Education is a fundamental right and necessity for children. It provides essential knowledge and skills for future career opportunities and personal growth, enabling children to become well-rounded, empowered individuals who can contribute positively towards the development of the society. It is the duty of every parent to arrange education for their children. However, there are Some parents who genuinely believe that education is not important for their child's success, especially if they see a path to success through other means. For these type of parent, Sanskrit says :
माता शत्रुः पिता वैरी येन बालो न पाठितः |
न शोभते सभा मध्ये हंस मध्ये बको यथा ||
Maataa shatruh pitaa vairee yena baalo na paathitah.
Na shobhate sabhaa madye hamsamadhye vako yathaa.
Maataa = mother.
Shatruh = enemy.
Pitaa = father.
Vairee = unfriendly, enemy.
Yena = by whom, who.
Baalo = child.
Na = not,
Paathitah = taught, educated.
Shobhate = adorned
Sabhaa = an assembly of people.
Madhya = amongst, between.
Hamsa = swan.
Bako = a crane.
Yathaa = for instance, in the same manner.
i.e. That mother is like an enemy and the father is like an adversary who do not educate their children, because after growing up they do not get respect and grace in the gathering (society) of learned people and their condition becomes like that of a crane in a flock of beautiful swans.
The importance of providing proper education to children has been highlighted in this verses. Citing the examples of cranes and swans*, it says that the way, Cranes are not adorned in herds of swans because they are separate species with different natural behaviors and habitats. Likewise, and uneducated person does not get due respect and recognition in the society. Because an educated person always looks out for like minded companion.
An uneducated person remain isolated in the society of educated people. Education develops a person's overall character and provides exposure to diverse perspectives, leading to a more holistic and informed outlook. It instills a sense of responsibility and encourages ethical behavior, contributing to a society that is more fair and inclusive. Parents have a natural duty to nurture and guide their children's growth, and education is a key component of this process.
