
A few interviews were conducted to know the opinions of people from different walks of life who have been associated with her. She is honoured and loved b1 the ox-students too. One of them. Jyothi Sharma on being asked to describe her, said, ‘Her achievements are so many that to describe her in few words will not do her justice.
Mrs. Rupa Mohany, a senior executive of Tisco says “Mrs. Neelakantan is a living institution.
The domestic staff of our school consists of some people who have worked since the laying of the foundation stone f the school They are so attached to Mrs. Neelkantan and have become part and parcel of the school because she reciprocates their love for her, her helpful nature has made a place in their hearts. ‘Moocha Mali’ and Marshila didi refer to her as Mother and Goddess.
When asked about her opinion of Mrs.Neelakantan, Mrs.Daisy Irani said, “It is difficult to get dedicated people like her, I wonder when she gets time to eat. Whatever she takes up, she fullfills it with utmost dedication.”
On being questioned about the aspect of Mrs. Neelakantan which impressed people the most, We received a wide variety of replies. Mrs. Rupa Mahanty is in high praise for her energy and her ways of battling problems.
Mrs. Jasbir Ubhi (a senior teacher) says, “She has a magnetic personality.” She also appreciates the leadership qualities in aunty which has enabled her to run a huge institution. Mrs. Meena Prasad (an experienced teacher) says, “She is hardworking and full of confidence.”
Mrs. Lathika Das (Principal of D.B.MS. English School) says, “She is a determined lady who aims at something and does not rest till she achieves it, she has a surprising amount of inner strength.”
Mrs. John (Principal of Women’s Career Academy) says "She has a progressive attitude and tremendous ideas. She has the ability to visualize things".
I cannot forget her words in one of her addresses to the students and teachers at the school when she emphasised on “Vasudeva Kutumbakam” (the whole world is my family). A person with such a vision which encompasses the whole world, cannot belong to a institution in particular, Mrs. Topo (Principal of Hindi School) says, “She considers school to be part of the family”.
In spite of her busy schedule this versatile genius never forgets to inquire about people’s problems and finds solutions which amaze one and all.
Mrs. Radha Balasubramanian, Vice President of our school management compares Mrs. Neelakantan to Mother Teresa who asserts “money is immaterial to me. If I need money, God sends through well wishers.” Mrs. Radha Balasubranianian also adds “Even when we have difference in opinions, she never takes it personality—a quality which impresses me the most. She never interferes in anyones work”.
Mrs Mahanty brings to light a different side of Mrs. Neelkantan, she recollects that bow Mrs. Neelakantan successfully organised a fashion show at Goa during the Tisco officers conference.
The library of D.B.M.S. English School is one of the best libraries in Jamshedpur. Mrs. Malati Venkataraman, our librarian gives the sole credit to Mrs.Neelakantan. The variety of books and magazines keep the teachers and students well informed as Mrs. Neelakantan believes that “Knowledge is power”. She never hesitates to buy a good book which is available in the market. She has emphasised in the fact that the library of a school should be regarded as the nerve centre of reader motivation.
The well equipped school laboratories for students to experience what they learn about is clue to Mrs. Neelakantan s far-sighted vision.
She is justifiably the recipient of the social service award given by Buddhist Association of India in honour of her dedication to the betterment of society. She is a person who can find comfort in the knowledge that hers has been a life largely and well spent for the benefit of others.
Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery”. Becoming another Mrs. Neelkantan may be a goal far beyond the reach of many of us, we can always try to emulate her zest for doing something useful, in this life granted to us by God. We can also show her our gratitude by trying to live up to her expectations.
A great man has said that a man of the finest intelligence is one who can hold two ideas simultaneous and still remains calm. This is true to the great lady who always is cool and calm, emanating radiance and warmth in spite of her troubles.
She is a lady whose life is gentle and the elements so well mixed, that nature might stand up and say: "This is a Woman”.
Interviewers:
V. Anupama XIIA, Ravikant XIIA, Y.C.Sai XIIA, Attish XIIA, Padmaja Dubey XII, Aruna B. XIIA, Abira Pyne XIIA, Gurudeep Singh XIIA, Vinay Mishra XIIA, Devika R & R Chitra XIIA
Compiled R Chitra XIIA 1990