Beruflich Dokumente
Kultur Dokumente
I am writing this book and dedicating it to my wife Dr. Hemagini Kirish Shah. She
was born on 18th September 1941 and passed away on 10th November 2008. I am writing
a book for the first time in my life. This book is regarding my life since the age of 4 years
old. I will try to narrate as much as I remember since the age of 4 till today. I don’t know
anything about my future, so I will write only till the day I finish this book.
I started this book on 17th, February 2009, and I plan to finish, as soon as
possible. I want the book to be out before October 2010. I started it when I was in USA for
a holiday during February/March 2009.
My personal details are as under:
Kirish Amthalal Shah
B/53, Citizen Society, Near Atmajyoti Ashram, Ellora Park, Vadodara 390 023.
Telephone: (Cell) 9825482059, (R) 2390154, (O) 2332574.
I was born in Bombay on 21st October, 1940. My Hindu rashi is Mithun and English sun
sign is Libra.
Some of my hobbies from childhood till date. (I consider myself as Jack of all and master
of none)
1) Sports: Badminton, Cricket, Carrom, Chess, Cards, Swimming, Skating and many
other games.
2) Travelling: I have always been interested in visiting different countries, I have
visited 17 countries and more than 100 places in these countries, traveled over 100
times in airplanes of different varieties. I also like travelling by car and have
traveled very long distance, self driven for more than 500 kms non stop. I have self
driven for 1000 kms in 12 hours with only three stops for refreshments.
3) Vehicles: I like different types of vehicles, have owned more than 38 different
vehicles, 29 four wheelers and rest two wheelers. I have had many imported
vehicles. (See the list on page No...........)
5) First Day Covers: I have very few of these, mostly from my early years.
6) Souvenirs (Monuments) & Artifacts: I have collected a few of these from different
places I visited. These have been placed at my residence in a 60 years old showcase
belonging to my father.
7) Reading: In my spare time I like to read novels, magazines, general knowledge &
educational books.
8) Dresses: I am very fond of new dresses. I spend a lot on new trendy dresses and ties.
9) Photography: From a very early age I developed a passion for photography. Later –
during a period of financial crisis I converted this hobby into my profession. From
June 1986 to mid 1992, I was busy doing photography & videography to earn my
daily bread.
10) Music: I developed a keen interest in music during my college days, but had to give
it up due to financial problems. After 10th May 2009, I restarted music lessons by
learning harmonium and electronic keyboard. I enjoy this and also utilize my spare
time. I think it is never too late.
Acknowledgement
Secondly, thanks to Mita ben, Rakhee’s sister inlaw, who met me at Rakhee’s
residence in February, 2009 in USA. She also gave me very good advice for writing this
type of a book, stating that, your grand children will have a complete idea of your life
style in past in India.
Thirdly thanks to Ashit Pathak and his wife Madhvi, because when I came back
from USA in April, 2009, I had completed nearly 1/3rd of this book and had given it to
Ashit bhai, to go through whatever I had written and give me his sincere idea, as to how
he liked it and also let me know if it is worth completing and publishing it in the form of a
book. Ashit bhai & Madhvi both gave me positive support and told me to go ahead,
complete writing the whole book and they will help me for editing and publishing. I am
very obliged to them for the same. It gave me courage to complete the book as and when
time permitted.
Lastly my special thanks to Sharad bhai Panchamiya, a friend of Ashit bhai, who
came forward to edit the whole book, print it, as well as complete the binding for the
same. I gave him my time limit and he agreed to do the needful within the time limit.
This book would not have been so beautiful without the moral support from both
Ashit bhai and Sharad bhai.
Thanks to all those friends and relatives who have given me right advice for publication of
this book.
In Bombay -
my childhood from 21-10-1940 to November 1969
I was born on 21st October 1940 with a silver spoon in my mouth. My parents
were quite rich during those days, and I was born in a very big family. I had four elder
brothers, an elder sister, one younger brother, two younger sisters, two grandmothers, one
masiba, all staying in one big joint family. Our house hold comprised of six brothers,
three sisters, father, mother, masiba, two grandmothers, Hasoo mama (mother’s brother),
two domestic servants, one cook, one driver one shop assistant (Mr. Champaklal) all
residing at Opera House. I was born at 497, Banji Nivas, 3rd floor, Sandhurst Road,
Bombay 400 004 (now known as Sardar V. P. Road). We had a huge flat, nearly 3000 square
feet, with 5 bed rooms, huge drawing room, kitchen which could accommodate nearly 25
to 30 persons, one store room, and three front galleries with a very good view. We could
see Chowpatty from these galleries. The whole flat was very spacious, with large rooms,
full of windows and quite airy & light. The building had four floors and one tenant on
each floor. We occupied the 3rd floor. The owner of the building lived on the fourth floor,
but most of the time he was in Jaipur. Another tenant, Dr. Sardesai lived on the 1 s t floor
and Dr. Ghokle lived on the 2nd floor.
Once while playing with a toy on the 3 r d floor, I got lost. The toy fell down from
the gallery, and as I could not speak I did not tell anyone in my family, instead I went
straight down to pick it up, and just forgot the way back to my home. As I was wandering
down stairs, few people saw me and handed over me to a policeman. I could not answer
any of their questions, so they took me to the nearest police station, which was at
Lamington Road. That’s how I landed at the police station at the tender age of four!!!!. After
some time when my parents realized that I was not around, they started looking for me,
and all the while, I was quietly sitting at the police station eating sweets given by officer
in charge. Luckily my parents located me at the police station and I was taken back home.
I say I was born lucky, because, my parents had a very good reputation and nearly
everyone around the area knew them well. I was born in a very reputable religion i.e.
Jainism, my parents were very rich and in those days we had a family car Vauxhall. My
father was a cloth merchant, and owned a shop at Muljijetha Market, 2nd Chandra Chowk,
Kalbadevi, Bombay. We had a telephone at our residence – a rarity during those days.
I don’t remember a lot up to the age of 4. I started talking at the age of five, and
was admitted to one of the best school in Bombay Queen Marry High School, near
Congress House, Lamington Road, which was very near to our residence. I was admitted
into kindergarten. All my elder brothers & elder sister were in the same school. This
school did not have Metric or SSC. The final highest class was Cambridge, and the exams
were held by UK Institute. It was a very strict school with very high discipline. School
uniform was white shorts, white half sleeve shirt, white buttons, white socks and white
tennis shoes. The colour varied according to the grades.
St. Sebestian Goan High School was a Christian school and most of the students
were Christian, Sindhi or Punjabi. Gujarati boys were very few, only 20 to 25 in the whole
school. Amongst them we were six of one family.
Each standard had 3 divisions A, B & C and from Std 1 to Std 11 i.e. S. S. C.
(Secondary School Certificate).
From Standard 8 I started having difficulty in studies as new subjects entered in
our regular course, i.e. Sanskrit, Hindi, Marathi and Elementary Mathematics and so on.
Till class 8, I could not read or write Gujarati.
We used to get 2 Annas (twelve paise as per present currency) for our to and fro
transport, One Anna equal to 2 x 2 paise, so morning journey to school, back to home in
the afternoon for lunch, again going after lunch and back home in the evening. Bus or
tram used to charge 2 paise per trip. Sometimes we used to walk down and save some
money to eat chhana /nuts during recess. The school was 1½ km from my home.
Till my 8 t h class, my father was doing very well in Business. He was the sole
distributer for the Thakercy group. He was also involved in various side businesses, such
as, Parachute cloth, string, hats, sewing needles all imported (I still have 3 to 4 packets
made in China, Germany and UK more than 55 years old and still not rusted). He also
produced a 35 mm movie Bhaver between 1948 and 1952. Many actors used to come to
our residence. Our father had also given shelter to Mr. Parsuram Parikh who was involved
in film industry and not settled very well, he stayed with us for 7 years.
• Our father was very friendly with us and used to play lot of different
games with us, such as Cards (Rummy, Flash, Bridge, and Bizic), Chess,
Carrom, Marbles, and Cricket etc. He was also found of music and had a
lot of musical instruments in house, i.e. Harmonium, Sitar, Tabla,
Tamboora, and Violin etc. At our residence we had a long passage of 24 ft.
x 7 ft., so we used to play cricket nearly every day. Very often we used to
break the window / door glass and had to stop playing as my mother used
to get angry and shout at us. At times on Sundays we all used to go to play
cricket at the open grounds near Marine Drive.
Father used to take us for picnic on Sunday afternoon after lunch to National Park near
Borivali, Vihar Lake and Cannary caves. All of us nearly 12 to 14 used to travel in our
family car ‘Vauxhall’. During those days, the price of petrol per gallon was Rs. 3.50. My
elder brother Dinesh bhai used to drive the car. We used to carry 2 jugs containing Tea
and Coffee and few snacks like Cream Cracker Biscuits Tins.
Our father engaged a teacher Mr. Cannery, to teach us our school lessons, he used
to come early morning at 5 am and we all had to get ready very early. Mr. Jasubhai – the
music teacher used to come for my elder brothers and sister.
My mother was also very lively, soft at nature, and used to take part in all
activities. She was very strong, cool, and quite healthy. She was very good at preparing
very tasty food. She was an expert in making sweet mithai, such as mysore, mohanthaal,
magaj, barfi and so on. She was interested also in playing different cards games.
She liked watching movies, and when she dressed up she looked like a Parsi Lady.
She had different types of sarees, many pairs of shoes, sandals and slippers to match each
clothing, and different perfumes.
Father used to reach from shop to Seksaria building near Marine drive and mother
used to meet him there. Then both used to go to Patanwala Library, pick up some books
and come home walking by 8.30 p.m.
She was 47 years when she lost my father who was 52. She had a lot of courage;
she looked after the whole family very well after the death of father. With the help of
Dinesh bhai and her brother Ramu mama, she looked after the Business as well as entire
family. She had very good control over everyone. We all brothers and sisters were very
young, eldest brother Dinesh bhai was studying in Inter Arts, and I was in 9th standard.
Slowly she also diverted herself towards religion and did lot of Taap, such as
Aathai, Navanoo, Varsitap, etc. My eldest sister had problems with her husband even after
delivering 3 kids and she had to take divorce, and ultimately mother had to look after her
till the end of her life.
She was very strong at heart. She ensured that all the brothers received good
education. Then they started going abroad, first Rameshbhai, then Suresh, then I, then
Mahesh. She also visited Zambia in 1970 when Suresh and I were in Zambia at the time of
Anal’s birth. She passed away at the age of 80 after seeing everyone very well settled.
We had automobiles business and shops in our area (Opera House), nearly all the
shop owners were very friendly with my father. Usually during weekend starting Friday
night, Saturday night up to 6 a.m. on Sunday morning, nearly 10 to 12 friends from Auto
business used to come at our place, occupy one of the rooms, and play Rummy. My father
usually used to watch and give advice to his partner. He was excellent at playing cards
nearly any game in cards. His friends used to bring brand new Caravan cards which were
very famous during those days, nearly 6 to 8 pairs, and when they used to finish playing
for the week they used to leave the cards with us, so we used to play amongst ourselves
and learn different card games.
My father was very good at heart, he used to help the needy, he was soft, but very
strict. His nature was ‘play while you play and work while you work’. No one could argue
with him. Even all our relatives could not say anything against him. All our relatives in
Ahmedabad also were very scared when they used to hear his name.
My father was very fond of flying kites and on the 14th January (his birthday)
Uttarayan – the whole family would fly kites from morning till evening. After I came back
from Zambia, I have restarted this tradition and we all, my wife, Rakhee & Sagar and
other relatives used to stay on the terrace for the whole day, from morning 6 a.m. to night
10 p.m. for three days i.e. 13th, 14th & 15 t h of January. We would just fly kites and enjoy.
My father liked cricket match very much. At times he used to go to the Brabon
Stadium, or listen to the running commentary for whole day on Radio. No one could
disturb him when he was busy listening the score. He had a very nice big Grundig
changer, radio/record player, and would buy many records from H.M.V.
My father was not educated, but he wanted all his children to get good education.
Hence we all went to English medium schools. He wanted all his children to have at least
a Bachelors degree.
If any of us failed, he would never scold us. On the contrary he would give
Rs.1/ and ask us to watch a movie and get fresh. Luckily we all brothers fulfilled his wish
even though he was not alive with us. Dinesh bhai completed Law, Ramesh bhai
completed B.Sc., Mahesh became an Architect, Suresh got his C.A. degree (Chartered
Accountant) and I completed B.Com. When I was in Zambia I did few courses in higher
studies through postal course obtaining fellowship degrees. My younger brother Satish
completed Pharmacy, younger sister Smita became an Architect, and unfortunately
youngest sister Chhaya could not finish higher studies.
When I was very young, my father had one friend whom we all remember used to
come from Afghanistan. He was a giant Pathaan. We used to look very tiny in front of
him, and he used to bring tins of Rasgoola & dry fruits. He was very kind and used to
wear long Pathani suit with Bandi on it, and turban on head. He was very handsome.
