I started my journey at Koseli 6 years ago in 2011 when I was 11
years old. I was covered with filth and stank of urine like all my friends.
Afterall I was a professional rag-picker. Somehow, Renu Mam was able to
convince me to come to Koseli with her. Upon arrival, I followed the Koseli
ritual for new kids which consisted of a bath, a hair cut, treatment of my
wounds, a set of clothes and food. It was only after all this did I see what a
classroom looked like from inside.
Even though I was old enough to be in grade 4 or 5, I was
actually sent to grade 2. I hated it on top of that I totally disliked studying
as I had never been to a school before. I was clear in my mind that I hadn't
come to Koseli to study but only for the food and care. I recall well that I
was very naughty and distracted the whole class. Many times, I
disrespected my teachers but, they never gave up on me. I could not cope with
the studies.
And then one day something magical happened. Koseli was planning
to come up with a production called Jaamun ko Rukh and we were asked to come to
the office to audition. To my own surprise, I got a role partially because
there weren’t many children and partially because Renu Mam thought theatre
would help us unleash our energies. Thinking back, I feel it was most the
difficult thing that Koseli along with Gurukul was attempting and also the
three weeks of training in acting was a life changing experience for me. Soon
after that I started taking more interest in studies. But of course having
missed the most crucial years of my childhood, I could not catch up as well as
the kids my age. Last year I passed out of grade 6. My coordinator at Koseli
gave me an opportunity to attend vocational training with the help of another
organization. At Shagrila Homes, I lived in the boarding facility provided by
them. It was my first time living out of
the slums, an experience I really cherish.They sponsored my training at an
organization called UCEP, where I attended a course to become a plumber.
The trained for 10 months out of which, I did 4 months of
field work.My trainers appreciated my work and dedication.
Now at 17 years am working under a Contractor full time. I
earn ₨ 20,000 and save ₨12000 every month while some of my friends
are still rag-pickers. This is not the end of my story but a wonderful beginning
of a new journey.
Thanks to Koseli School for believing in me and giving me a new
life. I will always remember Koseli being a stepping stone to life I have now
and the future I dream of.
