Dr. Pravin Dumbre on “Don’t Raise Lab Rats – Raise Humans”

Dear Friends,

We’ve all heard the story of the hare and the tortoise. The fast hare loses because he underestimates the steady tortoise. It’s simple—but powerful. We teach this story to our kids, yet forget to apply its wisdom ourselves.

Every child is different. Some grasp history with ease, others find joy in languages. Math or English may be challenging for some. Intelligence isn’t one-size-fits-all. And here’s the truth—not every top scorer rules the world, and not every average student fails in life. Marks are just numbers. They don’t define a child’s worth or potential.

In our race for status and recognition, we often lose sight of humanity. We hear of children turning away from their aging parents. Dreams once sacrificed by parents are now imposed on kids—at any cost. But are we really listening to who our children are?

A heartbreaking incident in Atpadi, Sangli, shook me deeply. A young girl lost her life because her father, a teacher, was furious she scored “just” 94 in a test. Her words—“You didn’t score high, but you became a teacher”—were honest. But they triggered rage instead of reflection. This tragedy is a mirror to all of us.

We’ve all seen it: parents of a child scoring 94% ask, “Why not 95?” Meanwhile, those whose children scrape by at 36% are celebrating. It’s ironic—and sad. Instead of scolding, why not reward effort, courage, and character?

Not every bright future begins with good grades. After 10th or 12th, many children discover their true potential—in arts, music, entrepreneurship, or skilled trades. Success has many paths. Our job is to guide, not push.

Let me share this story. A scientist asked his assistant to bring him 10 rats—but needed only the fastest 5. So, they raced. The fastest ones were caged for experiments. The rest were set free. The caged rats kept waiting, desperate to prove their worth—just like children trapped in a system that demands speed, not understanding.

Let’s not make our children lab rats in a race they didn’t choose. Let’s raise humans—free, fearless, and full of hope. Guide them gently. Cheer their small wins. Help them walk their own path—with confidence.

Dr. Pravin Dumbre

Warm regards,

Dr. Pravin Dumbre

Otur, Pune

9766550643

Translated by Dr(HC) Prachetan Potadar

Contact: +91 9561398225