My father used to take lot of precaution while shaving. He used to have 7 bowls of
hot water. He used to clean his shaving blade in one bowl, discard the water and use
another bowl to clean his razor.
He would have his morning tea between 8 & 830 a.m. in drawing room while
reading the newspaper. He would have a kettle of hot water with tea, separate milk and
sugar pots and prepare the brew leisurely. He would sip slowly for almost an hour and
read the newspaper. At 9 a.m. everyday our mota mama (Ramu mama) used to come to see
us. He too enjoyed having tea with father.
My father was so kind that he had helped many of our relatives to settle down in
business, especially all the three mamas, and many others who used to come from
Ahmedabad and stay with us for a year or two, learn the business or take up a job in
Bombay.
After 1954/1955 my father had down fall in the Business. He was facing lot of
problem in selling goods. The warehouse was full of unsold goods (Gasadhis). This
affected his health. But he did not lose courage, he always hoped for the best.
During October 1956, (the year I was in class 9), my father’s brother Mr. Kantilal
Shah who was staying in Ahmedabad, was severely ill. He was suffering from Cancer, and
survival chances were very low. Father was facing business problems and had lot of debt.
He had to pay Thakarcy group for unsold goods. It was a very critical period for him, and
he could not decide what to do. He had to go to Ahmedabad to see his sick brother who
could pass away any time.
As I recall, my mother, Ramu mama and other elder family members advised and
forced him to go and visit his brother at Ahmedabad. At last he decided to go with
mother, and leave all of us at our residence in the care of Ramu mama. Dinesh bhai, who
was earlier in Wilson College, Bombay, was in Ahmedabad studying in Inter Arts and
taking training at Mitha kaka’s shop. Mitha kaka and father were very close.
At last father went to Ahmedabad, visited his brother, stayed with him for 6 to 7
days and realized that kaka’s chances for survival were nil. He also realized with shock
that he would have to look after his brother’s five small children and kaki.
This was on October Sudd Pacham, 1956, he was only 52, a very young age to die.
We received a call at 3 a.m. asking us to go to Ahmedabad. We were told that father was
very sick and we must catch the early morning train and reach Ahmedabad by evening.
We assumed that Kaka must have passed away. When we reached Ahmedabad at
our fuwa’s house in Dhanasutani pole, we saw everyone mourning. We thought we would
visit our father on the top floor where he usually stayed. Our cousin Sashikant bhai broke
the news to us about our father’s demise. We were shocked, and could not think of
anything. But shocks were not yet over within 24 hours i.e. Asoo Sudd Saatam morning
at 4 a.m. our Kaka passed away. So both family heads died together leaving us all alone to
bear the grief. Ahmedabad was buzzing with the news of shocking deaths of 2 brothers
within 24 hours.
The dynasty started falling down, and we all brothers, mother, and mama had to
suffer and struggle for survival.
My father was really a great man; he was the only earning member of our family
and nearly 20 members of the family survived under him. The monthly expense during
those days used to be approximately Rs. 3000/. He performed his duties very well and
excellently. Unfortunately he could not see any of his children getting married. Luckily
he had arranged my elder sister’s engagement just 6 months ago and also match making
for Dinesh bhai to get married to Ranjan ben who was his best friend Babubhai’s daughter.
Mother was brave, she tackled everyone very well, she was not afraid of any one,
had lot of courage, looked after home as well as business very well, and treated everyone
with same respect.
She also had very good support from her brother Ramu mama. He was very
honest, sincere, and was working with father in same shop. He had good knowledge of our
Business. He and Dinesh bhai started looking after family cloth business. We all brothers
were studying to fulfill high hopes and wishes of our father. Dinesh bhai was looking
after the business and studying for B. A. at Wilson College. Ramesh bhai too was looking
after the business and studying for B.Sc. at Wilson College. Mahesh was at J.J. School of
Arts studying Architecture. Suresh, Satish, Smita, Chhaya and I were still at the school. I
was just in class 9. Two younger sisters were studying at Queen Marry High School, but
unfortunately they had to give up that very good school and join Vanitavisharam School,
at Prarthanasamaj, due to financial problems, as Queen Marry High School was very
expensive.
Our friendship was growing, and we used to meet every day in the evening, but
Sham was staying bit far near Bhuleshwar, so we used to meet at the school. We four,
Virendra, Janak, Kanti and I, used to go out hiking every Sunday at 5.30 p.m.
Starting from Operahouse at our residence, first we used to go and visit Hanging
Garden, Kamla Nehru Park, going through Chowpatty/Babulnath, climbing the hill where
we used to take few rounds in the garden, reaching there within 45 minutes. From there
through back road via Hanging Garden we used to go to Breach Candy, walk through the
beach upto Mahalaxmi, visit mandir for prayers, then go and sit on the rocks behind the
Mandir near the sea, watch wonderful water waves coming and going , sometimes even
touching our feet. We sat and ate famous Daal Wada with hot and sweet chutney. It’s even
famous today.
Thereafter via Peddar Road we used to come home by 9 p.m. My friend Kanti had
shifted to Baroda which I was not knowing, but one day I went to deliver my suit for
washing at Snow White Laundry, luckily I found him there working for the same laundry,
there after we used to meet in Baroda at his laundry, but unfortunately, he is no more he
passed away due to old age. Other three friends are still there in Bombay i.e. Virendra,
Janak, and Sham, and whenever I go to Bombay I meet them quite often. My friend
Virendra comes to Baroda also many times and stays with me down here. Our friendship
is since 1954/55, nearly 55 years as of today. During these 55 years of friendship, we never
had hard feelings, never quarreled, whereas we have always helped each other for
anything and everything throughout this period. Since Kanti was working at laundry I had
very good chance of learning how to iron clothes. Since my school life, I iron all my
clothes. I never give any clothes outside for ironing or for washing. I personally wash all
my clothes. Today also after so many years I have continued the same practice regarding
ironing and washing, I never keep a single dress ironed in my wardrobe, I just wash and
keep clothes in my cupboard, and iron them just few minutes before I want to wear the
dress. I have taught same practice to both my kids i.e. Rakhee and Sagar, they also iron
their clothes themselves since very young age.
Three consecutive years I had obtained 1st prize in fancy dress competition for my
sister1st year I made her as a ‘Merry go Round’, top to bottom white cloth standing as
pillar with red ribbon all around her, on her head we placed a cone type round based hat,
and six horses with balloons on it hanging on the base of hat, and when music was played
she turned round and round so horses also go round in circle appearing as a ‘Merry Go
Round’. During 2nd year I made her as a statue of ‘Mirabai’. Complete white saree and all
other parts of the body which were open, i.e. hair, face, hands, legs all covered with
Plaster of Paris, making her totally white from top to bottom. She was sitting in the
middle of the stage with Tambora in one hand and Manjira in other. In the third year she
was a ‘Kissing Couple’, one lady appearing as two, i.e. one man and one lady, kissing each
other, only face covered with umbrella so it looks like two people kissing behind the
umbrella, half body with male clothes and half body with female clothes. Then during 4th
year all other participants started asking me that this year if you are taking part we are
not interest at all to enter into competition. Well thereafter Chhaya had grown up so we
decided not to take part for the competition. It was lot of fun and specially winning for 3
continuous years was great pleasure.
When I was in school, I found studies bit difficult in higher standards, especially
9th, 10th and 11th (S.S.C.) standards. It was may be because I was at the same time
involved in other activities. I used to do some things for pocket expenses. Regarding
Sanskrit, I used to take help from my friend Mr. Sham Wadhawa, Physics and Chemistry
my friend Janakraj and I used to take help of my elder brother Ramesh bhai who was a
Science student at Wilson college, and elementary Mathematics, i.e. Algebra, Geometry,
and Arithmetic, these three combined for one paper having 30 + 30 + 40 marks
respectively. In standard 9th we had a change of teacher in mathematics, and I could not
follow him very well so I became very weak in Maths, especially Arithmetic was total
headache for me. In exams I used to solve only questions for Algebra, and Geometry and
leave all the questions of Arithmetic blank, and out of 60 marks I used to score passing
marks for the said paper, but I was good at Maths upto Standard 8th.
I was very fond of playing all different types of games at school. All of us friends
used to play Badminton in the school compound or at Balbhavan just across Charni road.
None of my friends could defeat me during those days, and during recess we used to play
Carrom or Chess or Table Tennis within school premises. 9th standard onwards I was very
good at games, and also had lot of interest in indoor as well as outdoor games.
When I entered S.S.C i.e. 11th standard, I found myself very weak at Mathematics,
so I decided to drop the said subject for S.S.C. exams and select other seven subjects.
These seven subjects were as follows: Higher English, Hindi, Sanskrit, General Science,
Special Physics and Chemistry, Social Studies and Special Geography. Well even after
selecting above seven subjects, I could not get through in first attempt. When I passed my
S.S.C. exams, thereafter I started seeking admission for Arts college, as I was under the
impression that I can’t get admission in any other college except Arts, i.e. either Science or
Commerce. So I started visiting Wilson, Bhavans and K.C. College respectively. Lastly
when I visited K.C. College, I saw a new building coming up next to the said college,
where they were going to open a Commerce College in the same name. (It is now known as
H.R.Commerce College). I just visited for the sake of curiosity, to find out if I can get
admission in Commerce without Maths as my subject in S.S.C., so I was told ‘yes
definitely you can get it’, as I had two special subjects i.e. Higher Geography, Physics &
Chemistry and Higher English. I got the Application form and filled up the same for 1st
year commerce admission. Unfortunately, I was told they have been given permission for
2 divisions i.e. A, & B for 1st Year commerce, and both have been filled up, but they have
also applied for 3rd division and if the permission is granted I stand the chance for
admission. They told me if they receive applications for 100 students they will open 3rd
division otherwise it’s not possible. Usually colleges open on 20th of June all over
Bombay, and luckily I received letter on 23rd June that I have obtained admission in C
division. That’s how I took admission and landed up in Commerce College for B. Com
studies. Started attending college from 24th onwards, and within few days made friends
nearly 5 to 6 of them, and one of them became my best friend whose name is Mr. Harish
Motiwala, who is my friend at present also. Others were Harshad, Praful and so on, all
staying at Santacruz West. College timings were from 7:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. nearly 4 periods
every day. In between we had 15 minutes recess. We were enjoying studies very well, and
we had one subject known as organization of Commerce, teachers showed us how to do
Business, and during first period, Professor told us ‘now I am going to teach you how you
should organize your Business’. He told us best business in Bombay as well as in India is a
small restaurant, with fancy furniture, low dim lights, with light music in one corner, and
then see how it is runs, even if you give junk food it’s going to run very well. That’s how
he was joking and completed his first lecture. Accounts and Auditing Professor was also
very friendly and he also gave few hints for accounts in business during his first lecture.
Statistics was my favourite subject, and I used to enjoy a lot. Others were language and
Maths. Here also in first year we had Arithmetic, which was a headache for me, but it was
combined with Accounts for few marks so I did not have any problem in leaving the
questions for the same during exams. Sometimes we all friends used to bunk last class
(period) and either go for an English Movie (Matinee show) at Eros, Regal or some other
theater, or sit in a restaurant near Church Gate station in Hotel Sattkar, or M.L.A. canteen,
or Jai Hind college canteen.
During mornings I used to enjoy my college life with studies as well as with
college friends. I used to travel by train from Charni Road to Churchgate, since college
was very near to Churchgate and my house very near to Charni Road. Going by bus would
have been very expensive daily as there was no system of monthly concession pass,
whereas in train it was very cheap. A students concession pass cost only Rs. 2/ for three
months which could be used as many times you want to use going and coming each day,
and sometimes other friends also could use the same pass as there was no photo identity
on the pass. I used to get only Rs.10/ per month for pocket expense. Life was very tough
and family business very dull, we had to live very economically. After father’s death,
financial position was very, very weak, and no one had courage to face the situation like
my father.
For more pocket expense money, I used to go to our shop, and our next door
business owner used to sell pant and shirt pieces as full taaka i.e. 20 meters cloth at whole
sale price. I used to take such pieces from them, and add couple of Rupees on each piece
and sell them to students in my college so as to make some extra pocket money, and
students also got clothes at cheaper rate compared to market price. We could not ask any
extra money from home except college fees which were Rs.150/ per term i.e. for six
months.
When I used to go to my friend Virendra’s house, I used to see his sister and her
friends busy with embroidery on saris and different types of cloth pieces such as
handkerchiefs. I used to watch very carefully as to how they were doing it. One day
Minaxi ben was not around and the sari she was embroidering was lying on the bed, so I
picked it up and started trying to do embroidery on the same similarly as she used to do,
when she saw me she got very angry, that I may spoil her sari, but as she came closer and
saw the work done by me, she was quite happy, as there was no mistake and the work was
perfect. Thereafter, I thought that I should make some money by doing embroidery, so I
started buying white plain ladies handkerchief from Mafatalal and Kohinoor stores,
started printing designs with the help of carbon paper on one corner, either initials or
flower designs. I used to do embroidery with the help of Anchor thread with different
colours and make a pack of twelve i.e. one dozen and sell the same to ladies and this way
made very good profit. Thereafter, Minaxi ben and I started doing embroidery on malmal
saris together. This is how I completed my first year of commerce and got through with
second class.
