Gauri Mohite’s journey from a Marathi-medium student to a top scorer in an Urdu school proves that values, safety, and inclusive education matter more than language or religion
NEW DELHI/MUMBAI — In an inspiring example of inter-community harmony and educational excellence, a Marathi Hindu girl, Gauri Krishna Mohite, has achieved a remarkable score of 77.80% in her SSC (Class 10) exams while studying in an Urdu-medium Muslim school in Ratnagiri. Her success challenges stereotypes, bridges communal divides, and reaffirms the importance of quality education regardless of linguistic or religious identity.
Gauri is a student of Madrasa Islah Al-Bannat Girls High School and Junior College located in Khed Taluka of Ratnagiri district in Maharashtra. Coming from a Marathi-speaking Hindu family, her choice of studying in an Urdu school may seem unusual at first glance. But the story behind her academic journey reflects a deeper tale of trust, values, and inclusiveness that deserves national attention.
Until Class 2, Gauri studied in a Marathi-medium school, like most children from her background. However, her uncle Vijay Mohite, a Marathi language teacher at Madrasa Islah Al-Bannat for the past 11 years, had closely observed the culture and environment at the school. What he saw deeply moved him.
Speaking to Clarion India, Vijay said, “Madrasa Islah Al-Bannat is a very good and safe school for girls. The school’s focus on discipline, manners, and the protection of girl students impressed me.”
He added, “Girls here wear proper uniforms with headscarves. There is mutual respect between students and teachers. As an uncle, I saw this school not just as an academic institution but as a place where my niece would be safe and grow with good values.”
It was this trust that led him to advise his elder brother, Krishna Mohite, to withdraw Gauri from her Marathi school and admit her to this Urdu-medium institution, which is run primarily for Muslim girls.
The decision was not easy. Shifting a child from one language medium to another is a challenge in itself. Adding to that was the unfamiliar environment—an Islamic school with customs and traditions very different from her own.
But the staff at Islah Al-Bannat handled the transition with exceptional sensitivity. Vijay Mohite recalled, “Initially, Gauri felt hesitant due to the Urdu medium and the Muslim environment. But the teachers and school administration treated her with so much love and care that her confidence grew rapidly. They supported her more than even the other girls.”
As a result, Gauri not only adapted but also embraced the school’s values. “Now she wears full-sleeved clothes even at home. She wears a scarf wherever she goes. Because of Urdu, she speaks politely with everyone. She has learnt to read, write, and speak Urdu fluently,” said her proud uncle.
Gauri’s success is not limited to academics alone. She actively takes part in cultural and extracurricular activities as well. She has participated in various speech competitions and brought honours for her school.
She won first and second prizes in the state-level speech competition held at Azam Campus in Pune, a prestigious event that features participants from across Maharashtra. Apart from that, she has excelled in many inter-school and district-level competitions.
Her academic score of 77.80% in SSC is especially impressive considering her transition to a new medium of instruction. Many students struggle with such changes even in familiar environments, but Gauri has not just coped, she has flourished.
Gauri herself is quick to credit her teachers. “All this is due to my teachers. I cannot thank them enough,” she said, smiling with pride and humility.
“The biggest joy is that I have never felt like a non-Muslim in this school. The principal, teachers, and students here have always treated me as one of their own. I am very happy and satisfied with the education and training here.”
She further shared her dreams: “I want to become a collector. I have decided to take the science stream in junior college. The day I become a collector, In sha Allah, I will say with pride that I started my journey in an Urdu-medium school.”
Her words reflect the confidence and values the school has instilled in her — values that transcend religious boundaries and language barriers.
Her father, Krishna Mohite, is equally proud and grateful. “My younger brother made the right decision. We are fully satisfied with the education and the teaching methods of this school,” he said.
His words are significant at a time when mistrust and prejudice between communities are often amplified. The Mohite family’s choice shows that trust and truth can still guide decisions, especially when it comes to the future of our children.
The school management, in turn, appreciates the faith shown by the family. A senior staff member said, “The decision by Gauri’s parents to enrol her in our Urdu school was a sensitive one. We deeply respect their trust. Our teachers have worked hard on Gauri’s education as well as her upbringing.”
She added, “We don’t differentiate between students based on religion. We aim to build strong, decent, and well-educated citizens. Gauri is one of our brightest students, and we’re proud of her.”
This heartwarming story of Gauri’s success comes at a time when Urdu-medium schools often face neglect or prejudice. In recent years, there has been a decline in the number of students enrolling in Urdu schools across India due to various socio-political factors. However, stories like Gauri’s show that these schools continue to serve a vital role in society, especially in promoting discipline, inclusiveness, and values.
Madrasa Islah Al-Bannat stands out not only for its academic achievements but also for the moral training it provides. Gauri’s case is a reminder that an institution rooted in Islamic values can welcome and nurture non-Muslim students with equal care and opportunity.
It also reflects the deep sense of hospitality and open-heartedness often found in Muslim communities, despite the prevailing narratives of fear and alienation.
Gauri’s story sends a strong message to parents across India: do not let language or religious identity come in the way of choosing the right school for your children. What matters more is safety, discipline, the dedication of teachers, and a supportive environment.
Vijay Mohite, the uncle whose wise decision shaped this journey, said, “In today’s world, where we hear so many negative things about Muslims and madrasas, people should come and see for themselves. This school gave my niece the best possible environment. I feel proud every time I see her achievements.”
He added, “We must judge people and institutions by their values, not by their names. This madrasa gave my Hindu niece everything: education, respect, manners, and self-confidence.”
As Gauri prepares to take admission in the science stream in junior college, she carries with her the hopes of her family, her school, and many others who will draw inspiration from her journey. Her ambition to become a collector is not just a personal dream; it is a statement that students from minority-run institutions can aim high and achieve great things.
Her journey also proves that faith and education can coexist without conflict. She did not have to change her religion to be accepted. Nor did she face any discrimination because of her background. Instead, she became a bridge between communities, showing what India truly stands for — unity in diversity.
In a time when communal lines are being drawn thick and deep, Gauri Mohite’s story lights a candle of hope. It reminds us that behind the walls of so-called “madrasa education,” there can be excellence, inclusiveness, and moral strength. That a Hindu girl can feel at home, loved, and respected in a Muslim institution says more about our nation’s real strength than any slogan ever could.
Gauri has become a role model for all Indians who dare to dream, cross boundaries, and build a future based on respect, learning, and shared values.
