Ullal: Headmaster earns praise for comforting student after family tragedy

PTI, Jan 2, 2025, 11:31 AM IST

In the aftermath of the tragic gas leak incident in Mandanadji village, which claimed the lives of a mother and two daughters, a school headmaster’s consistent support for the surviving student has drawn widespread admiration.

Santosh Kumar, headmaster of Narigana Montepadavu Government High School (Karnataka Public School), visited the hospital every evening for 21 days to offer solace and encouragement to his student, Mazhiya, who was recovering from severe burns sustained in the accident.

Case details:

On December 8, a gas leak occurred at the family’s home while they were asleep. Unaware of the leak, Khubra, the mother, switched on a light to go to the restroom, triggering a fire that engulfed the house. Khubra and her three daughters, Zulekha Mahadiya, Mazhiya, and Mayiz, suffered critical burns and were admitted to a private hospital in Deralakatte.

A Teacher’s dedication

Despite his responsibilities at school, Santosh Kumar would visit the hospital every evening to provide moral support to the students, staying until late at night. “Even while on the brink of life and death, the students were concerned about their studies and exams,” said Santosh. He assured them that their academic progress would not be hindered and promised to promote them without exams, bringing some comfort to their worried faces.

A String of losses

The mother succumbed to her injuries on December 13, a fact kept from the children. On December 26, elder sister Zulekha passed away, followed by younger sister Mayiz on December 28. Mazhiya, the sole survivor, was eventually discharged and sent to her uncle’s house, still unaware of the deaths of her mother and sisters. Santosh recalls, “She believed everyone would recover. That hope kept her going.”

A beloved educator

Santosh Kumar has served as an English teacher and acting headmaster at Montepadavu Government High School for over 20 years. Under his leadership, the school has grown from 300 students to 1,300. A recipient of both the District Best Teacher Award and Yenepoya University’s Best Teacher Award, he is deeply respected by his students.

The three sisters, who had been studying at the school since kindergarten, shared a close bond with their teacher. His dedication to their well-being during this tragic period is a testament to his compassion and commitment to his students.