When I was in 1st year, one of my brothers’ friend Yogesh bought a proposal for
running a movie for one week at Imperial Theater which was very near to our house. The
conditions were, if all the shows go full, we get a collection of Rs. 11,000/ per week and
we have to pay rent for one week which was Rs. 8,000/, this way we could make Rs.
3000/ profit. The two of us were not ok with the risk, so I asked my other friend Dilip
Trivedi who lived at Ramchandra Mansion to join us as he was very rich, and Yogesh
asked another friend. The four of us got together and hired the movie ‘Tisree Manzil’
starring Shammi Kapoor and Asha Parekh, which was a hit movie. We had booked the
theater but unfortunately we got our chance during the time of 10 days Ganpati festival in
Bombay, and during those days everyone used to go to see and attend functions at
different places where they used to keep Ganpati idols . Due to this the 2nd show at 6 p.m.
and last show at 9 p.m. were quite empty for the whole week. Unfortunately we made a
loss of Rs. 2,800/ instead of making profit. Now we had to pay the loss which per head
came to Rs. 700/ for the partnership deal. I had not informed this to anyone in our house.
I had no money. I had a school friend Janakraj Khanna who had settled down in Calcutta,
doing cloth business. I wrote him a letter asking him to send me Rs. 700/ urgently if
possible as I need it for a short period and will return the same as early as possible. He
was so kind that without asking any questions he immediately dispatched a cheque of Rs.
700/ in my favour, which I later repaid when I had the money. Even till today I can’t
forget that help as Rs.700/ was good money in those days.
During vacation between first year and intercommerce, I saw one advertisement in
the newspaper regarding beginners’ wireman course at an institute in Dadar. The course
duration was one and a half month long and each day during morning hours for 2 hours. I
joined it and learned basic wireman course, i.e. for minor repairs for wiring at residence
plus how to repair irons and smaller basic electrical instruments. That’s how my vacation
was over with classes and playing around, going for movies, site seeing and so on with
friends.
In the month of June on 20th our college restarted i.e. Inter Commerce2nd year,
and final exams were held by Bombay University at the end of the year. Slowly, I found
studies ok. We had 8 subjects, out of which I found Arithmetic and Hindi bit difficult. I
was not very good at languages. For Arithmetic, I was not much worried as it was
included along with Accounts and Auditing paper for 1/3 marks, so I used to score in
Accounts and get through. Our timings for college were as usual, in mornings from
7:30 a.m. to 11 a.m., so after coming home and taking lunch at 2 p.m., I used to go again to
college for sports with some of my college friends as I was very fond of sports. We used to
play Badminton, Carrom and Cricket, I was very good at all the three games, and in
cricket I was the opening bowler. During those days my friends used to call me Gilchrest
and Hall (one of the opening bowlers for West Indies Cricket team). At College annual
sports tournament, I took part in few games, and out of them one was Javelin Throw, and
luckily I was best and first to throw the javelin till a very long distance. Thereafter, I was
selected to take part in Inter college tournaments of Bombay University Colleges, for
Javelin throw, representing my college. As I was selected, every afternoon, I had to go to
Marin Lines Sports Ground and practice the Javelin throw, and when I used to finish
practicing, instead of bringing the Javelin back to my residence or leave it at college, I
used to leave it at Asha’s residence, one of my sister Smita’s friend who used to stay just
next to the ground. I did take part at University level, but unfortunately I did not succeed.
In cricket also I was a very good bowler and in my first over I usually used to take one or
two wickets. I was a fast off spin bowler. In badminton also I took part in tournament in
both singles as well as doubles category but did not win any title.
During weekend sometimes all of us friends, both boys and girls used to organize
private picnics especially on Sundays, and visit different places in Bombay such as
Cannery Caves, Elephanta Caves and National Park etc. From morning 6 a.m. to evening 7
p.m. We used to take readymade food with us and few games, radio and so on to pass our
time. While preparing sandwich, I was best at cutting tomatoes in very fine thin slice, and
all the girls used to see and appreciate the same.
During my second year of college, I was introduced to a new friend Mr. Nandu
Bhatia, who was Viriendra’s friend, so I started going to his house also along with
Virendra. He was staying just opposite to Virendra’s house which we could see from one
of his galleries. Slowly there also I got in touch with his elder brother Mr. Manu bhai, and
his three sisters, Vadiben, Anu, and Sushila. Virendra and I started going there very often,
and especially during Ganpati festival they used to invite us to do some decoration at
their house, and every evening we used to go to Nandu’s house for Ganpati Arti at 8 p.m.,
and on the last day we all used to go to Chowpatty for Ganpati idol immersion. On the
last day, i.e. 10th day, Chowdas it’s a big festival for immersion of all Ganpati idols into
the sea waters at Chowpatty. Our house was facing the main road, and nearly all big and
tall Ganpati’s of Bombay used to pass through this road as Chowpatty was just five
minutes’ walk from our house. It’s a very big festival throughout India (mainly in the
State of Maharashtra). We had three big and small galleries in front facing the main road,
from where this procession used to pass. All traffic for vehicles used to be totally closed
from morning 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., so that the procession could pass smoothly. All our
relatives and friends used to come at our house to watch this procession; they used to
come early by 1:30 p.m. to occupy better position in gallery from where they could see
properly. Nearly 100 to 125 big and small friends and relatives used to come and at 8 p.m.
everyone used to take dinner at our place. We used to prepare handwo, tea/coffee, and
buy chevdo, ghathia, penda and so on for everyone.
On Sundays especially from morning 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. nearly 6 to 8 friends used to
go to Mafatlal Bath for swimming. Before starting swimming, we used to play Chess,
Carom or Badminton, Billiard and so on, thereafter have some hot breakfast such as idli
/sāmbhar, upma, or jalebi ghathia and so on and thereafter at 11:30 a.m. or 12 noon jump
into the swimming pool. We used to have some fun there, and reach home by 1 or 1:30
p.m. All my brothers used to wait for me to have lunch together, as only on Sundays we
used to get time to sit together for lunch, and we had one big thaali, (thaalbig round plate
usually of kaasa or brass metal), where we all six brothers used to sit in a circle, and have
different vatki (bowls) for daal for everyone. We used to challenge our cook and mother
that we are going to finish all the rotli that you have prepared and you will have to make
more for us, and they had to do so as we all used to eat a lot. I used to eat 15 to 16 rotli's
during those days.
Ramesh bhai was looking after business as Dinesh bhai was preparing for Law
exams. Fortunately Ramesh bhai got a chance to go to U.K. for job through Thakercy
Group, through one of their friend. He was the first from our family to go out of India.
During that time I was free from 12 noon onwards after coming home from college, so
from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. I had to attend shop business along with Ramu mama, because
Dinesh bhai was preparing for Law, Mahesh for Architecture attending full day college,
and Suresh for higher studies as a Chartered Accountant for which he had to attend full
time office as an Article Clerk.
Unfortunately Ramesh bhai came back to India within 8 to 10 months, as the job
was very tough in which he had to carry cartons and so on, and at the same time the
climate was not very suitable. Now as he was totally free, he started looking after the
shop. Business was not very good, so he was also going as a M.R. (Medical Representative)
for one medical organization, and at same time he also started some business in Bhivandi,
making cloth with hand machines (Loomhand weaving machine) employing a few
people. In morning he used to go to Bhivandi which was very far from our residence,
nearly 2 hours journey, come back in afternoon and looking after business at the shop. Life
was very tough for all of us as business was going down, so we all had to live very
economically. Luxuries were out of question for all of us, and I also had to work very hard
in different field right from S.S.C. onwards up to 1969, that’s when I went to Zambia in
November 1969.
After passing Inter Commerce, I joined Siddharth College for my further studies
i.e. Jr. & Sr. B.Com. (Bachelors degree in Commerce), which was located in Fountain area
opposite of Handloom House, because Bandra College was very far for me. As this college
was in Fountain area I could not go by train, because Churchgate Station was very far
from my college. So I had to travel by bus which used to cost Rs. 10/ per month. College
hours were nearly same during morning 7:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
One day in morning I was having tea and breakfast with my family, especially
mother, Dinesh bhai and Ramesh bhai. I suggested an idea to them of a method to save
money spent on regular bus fare for coming and going to college. Our Modi i.e. (grocery
shop owner) at Prarthnasamaj was trying to sell his two secondhand bicycles at Rs. 120/
each. One was of ‘Rally’ brand and other ‘Hercules’. I told them – “if you are prepared to
invest Rs. 240/ and buy both the cycles, one for me and the other one for my younger
brother Satish, we will not ask any money for bus fare and within one year these two
cycles will become free by saving all the money for bus fare, and secondly we will be in a
position to do some other work during day time with the help of cycle, again saving bus
fare for going and coming for other domestic work. Also at the same time the use of the
cycle is not going to end within one year, but it will go on saving money for as many years
as we use them”. Well they thought the idea is not bad, so we all agreed and bought both
cycles the very next day. During those days owning a cycle was like owning a car at
present. In whole of college there were only three students riding a cycle to college. I used
to tell my friends “see I own a vehicle”, and sometimes my friends also used to take a
round on my cycle after college hours. This cycle became very helpful for domestic work
also as I used to go to Nalbazaar or Byculla to buy vegetables on wholesale basis, saving
few Rupees compared to buying in retail shops at Prarthnasamaj market. In those days, I
was able to buy vegetables for Rs. 5/, average daily cost for quantity of vegetables to
prepare for nearly 25 people.
One day Mr. Mahendra Shah who lived next door to Virendra’s flat and was also
my friend, knew that I know how to type, so he approached me and asked me if I could
handle his typing job for three months at the place where he used to work, as he wanted to
go on leave and visit Bangalore. He also told me it would be okay if I go after college
hours at 11 a.m. and finish at 6 p.m. His office was at Bhuleshwar, not very far from our
residence. He gave me an idea regarding work at his office, describing that it was not very
complicated and one had just to type 15 to 20 letters which his boss would dictate, and the
salary would be Rs.125/ per month. In morning I used to go to college by cycle, from
there straight to Bhuleshwar office, and between 1 p.m.to 2 p.m. used to come home on
cycle for lunch, and evening by 6:30 p.m., back home finishing all the work at office. I did
this job for 3 months making Rs.450/ which was good enough for my pocket expense for
the whole year. Thereafter I had very good confidence in typing.
At the same time there was one family friend of Minaxi ben, Mr. Satish Bhansali,
who used to come very often at Virendra’s house. He came to know that I am in need of
money, so he offered me a job to write the sales books of his clients as he was practicing as
a Sales Tax Consultant. This sales book was to be written from the invoices, and as I was a
commerce student I did not find it difficult. I agreed and started writing and got some
additional money for my pocket expense. At the same time if there were any minor
repairs to be done for basic electrical instruments such as iron and so on, I used to do the
same and earn some money.
When I used to study, I always used to keep high aim, keep plans in mind, and try
to work accordingly, and many a times I used to succeed. At the same time when I was
studying and performing my job, I had planned that I will not marry until I earn enough
money to run my family expenses. I also had high hopes and wish for going abroad before
marriage, settle down very well and then come back for marriage, so that I would not have
any problems at all. I wanted to go to a foreign country on my own luck and not after
marriage on my wife’s luck. (As there is a saying in Gujarati “Ke Bairi na Pagle overseas
jawa malioo”).
When I was in college, during one vacation I had got a chance to attend a camp
for 10 days at Panchgini. There was an ad in the newspaper to select few students for the
camp at Panchgini. Some organization had come from USA and had organized the same. If
one was selected then they would have to pay only token Rs. 20/ per day i.e. Rs. 200/
for 10 days. We four friends went for an interview, Harish, Harshad, Praful & I, and
luckily I was selected for the same. I went for the camp and there were nearly 600
students’, both boys and girls from all over Bombay. It was quite enjoyable, everything to
be done on our own. They had organized few classes in which they taught nearly 10
different items, and we had to select which one we would like to attend every day. So I
selected carpentry, and they taught us how to handle all different types of carpentry
instruments, and prepare some article within those 10 days. It was a very nicely organized
camp.
I failed again in one subject when in Senior B.Com., so I had to appear for all 10
papers after 6 months. Since I had to only revise the course, and as I was getting a good
job at National Ekco Radio through Virendra’s father’s influence, as an accounts clerk (job
time being 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.) and it was also very near to my house (near Opera House
theatre), I agreed to take up the job and started immediately with a salary of Rs. 300/ per
month. I was doing very well and my bosses were also quite happy with my work, I was
there for nearly 5 months, and I was on probation period for 6 months, with appointment
letter stating only 7 days notice period during probation. After five months I applied for
one month’s leave without pay, so that I could concentrate on my studies for Sr. B.Com.
exams, but unfortunately my Accountant refused me any leave, so I had to make a
decision. The next day I went to office with my 7 days notice resignation letter. That’s how
I resigned and worked hard for my studies. I told my Accountant, “if you don’t give me
leave, I may suffer in my exams, but if I pass B.Com. I will definitely get another good job,
but if I continue here I have no future scopes”.
