From Joy J Rai ( student of 1981 batch),
Principal- Canara High School (CBSE),
and the entire student community

Mangalore: Gone are the days when students waited patiently in their Gurukul for their guru eagerly to grasp the knowledge imparted into them. These days it is the age of ‘3G’, and students barely attend the classes. The teacher is not, the only source of wisdom. Well coming straight to the point, the teacher has evidently changed roles from being a teacher to a facilitator

Have you ever heard of the students waiting for a teacher??....

A teacher on a wheel chair ???....

That too, to learn mind-boggling subjects like accountancy and commerce??

Yes… you guessed it right... it’s  P.A. Gopinath Senior lecturer of Canara P U college.

We cannot get everything in life. If God blesses you with something he takes away some other thing. Life has not been a bed of roses for this man who is a potpourri of talent. When Sir Gopinath settled in his career and moved to build up his family, he selected his bride Bambina Chinnamma the one whom he knew would be his perfect companion in his life’s journey. He was blessed with three boys whom he wisely named as Gautham, Preetham and Utham.  Everything was going on fine.

As though a bolt from the blue, a tragedy struck this happy family. It was in 1994, the disaster struck, Ironically in the guise of Kalpavriksha [coconut tree], paralyzing his lower body completely. Recovery from this terrible accident was far from possible. His family, friends, students and well wishers came to his aid to console him. The student community from far and wide helped him in the time of crisis by making possible arrangements to make him comfortable. Time ticked by…

With greater confidence, determination and courage, Gopinath bounced back to serve the student community. Yes, now with a different look… A teacher on a wheel chair. He is independent. Comes to college in his specially designed car, (getting into and alighting the car, he is helped by his family and students) and teaches his students. His passion for his subject and his zeal to teach has not decreased even by an inch. His grit and determination in doing both curricular and extracurricular activities is amazing. He has maintained his charisma as before. His colleagues love him, his students respect him and his family adores him. What else will a man wish for?

Today 31.7.2012 Our Sir P.A. Gopinath retires from his long career of 35 years [1977-2012]. His ever mesmerizing smile, articulate speeches, the awesome lectures, and of course his caring attitude will be missed by all, old and young alike. All the best dear Gopinath Sir , and may you enjoy peace and tranquility in the evening of your life.

On this memorable day, here is a small verse for you:

God’s creation you are
Humble and kind
A friend, philosopher and guide
Very rare to find
Today as you retire
We salute you with pride
For everything whether joy or sorrow
You have taken to your stride…

Your brilliant career
Fifteen years plus a score
Made your students love
And respect you more
Now it’s time Sir;
To bid you adieu
We love you sir
May god bless you.