Pune: While many abandon their dreams due to age, circumstances, or responsibilities, Mira Kokate from Pune is a living testament to the power of perseverance and determination. At the age of 50, Kokate achieved what she once thought was a distant dream — she passed the Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) examination, with results announced recently.
Residing in Jai Jawan Nagar, Yerawada, Kokate’s journey is not just a personal victory but an inspiring message that it’s never too late to pursue one’s aspirations.
Kokate married into a modest family. Her husband, Ashok, and his younger brother earned their livelihood by selling caps, raincoats, and sunglasses on Bund Garden Road. Despite their struggles, Kokate focused on managing the household, raising two daughters, and making sure their home was taken care of.
While her days were consumed with family responsibilities, Kokate harboured a silent dream of continuing her education. Forced to leave school at an early age, she longed for the day she could return to her studies. Her husband, supportive as ever, encouraged her to pursue this dream, though life kept her ambitions on hold for many years.
In 2023, at nearly 48 years old, Kokate enrolled in night school and sat for her Class 10 board exams — and passed with flying colours. Motivated by her success, she didn’t stop there. In the academic year 2024–25, she took on the challenge of appearing for the Class 12 board exams and cleared them, managing all the while to balance her home, family, and responsibilities.
Kokate’s achievement has deeply moved the community of Yerawada. Neighbours praise her resilience, and children look up to her with admiration. She has become a symbol of triumph and inspiration.
In a world where negative stories often dominate the news, Kokate’s journey is a powerful reminder that no dream is ever out of reach, no matter the obstacles or the delay in its pursuit. Her story inspires others to never stop chasing their dreams, no matter their age or the time that has passed.
