A Tale of Grit and Dreams
Biswajith and Ranjith’s Journey
Life along the serene coastal regions of West Bengal holds its own charm, but for Biswajith and Ranjith, two 15-year-old school dropouts, the rural landscape was a daily reminder of their struggles. Both boys were daily wage workers, living hand-to-mouth, often uncertain if they could afford their next meal. Each morning, they would set out on their bicycles, scanning the village and nearby areas for work that could earn them a few rupees to support their families. Despite their best efforts, their earnings barely covered household expenses.
A Spark of Opportunity
One fine day, Ranjith returned with exciting news. A neighbor had shared details about job opportunities in Bangalore, a city he described as vibrant, fast-paced, and full of promise. Intrigued, Biswajith listened intently as Ranjith painted a picture of city life: skyscrapers, bustling streets, and an array of job opportunities. For Biswajith, this was a chance to break free from the monotony of rural life and contribute meaningfully to his family.
After much discussion and encouragement from their parents, the boys were referred to a fabrication factory in Bangalore by a friend. With dreams in their eyes and a plan in place, they boarded a train to the city, leaving their village behind.
Arrival in Bangalore
Stepping foot in Bangalore was like entering a different world for the boys. The city’s modern lifestyle and constant movement left Biswajith stunned. They managed to find a small room with a kitchen that barely accommodated three people but was enough to call home.
Their first day at the factory was daunting. As complete beginners, they started as helpers earning INR 400 per day. The work was physically demanding, but Ranjith adapted quickly, determined to master the skills needed for growth in fabrication. Biswajith, however, began exploring other opportunities in the city.
Diverging Paths
While Ranjith stayed focused on the fabrication job, learning welding, grinding, and painting, Biswajith decided to try his hand at being a waiter in a restaurant. The job offered a monthly salary of INR 12,000, food, and accommodation. Initially, the offer seemed promising, but the long 12-hour shifts and frequent encounters with demanding customers made it challenging for him.
Ranjith, on the other hand, continued to grow in his role at the factory. With the support of his friends, he learned quickly, got better at using machinery, and received an increment of INR 500 per day within five months. His persistence paid off, and after a year, he was promoted to assistant fitter, earning INR 800 per day.
Meanwhile, Biswajith struggled to find his footing, frequently switching jobs in search of better conditions and higher pay. His inability to settle into a single role kept him stuck at a base salary below INR 12,000, leaving him frustrated and financially unstable.
Lessons from the Journey
A year in Bangalore transformed both boys in different ways. Ranjith’s dedication and willingness to learn brought him stability and growth, proving that perseverance could lead to success. For Biswajith, the lesson was harder: finding comfort and higher pay isn’t easy without commitment and skill-building.
Their story is a reflection of many young individuals migrating to cities with dreams of a better life. While the journey may be fraught with challenges, focus, adaptability, and hard work can pave the way to a brighter future. For Biswajith, the hope of settling into a stable role remains, inspired by Ranjith’s progress and the opportunities that still await in the city of dreams.