My mother, Rabiya Ansari, was the true embodiment of the saying, “A mother’s lap is a child’s first school” — “Aaghosh-e-maadar bachche ki pehli school hoti hai.” She was a simple, pure-hearted, and deeply innocent woman. At times, she had a quick temper, which reflected the many hardships she silently carried within herself. She was married to my father at the tender age of twelve—an age when most children are still discovering the world. Life was often unexpected and unfair to her, yet her thirst for knowledge never faded. Despite the limitations placed upon her, she had a deep love for education. After marriage, at my father’s home, she taught herself Arabic and Urdu, determined to learn despite all odds. She came from a small and humble village, while my father, Ansari Mohammed Yaqub, was a city-bred man from Nashik, belonging to a well-educated and culturally refined family. Entering such an environment, my mother made sincere efforts to learn everything—not out of pressure, but out of curiosity, dedication, and self-respect. She mastered countless skills: cooking with love, stitching with precision, and hand embroidery with patience and grace. Most importantly, she never stopped learning until her last breath. Her hunger for growth and self-improvement was lifelong. My mother also ran an Arabic madrasa, where she not only taught with compassion but also financially supported her students. She encouraged regular attendance by giving them money—an act that was rare and deeply generous, rooted in her kindness and foresight. She was my greatest inspiration. Watching her learn, struggle, and grow taught me that education is not bound by age, circumstances, or gender. Because of her, I continue to learn even today—carrying her legacy forward, one lesson at a time..

My father’s name was Mohammed Yaqub Ansari. He was a very simple man, yet highly educated. He valued knowledge deeply and believed in teaching from an early age. I was hardly four years old when my father personally taught me numbers and multiplication tables. His patience and care while teaching me left a lasting impression on my life. He was an incredibly caring person. Whenever my brothers or sisters went anywhere, he would eagerly wait for their return, anxious until we reached home safely. His love for his family was evident in everything he did. Along with his caring nature, he had a wonderful sense of humor. Even today, my elder brother still talks about his jokes, remembering how he could make everyone around him laugh so effortlessly. I was just eleven years old when he passed away 😔. Losing him at such a young age left a void in my life that can never be filled. Yet, the lessons he taught me, his kindness, and his laughter continue to guide me every day. I often think of him and wish I could spend even a single day learning more from his wisdom. His memory remains a source of strength and inspiration for our entire family...

Nigar Sultana, lovingly known as Nigar Aapa, is not only my teacher but also my mentor, guiding me in every possible way with her wisdom and support. She is a retired BMC Headmistress and is known for her exceptional dedication, hardworking nature, deep religious values, and kind-hearted generosity. For her, teaching is not merely a profession—it is her true passion and the central purpose of her life. Even at the age of 69, she continues to devote her time and energy to educating others, reaching out wherever she senses a lack of learning or an opportunity to make a meaningful difference. Her commitment extends beyond the classroom, as she manages a large madrasa, providing education both offline and online, ensuring that knowledge reaches as many students as possible. Her life is a testament to perseverance, service, and the transformative power of education.

Ansari Altaf Ahmed is my father-figure. My father passed away when I was only 12 years old, and from that moment onward, my brother supported me in every possible manner. He has been my constant guide and strength throughout my life. He is a highly motivational person who always encourages and inspires me. He is extremely hardworking, deeply supportive, and dependable in every situation. He is not just my brother; he is my father, my mentor, and my strongest support system. Because of his guidance, motivation, and unwavering support, I have been able to achieve many of my goals in life..

My husband Abdul Samad Khan, and he truly does not require any introduction — “Bas naam hi kaafi hai.” We got married at a very early age. I was 18 years old, and Mr. Khan was 23. At that time, I was only 12th pass and very eager to get married — “mujhe shaadi ka bahut shauk tha,” and my mother was also a little too eager, so we got married . However, within just three months of marriage, I realized that my level of education was very low, and with this qualification, I would not be able to get a job. I understood the importance of education for my future. Initially, Mr. Khan refused, saying there should be no job and no further education. But then I approached my Baba, my father-in-law. Not only did he give me permission, but he also scolded my husband for refusing. After that, I took admission to a regular college and completed my B.A., then B.Ed., and finally LLB. Throughout my educational journey, Mr. Khan supported me in every possible way. He helped me during my examinations and personally picked me up and dropped me whenever I attended college. Whatever education I have achieved today is because of his support, cooperation, and silent sacrifices .