Nanda Prusty: The Centenarian Teacher Who Dedicated His Life to Free Education

Nanda Prusty occupies a special place among India’s unsung heroes of education. At a time when formal schooling often remained beyond the reach of rural communities, he devoted his entire life to teaching children and adults without charging a single rupee. Known affectionately as “Nanda Sir” or “Nanda Master,” he became a symbol of selfless service, literacy, and grassroots education in Odisha. His remarkable journey from a modest village teacher to a recipient of the Padma Shri demonstrates how one individual can transform society through dedication and compassion.

Born in 1919 in Kantira village of present-day Jajpur district in Odisha, Nanda Kishore Prusty grew up during the British colonial period. His family faced financial hardships, which limited his own educational opportunities. Despite his love for learning, economic circumstances prevented him from pursuing higher studies. However, rather than allowing adversity to define his future, he turned his limited formal education into a mission to educate others. This decision would eventually influence generations of villagers and earn him national recognition.

The story of Nanda Prusty is extraordinary because he never sought wealth, fame, or political influence. Instead, he believed that literacy was the foundation of social progress. After India gained independence, he began teaching children in his village free of charge. His goal was simple yet ambitious: to eliminate illiteracy in his community. For decades, he continued this work with unwavering commitment, conducting classes in humble surroundings and ensuring that even the poorest children had access to education.

One of the most remarkable aspects of his educational mission was its inclusiveness. Nanda Prusty did not limit his teaching to school-age children. He also educated adults and elderly villagers who had never received formal schooling. His classes became a community institution where people of different ages could learn reading, writing, and basic arithmetic. In many ways, he anticipated the modern concept of lifelong learning long before it became a widely discussed educational principle.

Unlike many educators who work within established institutions, Nanda Prusty operated with minimal resources. His school functioned from a simple village setup rather than a modern building. Yet the lack of infrastructure never diminished the quality of his commitment. Students were drawn not by facilities but by the sincerity of their teacher. His teaching style emphasized patience, discipline, and personal attention. Villagers regarded him not merely as an instructor but as a mentor and moral guide.

For more than seven decades, Nanda Prusty continued this educational service without expecting rewards. Such dedication is rare in any profession. While educational reforms often depend on government initiatives and institutional funding, his work demonstrated the power of individual action. Through his efforts, numerous children acquired basic literacy skills that opened doors to better opportunities. Many villagers who otherwise might have remained illiterate gained confidence and independence through his teachings.

National recognition finally arrived in 2021 when the Government of India honored him with the Padma Shri, the country’s fourth-highest civilian award, for his contribution to education. The award brought nationwide attention to a man who had quietly served society for decades. At over one hundred years of age, he represented a living example of dedication and humility. His recognition also highlighted the importance of grassroots educators who work outside the spotlight but make a profound difference in people’s lives.

One of the most memorable moments of the Padma Shri ceremony occurred when Nanda Prusty received the award from President Ram Nath Kovind. After accepting the honor, the elderly teacher raised his hands to bless the President. The gesture reflected the respect and affection that people associated with him. Images of that moment spread widely across India, inspiring countless citizens. It symbolized the recognition of a teacher whose service transcended social status and official positions.

The life of Nanda Prusty also challenges common assumptions about success. In a world where achievement is often measured by wealth, power, or celebrity, he demonstrated that true success lies in service to others. He lived simply and devoted his energy to improving the lives of people around him. His legacy reminds us that education is not merely about acquiring knowledge but about empowering communities and creating opportunities for future generations.

Beyond his educational contributions, Nanda Prusty became a symbol of resilience and social responsibility. Despite advancing age, he remained committed to teaching. His longevity allowed him to educate multiple generations within the same families. Grandparents, parents, and children often shared stories of learning from the same teacher. Such continuity is rare and reflects the deep trust that villagers placed in him.

Sadly, Nanda Prusty passed away on 7 December 2021 in Bhubaneswar after contracting COVID-19. He was over a century old at the time of his death. News of his passing prompted tributes from across Odisha and India. People remembered him not only as a teacher but also as a humanitarian who devoted his entire life to the upliftment of others. His death marked the end of an era, but his influence continues through the countless lives he touched.

His inspiring journey has also been preserved through cultural and documentary projects, including the Odia film Nanda Master’nka Chatasali, which chronicles his lifelong commitment to free education. Such efforts ensure that future generations will continue to learn from his example and understand the importance of community-based education.

Nanda Prusty’s life stands as a powerful reminder that education is one of the most effective tools for social transformation. Without wealth, institutional support, or personal ambition, he built a legacy that few can match. His story teaches us that meaningful change often begins with a single individual who chooses service over self-interest. As India continues its journey toward universal education and literacy, the example of Nanda Prusty will remain a source of inspiration for teachers, students, and citizens alike.