Meghalaya: NIFT Shillong student battles poverty to secure better future for himself and his family

May 31, 2017: In many parts of the country, education is still a means to sustain a better life, or more so, a better future for not only an individual but for her/his entire family. Families sacrifice a great deal of  money and time in the hope that their child/children would one day become well educated and ensure a comfortable life.  A similar case scenario came to light when a student of National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) Shillong came out with flying colours and secured a better future for himself as well as his family. 

For any provider of lower middle class or BPL families, especially for those out of the collar job ambit, the financial overload stemmed from the ever growing responsibility to feed and provide, is a continuous tenacious struggle, but for R. Venu, an auto- rickshaw driver from Vishakapatnam, the general notion of a provider is a measly expression when compared to his epic journey of helping his son realise his dreams.

Skipping meals for days in between every month for years, subduing their own desires and comfort had become a way of life for the family until recently when Ragathi Amar Hari Kumar graduated from the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) Shillong with flying colours and secured himself a placement in Suditi Industry based in Mumbai.

What started as a dream for Hari turned into a mission for the entire family including his maternal uncle K.Srinivas, a mission most fear to tread.

Their joy knew no bounds as tears rolled down their cheeks realising that all that they had worked so hard for has finally been achieved. Hari was awarded the best designer award and extra ordinary service by the institute as he graduated as a designer.

"It was tough and took a toll on our family, but skipping those meals, being in debt, working hard and saving every penny we could means nothing to the feel of satisfaction and accomplishment that I  am experiencing right now," said Hari's father Venu adding that nothing can beat the feel.

Venu further said, "It is not just me, the hardwork of everyone including Hari and his uncle made this possible".

"Helping my Son achieve his dream of becoming a fashion designer was my priority and I am very happy," he added.

Narrating the struggle to accomplish his dream, an emotional Hari said, "My dream was big considering the humble background I come from and yet my parents and uncle stood by my side in every step of the way sacrificing their own comfort for mine."

"Sometimes the money would fall short and there were times when my institution would help me out by giving me projects to work on and fill in the gaps," said Hari adding that living in a rented accommodation far away from home besides studying in an institute like NIFT was a continuous struggle.

Admitting that there were times when he was bogged down by pressures Hari said, "My parents and uncle pulled me up every time I weakened and gave me confidence to carry on the struggle".

"Believe in yourself no matter which family background you come from. If life brings you down always fight back," he added.

Hari intends to work for sometimes and pursue his career in National Institute of Designing (NID)

Meanwhile, one of the main pillars that Hari held on to during trouble times-his Uncle K Srinivas said, "I believed him completely and wanted him to achieve what he wanted," adding that the trend usually is a doctor or an engineer and Hari wanted to become a fashion designer.

He further said that when they first learned about the expenses involved they were in dilemma, but they gradually mustered up enough courage to agree and once they did the rest followed.

"I am happy beyond explanation," said Srinivas as he promised to support Hari in his future endeavours.

The family left for their home town on Thursday taking along with them hard earned achievement and a bonding that surely looks strong enough to withstand the onslaught of struggle if there be any.

TNT News