Water Makes Its Own Way: A Conversation at British Lingua
By – Aakarsh Divyam
New Delhi, 17.3.2025: Last Saturday, I had the opportunity to speak with a group of enthusiastic students at British Lingua, a renowned English language training institute in New Delhi. Its objective is to make the benefits of English accessible to the lower strata of Indian society, where people with limited resources cannot afford traditional English-medium schooling.
What started as a routine visit turned into an inspiring event that made me reflect on the transformative power of education and people’s determination to overcome obstacles.
The Interaction with the Students
The students at British Lingua were a diverse group, hailing from small towns across India. Despite their varied backgrounds, they shared a common goal: to master the English language skills and create opportunities for themselves. What struck me most was their discipline, perseverance, and clarity about their aspirations.
Preeti, a student from Najibabad in Bijnor, described her experience facing cultural preconceptions and a lack of decent education in her village. Her ambition is to achieve success and take her parents around the world. Her resolve to prove herself and overcome cultural restraints was genuinely inspiring.
Another student, Bhumika, an 18-year-old from Uttarakhand, spoke about her mother being her driving force. She wants to learn English so that she may secure a good job and advance in her profession. Her story highlighted the importance of family support in shaping one’s goals.
Then there was Sunit, a young man from Jammu, who had travelled all the way to New Delhi to improve his communication skills. Sunit is an aspiring IAS officer who believes that overcoming his solitary disposition and learning English will help him achieve his goals. His journey reminded me of the sacrifices many people make to fulfil their dreams.
The Role of British Lingua: More Than Just a Language School
When I asked the students why they chose British Lingua, their answers were unanimous: it was the managing director, Mr. Birbal Jha, who left a lasting impression on them. His passion for teaching and his belief in the transformative power of language inspired them to take the leap. The students spoke highly of the institute’s approach to learning, which goes beyond traditional methods.
One can always tell when words are spoken sincerely, and these students meant every word they said.
During my interaction with Dr Birbal Jha, founder of British Lingua, he humbly offered honest opinions and much-needed advice. One remark from our discussion has stayed with me to this day: “Water never stops; it makes its own way, so does intelligence.” I felt these words both inspirational and illuminating, reminding me that there is always hope.
British Lingua uses its own Methodology- Structural-cum-Interactive Method. Grammar patterns explained in the first session daily whereas in the second session interactive exercises such as rapid-fire rounds, debates, group discussions, and Q&A sessions are held to create real-world scenarios where students can practice and improve their English. These exercises not only enhance their language skills but also help them gain confidence and critical thinking abilities.
A Conversation That Went Beyond Language
During my two-hour session with the students at British Lingua, we discussed the significance of communication and personal growth. We explored how English, while being a common language, plays a crucial role in shaping perceptions and opening doors to opportunities. The conversation also touched upon the advantages of knowing multiple languages and how it broadens one’s horizons.
I shared my journey from being an introvert to an ambivert, highlighting how communication skills have helped me grow. The students, in turn, shared their challenges and life experiences, fostering a culture of mutual learning and understanding. It was heartening to see how open and supportive they were toward one another.
The Ending Note
What impressed me the most was the warm and collaborative atmosphere at British Lingua. The students were not just learning a language; they were also creating a community where they supported and motivated one another. Their stories of perseverance and ambition served as a reminder of education’s ability to transform lives.
As I left the language school, I couldn’t help but feel inspired by the students’ determination and the impactful work being done at British Lingua. It’s not just a place to learn English; it’s a platform where dreams are nurtured and individuals are empowered to realize their full potential.
