Navigating Through Life's Storms: From Career Shifts to Personal Turmoil

Continued from my previous post...

Transitioning back to Delhi was a step towards regaining some normalcy in my career, yet my personal life remained anything but ordinary. The whirlwind pace of my relationship with Nimya left little room for us to address the minor flaws that, over time, tested our resilience. Despite the adage that time heals and brings adaptation, our dominant personalities clashed, exacerbating the small issues into seemingly insurmountable obstacles. My response was silence; hers was more confrontational.

The initial euphoria of promotion quickly dissipated as financial strains mounted, driven by lifestyle choices and a penchant for luxury. However, I remained determined to find a way through the financial fog, quietly acquiescing to extravagant desires from iPhones to luxury cars, each purchase weighing heavier on my spirit.

Professional solace came in the form of Harish Sir during my posting at H54 Connaught Place. His contentment with a simple yet fulfilling life, despite never seeking promotion, was both inspiring and grounding. He encouraged me to pursue banking internal exams like JAIIB and CAIIB, a suggestion that, once heeded, proved both enlightening and beneficial. My achievements in these exams garnered recognition within our circle, thanks in part to the support from Surender Singh, my branch head, whose leadership qualities and knack for handling challenges provided a model for navigating tough times.

Yet, as my professional life found its footing, my marriage spiraled. The deterioration of my relationship with Nimya, marked by growing indifference and hostility, culminated in a public confrontation on December 25th, 2018. The humiliation of that day tested the limits of my endurance, challenging my resolve to remain composed in the face of adversity. The mantra that "tough days don't last, but tough people do" became my anchor.

The following months brought more sorrow with the passing of Nimya's uncle and then Aji Mama, casting a shadow over an already strained relationship. Our bond, once strong, could not withstand the trials, leading to a decisive conversation in February. Despite exploring every possible outcome, Nimya's resolve to leave was unshakeable. On March 17th, 2019, she departed, marking the end of our journey together and the beginning of legal formalities.

In the aftermath, I've come to recognize a profound truth: the importance of pursuing what one truly loves, independent of societal expectations or the allure of security. This period of introspection has led me to disconnect from past influences and seek fulfillment in the small, meaningful aspects of life that resonate with my core.

As I continue to navigate the aftermath of these tumultuous times, the lessons learned about resilience, authenticity, and the pursuit of personal happiness guide my path forward.

To be continued...

Navigating Life's Rapid Changes: From Love to Career Shifts

Continuation of previous post...

Nimya Raju was a name I had heard back in school, yet she never caught my attention until fate brought us together online on October 5th, 2014. Discovering our shared interests and hobbies sparked an immediate connection. Our discussions soon ventured into our family backgrounds and horoscopes, revealing further compatibility. As a government bank employee, finding a suitable match was never an issue, and thus, our relationship progressed swiftly. Within the next year, I found myself back in Delhi, married, and promoted at work. Our lives transformed at a pace that left me and others astounded, breeding envy among some. Our success, both as a couple and in our careers, seemed to outpace my intrinsic abilities, reminiscent of a stock soaring beyond its fundamental value—a correction felt inevitable.

The initial rush of success was exhilarating but maintaining it proved challenging. My assignment as a branch in charge did not go as poorly as feared, but a transfer to Tandur and the role of a typical branch manager made me realize it was not aligned with my interests or strengths. Isolated from my familiar world, I struggled daily, a stark contrast to the life I once enjoyed.

During this tumultuous period, Aji Mama visited Tandur. The days we spent together were among the best of my life, offering solace and wisdom. Despite initially opposing my banking career choice post-engineering, he acknowledged the security it provided for my future. His guidance during this time was akin to the enlightening dialogue between Krishna and Arjuna in the Bhagavad Gita. Tragically, this would be one of our last meetings before his passing in 2019—a loss I still grapple with.

