Subhash Mahajan
Chamba
When the snow blankets the towering peaks of Chamba’s remote Pangi Valley and temperatures plunge several degrees below zero, life seems to come to a standstill. Yet, in the tiny village of Finduru, one home remains alive with the sound of learning.
This is the home of Devi Charan, a government school teacher and headmaster at Primary School Findpar, who has transformed his house into a winter classroom. For the past three decades, he has opened his doors to children during the harsh winter vacations, offering them free education and hope.
A Selfless Journey of 30 Years
While most people retreat indoors to escape the biting cold, Devi Charan welcomes 25–30 children every year into his home. His mission goes beyond teaching alphabets—he prepares rural children for competitive entrance exams that can change their lives.
Among the exams he trains them for are:
- Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV) entrance test
- Eklavya Model Residential School entrance test
- Sainik School entrance test
- Various scholarship examinations
Thanks to his dedication, children from this isolated valley have secured places in prestigious institutions, bringing pride to Pangi.
🏅Honored with Himachal Gaurav Awar
In an era where education is increasingly commercialized, Devi Charan’s service stands out as pure and noble. Recognizing his commitment, the Government of Himachal Pradesh honored him with the Himachal Gaurav Award on Himachal Day 2025.
Parents’ Unwavering Trust
Local parents describe him not just as a teacher but as a mentor and guide. Children from across Pangi Valley travel to his home, and families see his efforts as a blessing—especially those who cannot afford expensive coaching classes.
In the frozen silence of Pangi Valley, Devi Charan’s home glows with warmth, knowledge, and hope—proving that true education is not bound by classrooms, but by compassion and vision.