Now I will write down a few examples of my 6th sense (Day Dreams).
1. I am not sure whether I was in my Jr. or Sr. B.Com, one Sunday afternoon
at nearly 4 p.m. while I was reading in our big gallery which faced the
main road, all of a sudden something came to my mind –‘how parents
would feel if one of their children gets involved in a car accident while
crossing the road just under their residence’, and guess what happened,
just within 15 minutes there was a big noise, a car involved in an accident
in front of our residence. There was a building opposite our residence just
across the road Powell Building, and on the first floor there was one
Marathi family whose youngest son, nearly 8 years old, was trying to cross
the road to reach our building to visit his friend on the 1st floor, unluckily
he got involved in that car accident and he had a major fracture on his leg,
leaving him with a permanent defect, as well as other minor injuries.
Luckily he survived.
2. When I had settled down in Baroda after 1984, I was passing through Polo
Ground, there I noticed they were building a stage and placing chairs and
making arrangements for a speech to be given by Prime Minister
Mr. Rajiv Gandhi the very next day. All of a sudden I thought ‘what
nonsense, they are building a stage without any security all around, and in
case while building the stage, if someone puts a time bomb under the stage,
what will be the consequences’. Unfortunately same thing took place after
two days when he had a meeting in south of India, where he was killed by
a suicide bomber.
3. One of my friends’, Mr. Philip had been operated at Bhailal Hospital in
Baroda and I had to go to see him. Before I sat in my car to go and visit
him, a thought ran through my mind ‘that today I may be involved in an
accident’. So I was trying to be very careful while going and driving very
slowly. I reached very safely at the hospital. I had a new Matiz Car which
was bought recently, so I wanted to do the same while coming home, but
unfortunately while coming out from the parking lot, the passage was very
narrow and a big round cement block was built up in a corner near the
turning. I tried to avoid that, but my car dashed into it while turning as the
road was very narrow, and it got damage (big deep scratch) at the bottom
from front door to rear door.
This is how my 6th sense guides me. I had few more incidents, but I don’t
remember all of them at present.
When I was in college, I used to maintain a diary in which I used to write down
all the quotations that I read and come by if they are good, and a second small diary in
which I was writing which movie I have seen, on what date, in which theatre, which show,
how much I paid for the ticket so on and so forth.
During vacation I used to join some or the other classes to learn something new
instead of wasting my time. I was very keen to learn something new all the time, and at
the same time if I saw somebody doing something, only by watching them do the task, I
could easily learn how to do the same.
If I start something I don’t give up very easily, as there is a saying ‘try, try till
you succeed’, that’s how I react towards anything that I under take.
In 1967 Mahesh had a plan to build some flats in Ahmedabad and go into
construction line if it is feasible. Actually he did not have money for down payment for
the land he wanted to buy at Paldi area so he took a loan from Dinesh bhai, from our
family shop, and paid Banna (token money) for the land, with the intension that if he gets
booking for the flats and deposit money from the customers, he will pay full amount for
the land and start building flats. He had a scheme for 12 flats. Since he could not handle
this work all alone along with his office work, he requested Dinesh bhai if he could send
me to help him out as I was not doing any job in Bombay during that period.
Well that’s how I landed in Ahmedabad for nearly 12 to 15 months. The plot of
land for which Mahesh had paid the deposit, was at walking distance from his residence,
so in the morning I used to go and sit at the site with brochures to see if any customers
came to make bookings. At the same time Hemang was only 3 years old, so I used to drop
him and bring him back from his nursery on my cycle. I had bought a brand new cycle, as
it was very difficult to move around in Ahmedabad city without any type of personal
transportation, since public transport facility was not that good. In the afternoon after
lunch I used to go to Mahesh’s office which was situated in town area near Raipur
Darwaja. I used to go on cycle. At 6 p.m., used to come back home and pass time with few
friends which I had made in near by societies, and especially next door just behind our
house. We used to play cards or some other game, or go for a walk and pass our time up
till when it was time for dinner. There was not much work in office, and also there were
no new customers for flats, I was getting bored and finding it difficult to pass my time in
the office.
Very next door to Mahesh’s office, there was another office which had classes
(mini school) for Radio Mechanic Course. They used to teach how to repair and assemble
an absolutely new Radio set, and I got interested and went there and asked what the
duration for learning the above course was. The Principal told me that it’s nearly 6 to 12
months for full course, daily 2 hours. So I thought of utilizing my afternoon time. It was a
certified course, certificate from same classes. I told the Principal that I had limited time,
that in case my work did not materialize down here, I may have to go back to Bombay
within 3 to 4 months. I asked him, “I am prepared to pay full fees as per your terms, but
do you think you can teach me the full course within 2 to 3 months, if I attend for more
than 4 to 5 hours per day, and work hard as per your instructions”. I was very keen in
learning as my friend Virendra was having a radio repairing outlet at Bombay and no
body to look after the same since his father had passed away and he (Virendra) had a very
good job at Mukund Iron and Steel in Bombay. Due to my good luck, the Principal agreed
and said let’s try and see how it goes. Well very next day I paid the fees and started my
tuitions, I worked so hard that I nearly completed the full course in 2 months.
The Principal also took my oral, written and practical test; which I passed, so he
issued me the institute certificate for the same. Thereafter as I had enough time he told me
if I am interested in assembling one complete radio set, I should go to the market and buy
all the necessary parts, and also a wooden cabinet which is available readymade. I did so
and under his guidance started assembling a new radio set, of 5 bands, 6 valves, and 2
speakers. I completed the assembly of the radio set within one week and it turned out to
be very nice. My cousin brother Mr. Sashikant bhai saw this and he also wanted to have
one for his house, but a smaller one, so as per his requirement in the same class I
assembled another radio of 3 bands and 1 speaker, which cost me nearly Rs. 300/ only.
Thereafter, I got another order and made another radio for one of my relatives. I got good
practical experience for the same immediately after completing the course.
When I was in Ahmedabad I also had friends where Mahesh used to stay before,
(near Sardar Patel colony). One of them was Miss Sadhana (Dharmista) who had come to
Bombay and used to stay at Ramchandra Mansion, in 1964. I came in contact with her. We
were good friends. When I first went to Ahmedabad during holidays; I went to her house
at Chaitania Society, and got in contact with her two elder brothers and one of their
friends’ Bharat who used to stay opposite to their house. So, in 1967, I used to go there
sometimes after dinner and pass time with all of them for a couple of hours.
Bharat had seen one advertisement in the news paper regarding cigarette
company, for a survey purpose, as to which cigarette is being used highest in terms of
quantity in the market, i.e. whose sales is maximum. This was for short period nearly of 10
to 15 days, and we could do the survey as per our timings. We would have to fill up
nearly 10 to 15 survey applications per day. This is how we had to work to move around
in the streets, and if someone threw a cigarette butt on the road after smoking, we had to
pick up that cigarette butt, approach that gentleman, and ask him a few questions as per
details in the form i.e. ‘which brand do you smoke, how many cigarettes do you smoke in
a day, why do you like this brand the best, have you tried any other brands’, then finally
take his name and address and complete the form and hand it over to the employer. At the
end of fifteen days we got Rs. 300/ for the said job done. It was a nice experience, and we
got to meet lot of different people.
Immediately after that, the Local Government had introduced a rule that all the
property owners should have a valuation certificate for their property, and this had to be
done by Architects only who had a license to do so. Unfortunately, Mahesh did not have a
license, but he was interested in doing the job, so he approached his previous boss who
had a license and in partnership with him he started valuation of properties. He used to
draft the complete report and give it to me for typing, and I was totally busy typing all the
reports day and night as they had to be submitted within stipulated timings.
Ultimately the reason for which I had come to Ahmedabad that is for the
construction of flats, totally failed, we could get only 3 bookings and it was not possible to
pay for the land and take such a big risk of investing to build the flats and then wait for
the customers. So the land was given back to the owner loosing the Banna (token) money
which we had paid at the initial stage. Since there was no other reason for me to stay in
Ahmedabad I landed back in Bombay and started looking for a job in Bombay, but I had
good time in Ahmedabad. I learned many things and also enjoyed with my friends.
Before I could get a job, I saw that Virendra’s workshop for radio repairing is
ideal, no one looking after the same, so I took his permission, cleaned up the place, and
started looking after repairs of radios and minor electrical equipments. I used to sit there
from morning 10 a.m. to late night. I was not very good at repairs, I could handle only
minor problems, but for any major problems, I used to take help from his elder brother
Madhu bhai or his Masa or next door tenant, as all of them were in the same business. I
was doing okay, continued for a few months, sometimes used to get good profit for minor
repairs. At the same time I was looking for a job, so that I could get some fixed amount
per month, and can look after the radio workshop in evening from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
As I was interested in a job and looking for the same, Mr. R. T. Shah
(Rameshbhai), husband of Minaxi ben and brother inlaw of Virendra one day asked me if
I would like to do a job, as there was vacancy in his office in Accounts department. He
used to work for Godavari Sugar Mills office which was situated in Fountain area. I said ‘I
don’t mind’. R. T. Shah had arranged for an interview with his Financial Accountant Mr.
Parikh, I was luckily selected for the same as an Accounts clerk, and had to go to Gateway
of India office, situated opposite Regal Talkies (theatre), timing being 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.,
and I had to handle Sales and Purchase Register. My salary was fixed Rs. 300/ for a
probation period of nearly 6 months. Out of Rs. 300/, I had to give away Rs. 270/ to
Dinesh bhai for domestic expenses as he demanded for the same. The remaining Rs. 30/
was not enough for my pocket expenses, so after office hours I used to go to Virendra’s
house and look after radio repairs up to 10 p.m. or 11 p.m. depending on urgency for the
work and also on my mood to do the work. Between 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. I used to go home
and have dinner, or if there was something nice, I used to eat at Virendra’s house. While I
was working at Godarwari Sugar Mills, I did not have enough time to go home for lunch,
so I used to receive my tiffin from home for my lunch. As I was writing Purchase and
Sales Register, there were nearly 30 to 35 full scape pages in one month for both registers,
and during those days there was no calculator in offices, we had to do the total of all the
pages manually, and I was pretty fast at doing that job. While I was working at above
office, I had applied for a passport, which I received within 6 to 8 weeks. I was happy to
have the same, as I could now apply for job in foreign countries. I started looking for
advertisements in ‘Times of India’ and also applied for jobs in Middle East, Baharin, Fiji
and so on but unfortunately no luck. Slowly as the year end was coming nearer, work load
started increasing at my above job, and all of us in accounts department had to work late
night up to 10 p.m. having lunch and dinner both in office. Even after working so hard
every day, there was no extra money for overtime. I used to reach home by 10:30 p.m. or
11 p.m.
After 5 months, I started looking for another job. I started applying for the same,
and luckily, I got an interview call from Singer Sewing Company in Fountain area next to
Handloom House. I went for the interview and was selected and offered a job as a
‘Relieving Shop Assistant’, in short ‘Assistant Show Room Representative’. They had 5 to
6 branches in different parts of Bombay, and I had to go to a shop where the local manager
was on leave in any particular branch. They offered me Rs. 325/ per month during
probation period which was again 6 months. Now I had to give resignation at Godwari
Sugar Mills, which I did, and they called Mr. R. T. Shah and asked him ‘Why is Kirish
leaving the job, what’s wrong?’, so he told them that I got a better offer at some other
place, and the timings are unsuitable for me down here.
After 10 days I started my new job at Singer Sewing Machine. First three weeks
they gave me training, theory as well as practical. We had to know each and every part of
the machine, their code numbers, how to stitch, as well as embroider on machine, and how
to handle valued customer entering our showroom. All this training was given to me at
Fountain Head Office. Since then I started wearing a tie as it was one of the foreign
organization and I was working in the sales department. As the training was over they
took my practical test at the Fountain showroom for one week, then they placed me at
their Bhindi Bazaar branch as they had heavy load due to one sales scheme at that
particular branch. We used to sell Singer sewing machines on hire / purchase scheme, so
at times I had to go out for collection of installments or even repossess the machine if
someone fails to pay installments for more than 3 months. It was a very tough job, as I had
to go deep into slum areas, deal with uneducated public, and travel up to Kalyan on
Central Railways train line, and Western Railway up to Boriwali, going to such places
even if it was raining. Timings were from morning 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. as it was a showroom.
After a few weeks I was transferred to Sandhurst Road branch which was walking distance
from my house, but I used to go on cycle, as to move around for office work was very easy
on cycle, when we had to go to nearby places. At that branch, the assistant had gone on
leave, and main branch manager was a Parsi, and was very friendly with me. He gave me
very good respect, I enjoyed working with him and he used to sit and talk on many topics
as well as taught me in detail regarding sales and how to handle customers. It was very
pleasant working with him.