Life's lessons are often learned outside the classroom, taught through experience rather than textbooks. Time, the most relentless teacher, imparts lessons in the harshest ways to ensure they are never forgotten. In my darkest moments, a guardian angel seemed to emerge, guiding me through adversity. This beacon of hope gave me the strength to consider a significant change, leading me to realize that branch banking was not my path.

Reflecting on these rapid changes, from the whirlwind of love and marriage to the trials of my career, each step has been a learning curve. Life's swift transitions taught me about resilience, the value of wise counsel, and the importance of pursuing a path true to oneself.

To be continued...

Navigating Life's Transitions: From School to College, Challenges to Triumphs

Continuation of previous post..

Transitioning from school to college marked a significant shift in my life, moving away from the comfort of 12 years in a familiar environment to facing the unknown in an engineering college in Uttar Pradesh. This period underscored the value of my school days in Kerala school and the close-knit circle of friends I'd relied upon. My initial struggle with adapting to the outside world became more pronounced, compounded by a lack of clear vision for my future.

During my college years, I found solace and joy in forming 'the Cricmates,' a group that brought vibrant colors to my life. Our time together, filled with laughter and mischief, became the most memorable aspect of my college experience. Ensuring these moments were cherished, I organized numerous parties, matches, and gatherings, making my college years unforgettable.

In 2011, life presented a formidable challenge when I found myself in the intensive care unit of Metro Hospital with a hole in my lung. The six months of recovery were a stark reminder of the importance of friendship and the necessity of reevaluating my life choices. As my peers began their professional journeys, I was confined to bed rest, prompting a serious reflection on my future.

Despite securing campus placement, I ventured into preparing for government exams. Despite my initial reluctance towards banking and government jobs, the allure of job security led me to join Bank Power coaching center. My late start in preparation did not deter my determination. Surprisingly, I found myself engrossed in the study material, leading to a series of successful exam outcomes, including IBPS, SBI, and others.

Ultimately, it was the swift formalities of IBPS that led me to accept a position with Canara Bank, despite my reservations about banking. Posted in Mumbai's foreign department at Vile Parle, I was surrounded by experienced colleagues who greatly contributed to my learning and growth. This period also saw me honing my photography skills and embracing independence and self-discipline, steering clear of the temptations that a government position in Mumbai might present.

The end of my relationship with Pooja after ten years was a difficult but necessary closure, leading me to the realization that I was ready for marriage. Although I attempted to reconnect with Sridevi, the lack of response led me to believe it wasn't meant to be. It was during this time that I met Nimya, who would eventually become my wife.

Reflecting on this journey from the cocoon of school to the vast experiences of college and beyond, it's evident that each phase, with its trials and triumphs, has been instrumental in shaping the person I am today. The path hasn't always been clear or easy, but the lessons learned and the connections made have been invaluable.

To be continued...

Journey Through Time: Reflections from My Earliest Memories to School Days

Excerpts from my diary written in 2021.

My journey begins in the warmth of waiting for my father to return from work, sharing moments with my mother in our modest home. The red shoes gifted by my Valiachan (dad's elder brother) were my first treasure, while time spent with Lili Bibi and Vava (Dilip Uncle, Bindu Aunt, and Sindhu Aunt) filled my childhood with joy.

Growing up an only child, my toys were my universe. Hours were spent in their company, meticulously organizing them, which perhaps sowed the seeds of my preference for order and solitary contentment. My comfort zone was limited to family and close relatives, as I found myself uneasy around outsiders, particularly the North Indian (mostly Punjabi) neighbors, whose behavior often felt discriminatory. This early exposure to racial insensitivity partly shaped my preference for a 'smaller world'.

Transitioning to Kerala school opened a new chapter, where I met friends like Vineet, Jilson, and Mahesh. Our similar backgrounds forged a bond that felt like family. Influential figures during these formative years included Bindu and Sindhu Mausi, Aji Mama, and Lili, with my father's support being my pillar during challenging times.

