Shree Samarth English Medium School, Shivaji & Vidya Rao Bhamanrao Gavari, Pune
The Beginning of a Dream
Shivaji Rao Bhamanrao Gavari and Vidya Shivaji Gavari, from the small town of Chimni Pathai in Pune, founded Shree Samarth English Medium School in 2010. Their aim was straightforward—to provide children with an education that emphasized not just academics but also supported their holistic development. Shivaji remembers, “We lacked a solid plan and had limited resources, but one thing was undeniable—we aimed to provide children with the education they rightfully deserved.”
Their path was far from easy. The school began with only five classrooms and a total of 100 students. Vidya states, “We had never operated a school previously.” Each step presented a challenge, and we needed to start learning everything anew. “However, in spite of the challenges, our dedication to teaching and affection for the children propelled us onward.”
Despite having little experience and limited resources, their resolve remained steadfast. Their continuous dedication to the kids in their community formed the basis upon which their school was established.
Mission to Serve the Community
The couple knew the struggles of children in their village. Many had to leave home and move to cities for better education. That thought stayed with them. Shivaji shares, “This was what pushed us to start a school in Chimni Pathai. We saw children leaving, not because there were no schools here, but because they couldn’t find the right kind of education.”
While other schools catered to the lower-middle class, they saw a gap—middle-class children had the potential but lacked the right environment to grow. Vidya explains, “These children were bright and capable, but without the right support, their talent remained hidden. It was our goal to create an environment in which they could succeed.”
They put forth endless effort to construct a school where children would not only learn but also develop into confident youngsters prepared to face the world because they had the will to create this setting.
Building Careers and Growth
Both of them had no idea how much Shree Samarth English Medium School would expand over the next 15 years. Vidya shares, “We started with just 100 students, and today, more than 2,000 children study in our primary branch. But growth isn’t just about numbers—it’s about how our vision expanded along the way.”
As they moved forward, they realized that building a good school meant more than just having classrooms. Vidya explains, “We understood that for students to truly succeed, we had to invest in everything—better infrastructure, good educators, and facilities that support both learning and personal growth.”
Today, Shree Samarth is more than just a school—it is a place where children gain knowledge, life skills, and confidence. Shivaji reflects, “Over the years, we have seen seven to eight batches graduate, with many now excelling in different fields. Some have become doctors, some serve in the Navy and CRPF, and many are doing well in their careers. It is heartwarming to see how their education here has shaped their future.”
Support from Varthana: A Partnership for Progress
The Gavaris faced many roadblocks along the way, and one of the greatest was procuring financial support. “Starting a new school was no easy task, and obtaining the funding that we required was one of the biggest challenges we faced,” Shivaji shares. “That is when Varthana came in and really contributed to helping us move ahead.” With Varthana’s backing, they were able to secure a loan of ₹1.15 crore, which helped them refurbish the infrastructure in the school. “With this fund, we were able to build a computer lab and a science lab-both very much in need and welcomed by our students for quality education in the current, modern world,” explains Vidya.
But what truly distinguished Varthana was that they had not only offered a loan but offered continuous guidance. Shivaji says: “Varthana never considered the loan as just a transaction. They followed up on our functioning every year after that in helping us do better when it came to academics and came forward with their assistance for steady growth.” “With their help, we successfully introduced the Lead School Curriculum, aligned with the CBSE board. This shift provided our students with a structured learning system to face high school with confidence,” he adds.
Promoting Comprehensive Learning
The school’s focus on academics goes hand in hand with its commitment to overall growth. The educators believe that true education nurtures not just the mind but also the body and spirit. Vidya shares, “We encourage students to explore their interests beyond textbooks—whether in sports, arts, or music. Every child deserves the chance to discover their passion and build confidence through activities that shape their future.”
This approach has turned the school into a space where children don’t just prepare for exams but also gain valuable life skills. The couple often shares an inspiring message with students and parents, “If a newspaper vendor can become the president and a tea seller can rise to be the prime minister, then why can’t we build at least ten schools? This powerful reminder teaches that no matter where you come from, you have the ability to achieve great things.”
Also Read: Driven to Make a Difference, How an MP Math Teacher Builds a School for Holistic Growth
A More Resilient Tomorrow
Shree Samarth English Medium School stands as a testament to the determination, vision, and support of a committed partner like Varthana. Shivaji shares, “Our school has not only improved education in the community but has also opened doors for children from different backgrounds to dream big and work toward their goals.”
Even as the school grows, the couple remains focused on the future. Shivaji says, “We want to expand further so that more children from Chimni Pathai and nearby areas can access quality education. Our goal is to ensure that even the children of drivers, gardeners, and others who cannot afford high fees get the opportunity to learn, grow, and build a better future.”
They remain committed to creating a school where every child can thrive academically and beyond, preparing them to enter the world with confidence, creativity, and purpose.
Social