To Read or not to Read

My cousin Kashi has never stepped foot in a classroom or cracked open a book, but he is healthy and cares for himself. Despite never overeating, he is always well-nourished. He has a remarkable aptitude for general knowledge and understands the importance of money and local politics. He is a good listener and converses well with others.
My mother was another example of the power of practical knowledge. Although she never received a formal education, she was a respected figure in our town, often sought out for her sage advice. She founded a community centre where she taught young women the art of stitching clothes, and her reputation was so excellent that family members from Bangalore would come to her to settle disputes. She was there for everyone in the extended family. Despite her success, she never felt the need to read a book. Her strength was in listening and telling stories.
Although Fakru did not have formal training in civil engineering, his practical knowledge was invaluable. He was a skilled mason who never received formal schooling but was exceptional at estimating the cement and steel required for building a house. He struggled with advanced mathematics but could instantly provide the necessary numbers with the building plan. I remember him explaining the diesel engine principle to a bunch of neighbours. He never read any books.
Thomas, a demonstrator in my school’s physics and chemistry labs, had an uncanny ability to guide students through complex experiments involving dynamics and statics. He could guess the answers by looking at the experimental data. He could even determine the components of a salt mixture by its smell. Many of my friends now in senior positions credit their success to Thomas. Despite his influence, he never spent any time with a book in his hands.
Govinda Row is a famous tailor in Bangalore, known as “Max tailors”, known for the incredible stitching of women’s garments. No Italian or French designer can beat him in the design and the cut. I have seen young girls waiting for months to get their dresses stitched. He understands fabrics and their properties very well. Again, he has yet to go to any formal school. But he is a great observer of trends and ensures he attends all the possible social events to learn the latest fashions. His knowledge comes from careful observation.
Narayana is a barber in our town who is also the bard for all the ‘official’ events, including ‘farewells’. He learnt the tricks of the trade from his father, Venkanna. All his knowledge comes from the customers. He is an eager’ beaver’, always wanting to learn. While he takes time in the ‘saloon’ service, he always has questions to clarify. He will only allow customers to leave his shop after answering his questions. His success to glory is the spirit of enquiry.
All of the above have not read any books in their lives. They listened and acquired knowledge through oral storytelling tradition. These stories demonstrate many ways to achieve success, and formal education is just one of them. Practical knowledge and experience can be as valuable and essential in some fields. Recognizing and appreciating the talents and abilities of those who have learned through alternative means is necessary. I learnt to embrace diversity in learning and acknowledge that not everyone knows in the same way or through the same channels.