Mumbai: Dadar, one of the Marathi-centric areas of Mumbai, the well-established Nabar Guruji Vidyalaya is at risk of shutting down because of a notable drop in student enrollment. Out of 35 tenth graders this year, only 17 will continue into the next academic year in grades nine and ten. This institution, affiliated with the Indian Education Society and in operation since the 1940s, highlights a history of accomplished graduates across diverse fields.
Nonetheless, social media rumors regarding its potential shutdown have emerged against the backdrop of the Maharashtra government's recent directive requiring Hindi in Marathi-medium schools.
Satish Nayak of the Indian Education Society told Maharashtra Times that although no formal closure proposal has been presented, the school is facing challenges due to decreasing enrollment, a problem worsened by parents doubting the educational standards of Marathi-medium schools.
Numerous families, including those with constrained finances, are choosing English-medium or CBSE schools, even though Nabar Guruji Vidyalaya provides free education with teacher salaries supported by government funding.
Language War In Mumbai
Political parties like Shiv Sena (Ubatha) and MNS, which promote Marathi identity, are currently facing pressure as this decline endangers their dominance in Dadar. These groups might come together to tackle the challenge of maintaining Marathi schools. Nayak disclosed attempts to attract students via outreach but mentioned that these efforts have been unsuccessful. The community is closely watching to see if political measures will arise to stop the shutdown of this essential educational institution in Dadar.
