My Teaching Tenure at Cambrian Hall

My journey at Cambrian Hall, where I served for over 16 years (from 1987 to 2004), has truly been amazing. Apart from being a Mathematics teacher, I had the privilege of serving as a resident teacher and House Master. In many ways, my role was like that of a foster parent for the boarders, as Cambrian Hall has been a true “Home away from home.” The House Masters played a vital role in shaping the lives of students, and I feel blessed to have been a part of that tradition.

Life in the Classroom

In the classroom, time with students was limited due to the constant pressure of completing syllabus. But after school hours, especially during games, I had ample opportunities to sit with them, listen with patience, crack jokes, share lighter moments, and also help solve their problems. Fortunately, whether boarders or day scholars, the students confided in me wholeheartedly.

At times, natural tensions would arise between boarders and day scholars in a day- cum-boarding setup. I often acted as the mediator, resolving issues without bias and irrespective of house affiliations.

Memories Beyond the Classroom

Holidays and Sundays brought extra joy—playing cricket on the stage of the Doutre Block, in front of the Mainwaring Auditorium (students fondly call it “Audi”), or on the basketball court which later transformed into a sports complex (thanks to the 1995 and 1996 batches for getting it done). These moments with boarders remain etched in my memory.

I fondly recall the eagerness of boarders awaiting me in Judha Block, especially before terminal exams, when the guard would unlock classrooms so I could hold extra classes with them. Excursions and treks were another highlight—escorting boarders, sometimes even the girls, was part of our responsibility as House Masters. Mischiefs did occur, and while a little corporal punishment was sometimes awarded with laughter, most matters were resolved on the spot, without ever troubling the Principal, Mr. R.C. Singhal.

House Masters’ duties also included nightly dorm rounds before lights-out and waking boarders on morning MOD duties. The boys often grumbled when we pulled away their quilts, but discipline demanded it. Mr. D.B. Rana’s 5 a.m. calls for basketball practice were legendary! Sorting out small classroom matters without escalating them to Ma’am Butterwhite was another part of our everyday responsibilities.

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Next Chapter: Alumni Meets & Fond Memories

This year, April 2025, was another special chapter—my visit to Nepal for the first- ever Boarders’ Alumni Meet with dear Sachin Bajpai, his wife Upasana Bajpai, Ma’am Shabnam Singh, and Avinash. Ex-students turned up in large numbers, and it was an unbelievable experience meeting so many of them after years. The love, respect, and warmth I received were beyond words, and my students proved to be excellent hosts.

I feel blessed to meet ex-Cambrianites every year during the December Alumni Meet. It is heartwarming to see them coming from all over the country and even abroad, with such zeal and enthusiasm. Trekking during the event every tear is always exciting—a real chance to spend quality time with my dear students. Watching the present vs past sports activities on the school grounds is another thrilling highlight. These moments revive the good old days when inter-house sports activities took place with intense competition and house spirit at its peak.

This year is also special, as the Class of 1975 celebrates its Golden Jubilee – 50 years) while the Batch of 2000 marks its Silver Jubilee (25 years). I am eagerly looking forward to being part of it.

Another joy for me is watching the podcasts hosted by dear student Sachin Bajpai,where ex-students share their unforgettable school memories. Listening to their stories and experiences is always a delight.

Alumni Group & Heartfelt Gratitude

None of this would be possible without the dedication of the Cambrian Hall Alumni Group office bearers—led by Ma’am Shabnam Singh (President) along with her wonderful team. They are doing a commendable job of organizing so many activities for the alumni with unmatched loyalty, enthusiasm, and dedication, despite their busy schedules. Kudos! I am proud of you all—keep it up!

Conclusion

I firmly believe my students too cherish those times, for they were indeed the best days of our lives—days that will never return.

To my dearest students—may you always shine and rise to greater heights. And toCambrian Hall, which is so close to our hearts and where we have poured our hearts and souls—may its legacy of excellence, values, and camaraderie continue to flourish forever.

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