He also wrote that one of the relatives of his boss had gone on the same basis and
was lucky to settle down there. The risk was nearly of Rs. 4000/ to 5000/ approximately.
Well, I did not have that much of money but was prepared to take risk as I was very keen
on going to a foreign country since past many years. I had to travel by ship as by plane it
was not possible due to R. B. I. bank (Reserve Bank of India) ruling. I had to obtain ‘P’
form from R. B .I. which would not have been granted to me as I was only a commerce
graduate, but on the ship in ‘bunker class’ this certificate is not necessary. Slowly I started
making arrangements for the trip, got new clothes, and spent all my balance on shopping.
The ticket for ship travel from Bombay to Dar e Salam was Rs. 690/ plus Rs. 90/ for
special food, which I agreed, but I did not have that much money to pay for my tickets, I
spoke to Dinesh bhai to help me from the shop account. He agreed on one condition that
as soon as I get a job in Zambia, I should send complete fare money back to him (which
was not fair, but still I agreed as I wanted to go) and Suresh also had sent me an airplane
ticket from Dar E Salam to Lusaka which was ZK 100/ (ZK Zambian Kwacha) i.e. Indian
Rs. 1000/ only (at the conversion rate that time), so within Rs. 2000/ I would reach
Zambia, which I did. I got everything organized and got all the tickets ready in my hand.
My Departmental Manager took the said letter to the Branch Manager. They told
me ‘how can I reply in such a rude way to my Manager?’ They asked me to visit the head
office next morning at 9:30 a.m. with a letter of apology for the same. I did not go there
and at 10:30 a.m. I received a phone call from the head office asking me why I had not
obeyed the rule for going to the head office. I told ‘well I am the only person in this
branch, so how can I leave the branch unattended, there is no one else except me at
present and at the same time you did not give me instructions that I can lock the branch
and come to head office’. The Branch Manager then told me ‘I am now giving you
instructions to lock the branch and come to head office’. When I reached the departments
head office, he asked me for the apology letter, which I had not written at all, so he took
out two pages as well as a carbon paper from his table and gave them to me to write an
apology letter. I took the pages and kept it in my brief case, and at the same time, I took
out my letter of resignation from my briefcase and handed it over to him.
He went through my resignation letter and was surprised as well as very scared
and told me take back my resignation letter because Branch Manager would ask him and
what would he reply regarding my resignation. I told him ‘that’s your problem, you now
handle your case, I am no more interested in this job and I can’t take my resignation back’.
Same day by afternoon the story had passed through all the other branches
regarding my resignation, so all other staff was very happy and was saying ‘you have
taught a very good lesson to head office staff’. They also said I have taken very bold step
regarding resignation. Luckily, the day before I had received all my tickets for Zambia,
which I had not told anyone at Singer Sewing company and any how within couple of days
I would have had to resign, but this way I got a good chance for submitting my
resignation. That’s how I ended my job down there as well as in India. This was my last
job in India.
In 1968, I met one gentleman Mr. Sashiwadan bhai at Ramchandra Mansion, at one
of my friend Dilips’ house; he used to come there as he was working with Dilips’ father in
Chemical Business. I heard about him that he was very good at astrology, who reads
horoscope casually, and his predictions are perfect. It was his hobby to read horoscopes,
and did not do it commercially. My way of thinking for showing horoscope was that if
someone predicts that your period is good, I should take maximum efforts to work hard
during that period and try to obtain maximum benefits, and if the period is bad, I should
take utmost care and precautions so I am safe by all means. Sashiwadan bhai told me it is
better if I settle down away from my birth place, and secondly if I try hard, I definitely
have a chance of going abroad by November 1969. That’s how I decided first to apply for a
passport, and then started looking for opportunity to go abroad. As it had been predicated
that I could go abroad, I did not sit idle thinking that as I will be going abroad why I
should I work in India. I worked in India throughout 1968/1969, until I got a chance to go
abroad. Luckily in September / October 1969, it just clicked through my brother Suresh for
me to go to Zambia, as I have already mentioned before. As per prediction by
Mr. Sashiwadan bhai Trivedi, I left India on 7th November 1969, since then I had very
good faith in his predictions and I always used to ask him in all my difficulties as well as
for my future life.
I started my journey, I had a ten day trip by ship from Bombay dock up to Dar E
Salam, going via Zanzibar, Mombasa and then reaching Dar E Salam. My complete family,
relatives and friends came to send me off at Bombay dock yard. I left at nearly 1:30 p.m.
on 7th November 1969, all alone by ship for the first time, knowing nobody on ship and
had to travel for ten days in sea, could not see anything except water all around. On 7th
during dinner time, I made one friend on the ship. He had come to India for studies and
was living in Mombasa. He was going back as he had completed his M. B. B. S. (Doctors’
degree) and was planning to start his practice at Nakooru near Nairobi, in Kenya.
There were many students on the ship, who were going back either to Mombasa,
or Dar E salam, since they had finished their studies in one or the other subjects, or few of
them going back for holidays. On the second day, the two of us were moving around on
the ship and started talking with other students and made some new friends, mixed group
of boys and girls. We were now nearly 16 to 18 in all within 2 to 3 days, so we started
playing games on the ship. This particular ship had 3 floors and nearly 4 to 6 steps all
round, on front, back and middle to go up and down. Sometimes we used to play, running
round catching each other, running up and down the steps, and unfortunately I missed
one step and had a head injury as well as injury on my cheek, where it started to bleed.
They had all the medical facilities on the ship, so I had a bandage all round my face. I also
have photo from this incident.
One Christian lady had a camera. She took my photo and posted it to me at
Lusaka address. It was so good of her to do so for my remembrance. They also had
different games on the ship such as Bingo, Cards, Swimming pool, Library, Table Tennis,
and Movies at night and so on. We used to take advantage of all the above items and enjoy
the same and pass our time. Food, especially breakfast, lunch and dinner were very good
and all was included in the ticket amount of Rs. 700/ fare from Bombay to Dar E Salam
for complete ten days.
Our first stop was at Zanzibar, only for a few hours. On the day of Diwali and on
the day of the New Year, we had very good food and everyone on ship started greeting
each other. On Bhaibeej, all elderly ladies, came to us, greeted all gentlemen, and gave
sweets to everyone, which they had brought from India. It was a very nice gettogether.
When the ship reached Mombasa, it was to stay on dock for 3 days for loading and
unloading of cargo. Only few were going to remain on the ship, all the rest were going to
step down at Mombasa. Even my friend was to stay in Mombasa for a while with his
family. He asked me what I was going to do on ship for 3 days, I told ‘I don’t know’, so he
suggested that I go with him, stay with his family in Mombasa for 3 days and come back
when the ship would leave for Dar e Salam. He offered to take me with him and then drop
me after 3 days. I did not mind, so we went together and I stayed with him. He was kind
enough to take me all around Mombasa and show me different places, especially the
beach, shopping mall, temple and so on for 3 days. His elder brother and bhabhi were also
very nice and gave me good company, good food, and moved around together for
sightseeing. After full enjoyment for 3 days he came to drop me at Mombasa Dock for my
trip to Dar e Salam. On our way he asked me if I knew any one at Dar e Salam, so I told,
‘no, I don’t know anyone’, I will just catch a flight and go to Lusaka, Zambia. He asked me
if I was interested in staying for a few days at Dar e Salam, and see the place and then go
to Lusaka, as I will not get a chance again to visit Dar e Salam. I told him ‘well I don’t
mind for a couple of days’, so, he phoned one of his friend Kishor, who had a garment
factory in Dar e Salam, manufacturing shirts, asking him if he can look after me for a
couple of days and then drop me at airport for flight to Zambia. Luckily Kishor agreed, he
came to pick me up at Dar e Salam Dock.
When he came to pick me up he was quite busy practicing for one drama, so, we
went straight to the site where they were practicing for the drama, at about 11 p.m. When
they finished we went home, and he had arranged one special room for me in his house,
where I used to stay. He took me to his factory, even gave me one shirt as a present, and
took me around town, to the Game Park, and movie and so on. I stayed there for 3 days,
but he was keen to keep me for few more days, but I told I have to go now, and took a
flight for Lusaka, Zambia. Suresh my brother had come to pick me up at the Lusaka
Airport, Zambia.
As soon as we reached home, I was shocked to see the living place where Suresh
was staying. It was a small tiny house with two rooms of 10 ft. x 10 ft. size, a kitchen and
a bath in the middle, and on top was a metal sheet roof, and the toilet was outside in the
yard, few walking steps from main house, situated in one big yard behind a big bungalow
of the owner and usually they used to give this house to their servants to stay in, who
worked in their bungalow. It was shocking because we used to stay in a very big house in
Bombay, which was a flat of nearly 3000 sq. ft., had 5 bed rooms, huge kitchen, large
drawing room, two bathrooms, two toilets and so on and landing in such a small house,
that also in a foreign country was unbelievable for me. I could not adjust myself for days,
and was always thinking of going back to India, but Suresh told me everything will be
okay as time passes, just start looking for a job, and you will be okay once you see more
money in your hand compared to money in India.
I took his advice and started looking for a job, keeping in mind, in case I don’t get
a job, I have to go back within 3 months, so it’s okay, if I get a job, and pass only 2 years
on contract basis, I will at least recover my expenses, and at the same time save some
money before going to India. I started looking in all the advertisements in local
newspaper, as well as in morning till afternoon I used to knock at different offices in
town, asking if there is any vacancy.
Within one month, Suresh’s boss Mr. Sharma had a grand opening for a jewellery
shop at a location on the Main Street in town; Suresh asked me if I was interested for a job
in that shop. I told him I would rather go to India instead of working with an Indian
employer in foreign country, as I knew their attitude very well, but without charging any
money to Mr. Sharma, I tried to help him out in his shop during Christmas timing as there
was huge rush of customers coming and going for jewellery, as well as Watches, specially
Omega brand. Mr. Sharma’s son was very young, nearly 21 years old, he became my good
friend and I used to enjoy in his shop. After sometime he was to go for further studies
outside Zambia, so before he left he gave me one present from his shop, i.e. Army Knife
made in Swiss, which I had till today, and kept it with me and used it while traveling. I
have recently given it to Rakhee as a remembrance from me.
After one and half month there was an ad for an assistant accountant at one of the
Cardboard factory The International Cartons and Packaging Company Limited. I went
with Suresh as it was in an industrial area nearly 10 to 12 kilometers from our residence. I
appeared for an interview and luckily was selected for the job. They offered me ZK. 200/
per month, which was equal to Indian Rs. 2000/, and it was a lot compared to India
where I used to get only Rs.300/ per month. After all my expenses per month, I could
easily save ZK. 8/ per month, i.e. Rs. 800/ per month savings. Now the main problem
outstanding was to obtain a work permit as I was on Visitors Permit. The company was
not prepared to apply for my work permit, so I told them to give me an appointment letter
and I myself will arrange for the work permit. They gave me an appointment letter and
there was one gentleman who was the owner of Bonds Tailor, who had contacts at the
immigration office and he promised me that he will see someone and make arrangements
for my work permit.
Before applying for work permit I had to leave the country as I was on visitors’
permit, and once granted work permit, I reentered on a 2 years work permit contract. On
811970 I left Zambia and went to Malawi, a country neighboring Zambia, and stayed
there with one Indian family, who were in bicycle business. They also had same business
in Zambia, and other family members looking after the same, and I had gone to Malawi
through their reference. My work permit was granted immediately within one day, and I
landed back in Zambia on 1011970. My Work Permit No. was 23385 valid up to 511972.
My mother was also supposed to come to Zambia for Anila bhabhi’s delivery.
Luckily we both landed at Lusaka Airport at the same time – at around 1 p.m., I coming
from Malawi and mother coming from India. I did not know her flight details, but all of a
sudden we both were there at the same time. I was standing in immigration queue and I
saw my mother asking some passenger to fill up immigration form for her, immediately, I
approached her and told her not to worry, I am here and now I will do all the needful for
you. We both cleared immigration, my passport was stamped for 2 years work permit, and
mother as a visitor for 6 months. Thereafter clearing customs we both came out, where
Suresh was waiting for us, we all drove back home.
After finishing all these debts I started saving 1/3rd of my salary and used to
credit it into London Bank, because legally we were entitled to remit 1/3rd of our salary
outside country anywhere in world. This saving was more than double then actually what
I used to earn in India during those days. Everything was going on very well, and I used
to enjoy as mother was also with us. One of our friend was going to Nairobi and that place
was cheaper then Zambia, so I requested him to buy a camera for me on his way back as I
was interested in photography. He bought me a Yashica Electro 35 for ZK 60/ only, and I
was very happy to have the same. Then we all started taking lots of pictures here and
there in different dresses and so on.
While I was working in my present office at the factory, I had to go to the city
many times to a company ‘Leopold Walford’ office for clearing of goods which we used to
receive from overseas, and also for banking money, clearing import papers and getting
draft for overseas party payments. With my present job I had completed nearly 5 months,
but I was not fully enjoying the job. My manager was quite good, but no other staff in
office with whom I could talk. Whenever the manager used to come to office, we used to
drink coffee together, so from there onwards, I used to drink nearly 4 to 5 cups of coffee in
a day.
