My life.. your choice

Results are out! Results are out! Aashi’s 12 yr old brother ran from the kitchen to the bedroom. The entire household eagerly awaited the result. As for Aashi, she was eagerly waiting to step into college, make new friends and experience a new beginning.

Aashi had always been a bright student, securing first class throughout her academics. She was confident that she wouldn’t score below 85%; and she was right. Her Mamu, screamed out, “89%!! 89%.” At once, Aashi’s parents leaped from their seat. Calls were exchanged between relatives and friends; happiness filled the air.

Aashi was happy too, but much like most other students she too expected more. She had a plan chalked out and wanted to opt for science. Biology as a subject fascinated her. She wanted to be enrolled to Xavier’s, for she heard about the festivals and wanted to make new friends. But the thoughts of her family were averse.

I wanted to congratulate Aashi on her exemplary performance and just then received a call from an unknown number. It was Aashi’s father; the call was answered to an excited voice, “Sir ji, mein Aashi ka papa.” I congratulated him on the achievement of his daughter and I asked what stream she was seeking to pursue. He mentioned, “padahi tho karnahi hai, sir ji. Aur gradation ke baad shadi, buss zyada kuch nahi. Aap hi koi accha stream suggest karo.” How can they not let Aashi decide what she wants to take up and ask for my suggestions, instead? Was the first thought that came across. As her teacher, I knew she leaned towards biology and suggested Science; in an attempt to safeguard her interest. Then what followed baffled me further, Aashi’s father willed for her to study at a girl’s college. On asking for a reason, he simply mentioned, “ladkiyo ke saath rahegi to accha hoga.” I left it to that, not wanting to pursue further. 

The world of today we believe has no place for rudimentary; but sadly even in metropolitan household such thoughts thrive. Hand cuffing children to such thoughts and expecting them to be street smart; doesn’t seem logical. My question is, how different is the education offered at a girl’s college any different from a co-ed? What is the fear? Girls befriend boys? I call you to trust her, for doesn’t she deserve to be seen though the same eyes as her brother?