Community Builds New Home For SSLC Topper, Retired Teacher Donates Rs 6 Lakh

Last Updated:February 11, 2026, 17:02 IST

The construction of Ankita’s new house was funded by a retired lecturer, and his wife. The couple chose to celebrate their wedding anniversary by donating Rs 6 lakh for the house.

In Mandarthi village in Udupi district, a young student’s determination has transformed her life story. Ankita, a first-year PU (Class 11) student at Sri Durga Parameshwari Temple PU College, scored an impressive 94% in her SSLC (Class 10) examinations last year, emerging as the topper of her school.

What makes her achievement remarkable is not just the marks, but the circumstances under which she earned them.

For years, Ankita’s family lived in a house that was in deplorable condition. Her father, a daily-wage labourer, has been unable to work due to serious neurological issues. Her mother became the sole earning member of the family, working as a daily wager to keep the household running.

Their living conditions were fragile. During heavy rains and strong winds, the sheet roofing of their house would often be damaged, leaving the family exposed. Basic resources were limited. Until recently, Ankita did not even own a mobile phone, a tool many students consider essential for studies today. Yet, she remained focused and academically driven.

A Community Steps In

Her academic excellence caught the attention of Yakshagana Kalaranga, a social organisation known for supporting underprivileged but meritorious students. Through its welfare initiative, Vidya Poshak, the organisation identifies students from marginalised backgrounds and provides them with educational and social assistance.

Moved by Ankita’s performance and her family’s condition, the organisation decided to help her secure something fundamental, a safe home.

A Golden Gesture

The construction of Ankita’s new house was funded by Sooryanarayana Adiga, a retired lecturer, and his wife. The couple chose to celebrate their golden wedding anniversary by donating approximately Rs 6 lakh for the project.

Finally, Ankita stepped into her newly built home, the 87th house handed over by Yakshagana Kalaranga to a deserving student.

Beyond One Story

According to Murali Kadekar, secretary of the organisation, 10 more houses are currently under construction, with four scheduled for inauguration this month. The initiative has drawn support from a wide range of donors, including religious seers, cutting across caste and religious lines.

Ankita’s journey underscores how collective support can strengthen young aspirations. With a secure roof over her head, her academic journey now continues on firmer ground.

News india Community Builds New Home For SSLC Topper, Retired Teacher Donates Rs 6 Lakh