As I got down from the cab in front of Gurudwara Saheb in Manikaran, my gaze fell upon a girl standing in front of a shack. Intrigued by her presence at the spot, I decided to forgo entering the Gurudwara first and instead approached her to strike up a conversation. The girl’s friendly demeanour and helpfulness in answering my queries about travelling back further piqued my interest. Impressed by her resourcefulness, I inquired about her education, to which she humbly revealed that she hadn’t received formal education and was unschooled. I promised to catch up with her later.
After paying obeisance at the Gurudwara as I walked back , I encountered her again, smiling she asked about my experience there. Yet again impressed by her smile, I reached her shop n waited for her. She returned and over a glass of lemonade, she shared more about her background. Being one of five children in her family, she never had the opportunity to attend school due to her father’s work as a caretaker, which involved frequent relocations. Prior to opening her shop , she worked as a labourer.
Her endeavour to open a shop in a male- dominated area, coupled with her self-reliance and confidence speaks volumes about her sense of purpose despite not attending school. In her twenties, she prioritises earning her living and leading a life of independence over marriage. Her proficiency with technology and her role as a young entrepreneur highlighted her capabilities. Witnessing her spark and zest for life , I wished her well before bidding her goodbye.
Indeed life’s lessons often offer perspectives that extend beyond the confines of formal education. This encounter with young entrepreneur display the importance of resilience, determination and self-reliance… qualities that transcend academic learning and shape one’s character & approach to life.
