Most nine-year-olds rush home from school to play with friends or finish homework.
Babar Ali rushed home too – but only so he could start teaching his own class. With no official title, no salary, and no proper classroom, he became the youngest headmaster in the world.
His first “school” was a patch of ground under the open sky, his first “students” were kids who had never seen the inside of a classroom, and his mission was simple: give them the education they deserved, even if he had to do it alone.
In the small village of Murshidabad, West Bengal, life moved at an unhurried pace. But for many children, education was not part of that life at all. Some worked in fields, some carried water for their families, and others cared for younger siblings. School was a dream they couldn’t afford.
Babar noticed this every day on his way to and from school. And one day, he decided that waiting for someone else to change things wasn’t an option.
So, he turned his own backyard into a makeshift classroom, gathering a few neighbourhood children and teaching them whatever he had learned that day.
What began as an informal gathering soon became something bigger. Word spread through the village that a boy was teaching for free, and more children began showing up.
Over time, with help from well-wishers and donations, the backyard transformed into Anand Shiksha Niketan (“Home of Joyful Learning”). The “school” welcomed children who had never held a pencil before, offering them not just literacy but hope.
Babar continued his own education in the mornings and returned in the afternoons to teach. His students came barefoot, with worn-out books, but they brought with them an unshakable eagerness to learn.
Babar’s goal was simple: to break the cycle of poverty through education. He knew that if these children didn’t get the chance to learn, their futures would be locked in the same struggles their families faced.
He didn’t wait for government programs or NGOs to take the lead. Instead, he proved that you’re never too young to make a difference — you just have to start.
As word of his work spread, Babar gained recognition from across India and beyond. He received awards, media coverage, and invitations to speak about his journey. But fame never distracted him from the chalkboard in his small school, his mission remained the same.
Babar Ali’s journey is about more than teaching – it’s about having the courage to start something good, no matter how small.
This blog is just a sneak peek. In Unfold the Stories of Unsung Heroes – Part 3, you’ll find the full story of Babar Ali — the challenges he faced, the moments that shaped him, and the incredible ripple effect of his work. Plus, you’ll meet nine other amazing people from around the world who are quietly making our world better.
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When I read this story in your book, Deepak, I was moved by this young man's need to help others.
Thank you for writing your unforgettable stories, and I am looking forward to reading book 4!
Joanna
Thank you Joanna for appreciation. This boosts our motivation to work hard and find more great stories for you.
I've downloaded the book and an starting to read it. The writing so far is excellent. I'm looking forward to reading the rest of it!
Thank you for acknowledging our book. I hope you will like other stories too.
Just ordered my copy. So excited to read it! An amazing young man. God bless him.
Thank you 😊
What an amazing and powerful story. Can’t thank you guys enough for sharing it here and in your books. Love you guys 🫶
We are blessed to have a reader like you. Your appreciation books our morale to work hard and find new stories for our readers.
Thank you 😊
I'm very touched by this story, because I'm convinced that it is the right way of doing! Many thanks.
Indeed, this story really touched the heart and inspires us to work for humanity.
Thank you....
As a retired educator, I remember enjoying this one when I read it. The act of helping others defines a person's character.
The world needs educators like babar ali and you. Who really wants to help people by spreading knowledge. Because knowledge is the best gift you can give to anyone.
Thank You and God bless you
Ritish, I so enjoyed this story when reading from your book. I loved being able to see the photos that accompany this wonderful story as I read it agian! Thank you for posting this.❤️
Deepak, Great post! Loved reading it again with the lovely photos! ❤️ Thank you.
Thank you Cheryl for your appreciation. 😊
An absolutely wonderful story. I thank you that you have written it. Indeed the whole world needs to hear about these self sacrificing young heros.
Well said Faye, these heroes are the true picture of hard work and perseverance. They have devoted their whole life for the betterment of society.
Love the story of Babar Ali, Deepak. Thanks for publishing it here - such a great story from your Unsung Heroes!
I am glad loved this story. Your appreciation means a lot for us.
Love his story…it prompts tears every time I’ve read about him — thanks to you and Deepak. Be the change…do the work…don’t wait. So good! ❤️❤️❤️
Oops! Sorry, Deepak! I goofed and thought Ritish authored this post. 😉
No worries, we both work as a team. 😊 Thank you once again.
My pleasure! 🥰
😊
Thank you for your appreciation 😊. These heroes are a true picture of greatness.
Agree! 🥰❤️🥰
I remember this inspiring story that brought tears, Deepak. It's wonderful to read again, and this is only one in your collection that touches hearts across the globe. A reminder that kindness and the desire to help others really does exist. Thank you! 🙏
Yes, I also loveed this story of babar and, it brings tears to my eyes too. And knowing that today his students are working in high positions and making him proud, is just so heartwarming. People like him are great example of strong will power.
Thanks for reading, Lauren.
Beautiful. <3
This was a highlight in your book that touched at my heartstrings with such applause! Such an example of following your messages and helping humanity! 🩷
Thank you so much for your kind words. I’m truly glad that this part touched you, it means a lot to know the message is connecting and inspiring.
You're so very welcome Deepak! I'm happy to know that as well!!!! 💕
Babar Ali ! What a hero ! A 9 year old is changing the lives of countless youngsters ! This is just incredible ! Thank you so much for sharing this story.
Indeed, he is a gem and hope for many youngsters. His selfless service to humanity is commendable and inspiring.
Thank you for your appreciation 🙏