We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience. Learn more.
S.Sindhuja
Paintshop Specialist,
Ola Futurefactory
“You know, this necklace that you’re seeing me wear, I never take it off. I bought it with my first salary… but that’s not why it’s special. It’s because the necklace makes me feel close to Amma. I was 18 when I left for the city, and things haven’t been the same since.
This brings us to the first time I saw a city—it felt like I was in a dream. In 16 years, I’d never seen so many cars whizzing past me or buildings so tall that I had to crane my neck all the way up!
Bangalore was everything I’d expected it to be… and more. I didn’t just fall in love with the people who were always in rush, or the cars, or the tall buildings; I felt the hope blossoming within me.
"I came to the city with a few hundred rupees in my pocket, an education loan, and a bag full of responsibilities."
Yet, instead of feeling overwhelmed, I just focused on studying well and soaked in every ounce of knowledge I could over the next 3 years — because where I came from, this was a luxury.
Growing up we couldn’t even afford to buy notebooks; I’d borrow notes from my friends and study. So, now that I was given the opportunity, I had to give it my all!
And by the time I graduated, I felt something change inside me. I wasn’t the village girl overwhelmed by the glitz and the glamour of the city anymore, there was a new-found confidence and independence inside me. And I’d also found a job - my very first!
"Having grown up with a daily wage of Rs.100, my salary of 14k made me feel like the richest person in the world."
So, after getting my first salary, I rushed to the shop and bought a saree and necklace for Amma. I’d never seen her buy anything for herself and now that I had the means, I wanted to spoil her. I wrapped both gifts myself and while surprising Amma, I was so excited—I couldn't wait to see how she reacted!
Amma’s happiness was evident—there was a child-like glint in her eyes. As she carefully unwrapped both gifts, I could see her eyes tear up. She hugged the saree to her chest, and told me that she loved the colour.
"But she refused to accept the necklace — instead, she put it on me and said, ‘You wear it, it looks nice on you."
So, no matter where I went to work over the year, I kept the necklace with me. I yearned to feel Amma close to me because although I was grateful to be able to put food on the table, somewhere guilt kept fleeting in and out of my mind about being away from Amma.
It was only 5 years later when I got a job at Ola as a Paint Specialist that I got to live close to her. We spend a lot of time together now. The other day, we were watching a movie together and she smiled so wide—it warmed my heart to see her so carefree! So, I try to fill her life with things that she had to sacrifice in raising us.
Whenever I have some time off, I take Amma to Bangalore. And just like I did on my first day, I watch her getting mesmerised by the cars and the tall buildings. Seeing her become a child again gives me joy that no paycheck ever can!”
More stories
Rajeshwari
Battery Shop Senior Associate, Ola Futurefactory
Sukirti
Legal Senior Manager, Ola
Regha
Battery Shop Manager, Ola Futurefactory
Shubhi
Events & Employee Engagement Manager, Ola