Recently, a video emerged on social media showing a group of boys in West Bengal, India, tearing up their textbooks and throwing the pieces onto the road after completing their exams. This act, though it may seem like a burst of joy after long and stressful exam preparations, raises important questions about respect for education and the values we hold dear. In our culture, books are much more than just study materials—they are symbols of knowledge and wisdom, deeply associated with Goddess Saraswati, who is revered during Saraswati Puja. Many students perform this puja before their exams, seeking her blessings for success and clarity in their studies. When textbooks, which are treated almost like sacred objects, are carelessly torn up, it not only shows a momentary lapse in judgment but also disrespects a tradition that values learning and wisdom.
This incident is not isolated to West Bengal. Similar scenes have been seen around the world. In Saudi Arabia, a few years ago, a video circulated showing primary school students ripping up their textbooks, which led to strong reactions from education authorities. In China, high school seniors have been known to tear up their textbooks to relieve the pressure of the national gaokao exams, and even in Australia, there have been reports of students burning their books at the end of exam periods. These actions, though varied in their form, all highlight the intense pressure that students face and the sometimes extreme ways they express their relief.
In India, where books are closely linked to the blessings of Goddess Saraswati, such actions take on an even deeper cultural significance. Tearing up textbooks not only wastes valuable educational resources but also disregards the opportunity to help those in need. Many students across the country cannot afford these books, and donated textbooks can make a big difference in their lives. Instead of destroying these materials in a moment of excitement, students could consider donating them to less privileged learners. This act of kindness would honor the spirit of knowledge and learning that our culture cherishes.
Teachers and parents have a crucial role to play in guiding students toward more respectful ways of celebrating success. Educators can set positive examples by demonstrating how to celebrate academic achievements in ways that preserve the sanctity of learning. At the same time, parents can help by discussing the importance of respecting educational tools and explaining how their proper use can benefit others who might not have the same opportunities. By working together, teachers, parents, and students can create traditions that celebrate success without causing harm or waste.
Ultimately, while it is natural to feel relieved and happy after exams, it is important to channel that joy in a manner that respects our cultural values and the true purpose of education. By embracing practices that honor our traditions—such as Saraswati Puja—and by considering the needs of those less fortunate, we can celebrate academic success in a way that builds a stronger, more caring community for all.