One day I had to go to Leopold Walford in city for clearing of goods, I saw nearly
5 Indians working there in accounts department .Out of curiosity I just asked one of them
(Mr. Panchbhaya) if there is any vacancy in their accounts department. All five of them
were Mohammedans, but none educated as they were local, whereas I was a B.Com.
Graduate. Mr. Panchbhaya told me ‘let me ask the Branch Manager for the same’. It was a
big office, as clearing agents as well as travel department; with nearly more than 25
people working under one roof. Mr. Panchbhaya told me that the Branch Manager would
like to meet me, so they asked me few questions and took a sort of interview. The Branch
Manager (Mr. Brown) told me ‘yes we can offer you job as an Assistant Accountant and
the salary will be ZK 250/ per month. Plus overtime if you have to work after 5 p.m.’. I
agreed, but told I can only join after one month, as I have to give resignation at my
present job, as well as I need an appointment letter so that I can hand it over to
immigration office for change of name of employer on my work permit. Mr. Brown told me
‘that’s fine, you sit outside for few minutes’ and within 15 minutes he handed over to me
my appointment letter, for which I was surprised, and he also told me, now we see you
here in this office after one month.
I was very glad. I went home and told everything to my brother Suresh, so he
made arrangements for transfer of name on work permit and handed it over to
immigration office and at the same time I handed over my resignation letter at my present
office. There was no problem from immigration office, so after one month I went to
Leopold Walford office, told the manager there , I need another 10 days before I join your
company as I would like to go on leave since I will not get leave until one year. They
agreed, and as I had some bank balance, I thought of going to Salisbury, Rhodesia (now
known as Zimbabwe), as the return fare by bus was only ZK 18/. There was one Indian
family in Salisbury, whom Suresh knew, so I stayed with them for 9 days, went on 16th
June, 1970, and returned to Zambia on 25th June 1970. I saw the whole city within 9 days
and also did shopping for clothes and gift articles.
I joined Leopold Walford on 1st July 1970; timings were from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. I
was doing very well and handling Creditors and Debtors Ledger, which was in a total
mess, all entries wrongly entered, some showing credit balance and others showing debit
balance, nearly two different cards for same party, and amounts wrongly entered in ledger
cards. Branch Manager requested that Mr. Panchbhaya and I should sit after 5 p.m. and
clear all the accounts and bring all the ledgers in order. We agreed and were working up
to 6:30 p.m. or 7 p.m. daily after office hours, and for that we used to get ZK 70/ extra
per month as overtime. Which means Salary ZK 250/ plus ZK 70/ making it to ZK 320/
per month which was pretty good.
Mother had come to Zambia in January and now it was time for her to go back to
India as she had only 6 months visitors’ permit. We had enjoyed with her for six months.
During the time I was working at Leopold Walford, everyday at 10 a.m. I used to order a
toasted cheese and tomato sandwich with Coke which cost me only 25 ngwee. (One
hundred ngwee equal to 1 Kwacha in Zambian currency). The cost of living was very
cheap, and complete domestic expense for kitchen used to be only ZK 35/ to 40/ per
head. Within 6 months Panchbhaya and I sorted out all the ledgers and brought the
accounts in order, and thereafter, we only used to handle the said ledgers to see that there
is no mess again.
As I was working at Leopold Walford office, I came across one gentleman Mr.
Aziz Ghumra, through Mr. Chhenia who was working with me. Aziz had his office in the
same building where I used to work. Aziz was working for one Accounts Consultants
office on 2nd floor. We used to move around in his car after office hours here and there in
Lusaka visiting new places, going for movies and so on.
Slowly he became one of my best friends, I started going to his house, where I met
his elder Brother and two younger brothers, and three sisters, father and mother. All of
them accepted me as one of their family member, at times I used to take dinner at his
place, and they used to prepare separately for me as I was fully vegetarian. They all were
very kind and helpful in all respects. His sister used to make Sandwich everyday and send
it to my office along with Aziz as I was buying from outside for my breakfast. He used to
do part time job during evening hours for one show of movie in theatres operating
Projectors and he used to take me with him, so I used to sit and watch movie totally free
of charge. He also used to take me to his girlfriends house, she was Zambian and he was
very keen to marry her, but there was objection from his family.
We all friends used to arrange Musical parties at times in Lusaka inviting few
other friends, gents as well as ladies and have dance party starting 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. in
morning. Chhenia, Aziz and all other local friends used to arrange the same, It was lot of
fun and I attended this type of party for the first time in my life. All types of Drinks and
food, but I was strictly vegetarian and only soft drinks, I took hard drink at times but only
at such parties.
Well everything was going on fine all round, no problems at all, But as I was
Bachelor and nearly 31 years old. My mother started pushing me through her letters for
marriage, stating there are many proposals waiting for me in India. I had not even
completed one year in my present job and I started getting such letters, but by December
we had brought complete Accounts department in order, and in February 1971 I asked my
Branch Manager, if I can get one and a half months leave to go to India for my Marriage
purpose. Well I was granted my leave without pay, so I started preparing for my trip to
India, Return ticket fare to India was ZK 480/ but at the same time they told me if I take
round ticket i.e. Zambia, any places in Europe, India and back will cost only ZK 602/ I
started thinking what to do. At the same time I asked my friend Aziz if he would like to
join me for a holiday as he had never seen India in past and not even gone out of Zambia.
He told me, I have no guts to ask my father, and so if you can ask on my behalf, I am
certainly interested in coming with you.
One day I just asked casually to his father, if he could allow his son Aziz to join
me for a trip to India as I am going for my marriage and I would be interested if Aziz
attends my marriage. His father agreed on one condition, that I should take complete care
of his son and he should not get lost anywhere. He has not been out of Zambia in past so
many years and secondly he should visit Jamkhambalya because it’s his native place and
there are many relatives staying down there. I promised his father that I will look after
him, during our complete trip.
We both started our mission, on 5th March 1971. First visiting Nairobi, then Italy
(Rome/Venice), and there after France (Paris) and on 11th March 1971 we reached London
at my brothers house. We found Italy and France very cheap during those days, we used
to pay only USA $ 5/ for two of us in Hotel Accommodation, which was equal to ZK 3=50
only per day. We both had taken foreign exchange of USA $ 600 for our trip, which was
enough money during those days. We stayed in London up to 15th March 1971 and
proceeded for India. After two days I started seeing brides one after the other, and at the
same time I, Aziz and mostly all friends and relatives used to go around Bombay showing
different places to Aziz, and nearly every night show go for movies. Aziz used to enjoy a
lot as he had never seen such big crowds of people in his life. He mixed very well with my
family members.
On 30th March 71, I had my first interview with Hemangini, had meeting at her
place, at about 430 p.m., We exchanged our views and left the place at 5.30 p.m.. My
mother and Ramumama had accompanied me for the same. There was one business
gentleman staying next door to us at Ramchandra mansion 4th floor, he met Hemangini’s
father and told him there is one candidate who has come from Zambia, why don’t you try
for your daughter, So his father spoke to Ramumama at our shop, and that’s how the
meeting was arranged.
Luckily her father was in the same business working for someone in Muljijetha
Market, and knew my father also very well as he had worked with my father also for a
while. During our first meeting my mother and Mama were impressed with Hemangini
and on our way back home they told me she is the right girl for you. We again met on 31st
March 1971, thereafter we both agreed to become life time partners and arranged for an
engagement on 4th April 1971 at our residence. After engagement, we immediately
decided to go for marriage on 16th April 1971, as I was running out of time to go back for
my job, as I had only one and half months leave.
I don’t know what happen inbetween 4th and 16th, that we both were not
interested to get married. She told her parents that she is not interested for marriage i.e.
before engagement, before 4th April and I told my parents after engagement that I would
like to break the engagement, I am not interested for marriage. But unfortunately or
fortunately, both the parents were very firm and told us it’s not possible to break
engagement, and you have to get through marriage. Well we had no other alternative and
had to do all the preparations for marriage on 16th. While getting ready to go for marriage
on 16th, I received a telegram as I was getting ready, from my brother Suresh, that my job
is in danger since I have overstayed in India , and my leave is over now. Everyone in my
family were worried, what to do.
So I told do not panic, there is nothing to worry, even if I lose my present job, I
will definitely get another one immediately as soon as I reach Zambia. So everything went
on fine with the marriage and many friends and relatives had attended the same. One
thing I did not like and did not appreciate, that my mother, Dineshbhai and Mama did
with me and told there is no gold in house (i.e. 10 tolas that they used to give to all family
members at the time of marriage and my father had already made arrangements for the
same for everyone,) but I can’t understand why they told me like that. And also there is
no money for marriage expenses, I told OK no problem, I don’t want the gold, and I will
see how much I can spend for my marriage. And immediately afterwards after some time
where did they bring gold for marriage for Satish’s, Smita’s and Chhaya’s marriage I don’t
know, and I also never bothered to find out also for the same. My wife and I totally forgot
about the gold as we were not interested in getting the same.
After marriage within few days Heman, Aziz, my mother and I, we all went to
Ahmedabad to meet few relatives down there as there is a custom to visit relatives, and
from there we went for pilgrimage to Palithana, and Aziz being Mohammedan he also
climbed the hill of Palithana, which is nearly 3,700 steps. He was suffering from Asthma
but slowly and steadily he tried and reached the top, at the same time he wore Dhoti and
Khess for puja, and did puja as we showed him. We came back to Ahmedabad, and then
went to Surat as Heman’s elder brother Mr. Rashmibhai used to stay there, just to visit
him also. Coming back to Bombay we were now planning for our trip back to Zambia.
We got our confirm ticket for Zambia via Nairobi for 12th May 1971, so we all
enjoyed our stay in Bombay till 12th may 71. Thereafter on 12th May Heman, Aziz and I
boarded the plane for our destination to Zambia.
Before Marriage, Suresh had already gone to Ndola another place in Zambia in
June 1970 for another Job. So Girish (Bhabhi’s brother who had come to Zambia) and I
were staying in one of the rented place together and sharing fifty percent of all the
expenses per month. When we came back to Zambia, Girish had got a flat through his
company, only one bed room, so Heman and I were staying with him for a while in
drawing room. We stayed with Girish for three months i.e. up to August 31st 1971, and
were paying him two third of domestic expenses per month.
In month of June 1971 we started looking for a job for Hema as she was getting
bored at home. Unfortunately her degree was not recognized by Zambian University, so it
was very difficult to get a job. Luckily through Aziz we came across one Doctor, Dr.
Limbada, who had his personal Dispensary for practice, plus he had eight such
Dispensaries all round Lusaka, and he used to hire Doctors who used to come from India,
and hand over each dispensary for them to run on monthly fix salary basis. We asked him
if Hema could join him in his dispensary just to pass time and be helping hand, and in
return we do not need any salary for the same. Luckily he agreed, he took her to his
Dispensary for 10 to 12 days, he found her very good at practice, he was quite happy, so
he told he can employ her provided she is prepared to handle one dispensary completely
on her own at south of Lusaka nearly 7 kilo meters away from where we used to stay, at
the same time he will pay ZK.250/ per month.
He also assured if there is any problem he will short it out. We were quite happy,
as I was getting ZK 300/ per month, plus ZK250/ for my wife, we could live with ease.
Her Dispensary was 7 kms away from our house, and my office in opposite direction 2
kms, so I had to ride bike 9 kms, X 4 times in a day i.e. 36 kms a day only for work. We
used to wake up at 6 a.m., prepare food, get ready and leave house by 730 a.m., Lunch
hour we used to come home prepare Rotli, eat our lunch and go back for work, and
evening come home by 6 p.m. I was very busy from Monday to Friday, as I had Saturday
and Sunday off, but in case of Hema, no holidays at all, She had only two holidays in
complete one year i.e. Independence and Christmas that’s all, otherwise working all
seven days in a week. Saturday and Sunday she had half day off, i.e. morning 8 a.m. to 1
p.m. only.
I was very keen in having our honey moon in a foreign country instead of India,
When we came to Zambia, we started knowing each other, and by September we were all
set mentally, and we also had our own house from 1st of September, and both used to earn
good amount. So I first had my honey moon on 18th September 1971, a gift to Hema on her
first birthday after our marriage a big surprise. We waited to see if she got pregnant, but
unfortunately she didn’t. So again on my birthday on 21st October 1971, that’s the time
she got pregnant, and thus Rakhee was born on 22nd June, 1972.
Thereafter we were passing our days very happily. She continued her work
throughout her pregnancy, that is right up to 6 p.m. in evening on 21st June, 1972. After
coming home she cooked and as usual we went to bed. Early morning on 22nd June 1972 at
8 a.m. she told me she will have to go to Hospital, I dropped her there, and went to office,
as nobody is allowed to stay in Hospital for full day. She delivered Rakhee in evening
around 545 p.m.. When I was in office, and I got message from Our friend Dr. Bhatt, that
Hema has delivered Baby girl. Thereafter at 6 30 I went to see her at Hospital, took few
photographs, and we both were happy to have baby girl.
