Every year, before the school board examinations, announcement of results and then admissions to colleges, there are these familiar photographs of students in front of schools and colleges in all prominent newspapers.

Anyone who follows these photographs closely will notice something very funny.  The photographs always show students and institutions of elite private schools and colleges. Favourite are St. Thomas Girls School, Jesus and Mary School (and College), St. Columbus School, Modern School and St. Stephens College. This is DELHI but from what my friends tell me, situation is no different in other major cities. What is wrong with students from other schools and colleges? Where do students from Government and Central schools are left out in overall scheme of things? They are children of lesser god whom editors and journalists do not find glamorous enough to be covered? And what does this mindset indicates?

One, it confirms that our society is highly divisive and it makes clear distinction between rich/financially comfortable and struggling classes of ordinary people.

Two, it addresses glamour as the key factor that grabs the attention of readers.

Three, it confirms that these children of lesser god actually need to work harder than those from influential background to succeed in life. For sure, society perceptions are not going to make it easier for them.

Four, this is a challenge for Government institutions to improve on its infrastructure and study facilities so that at least they are stimulating for child growth, if not luxurious.

Five and most important, these children of lesser god should understand that, at the end of the day, they are heads taller than the so-called “Fortunate Photographed Souls” because life teaches them to succeed with less and work hard for things that are out of reach. They have a better purpose to life. Only they should remember to photograph a government school child, if life and destiny makes them an editor!