Mumbai: At 76, ex-Navy man clears HSC to chase law dream

Gorakhnath More is felicitated by family members at his Naigaon residence after the declaration of the HSC results

Demonstrating the power of determination, 76-year-old Gorakhnath More, a retired master chief petty officer (MCPO) of the Indian Navy, has successfully cleared the Maharashtra Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) examination, scoring 44.5 per cent, a crucial step toward realising his dream of becoming a lawyer. The Naigaon resident had joined the navy after completing Std XI and never had an opportunity to resume his education during his years of service.

Following his retirement in 1997 after more than 30 years in the navy , More worked with a private builder as part of the legal team, where his deep interest in law flourished. Encouraged by lawyers who recognised his grasp of legal practices, More decided to formally pursue a law degree.

The septuagenarian, seen here in naval attire, worked as part of a legal team with a private builder after retiring as a Navy master chief petty officer

To make that dream a reality, he approached Rishi Valmiki Vidyalaya and Junior College in Naigaon West and met its founder, Ravindra Bhatkar. Moved by More's sincerity and commitment, Bhatkar assisted him in registering as a private candidate for the Std XII board exam and secured the necessary permissions from the education board.

Bhatkar told mid-day, "I've been in the education field for 30 years. When we started this school, the area was quite backwards in terms of education. Very few had the opportunity to study. But now, our students are graduating and getting jobs in various fields. My wife was a school teacher too."

He added, "More took both oral and written exams, just like the other students, and passed. His passion for learning was remarkable. I was confident he would clear the exam, and he did. His courage and dedication are truly inspiring."

Gorakhnath More with his daughter, Dr Aarti Wadkar

Bhatkar emphasised that More's journey is a powerful example for those who hesitate to pursue education later in life: "He is an example for those who feel embarrassed to study at an older age. I salute his determination. I hope others like him are encouraged to follow their dreams."

Family power

More's family has been a pillar of support throughout his journey. His son, a retired petty officer (PO) from the Indian Navy, and his daughter, Dr Aarti Wadkar, a medical professional, have stood by him, especially after the passing of his wife last year.

The septuagenarian has already appeared for the Common Entrance Test

Dr Wadkar told mid-day that her father's dream had always been to become a lawyer. "But passing Std XII is a compulsory requirement to study law. That's why he first decided to complete his HSC," she explained. Despite his age and responsibilities, More carved out time daily to study. "He used to study for two to three hours every day, just like a serious student," said Dr Wadkar.

When the HSC results were announced, the family was overjoyed. "We are all very happy, but most of all, my father is thrilled. This result marks the first step toward fulfilling his dream," she said with pride. In a final demonstration of his commitment, Dr Wadkar revealed that her father had already appeared for the Common Entrance Test, ensuring that he can immediately apply for admission to a law college.