Did i have a favourite pupil in Bishops

 Did I Have a Favourite Pupil in Bishops? Well…

Some weeks ago, I was online when an old boy and his visiting friend struck up a conversation with me. They had a question about Bishops—one of my all-time favorite topics—so, of course, I agreed without hesitation.

“Sir, did you have a favourite pupil?” they asked. “And who was he?”

Now, that was a bold and rather unexpected question and a tricky one too .

Having spent twenty years at Bishops as a teacher, Boarding Superintendent, House Master of Bishops House, Dormitory In charge, and eventually as Headmaster, I had met countless boys— in class, on the games field, on the volleyball courts, in the English Club, and through dramatics, debating, and elocution. Choosing a favorite? That was like asking a parent to pick a favorite child. Had I ever thought about it – yes!

But rather than answer outright, I decided to have a little fun. “Go on then,” I said. “Take a guess.”

What followed was an impressive display of research and deduction. They threw out names with remarkable confidence- let me tell you – both were rascals in school but smart in the classroom as well!

Scholars who had topped the school, and others who had consistently topped their class (undoubtedly good guesses).

Some rounders

Two athletes who had broken records (I had probably chased them down for skipping prep at some point).

Three boxers who had gone down in Bishops folklore (some for their punches in the ring, others for their mischief outside it).

Some sons of farmers.

Boys who had acted in school plays—one of whom is now a famous director (perhaps he could dramatize this guessing game someday).

A day scholar who became quite a  well-known  cricketer out of India , two or three very naughty boys who somehow got along very well with me (though I won’t admit if they ever got away with anything), some Head Boys, and three Bishops House Captains.

A selection of boarders, four or five debaters (who probably tried to argue their way out of trouble more than once), two or three leading public figures from Pune, a criminal lawyer , a builder or two in Pune , and two brothers whose father was a heart specialist.

Five teachers’ sons (some of whom inherited their fathers’ wisdom, others… well, let’s just say they had spirit).

And a few other “miscellaneous” boys—a category that made me wonder whether they were legends or just unforgettable characters.

Hats off to them! They had clearly done their research.

So, did I have a favourite?

Well, I must admit… yes. But will I reveal his name? Absolutely not. There were simply too many remarkable boys I had the pleasure of teaching, coaching, and mentoring over the years. A very large number are in touch with me, and I have met old Bishopites all over the world

Still, if asked in confidence, in a quiet room, over a cup of coffee or a glass of whatever —well, let’s just say, I could name a favourite.

But where’s the fun in that? Have decided to let you keep guessing

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