My mother used to say first Laxmi is very good in house. Luckily there was no
complication at all, and usually they ask the patient to go home within 24 hours after
delivery, But since we did not have any one to look after at home, Doctors kept Hema in
hospital for 3 days, thought her everything regarding caretaking for Baby, how to give
bath and so on, and then asked us to go home. As we had no one with us and only two of
us, she had to start domestic regular work on 5th day of her delivery. No rest at all as
ladies have in India for more than one month. We had very good friend Dr. Bhatt who
used to work in same field with Hema at Dr. Limbad’s another surgery and his wife also
Doctor, so they used to come home nearly every day , and give advice to Hema how to
bring up Rakhee.
They had two daughters so they had good experience. Aziz and his family also
used to help a lot , and Aziz’s father and mother had performed all the ceremony of Jiana,
as they were considering Hema to be their daughter. We were very lucky to have good
friends in foreign country. Dr. Bhatt, his wife Ashaben and Aziz used to come every
Friday evening after office hours, and Saturday after 2 p.m. and also on Sundays after
Lunch at our house and we all used to play cards, especially Bridge. This is because it was
winter in the month of June, and we could not take Rakhee outside as she was very small.
We had to have heater all day round in house as it was very cold. Sometimes we all five
used to go for movies during night show, and take Rakhee in her Pram, so she used to
sleep quietly and we used to enjoy the movie.
In December 1971 as Hema was pregnant, my brother Suresh advised me to have a
car instead of travelling so much on bike, He started looking for a secondhand car in
Ndola, where he used to stay, he found one Mazda 800 Coupe, white in colour, which was
costing ZK 1000/ I did not have that much of money, so I talked to Aziz’s father if he
could give me a loan of ZK.1000/ which I shall return ZK.100/ per month with interest.
He told me are you mad, am I going to charge you interest for the same, You are like my
son. So he gave me ZK 1000/ and told me there is no hurry, you may pay me whenever it
is possible.
Then I informed Suresh to buy said car for me, but I was not knowing driving and
had never driven a car, I had only taken 5 lessons for driving when I used to work for
International Cartons and Packaging my first job in Zambia, in March/April 1970. Suresh
was staying nearly 200 kms from Lusaka, and we had to pick up the car from there. I
requested my friend Chennia if he could come with me to Ndola during one weekend to
pick up the said car, as Aziz was too busy, he agreed , So I, Hema and Chennia went to
Ndole one Saturday morning by Bus, and came back Sunday evening with the car, which
was parked in my yard.
As I had taken 5 lessons for driving , I had general knowledge for driving,
therefore I requested my friend Aziz, Chhenia and Panchbhaya who ever was free to give
me driving lessons after office hours on my said car. Within few days I had confidence so I
applied for Driving License. Driving test is very, very tough down there in Zambia, you
are very lucky if you pass in first few attempts. I failed for my first attempt, but I took
some more lessons and was lucky to pass at my second attempt. We were moving very
well in our car and used to go everywhere in the said car, and we got rid of our tinny
motorbike. We both were working and Hema also doing very well during her pregnancy
period, and no problems at all until last day. She had to work up to last day as we were
very badly in need of money, we had to pay loan for the car and were also planning to
send ticket to India for my mother or my mother in law whoever could come for Heman’s
delivery. Unfortunately both of them could not come, so we were left all alone.
When we came home with Rakhee from hospital, actually 22nd was the coldest
day in Zambia, and we had not brought enough clothes for new born, we were planning
to buy as we had enough time, but Rakhee came 3 weeks early, so there was no time left to
buy the clothes. We had one of our friend Neelaben who used to stay next door when we
were staying with Girish, So Neelaben and Aziz’s elder Sister Aminaben both knew
stitching very well , they went to market bought some raw cloth and stitched basic clothes
for Rakhee within 24 hours. It was a great help, as such clothes were not readily available
in market, and we were OK for couple of months. As it was too cold we had to buy two
room heaters for both the rooms. Rakhee was growing well, and we had to spend a lot on
her basic items such as food, milk powder, clothes, and nappies and so on.
Now, Hema was not working and we had to cut down on expenses as my salary
was only ZK 325/ per month. Due to shortage of money, at times we had to decide
whether to buy clothes or buy toys for Rakhee. Out of ZK 325/, 100/ used to go for
remittance (savings), 100/ for rent and electricity, and remaining 135/ we had to pay
income tax 35/ so only
100/ remaining for domestic expenses.
Myself and Mr. Panchbhaya used to work together as an Assistant Accountant at
Leopold Wallford, and we both were under impression that one day one of us will become
branch Accountant for the said company. One day Mr. Panchbhaya’s friend who was
working at Duly Motors (Z) Ltd., as an assistant accountant was going to leave his job as
he wanted to go for his own business. He asked Panchbhaya if he was interested in Joining
Dulys as an assistant accountant, Panchbhaya had two minds whether to go or not, as he
was under the impression he may get chance for becoming Branch Manager at present job.
Ultimately he dropped the idea of going to Dulys. I asked Panchbhaya, if I could take a
chance and apply for the same at Dulys, as I knew there is no growth at present job. He
told me well go ahead, so he arranged for my interview at Dulys through his friend. This
was in the month of August 1972 after Rakhee birth.
I went for an interview and was selected for the same. They asked me my salary,
and they offered me ZK 350/ per month, I told that’s not enough, as I am paying ZK 80/
as rent so I am expecting something more if I have to change my job. They thought for a
while, and told me OK we will pay you salary 350/ plus 70/ for your house rent. Total
came to ZK420/ which was 100/ more than my present job. I accepted the job, got my
permit renewed in the name of Dulys, gave my resignation and by 1st September 1972 I
started my new job at Duly Motors (Z) Ltd. I decided to leave my present job because
increments were less in my present job, only 75/ in 2 years, i.e. from 250/ to 325/ per
month. At the same time I got warning letter from immigration office no more change of
jobs, and no more change of work permit, as this was my 3rd job within 3 years. I used to
get work permit only for 2 years, and every 2nd year we had to renew it, in case it is not
renewed we have leave to Zambia and come back to India, this was another big problem
and tension at the end of every 2nd year.
At Dulys I had to handle all the books and mostly there were ledger cards for
debtors and creditors Sales, Purchases Fixed Assets and so on, , and I had to do posting of
entries on Data Machine, which I learned for the first time at Dulys. I was shown how to
do the posting by my Accountant, and I picked up within 15 days, thereafter I was on my
own, and I had my separate office 10 x 10 ft facing Show room and main road. Our Branch
Accountant was Mr. Bucchi and our Branch Manager Mr. Feldmar, and General Manager
Mr. Duckworth, Company Secretary Mr. Watson.
Well I started my job at Dulys on 1st Sept. 1972, I had to do all the accounts on
Machine as I have mentioned above, and we had specially designed Profit & Loss
Accounts, Balance Sheet, in which Profit or loss for each department was shown separately
, i.e. sales, Parts, Workshop, Petrol Departments, and total net profit after Administration
expenses. This Balance sheet had 7 copies, and had to be typed on typewriter, it had to be
completed every month before 12th of each month. First two months , I found bit difficult
as it was totally new for me, But My Accountant was just next door to my office, he used
to come and show me and teach me, and used to guide me to refer previous months
postings and so on. He was very good, kind and cool gentleman. I picked up very well and
now I was on my own and did not have any help from any one. My Accountant as well as
G.M. were quite happy with my work. After probation period being March 1973, I got an
increase of ZK.70/ per month, so totally I used to get including housing allowance
ZK.490/ which was definitely good, so we had little bit of extra money to spend.
After joining Dulys, during long week for independence holidays 4 days , i.e.
24th October 1972, Myself, Hema, Rakhee and Aziz went to Visit Livingstone as it is
tourist place with a very good sight for watching waterfalls, which I had seen in 1970, but
wanted to take Hema for a short holiday. We stayed at Intercontinental Hotel and there
was a swimming pool also, and Rakhee was just 5 months old and we had put her in the
said swimming pool, where she first cried, but thereafter enjoyed in water. We had very
nice time down there.
There were also 4 to 5 places for outing as well as for picnics in Lusaka, and we
used to go there during weekends specially on Sundays and pass half of the day at such
places after lunch. These places are, Kafue River, Botanical Garden, University Gardens,
Airport, local corporation swimming pool and so on. We used to take Rakhee with a bag
full of her clothes and take as many photos as possible in different dresses at such places.
We enjoyed our stay in Lusaka very much with all our friends.
In month of April 1973, our Accountant Mr. Bucchi was to be transferred to
another branch, so our Head office started looking for another Accountant. Meanwhile, I
was called in by G.M. as well as my Branch Manager, they asked me if I could handle the
branch as an acting Accountant, till the time they find somebody for the replacement. I
agreed, so they offered me extra ZK. 100/ per month with my salary of ZK 420/ plus
100/ so total being Zk.520/ per month. Along with the increment they also offered me a
big and very nice Company Flat, with Two Bed Rooms, One Drawing room, Kitchen,
Dining room, Pantry and so on, with all the hard furniture, Beds, Dining Table with
chairs, Four Plate Stove with oven, Fridge, Sofa set, and so on. Luckily I had not to pay
any rent for the said flat, inclusive of Electric bills. First time we got an opportunity to
stay in such a huge and well planned flat in Zambia , after three and half years of
struggle.
Now I had to work very hard as whole accounts department was on my
shoulders , and had to see during month end that everything is finished for Balance sheet
to come out on 12th of each month. At times I had to work up to 12 midnight or 1 a.m. and
again be on duty before 9 am next day. I used to go home take dinner and come back to
office for work. My wife was worried as Lusaka being Capital place was dangerous at
night, I requested my Branch Manager that I will work in office up to 6 or 7 p.m. and if
necessary I will take all the books at home complete at night time and bring them next day
morning to office and take typewriter also at home to type profit and loss account and
Balance sheet. Branch Manager agreed, so I used to work at home after my dinner until
late night, now my wife was OK and could sleep well as I was in house.
During my part time I also obtained 3 degrees within this period of 2 years , from
private institute in U.K., being following certified degrees, FCEA, FCES. FFBA,
Fellowship in cost and executive Accountant, Fellowship in cost and executive Secretary,
and Fellowship in Faculty of Business Administration..
Our Head office had given an advertisement in local newspaper for the post of
Accountant and had received few applications. They started taking interviews, but could
not find the right gentleman for the post, and most of the Indians who had applied were
having same degree as mine i.e. B.Com. only. I continued as an Acting Assistant
Accountant from May 1973 to October 1973. I was enjoying and doing very well and
happy as I was getting extra ZK.100/ per month.
Ultimately they found one Foreigner of UK., he was given an appointment letter,
and I was asked to clear up the Accountants flat and rearrange everything down there. But
before joining, this gentleman wanted to go to UK, come back within 2 weeks and then
join the Firm as an Accountant. Unfortunately while he was in UK, he went for a
swimming and got some severe health problem, so he wrote to our head office, he can’t
come and join the company as he is having some health problems. Now head office was
back to square one, looking for the Accountant.
They found me quite efficient in last 6 months, and looking at my sincerity they
called me at Head office, which was just next door, They told me well we can’t find proper
gentleman as an Accountant for Lusaka Branch, so we have one alternative for the same.
They wanted me to be a Branch Accountant, but not for Lusaka, another smaller branch
i.e. in Livingstone Branch, and transfer MR. Wear present Livingstone Branch Accountant
to Lusaka, as a Lusaka Branch Accountant, as he was entitle for a Promotion to a bigger
Branch. They asked me if I was prepared to take a transfer to Livingstone Branch , then
they can give me permanent promotion as a Branch Accountant. I told them , well I have
traveled a long way from India and come to Zambia to make money, and whether its
Lusaka or Livingstone for me it does not matter at all, As long as I get promotion and
good money I am definitely prepared to take up the post at Livingstone Branch. Please
give me a day or two to ask my wife and then I give you definite reply.
Hema was just a house wife, after Rakhee’s birth she had tried to work as an
Doctor at the same place with Dr. Limbada, and we had placed Rakhee at Day nursery
from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., within 13 days Rakhee started losing weight and was not OK with
her mood, so we had to decide Hema should not continue work at the cost of Rakhee’s
health. She left the job immediately and looked after Rakhee at home. And now she was
full time house wife. Hema had left job, that’s why she also did not mind going to
Livingstone as we were going for better prospects.
All my friends were upset with my decision as we all were doing very well after
office hours, and specially Aziz was very much upset, being four years of friendship
together. He strongly objected and told me please don’t go and don’t accept this transfer. I
explained him with logic, that see I have come from India and if I had landed first in
Livingstone what would have happened, and secondly if I don’t accept this promotion as
well as transfer, my Head office may not give me any chance in future. I think it’s better
for me to accept it at this stage.
