Upendrra Rai
Eminent philanthropist Shri Upendrra Rai visited Asht Shaheed Inter College in Mohammadabad today, marking a significant moment for the institution. On this occasion, he donated â¹50 lakh for the construction of a majestic southern entrance gate, dedicated to his late mother, Smt. Radhika Devi. Mr. Rai himself laid the foundation stone for the project, symbolizing his deep emotional and personal connection to the college.
In a heartfelt address, Rai expressed his reverence for the institution where he once studied. Overcome with emotion, he said, "Today, words fail me. Though I have been blessed by Maa Saraswati to speak endlessly on any subject, today, silence feels more profound. When ego attaches itself to deeds, their essence diminishes. As Saint Maluk Das said- âMala japo na kar japo, jibya kahun na Ram, Sumiran mera Hari kare, main paya bisraam.'"
Reflecting on his student days, Rai recalled studying in the college during 9th and 10th grades. He paid tribute to freedom fighter Sitaram Babu, a "living martyr" of the village who survived eight bullet wounds. "In 1994, after my 8th grade, I joined this school and became the youngest participant in the Gyaan Yagya initiated by Sitaram Babu," he shared.
Drawing wisdom from the Bhagavad Gita, he inspired students, saying, "Lord Krishna teaches that devotees worship Him in many forms, but those who realize His true essence as knowledge come closest to Him. True education shapes genuine human beings. We first learn humanity at home, then citizenship through schooling. The real test of life begins when we step into the world."
Emphasizing resilience, he added, "Life is a series of challenges-where there is life, there are trials, and where there are trials, there is struggle. A life without struggle is lifeless. Only those who embrace it are true warriors; those who surrender, perish within."
Rai expressed hope that the school would continue nurturing students who contribute meaningfully to society with knowledge, values, and unwavering determination. The grand entrance gate, a tribute to his mother, stands as a testament to his commitment to education and heritage.
