BHOPAL: Letters of praise and support poured in from across the country for 16-year-old Bhopal girl Vanisha Pathak, who lost both parents to Covid but scored a stunning 99.8% in her class 10 CBSE exams, turning out to be the city’s joint top scorer.
“I am thankful for TOI for telling the world about me. I had never dreamed of such support from people. Now, the whole country is my family,” she said on Wednesday. “I am thankful to everyone for showing their concern for me. Keep blessing me so that I can complete the dream of my father.”
His father Jeetendra Kumar Pathak and mother Dr Seema Pathak lost their lives to Covid in May this year during the second surge of pandemic. Many TOI readers offered to help.
Vanisha now lives with her maternal uncle and aunt, who are proud of her achievement.
A TOI reader, Kiran, wrote in to say: “I read your article in The Times of India. I really appreciate Vanisha Pathak’s courage to study. I was deeply moved by her words towards her brother.” A reader from Bengaluru, Ranganathan Srinivan, wrote, “It was heartbreaking to read your article in TOI today. Thanks for sharing this achievement by the young girl. I'm writing to you from AMBA Foundation, which is a trust based out of Bangalore. We are supporting capable students with difficult financial situation.” A reader from Gurgaon, Dr Charu Jora, offered to help her in her higher studies.
Pro-Chancellor, IES University, Dr Sunita Singh said the institution would help Vanisha in her academics.
“Students like Vanisha are an inspiration. They show us that whatever the situation, one should keep putting their best foot forward and not give up.”
