First things first.
This post is not penned out of pity or sympathy towards the Rickshawala, Babloo
(Learnt the name later). It’s just that the things he said made me think about
some unnerving facts.
So, here I was, waiting
for an auto to reach a place called Oberoi Mall. I got into one and noticed the Armed Forces Flag Day sticker on the left side of auto roof
and the inscription of Hindu God Ram on the other.When it rustled through
bumpy Arrey Colony roads, I asked him about the bus to return Powai. He took a
pause and hesitantly began saying in a slow tone, ‘Sir, I am really sorry. You must be thinking, I lie when I say, I don’t
know but please believe me, this place is newer to me and I hardly know the bus
timings or the routes.’ To what I
replied, ‘Ermmm, you are right, how would you know!’
Conversations went on;
I enquired him of his whereabouts. He hailed from Benaras, had a family
consisting of a crippled father, an un-educated wife and a 7 year old son. He left
his place when he was in the 7th grade owing to his father’s severe
accident and bore all the family responsibility then on. He was doing this commuting
job since a year.
I offered him snacks
that I was munching on and he happily had some. ‘Sir, thank you, you know, the
moment I touched the auto handle, I was sure, I won’t drive this for my life. I
really want to get forward in life. To start with I shall begin my Business. ’
My eye balls widened and being a B School student myself, my inquisitive soul
could not refrain asking about what kind of Business he wished for.
“Sir,
I wanted to do Benaras Saree Business, I have already installed one machine,
back at my home. In coming two years, I intend to go for two more. There’s just
one thing we need to work on that is, ‘Just start crawling towards our goal and
in an attempt of that we shall attempt getting 60-70-90 % closer to our goal. It can be late but some day I shall be there.’
I was awestruck by his statements. Very aptly said, ’Not failure but low aim is
a crime.’
“I have a son, Sir, Rishabh
. He is at my native place studying in an English School. If at all I fail, he
shall help me accomplish my dream. It has been a very topsy- turvy ride since
ages. Not everyone has stars that favour things to happen. I am still hopeful
and won’t deter trying.” We both smiled J
He asked about me and I
told him about how I would be facing my Company Interviews soon. To which he
wished, ‘All the very best for your CAMPUS PLACEMENTS’ Sir. Hope you get all
that you want.’
With the rent being
paid, we departed wishing each other all the luck for our endeavours. His smile
and those sleep deprived eyes etched a beautiful memory on my mind. Thought
would share with you all.
Some ordinary experiences just cheer your heart up,this sure was one of
those. We need to slog for better because a lazy mind is only going to get you nowhere. :)
Take care.
[Song for the day –
Animal Instinct by The Cranberries]
