Luckily, managed to get one taxi and as usual I sat in front seat next to driver. As the driver flagged the meter down an elderly couple of south India requested taxi driver to drop them to Wadala bridge thinking it was a share taxi service. Taxi driver took my silent approval and asked the couple to get in.
As the couple got down at the Bridge, two teenage girls studying Junior College at Ruia came forward thinking this was a share taxi service. These girls appeared to be from poorest of the poor staying some nearby slum colony. Once again silent exchange between myself and the driver we allowed girls to get in. While the taxi too turn from UDCT and Khalsa College Lane towards the Kings Circle, one of the girls took initiative and started chatting with me.
First she thanked me for the kindness and ride as they were not familiar with route as they normally take a bus. She inquired about my profession and requested me to guide her to do MBA. She said she has seen on TV and also heard from various sources that you can be successful and affluent if you study MBA.
She said her parents as well as the people she knew were ignorant about this MBA program which she was keen to pursue. I explained to her that just like she has spoken to me she should speak to her friends in Ruia and various teachers over there. She can take up MBA after graduation. Now, she must concentrate on her studies for XI th standard.
As we reached Matunga station, she again thanked me and we walked in opposite direction for our respective destination. While I climbed the Railway bridge, I reflected upon the enthusiasm and energy, the hunger to do well in life. The vision to become somebody and make oneself and parents proud. Not accepting the status-quo and a determination to change this world and in the process discover the meaning of her life.
Making my India a great place by 2020! I was impressed and felt good.
