Sun Dec 28 13:54:37 UTC 2025: Summary:
Since 2013, 82-year-old C.S. Narayanan in Bengaluru has dedicated his evenings to providing free education in English, mathematics, and science to underprivileged children. Inspired by a conversation with Usha Rajagopalan of the Puttanahalli Lake Trust, Narayanan, a retired oncology professional, started teaching children from nearby slums. He initially taught at Puttanahalli lake. Over the years, he transitioned the classes to his home, limiting each batch to around 15 students from families who could not afford private tuition. Narayanan’s efforts have not only improved the academic performance of his students but have also enabled many to pursue higher education and secure careers in various fields, including software engineering and the armed forces. He also fundraises to ensure students never drop out due to lack of funds. His commitment even dictates his travel plans to visit his own children. He also provides outings outside of the students home. One of his initial students, the daughter of his domestic help, is now working in a software company and attributes much of her success to Narayanan’s guidance and support.
News Article:
Bengaluru Octogenarian’s Free Classes Transform Lives of Underprivileged Children
Bengaluru, December 28, 2025: For over a decade, an 82-year-old Bengaluru resident, C.S. Narayanan, has been quietly transforming the lives of underprivileged children by offering free evening classes. Since 2013, his home in J.P. Nagar has become a haven for students seeking help with English, mathematics, and science.
Narayanan, a retired professional with a background in oncology, began his philanthropic journey after encountering children from slums near Puttanahalli lake who were at risk of dropping out of school. He was inspired by a conversation with Usha Rajagopalan of the Puttanahalli Lake Trust. Despite language barriers initially, Narayanan utilized Kannada-English dictionaries to provide foundational education.
His classes, initially held by the lake, have since moved to his home, where he provides individualized attention to small groups of students. Emphasizing an English-only environment during class, Narayanan fosters confidence and fluency among his students.
His dedication has yielded remarkable results. Many of his former students have gone on to pursue higher education and secure employment in various fields, including software engineering and the armed forces. Pooja, one of his earliest students and daughter of his domestic worker, is now working in a software company due to Mr. Narayanan’s help.
Beyond academics, Narayanan has also raised over ₹30 lakh to support his students’ educational expenses, ensuring that financial constraints never hinder their progress. He even adjusts his personal travel plans to prioritize the continuity of his classes, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to his students’ well-being. He provides outings outside the students neighborhood.
C.S. Narayanan’s selfless dedication serves as an inspiring example of the transformative power of education and the profound impact one individual can have on a community.
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