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April 1 born 97-year-old belies age to be the 'Master' of his dreams

  • Vaishya has been recognised by the Limca Book of Records for his amazing fete.
  • Vaishya said that he could not pursue the qualification because of family responsibilities.
  • Vaishya has no aims of pursuing a PhD.
April 1 born 97 year old fools age to be the Master of his dreams

Age is just a number. And this has been proved recently by a 97-year-old man who sat for a grueling 3-hour MA exam in economics. He wanted to fulfill his dream of pursuing an MA and his choice of subject was Economics. Vaishya, formerly a private sector employee, had graduated in 1938 and was appearing for his final MA examination at Nalanda Open University (NOU) Patna. The exams began on Thursday and are likely to continue till next week. 

He wrote in English and used over two dozen sheets to complete his exams. An official said, "He sat for three hours like every other student, most of them younger than his grandchildren. It surprised us all, including other examinees."

For his spirit, Vaishya has also been recognised by the Limca Book of Records as the oldest man to apply for a Masters degree. However, Vaishya has done more than that. He has set an example for millions of students and people who give up on their dreams easily. Speaking to IANS, he said, "I have decided to prove that even at 97 years, one can fulfil their dreams and achieve anything. I am an example."

He further added, "I am also trying to send a message to the youth that defeat should never be accepted. I want to tell them not to get upset and depressed. 'Mauka aur awsar har wakt rehta hai, kewal khud pe vishwas hona chahiyea' (There will be always be opportunities for those who believe in themselves)."

Admitting that it was not easy for him to follow the routine of a student at this age, but his will was more powerful than his age. He said, "It is really difficult for me to wake up early to prepare for the exams. My first exam was on June 1."

Describing his routine everyday, he said that he used to dedicate hours everyday studying for the exams. He said, "If I clear MA this year, my long cherished dream will be fulfilled. I hope I pass with a good percentage like in my first year MA exam."

Recalling his dream of pursuing a Masters, Vaishya said that he could not pursue the qualification because of family responsibilities. Born on April 1, 1920, Vaishya had graduated from Agra University in 1938 and got a degree in law in 1940. For the people of his age, he has one suggestion," As one approaches old age, one should pick up a hobby. I regularly read books, newspapers, magazines and watch television serials, including popular historical TV serials like Jodhaa Akbar, Razia Sultan and Maharana Pratap." 

Having enrolled himself in the course in 2015, he said he did not have intentions of pursuing a PhD. But, what inspired even the exam officials was the fact that the nonagenarian did not ask for any special facilities pertaining to his age. Vaishya lives with his son Santosh Kumar in Rajendra Nagar Colony, a posh area in Patna, where he shifted after his wife died.  

(Pic credit: HelpAge India)
 

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