In an unconventional bid to address poor academic performance, Chinta Raman, the headmaster of Penta Zilla Parishad High School in Vijayanagaram district, Andhra Pradesh, took matters into his own hands by punishing himself publicly.
A Bold Move to Promote Self-Discipline
During a school assembly, disappointed by the lack of improvement in his students’ studies, Headmaster Raman declared, “We can’t scold you, we can’t hit you, but still there is no improvement in your studies. Is the mistake ours or yours? If you believe the mistake is ours, I will punish myself.” Without waiting for a response, he bowed down and began performing nearly 50 push-ups while holding his ears. Initially, the students watched in silence before some pleaded, “Sir, please don’t do it!” Despite their emotional reactions, the headmaster completed his self-imposed exercise.
WATCH THE VIRAL VIDEO:
విజయనగరం జిల్లా, బొబ్బిలి మండలం, పెంట జెడ్పీ హైస్కూల్ హెడ్మాస్టర్ చింత రమణ గారు పిల్లల విద్యా పురోగతి అంతంతమాత్రంగా ఉందని, చెప్పిన మాట వినడంలేదని….విద్యార్థులను దండించకుండా, గుంజీలు తీసిన వీడియో సోషల్ మీడియా ద్వారా నా దృష్టికి వచ్చింది. హెడ్మాస్టరు గారూ!… pic.twitter.com/Se7zu6uwf5
— Lokesh Nara (@naralokesh) March 13, 2025
Viral Sensation and Official Praise
The video of the headmaster’s dramatic act quickly went viral on social media. The incident caught the attention of state officials as well. Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh praised the headmaster for his unique approach, stating, “The headmaster has set a great example of self-discipline without punishing anyone.” His remarks highlighted the headmaster’s commitment to accountability and the belief that leadership begins with taking personal responsibility.
Reflecting on the Education System
The incident has ignited broader discussions about disciplinary methods in schools. Critics question whether self-punishment, however symbolic, is a sustainable solution to address the shortcomings of the education system. Supporters argue that such gestures might foster an environment of mutual accountability and inspire both educators and students to strive for improvement.
As the debate continues, the headmaster’s self-punishment serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing the education system and the creative, though controversial, methods some are employing to drive change.
