Weekends and holidays meant trips to the Ramakrishna Theatre in Vijayapuri South, where the devotional song "Namo Venkatesha" played before movies, sparking enthusiasm among the students

In 1983, a student from the remote village of Saluru in northern Andhra Pradesh was overjoyed to secure a seat at the Andhra Pradesh Gurukula Junior College (now known as Andhra Pradesh Residential Junior College, or APRJC) in Nagarjuna Sagar. At the time, it was the only institution of its kind in the state and consistently ranked number one in statewide examinations. The admission brought a mix of excitement and a touch of pride for the young scholar, who embarked on a long journey from the far reaches of Uttarandhra to the Palnadu region near the iconic Nagarjuna Sagar Dam.

Having spent the previous three years at a Gurukula school in Tadikonda, which he likened to a "central jail" due to its strict regimen, the student stepped into college expecting something slightly better – perhaps an "open jail." However, within just a week, he realized it was far from any prison. Instead, it was a premier institution shaping bright futures, offering a profound sense of relief and inspiration. Life at the college was filled with vibrant memories that still feel fresh decades later.

Weekends and holidays meant trips to the Ramakrishna Theatre in Vijayapuri South, where the devotional song "Namo Venkatesha" played before movies, sparking enthusiasm among the students. There was also the Bhanu Video theatre near the bus stand for quick entertainment, and regular pilgrimages on foot to Hill Colony, about three kilometers beyond the dam. These outings created lasting bonds and a sense of freedom. The campus culture stood out for its lack of ragging – seniors never harassed juniors, though everyone addressed teachers respectfully as "Sir."

The Botany teacher was particularly encouraging, often telling students, "Study like this, and you'll definitely become a doctor," showing genuine affection. On Teachers' Day, the student twice took the Botany class himself, even mimicking the teacher's voice for comedy at the end. To his embarrassment, no one laughed – the teacher had quietly entered and was sitting in the back bench. Instead of scolding, he stood up and praised the imitation with a heartfelt "Very good."

Another fond memory involved the English teacher, Divakar. During a lesson, the student and classmates caused a minor disruption while the teacher faced the board. Thinking they had gotten away with it, they were surprised when he called them out, lifting the culprit and laughing, "You did all that mischief and now put on such an innocent face!"Friendships formed there were deep and unbreakable, with no room for petty grudges. Pickles and snacks brought from home became communal property.

Students studied competitively together, clearing each other's doubts, and teamed up not just for academics but for games, songs, and adventures. Even intense arguments – on the scale of Russia-Ukraine conflicts – resolved by the next day.One adventurous holiday return highlighted the camaraderie. Due to floods and canceled trains, four friends from northern Andhra took buses to Rajahmundry with no money left.

One, Ravi from Vizag, remained calm, pointing to his wristwatch: "I have this – no problem." He pawned it to a kind stranger at the bus stand, who bought tickets for all four without hesitation, refusing collateral and simply trusting them to repay later. They reached Ravi's home in Visakhapatnam, enjoyed his family's hospitality, and safely returned home the next day.The experiences extended beyond the classroom. Seeing his name in print for the first time – a poem titled "Aashajeevulu" published in that year's college magazine – was a milestone.

Alongside rigorous studies, the college gifted beautiful memories, lifelong friendships, and valuable life lessons. For this alumnus and countless others, the AP Gurukula Junior College at Nagarjuna Sagar was more than an educational institution – it was a forge of intellect and character that propelled students toward higher achievements and success.

-Dr. D. V. G. Shankara Rao Former MP, Parvathipuram