A good teacher can inspire hope, ignite the imagination, and instill a love of learning: Brad Henry
By Dr Nisar Farhad
In every student’s life, there comes a teacher whose influence transcends classrooms and textbooks — a teacher whose words breathe courage into weary hearts and whose silent prayers open doors that effort alone could never unlock.
For me, that divine presence was Professor G. M. Peerzada — a scholar of immense intellect and even greater humility — whose compassion, wisdom, and prayers turned my PhD journey into a pilgrimage of faith, perseverance, and transformation.
When destiny introduced a teacher
It was the year 2009. I had just begun my PhD in Chemistry at the University of Kashmir, carrying dreams far bigger than my means and doubts heavier than my confidence. I was uncertain, anxious, and unaware that destiny was about to bless me with a mentor who would change the very course of my life.
From our first meeting, Professor G M Peerzada radiated calm authority — a rare blend of brilliance and benevolence. His gentle smile, composed demeanour, and fatherly concern instantly put me at ease. I knew, deep within, that he would be more than just a research supervisor. He would become a mentor, philosopher, and moral compass whose guidance would shape not only my career but my character.
A pillar of strength in life’s storms
Coming from an average family background, I often faced financial hardships during my research years. But when life tested me, my teacher stood beside me like a rock.
Understanding my struggles without me uttering a word, he appointed me as a Project Fellow in his UGC-sponsored research project — ensuring that my academic journey continued unhindered. On several occasions, when things grew tougher, he quietly supported me from his own pocket, never making me feel indebted.
Such acts go beyond mentorship — they reveal the soul of a teacher who sees his students as his own children. His kindness became my shelter when everything else seemed to crumble.
Opening doors to dreams
It was under his trust and guidance that I was given the life-changing opportunity to carry out part of my research at IIT Bombay — a dream destination for any researcher. For a boy from a small village, stepping into those world-class laboratories felt almost miraculous. That experience expanded not just my academic horizons but also my sense of self-belief. And behind that opportunity stood one man — my mentor, who believed in my potential even when I doubted myself.
A family beyond blood
Beyond academia, what touched me most was the affection I received from his family. Despite having his own son and a loving wife, they welcomed me into their home with warmth that words cannot capture. Their care turned my loneliness into belonging. Their kindness reminded me that a teacher’s home, too, can be a sanctuary — where knowledge is blended with compassion and hearts speak louder than words.
“A true teacher’s home is an extension of his classroom — filled not just with knowledge, but with kindness.”
Lessons beyond Chemistry
Under Professor G.M. Peerzada’s guidance, I learned far more than Chemistry. He taught me discipline, humility, patience, and integrity — values that became the foundation of my life and career. He often said, “Education must refine the soul before it sharpens the mind.” And he lived that truth daily — through his punctuality, simplicity, and silent dedication.
There came a time when personal crises — my parents’ ill health — almost broke my spirit. For two months, I disappeared from the department, my phone switched off, my hopes dimmed.
And then, one day, my phone rang. It was Professor G.M. Peerzada.
“Is everything alright, my son? Please come and meet me,” he said softly.
When I did, he listened with fatherly patience and then said words that rekindled my courage:
“Success demands sacrifice. Never lose hope.”
Those words revived me. His belief breathed life into my dying dreams. That moment became the turning point of my PhD journey — and my life.
When a teacher’s prayer becomes destiny
The day I submitted my PhD thesis remains etched in my heart forever. As I handed the bound copies to him, I saw tears glisten in his eyes. He lifted his hands toward the heavens and prayed — not merely for my success, but for my appointment as a Lecturer.
Miraculously, even before my PhD degree was formally awarded, I received my appointment letter in the School Education Department.
In that sacred moment, I realised something profound — the immeasurable power of a teacher’s prayer.
No amount of intellect or effort could have done what his sincere dua accomplished. It was as if destiny itself had bowed to his faith.
A legacy of light
Looking back today, I understand that the greatest gift of my PhD journey was not the title of “Doctor” but the transformation of my soul under his mentorship. He shaped not only my academic mind but my human spirit. His quiet guidance and silent prayers continue to illuminate my path long after my degree was earned.
In a world where teacher-student relationships often end with formalities, my bond with Professor G. M. Peerzada remains sacred — one of lifelong respect, affection, and gratitude.
“The truest legacy of a teacher is not written in books, but in the hearts of students whose lives he transforms.”
A prayer of gratitude
As I continue my own journey as a teacher and mentor, I often find myself reflecting on his example — striving to pass on even a fraction of the light he gave me.
I bow my head in deep gratitude to Professor G. M. Peerzada — my mentor, my guardian, my guiding star.
May Almighty Allah bless him and his family with endless happiness, good health, and long life. His light continues to guide me still, and I pray it shines on through generations of students yet to come. Because in the end, the greatest force in education is not knowledge —it is the prayer of a teacher.
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