A class under way on the premises of Mukti Dham, a crematorium at the Sikandarpur locality in Bihar’s Muzaffarpur district.
| Photo Credit: Amit Bhelari
A 31-year-old teacher, Sumit Kumar, has been educating over 100 slum children at a cremation ground in Muzaffarpur, Bihar, since 2017. Mr. Kumar’s initiative, Appan Pathshala, has transformed the lives of these underprivileged children, offering them a chance to break the cycle of poverty and pursue their dreams.
The cremation ground, Mukti Dham, located in Sikandarpur, is an unlikely location for a school. However, Mr. Kumar’s determination to provide education to the marginalised community has made this unconventional space a beacon of hope. The school operates from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., Monday to Saturday, with Mr. Kumar teaching children from Classes 1 to 10, aged 5-16.
Mr. Kumar’s journey began in 2017 when he visited the cremation ground to attend the funeral of his friend’s grandfather. He was dismayed to see children scavenging for food and money near the bodies. “After the funeral, I asked the children why they did not pursue studies. They asked what would happen if they study? I was shocked by this response,” he said.
Initial resistance
Mr. Kumar approached the cremation ground authorities, seeking permission to teach the children at the site. “Then I met the parents, but they were initially hesitant to send their children to the cremation ground,” he said.
Mr. Kumar’s persistence eventually won them over. “Today, there are 100 girls and 20 boys. When I started there were only eight students,” he said, adding that the children come from two slums: Kundal and Ambedkar Nagar.
His efforts have led to a rise in the number of children enrolling in government schools. Every year, 20-25 of his students enrol in government schools for regular classes. Mr. Kumar provides free education, school bags, and stationery to the children. He teaches them all subjects and follows the NCERT syllabus.
Senior students assist juniors with homework. Twice a week, girls are also taught martial arts by trained Wushu teachers.
The students sit on the floor, using mats or sacks as makeshift seating arrangements. They are often reluctant to reveal the occupations of their parents, who work as rickshaw pullers, garbage collectors, and sewerage cleaners.
Radhika Kumari, a Class 7 student whose father works as an autorickshaw driver, said, “I’m aware that this is a cremation ground, but we focus on what our teacher teaches us. For me, the location isn’t important; what matters most is my education. I’ve been attending classes here for three years.”
As many as 100 girls and 20 boys have enrolled in various classes being held at the crematorium in Sikandarpur.
| Photo Credit:
Amit Bhelari
Making an impact
Mohammad Mubarak, whose father works as a garbage collector, said, “I wasn’t enrolled in any school, but since attending classes here, I’ve learned to read and write.” Mohammad aspires to join Class 4 this year.
Mr. Kumar’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. The Muzaffarpur Municipal Corporation has recognised his initiative, and he has received support from local authorities. His goal is to help as many of his students admitted in government schools, ensuring they get a formal education and recognised certificate.
Mr. Kumar holds a master’s in Arts from Bihar University and an LLB degree from S.K.J Law College in Muzaffarpur.
Originally from Bettiah in West Champaran district, he has been residing in Muzaffarpur since his childhood. His friends have provided him with accommodation, allowing him to dedicate his resources to his endeavour.
The Mukti Dham crematorium in Sikandarpur where the classes are held.
| Photo Credit:
Amit Bhelari
Dedicated to cause
Mr. Kumar has also chosen not to get married, devoting his life to this cause. His younger brother, who works in a private company in Kolkata, supports him financially, sending money every month to sustain the social initiative.
Published – January 21, 2025 01:33 am IST
