In the bustling city of Kota, known as the coaching capital of India, where dreams are nurtured and futures are shaped, lies a heartbreaking reality. It’s a reality where the pursuit of success often comes at an unbearable cost. In recent times, the city has been marred by the tragic suicides of young aspirants, leaving families shattered and communities grieving.
The latest incident involved two young boys, both victims of the relentless pressure that accompanies the preparation for competitive exams like NEET. Both couldn’t bear the weight of expectations and succumbed to the overwhelming stress. One of them, in his final moments, left behind a note with just two words: “Sorry Papa.”
The words echo with profound sadness, highlighting the immense burden these children carry, often silently. These are children who were once full of life, dreams, and hopes. They were children who used to laugh, play, and cherish the simple joys of life. But somewhere along the way, the pressure became too much to bear.
The journey to cracking competitive exams like NEET is arduous. It demands countless hours of studying, sacrificing leisure time, and often, compromising mental and emotional well-being. The pressure to perform, coupled with the fear of failure, creates a toxic environment where even the brightest minds find themselves drowning.
But why are we allowing this to happen? Why are we, as a society, putting such tremendous pressure on our children?
The truth is, the problem runs deep. It’s not just about the exams; it’s about the entire system. It’s about the unrealistic expectations we set for our children, the constant comparison with their peers, and the undue pressure to excel at any cost.
As parents, families, and educators, it’s our responsibility to recognize the signs of distress in our children. We need to create an environment where they feel comfortable sharing their fears and anxieties. We must reassure them that their worth is not determined by a scorecard.
Communication is key. Parents need to listen to their children without judgment. They need to understand that not every child can handle the same amount of pressure. It’s okay to not be perfect, and it’s okay to fail sometimes. What’s important is to learn from those failures and keep moving forward.
Families need to provide a support system, a safe space where children can express themselves freely. Encouragement and motivation should come from a place of love, not from the fear of disappointment.
Teachers and coaching institutes also play a crucial role. They need to prioritize the well-being of their students over everything else. They should promote a healthy study environment, encourage breaks, and provide counseling and emotional support when needed.
But most importantly, as a society, we need to change our mindset. We need to redefine success and emphasize the importance of mental health and well-being. Success should not come at the cost of a child’s happiness and well-being.
The tragic loss of these young lives should serve as a wake-up call for all of us. It’s time to address the root cause of this epidemic of suicides in Kota and beyond. It’s time to create a more compassionate and nurturing environment for our children, where their dreams can flourish without suffocating under the weight of expectations. It’s time to listen, to empathize, and to act before it’s too late.