Moving from Mayur Vihar Phase 2 to Phase 3 marked my journey towards independence, carrying forward the values instilled during my initial years. My love for reading, from general knowledge books to Archies comics, shaped my worldview, steering me towards Western educational values and thinking.

In my later school years, a desire to excel in sports emerged from my earlier physical inactivity due to asthma. This ambition drove me to significant achievements in football, cricket, and athletics, with winning a 100m race against Joju in 2007 standing out as a memorable highlight.

Life's philosophy has always been about practicality for me, leading to a disinterest in conventional education. Instead, I thrived in school through active participation in cultural programs, sports, and leadership roles, enjoying the spotlight and the sense of celebrity it brought.

No recount of school life is complete without mentioning crushes. Despite my popularity and the attention it brought, my pursuit of Pooja taught me hard lessons in patience and the complexities of relationships. It was a journey of growth, albeit with its share of heartache.

A missed opportunity in love was my friendship with Sridevi, whose simplicity and charm were overshadowed by my more flamboyant side. Despite the advice of friends and a brief attempt at expressing my feelings in 2012, it remained one of life's "what ifs."

As I continue to navigate through life's tapestry, these reflections serve as reminders of growth, lessons learned, and the enduring impact of early experiences and relationships.

A Week of Learning, Networking, and Unforeseen Challenges

A Week Initiated with Professional Rigor

The week unfolded with an intriguing mix of professional development and personal learning. It began with an email from our head office, announcing an upcoming audit by the Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) on certain foreign exchange aspects, particularly the Interest Equalisation Scheme handled by Rakesh Sir in our branch. Given the seriousness of the audit, I found myself assisting Rakesh Sir with various compliance tasks, understanding the gravity of the situation, and ensuring our branch's readiness. The audit starts from 5th February.

Unexpected Networking Opportunity

Amidst the audit preparations, we received an invitation from the Export Credit Guarantee Corporation (ECGC) to attend a bankers' meet at the renowned Lalit Hotel. Despite our best efforts to manage time amidst the additional workload, we arrived late, catching only the tail end of the event. Nevertheless, those final 20 minutes were insightful, offering a glimpse into the latest ECGC products aimed at supporting MSME lenders in line with the government's export and MSME sector boost policies. The event also served as a reunion with former colleagues now posted in different branches, culminating in an enjoyable dinner that was a highlight of the week.

A Security Breach of Concern

However, the week wasn't without its challenges. A serious security incident occurred when an individual, posing as a vendor's employee tasked with computer maintenance, managed to replace our original microprocessors with lower-quality substitutes. Although we detained him temporarily, the lack of approval from our circle office to file an FIR meant we had to release him without recovering the original processors. This incident has prompted a forthcoming audit focusing on data privacy and security, a development we'll be closely monitoring.

The Whims of Weather

The week's unpredictable nature was mirrored by the erratic weather. From dense fog to clear skies and unexpected rain showers reminiscent of the monsoon season, the weather added a layer of complexity to our days. One particularly rainy day caught me off guard, resulting in a drenched ride home with no shelter in sight. The experience of drying off using the car heater was both amusing and a testament to the week's unpredictability.

Reflecting on a Hectic Week

Looking back, this week was a whirlwind of activity, learning, and unexpected turns. From navigating the intricacies of a DGFT audit and embracing the networking opportunities at the ECGC event, to dealing with a concerning security breach and adapting to the whims of weather, it was a period filled with valuable lessons and experiences. Despite the challenges, the week reinforced the importance of preparedness, vigilance, and the ability to adapt to unforeseen circumstances.

A Weekend of Reflection, Reconnection, and Unexpected Turns

A Week of Routine Giving Way to a Long Weekend

This past week at the office was marked by the usual ebb and flow of work, devoid of any unusual activities. However, the anticipation of the long weekend was a beacon of hope, promising time to recoup and refresh from the monotony.

