The days of struggle and hardship

After spending the day at JJ for admission process, we returned to Dombivli at night and stayed with Nana, Bapu’s brother. He himself was a paying guest but somehow, we managed the night with him and others, sleeping inside mosquito nets (first time ever) amidst a swarm of mosquitos.

Next day, we went to Chembur. Akka, Rayataai and Nago Jija welcomed us warmly and treated us to a good lunch. Taai even took us for a movie ‘Zakhmi’ at Vijay Talkies. They were kind enough to urge me to stay with them.

I was hesitant, since there were already 6 members in a small 12’ x 14’ hutment. However, as days passed, it became difficult to manage in a room where Nana was staying, and I had no other option but to relocate at Chembur. Soon Jija created a wooden loft alongside the wall and that became my independent workplace and bedroom.

This way, I managed to complete the first year at JJ. Second year onwards, with the support of a classmate, I got an admission at a Government Hostel in BDD Chawl, Worli. It was huge blessing, as the primary need of a shelter was taken care of. Not only the accommodation, even the food, study material and transportation fare from hostel to college was handled.

I was sharing a room with Anil Bhingardeve (Law Student) and Vijay Mohite (JJ Classmate). Both were closely associated and supportive. I could gain a lot of life-experiences from them.

Though the place, the facilities and the quality of food was moderate, I had nothing to complaint. I accustomed myself with what was available that time. Every weekend I would go to Chembur and spend time with Jija, Taai, Akka and kids and sleep in my cosy loft-room.

Those were the days of struggle and hardship, but each time I was blessed with support from someone or the other and never realized how soon those long 5 years passed and I completed my diploma at JJ….