From Raddi to Renaissance: How a Simple Habit Shaped a Lifelong Learner | Global TV
NV Paulose, Chairman, Global TV +91 98441 82044
Mumbai: Sometimes, the most powerful life lessons come not from grand opportunities, but from simple habits built with consistency and passion. For Rudolf Rodrigues, a lifelong reader, that journey began in a classroom at National College, Bandra, under the guidance of an inspiring teacher, Prof Gulrajani, a PhD in organic chemistry.
It was during Class XII that a seemingly modest piece of advice changed everything for Rodrigues: read at least two newspapers daily, from the first page to the last. Not just headlines, but everything including advertisements, obituaries, job listings, and the smallest columns often overlooked.
What began as an assignment soon turned into a lifelong habit of curiosity.
Driven by this practice, Rodrigues explored far beyond newspapers, reading publications such as The Economic Times and magazines like Illustrated Weekly, Blitz, Science Today, Eve’s Weekly, Reader’s Digest, and Sputnik. Each page opened doors to new ideas, perspectives, and knowledge.
Financial limitations at home meant that buying fresh copies was not always possible. Instead of becoming a barrier, this challenge became a source of strength. Old newspapers and second-hand books from the local raddiwala became valuable companions for Rodrigues, proving that determination matters far more than circumstance.
Looking back, Rodrigues considers this habit of consistent reading as one of the most important influences in his life. It not only expanded awareness but also built discipline, curiosity, and a deep connection with the world. Today, that early advice continues to guide him. A teacher’s simple words created a habit, the habit shaped a mindset, and that mindset built a lifetime of learning.