Reconnecting on Different Levels

On the 26th, a day spent with my parents, I stumbled upon a quiet realization about our living arrangement on three separate floors. It seemed to reflect our individual needs for privacy, a subtle yet profound understanding of our familial dynamics.

A Day of Rest and Recuperation

The 27th, Saturday, was dedicated to rest and recuperation at home. This pause was necessary, a brief respite to gather my energies for what was to come.

An Unexpected Call to Camaraderie

Sunday, the 28th, turned out to be the most eventful day of the weekend. A call from Binoy Bhai invited me to a football match in South Delhi. Despite my initial reluctance, the prospect of meeting friends tipped the scales. Little did I know, the day was set to unfold in ways I hadn't imagined.

A Freak Accident and Rush to Aid

The afternoon took a dramatic turn when Renji Bhai met with a freak accident during the match, resulting in a fractured right leg. Without hesitation, we rushed him to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences for immediate medical attention. Accompanying him for X-rays and CT scans, the diagnosis was grim: surgery was necessary to insert a nut and bolt in his leg.

A Test of Friendship and Resilience

Those tense moments in the hospital tested our resolve. It was a situation none of us had anticipated, yet I found myself grateful for being there. Not only could I offer emotional support, but I was also able to provide financial assistance, helping my friend and his family navigate this unexpected crisis.

Surgery and Reflections on an Unforgettable Weekend

Renji Bhai was taken into surgery late at night, around 11:30 p.m. As everyone dispersed, I was left with mixed feelings. This was a reunion with friends I had longed for, but under circumstances far removed from any of our imaginations.

Concluding Thoughts

The weekend was a stark reminder of life's unpredictability. It brought into focus the importance of being there for each other, of making time for family and friends, and of the unexpected challenges we sometimes face. As I reflect on these events, I am reminded of the strength found in community and the unspoken bonds that sustain us through trials. This weekend, unforgettable in so many ways, reaffirmed my beliefs in the value of support, resilience, and the power of presence.

Pran Pratishtha of Shri Ram Lalla: A Historic Day of Spiritual and National Pride

A Divine Day Enacted by Humans

The Pran Pratishtha (consecration) of Shri Ram Lalla in Ayodhya was a day that seemed to be scripted by divine forces yet executed with human perfection. For many Hindus around the world, this day was not just a long-awaited event; it was a milestone symbolizing the resurgence of Sanatan Dharma.

More Than Religion: A Way of Life

Sanatan Dharma transcends the boundaries of mere religion; it represents a holistic way of life. The ceremonies in Ayodhya were a testament to this ethos, blending spiritual fervor with cultural pride. As I watched the events unfold, I felt a deep connection, as though I were physically present in Ayodhya. It was a moment of personal joy and pride, witnessing a chapter of history being written.

The Mesmerizing Aura of Ayodhya

The setting of Ayodhya was nothing short of mesmerizing. The way the statue of Shri Ram Lalla was revered, the ambiance of devotion, and the meticulous organization of the ceremonies were awe-inspiring. I felt an overwhelming sense of familiarity with the idol, having seen it countless times, yet each glimpse on this day felt new and more profound.

Prime Minister’s Visionary Speech

Adding to the grandeur of the occasion was the inspiring speech by the Prime Minister. His vision of India's future, a nation that leads and enlightens the world, resonated with the day’s significance. His words painted a picture of a country steeped in its rich heritage yet forging ahead to make its mark globally.

A Reflection of Collective Pride and Hope

Never before had I felt such intense national pride. The Pran Pratishtha of Shri Ram Lalla was not just a religious ceremony; it was a celebration of our cultural identity and heritage. It reinforced the values of Sanatan Dharma and its relevance in today's world.

The day’s events in Ayodhya were a blend of spirituality, cultural richness, and nationalistic fervor. It was a reaffirmation of the strength and resilience of our beliefs and traditions. As we move forward, this historic day will undoubtedly be remembered as a cornerstone in the journey of Sanatan Dharma and the nation.

PM speech 1

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