Bhubaneswar, Aug. 9 -- Some dreams refuse to die, even when life is filled with hardship. For Pradeep Kumar Das, an auto-rickshaw was once his means of survival. Today, the same vehicle stands as a symbol of his struggle, determination and success.

The Auto That Carried His Dream

Pradeep, the in-charge headmaster of Hinjadoli Primary School in Angul district, had discontinued his studies after failing matriculation in 2001 due to financial difficulties. He moved to Bhubaneswar and began driving an auto-rickshaw to support his family.

But his dream of studying and becoming a teacher remained alive. Whenever he found time while driving, he continued studying. After 16 years, he passed matriculation again in 2017.

The journey was not eas...