Conventional wisdom often suggests that older age is a phase meant purely for resting and stepping back from active pursuits after fulfilling familial duties. Society generally associates formal schooling and academic milestones with youth. However, Kaushalya Devi Bansal, a resident of Mahasamund district in Chhattisgarh, has challenged these stereotypes by passing her Class 10 board examinations at the age of 62. Her achievement stands as a living testament to the fact that when passion and determination drive an individual, age remains nothing more than a number.
Early Responsibilities and Interrupted Education
Kaushalya Devi's life journey has been shaped by dedication and leadership. She has previously served as the vice president of the local municipal council, demonstrating her keen administrative abilities and public service acumen. However, due to domestic responsibilities and traditional social obligations that arrived at a very young age, her formal schooling was left unfinished. Decades passed as she dedicated herself to raising children and managing household responsibilities, yet the inner longing to complete her education never faded.
From 8th Grade at 60 to Class 10 at 62
Once her children grew up, settled into their careers, and the heavy daily burdens eased, Kaushalya Devi resolved to revive her long-cherished academic ambition. Setting aside any social reservations, she reconnected with textbooks at an age when most people retire. She initially prepared for the Class 8 board exams and passed them successfully at the age of 60. That initial triumph gave her immense confidence and reignited her enthusiasm for formal education.
Building on the momentum of her 8th-grade success, she immediately embarked on preparing for the secondary school certificate examinations. Sitting for long study sessions, understanding complex subjects, and writing comprehensive answers during exam hours demands rigorous effort at any age, particularly in one's sixties. Through unwavering discipline, she cleared the Class 10 board examinations with commendable marks at age 62, providing a powerful example for younger students about perseverance and focus.
High-Achieving Children and a Humble Learner
Kaushalya Devi's family boasts exceptional professional and administrative accomplishments. Her children currently serve in senior administrative and entrepreneurial roles
- Shravan Bansal: Serves as an Additional Commissioner in the GST department.
- Trilok Bansal: Serves as the Superintendent of Police (SP) in Bemetara district.
- Daughter: Serves as a Joint Collector in Rajnandgaon district.
- Manish Bansal: Successfully manages his independent timber business.
Despite being the mother of top-ranking administrative officers, her decision to sit as an ordinary student in an examination hall reflects profound humility and an undying love for learning.
Strong Family Support Behind the Triumph
Embarking on an academic pursuit later in life requires a nurturing support system. Throughout this journey, Kaushalya Devi received steadfast encouragement from her husband, Ramesh Bansal, her son Shravan Bansal, and the rest of the family. Their collective encouragement smoothed out every challenge along the way. Today, her inspiring accomplishment serves as a beacon of motivation not just in Mahasamund, but for women and senior citizens across the nation.
