38 Years Ago: A Journey from Kerala to Odisha

About 38 years ago, a group of 22 enthusiastic Malayali students set off from Kerala to Odisha. This journey began in July and August of 1988, when these young individuals boarded a train to pursue their dream of becoming teachers. Their aim was clear: to complete their B.Ed course and return to their homeland as educators. The journey commenced with a long night train ride that took them to Chennai. From there, they caught the Coromandel Express to their ultimate destination: Bhadrak, Odisha. They finally reached the small village of Agarpara, specifically the hamlet of Tikara, located just 28 kilometers away.

Settling in Agarpara

In Tikara, they found themselves enrolled in the Agarpara B.Ed College. For an entire year, these students engaged in relentless classes, teaching practices, and examinations. Eventually, they successfully completed their course and returned home. (Interestingly, today, the B.Ed course duration is two years, unlike the one-year course they attended.)

Leaving home at a young age was challenging. Initially, all of them felt a sense of sadness and difficulty. However, as they delved deeper into their studies and classes, that feeling gradually faded away.

When the exam results were released in April 1989, all 22 of them secured positions in government schools through competitive PSC exams. They became UP school teachers, primary school teachers, higher secondary educators, and principals in various institutions. Over the years, many members of their batch have now retired (though it’s important to note that three of them are no longer with us).

A Melting Pot of Cultures

Apart from the Malayalis, their batch included 104 Oriya students who also pursued the same B.Ed course. The Malayali group comprised students from various districts, including Perambra, Koilandi, Vadakara, Thrissur, Malappuram, Palakkad, Wayanad, Kollam, and Thiruvananthapuram. Out of them, five were women.

After retiring, these classmates often reminisced about their beloved college and the time spent together. In September, they planned a special trip back to Agarpara. With the support of the group leader, Rajan from Koilandi, and retired higher secondary school principal V. Muraleedharan, they arranged online accommodations and travel options, marking their journey back to their roots.

Returning to Memories

On their trip, they visited significant landmarks like the Puri Jagannath Temple and the Konark Sun Temple. They then set off for Agarpara College, passing by their old home, Aryabhatt Mess, where they had stayed 38 years ago. The house was owned by a government employee, who had rented it to them during their stay.

As they neared their old residence, they recalled the laughter and memories shared within its walls. When they arrived, they were warmly greeted by the current inhabitants, who recognized them immediately. The joy of reconnecting was palpable as they shared fond memories and took pictures together.

After leaving the house, they made their way to the college, filled with nostalgia. Upon arrival, they discovered that news of their visit had spread throughout the campus. Teachers, staff, and students were curious, eager to learn about the “Keralavala” teachers from long ago. The warmth and respect showered upon them were overwhelming.

Exploring the College

The teachers led them to the college office, where they relived their past by looking at old registers and attendance records. Each of them signed the visitor’s book, recalling the classrooms where they had learned and the library where they spent countless hours studying.

They spent the entire day touring the campus, sharing stories and laughter. One of their friends, Bhaskaran, even showcased his unique artistic talent, bringing smiles to the current students.

The teachers’ kind gestures and delicious snacks further enriched their experience. The joy they felt that day is beyond words. Unfortunately, seven of their classmates couldn’t make it to this reunion, leaving a bittersweet feeling.

As they left the college, they saw the Salandi river flowing through Tikara—a constant in their lives for the past year. Over the next two days, they explored the sights of Kolkata before heading back home.

Changes Over the Years

Reflecting on their journey, it’s essential to note that between the 1980s and 1990s, many graduates from Kerala traveled to Odisha and Assam to pursue their B.Ed courses. Back then, there were only a few B.Ed colleges in Kerala, leading students to seek opportunities beyond.

Interestingly, even candidates with 40% marks found it easier to enroll in Odisha and Assam compared to the stricter criteria in Kerala. The cost of living was manageable, making it possible for students to complete their education and return home successfully.

Today, things have changed. Odisha no longer has students flocking from outside states for B.Ed courses due to new government regulations. In contrast, Kerala thrives with countless institutions offering diverse opportunities for aspiring teachers.

Through this nostalgic journey, they not only revisited the past but also strengthened the bonds they formed during their formative years.

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Original Text – https://www.mathrubhumi.com/travel/features/kerala-students-revisit-agarpara-college-38-years-later-tsrgzggm