Inspiration from Physics Wallah

Recently, I watched the series Physics Wallah on Amazon Mini TV, based on the inspiring life of Mr. Alakh Pandey. It left me deeply touched—not just by his story but by the simplicity and authenticity he carries, even after achieving so much. The series beautifully portrays his journey, struggles, and the immense dedication he has towards teaching physics.  

What struck me the most was his unwavering passion for education and his refusal to be "sold" in the highly commercialized education market. Alakh Pandey's approach to teaching is so genuine, making complex physics concepts relatable and easy to understand for every student. Watching him, I could feel his connection with his students—his goal was not just to make them score well but to genuinely understand and enjoy the subject.

The actors in Physics Wallah deserve special praise. They have done an incredible job of bringing his story to life. Their portrayal felt real, raw, and honest, capturing the essence of a teacher who rose above the odds to make education accessible to all. It’s not just a story of success but also a reflection of the challenges in the Indian education system.

This series made me reflect on my own life and career. I’ve been in the education sector for years, but, I often feel unsettled and insecure about my path. Despite my capabilities, I find myself relying on the lengthy government processes for securing a stable job. It’s frustrating at times, especially when I compare myself to individuals like Alakh Pandey or even my classmate from M.Sc., Mr. Venkat Punjabi, who founded Takshshila Academy and made a mark in the education world; Mr. Roshan Jadhav, one of my colleagues while working at Senior college in Dhule, did the same for Chemistry 

I question myself often—is it my lack of effort, or did I miss the courage to do something different? Watching Physics Wallah reminded me that true success lies in perseverance, passion, and a vision to bring change. Perhaps my unsettledness stems from the fact that I’ve been waiting for opportunities rather than creating them.

But beyond personal reflections, I also was reminded of the flaws in our education system. From the mentality of parents to the rigid style of teaching and learning, there’s so much that needs improvement. Parents often prioritize marks over understanding, and students are forced into a race of rote learning rather than exploring their interests. The commercialization of education has only worsened the problem, making quality learning a privilege rather than a right.

Alakh Pandey’s story is a reminder that change is possible, even within a flawed system. It’s about staying true to your values, embracing your passion, and daring to be different. While I may not have reached where I want to be, his journey has reignited my belief that it’s never too late to make a difference.

As I continue my journey in education, I am also reminded of the importance of staying true to my purpose. I may never have the same commercial success as they have, but there is a sense of fulfillment in being genuine and focused on the needs of my students. I take this lesson from the series: no matter where we are, the real success lies in the impact we make on others, not the accolades or titles we acquire.

Physics Wallah isn’t just a series; it’s a wake-up call for me, educators, parents, and students alike. It teaches us that education isn’t about fancy degrees or expensive institutions—it’s about inspiring young minds, nurturing curiosity, and making knowledge accessible to all.

To the team behind the series and to Alakh Pandey himself, thank you for this beautiful portrayal. It’s a story that stays with you, urging you to dream, act, and most importantly, believe in the power of education.