Madurai, Feb: In the village of Vellaripatti, Tamil Nadu, a remarkable story of communal harmony unfolds as A. Thashlima Nashrin, a 25-year-old differently-abled history graduate, continues to educate local children at a Murugan temple. Selected as a volunteer under the Illam Thedi Kalvi (ITK) scheme, she started teaching in the temple with the villagers’ support.
Ms. Nashrin, who resides outside the village, wanted to ensure students had easy access to education. The temple became the perfect location, and the villagers welcomed her initiative. Having a personal connection to the temple—where her grandmother once prayed for her health—Ms. Nashrin embraces the shared cultural space.
Despite the ITK scheme ending in early 2024, she continues teaching, either at the temple or her home, driven by her passion for education. Her dedication has gained community support, with parents preferring her as their children’s tutor. While she hoped for a government job at the end of the program, she remains committed to her students and has petitioned officials for employment based on her qualifications.
The villagers, cutting across religious lines, stand united in their appreciation for Ms. Nashrin’s efforts, reinforcing the spirit of fraternity and collective well-being in the region.