Within two days I submitted my answer to my head office that I am prepared for
the transfer. Everything was OK and my head office was also trying to find right date for
transfer and this was in the month of November 1973. All of a sudden we got shocking
news by telegram from India that Heman’s father had passed away on 17th November
1973. We got telegram on Saturday/Sunday morning, and our office was closed due to
weekend off. I had to go early morning to my Branch Manager’s house, , explain him the
situation , and told we will have to go to India, and I need at least 2 weeks of leave for
the same. I was granted leave on the spot, so we started preparing packing our bags on
Sunday to leave on Monday as soon as travel agents open up and we book our tickets.
I did not have enough funds for the tickets, as well as for travelers cheques, but as
I was very fond of cars, I had two cars of mine own, one VW and other Triumph GT 6
sports car. I immediately decided to sell my VW for the expenses, 8 a.m. Monday morning
I went to travel agent told him you start preparing tickets for Bombay, India as they were
known to me, I had to bring Income tax clearing certificate for the same, I told don’t
worry, I will go to tax office and get one immediately with the help of telegram. And after
applying for Tax clearance, to be collected after half an hour, we went to bank for
travelers cheques, there we got travelers cheques within 20 minutes, went back to tax
office got clearance certificate, from there to traveler’s office, got the ticket, by the time
everything was finished it was 1030 a.m. and the flight was nearly at 12=30 noon to
Bombay via Nairobi halt for one day. After collecting all this went to a restaurant had
sandwiches and soft drink and from there straight to Airport for our flight. Myself, Hema
and Rakhee all three boarded the flight on 19th November 1973, and had a halt at Nairobi
for one night, stayed in a hotel, and reached Bombay in time on 21st November 1973.
We met everyone in India, and it was sad and unlucky for , Heman’s father as he
did not get a chance to see Rakhee after her birth, but he saw her photographs which he
always used to carry in his pocket and show to all his friends and relatives and had heard
Rakhee’s voice through Tape recorder which we used to send. Rakhee was nearly 1 year
and 5 months old by that time. Luckily we got some time in Nairobi to buy essential goods
for Rakhee such as nappies, Milk powder, Johnsons products as we did not get in Lusaka
due to weekend. We stayed in India for a while and I alone came back to Zambia to
takeover my post in Livingstone , on 12th December 1973, Left Hema and Rakhee to join
me later after I settle down in Livingstone as it was absolutely new place for us.
After coming back , I accepted letter of appointment for Livingstone Branch, and
was transferred on 1st January 1974. From 15th December 1973, I started packing up
everything and left for Livingstone in time, there I had to stay in a hotel for 10 days ,
because Local Branch Accountant Mr. Wear had to show me everything for the Branch ,
hand over the department to me and then vacate the company house for me. In this Branch
I also had to train one local Zambian as an assistant Accountant Mr. Sinkala, who was
very cooperative.
Now in Livingstone I was on an 2 years contract basis with following terms and
conditions, Salary ZK.550/— plus 25% Gratuity at the end of contract, Company
independent house with very big yard having nearly 14 trees for Mango and other
facilities, Company Car Fiat 128 with Petrol, Servicing and so on, and Airfare for whole
family after the contract from Zambia to India and back. It was a wonderful package for
the first time after coming to Zambia in 1969.
Mr. Wear our Branch Accountant was very good at Tarot Cards, once he brought
his cards and asked me to pull one card, and he predicated my past life to see if it is
correct, Thereafter my future and told me you will reach highest post in this Organization.
When I had joined the company at Lusaka branch and used to see the life of Mr.
Feldmar, our Branch Manager, I also had an aim and made up my mind that one day I
should reach this post sooner or later.
I used to enjoy playing Badminton every Tue, Thru and Sat, between 8 p.m. to 9
30 p.m., as there was only one hall, we had to play in shifts of 8 players at a time on
alternate days. I also used to enjoy playing cricket on Sundays. I tried tennis and golf, but
was not too good so I did not continue.
We had Branch Manager MR. McCabe who was very kind and friendly after office
hours, And also very polite during office hours. He used to give right advice to everyone.
I started my work and before 10th January 1974, was the deadline for sending profit &
loss accounts and Balance sheet to our head office at Lusaka. I worked hard and on 10th
morning first thing I had send a Telex message to our head office with all the figures of
our December 1973 accounts, Immediately within half an hour I received telex back from
my General Manager as well as Company Secretary Congratulating me for sending FRS 6
figures to HO in time, stating that You are the first one in all the four branches to send
such figures. My Branch Manager MR. McCabe was also happy to see such telex.
In the beginning I used to stay at Fairmount Hotel in town for 10 days, there I
used to sit at Casino after dinner to pass time, and made few friends down there as well as
Hotel Owner, and his wife used to prepare special food for me as I was strictly a
vegetarian. I used to play Bingo and Roulette at times. I used to keep beard, so most of
the Gujarati’s in town were gossiping, that there is one Mr. Shah (Mohammedan) who has
joined Duly Motors as an Accountant. Slowly when local people became my friends they
came to know that I am Gujarati and my religion is Jainism. People in Livingstone were
very friendly compare to Lusaka, and also very helping nature.
As I had settle down very well in Livingstone, Hema and Rakhee joined me in the
month of February 1974. Till then I was cooking on my own as there were no restaurants
specially Indian in whole of Livingstone. I had gone to Lusaka Airport to pick up Rakhee
and Hema, Rakhee completely forgot me, see used to stay away from me as I had beard,
and she used to tell me Mummy and Daddy to Hema.
In month of April/May 74 we admitted Rakhee to Livingstone Nursery (Play
School) which was walking distance from our residence. I used to drop her and bring her
as and when I was free in my office, or Hema used to go walking to drop and pick her up.
Rakhee was enjoying at her school, except for first few days.
We were settling down very well with many Gujarati friends, compare to all
Muhammadan friends in Lusaka, and there were 4 Jain Families also in Livingstone.
Livingstone Falls was one the biggest natural fall in the world, and also seven
wonders of the world. We were residing only 12 kilo meters away from the falls, and we
used to travel nearly 3 to 4 times in a week during evening after office hours near falls
and river side. Mini game park was also situated on the river side with nearly all types of
animal in an open park, it was not advisable to come out of the car while you were inside
the game park. Except Lion in cage all other Animals were in open field. Rakhee was very
young and used to enjoy a lot watching the said Animals. Game Park was only 7 kilo
meters away from our house. The 12 kilometers ride was very beautiful, on one side river
flowing very smoothly and on the other side Game Park. Sometimes on Sundays we used
to arrange picnics with friends on this river side.
In October we were getting four days off due to Independence, I applied for 10
days leave, since we were interested for a holiday to Malawi, next to Zambian boarder,
northern part, nearly 800 kilometers away from Livingstone. At the same time I asked My
Branch Manager if I could take Company Car Red Ford Cortina for our holiday, both were
granted, my leave as well as the car. , I was not aware of roads towards Malawi and also
within Malawi, so I asked my friend Mr. Chennia, if he could accompany us from Lusaka
for a holiday at Malawi.
Luckily he agreed, he also took leave, and Myself, Hema, and Rakhee, drove up to
Lusaka nearly 480 kilometers, there we picked up
Mr. Chennia, and proceeded to Chipta last town on the border between Malawi and
Zambia. Chipta was full of Muhammadans, I had never visited before, but most of the
residents knew me very well by my name, Mr. Shah, that was through their relatives who
were my friends in Lusaka. We stayed for one night at Chipta due to long run from
Livingstone. Next day we started for Malawi, and crossed the border on 19th October
1974, visiting 1st place Lilongwe, stayed there for one night , moved around the town
area, and saw one movie at night in an open Air Theatre.
Thirsty type of theatre well known in African countries. From Lilongwe we went
to two different beaches out of that one was Monkey Bay which was nice and clean, we
went for swimming at that beach. Thereafter we proceeded towards Zomba Plateau
situated on the top of the hill, with lot of Fog, difficult to see the road and driving became
very tough. Going up one way and after round circle coming down at the other end . After
coming down we went to Capital City Blantyre, stayed there for one day, and then to
Main Biggest wellknown Game Park, to observe Animals. We stayed there for 2 days, and
saw nearly 17 Lions in a group, and thousand of Elephants at a time.
Absolutely dangerous to come out of car, and unfortunately we had two punctures
in middle of the game park. We were stuck, walking we could not go to our hotel, Luckily
we got help from another visitor, who took Mr. Chhenia along with two tyres for sake of
fixing puncture in city area. We were just seating in car waiting for him to come back, at
the same time car was stuck in deep mud. When Chhenia came back, we replaced the
tyres, but could not move the car as it was stuck in mud, A four wheel Jeep was passing
by, and they helped us pulling our car out of mud. By the time it was now 630 p.m. and
getting dark, our whole day was useless, and now we had to rush back to hotel before it
was too late. On 24th October 1974 we crossed the border and came back to Chipta, from
there to Livingstone via Lusaka. Totally 10 days trip, and we drove 4000 kilometers in 10
days.
Got back to job, and another increment after six months for ZK 30/ per month ,
total salary now 630/ per month. We were quite happy with above salary as we had to
spend only on domestic items and clothing, rest all was free from office. Life here in
Livingstone was far better than Lusaka and other parts of the country.
We could not celebrate Rakhee’s 1st and 2nd birthday, due to two deaths in our
family, first year Ramumama, and 2nd year Masiba. June 1975, we were planning to
celebrate Rakhee’s birthday 3rd birthday, Unfortunately shocking news from India, My
Younger Brother Satish passed away on 1st May,1975. Two members of nearest to family
passed away, i.e. my father in 1956 and younger brother in 1975. We were planning to
cancel 3rd year birthday party also due to such news.
Rakhee used to attend many birthday parties of her friends, So most of my friends
advised me to go for a small get together party only for kids, (Rakhees friends) No adults,
at our residence, so that Rakhee can enjoy with her friends. We agreed with the idea, kept
a mini party at our house with few Rakhee’s friends, she received few presents and she
like it and enjoyed the same.
I accepted the transfer for Kitwe branch, and we all went to Kitwe on 13th August
1975 by Air, my Head Office company Parts manager was with me on plane and he said
jokingly what a date (13th) to accept for a transfer. Livingstone branch driver brought my
personal car to Kitwe. I started job within couple of days at Kitwe branch, My Office was
double the size of Livingstone branch, and the whole branch was quite bigger than
Livingstone branch.
In Livingstone we had 47 employees, whereas in Kitwe we had nearly 90
employees. There was also one Indian Mr. Jitu Naik working at that branch as an assistant
Parts Manager since many years. Now I also started looking for a nursery for Rakhee,
found one but it was quite far from our residence, it was very nice, only 20 to 22 students,
and out of that mostly 17 foreigners. It was a huge place, very big open garden with
swimming pool , play ground and so on. I used to leave home at 7 30 a.m. leave her at
nursery and then go to office, and at 1230 again pick her up and come home for lunch. At
2p.m. back to work till 5 p.m. I was given salary ZK.700/ per month plus all the benefits
as per Livingstone Branch. Here I was given a purple Ford Cortina 1600 CC, I liked the
colour very much, and I also had my personal Red Cortina with me which I bought in
Livingstone.
Slowly I started making friends locally, first Mr. Chimanbhai who had shop just
opposite Dulys, relative of Dhanshukbhai of Livingstone, then Chandrikaben and her
husband, she was sister of Mahendra Patel whom I knew in Lusaka, through her Mr.
Acharya, and all three were Teachers at Kalulusi school. Thereafter we came across Dr.
Prassanna and his family, he had two daughters, one as old as Rakhee. Suresh my brother
was also in Ndola, only 60 kilometers away from Kitwe, so we used to meet him quite
often, and we used to arrange picnics at nearby places within 50 to 60 kilometers during
weekends. Other surrounding towns were Chingola, and Mufulira. Another friend Mr.
Nikhilbhai, Pharmacist with whom we used to arrange picnics. Luckily all these friends of
Zambia (Lusaka, Livingstone, and Kitwe.) are still to date my good friends, and most of
them have settle outside Zambia, either in USA, Canada, and UK. We are in touch with
each other and meet when time permits.
In December 1975, I was very lucky and got a chance to Visit Chingola Copper
Mines , through My Friend MR. Acharya who had obtained specially passes from his
school for the same. Hema was not interested in coming as the journey was very tough.
We left after Lunch and went underground 28,000 ft, and the arrangements were very nice
and safe, at some places we had to go by lift. (I am lucky I have stayed on earth, went
underground 28,000 feet and above ground level more than 3000 ft by Air. ) We were
suppose to come back to Kitwe by 7 p.m., but when we came out of mines, we saw it was
raining very heavily, absolutely impossible to drive a car, we drove very slowly and
reached home by 9 p.m. Hema was totally worried, as she had heard many accidents of
mines and we were too late, but after seeing us at 9 p.m. she was OK.
When I was transferred to Kitwe on promotion basis , I was offered only 700/ per
month. Actually I was due for 6 months increment at Livingstone branch which is nearly
30/ to 35/ . In that case salary of
700/ was not enough on promotion basis. I should have got 750/ what previous
Accountant Mr. Breene used to get. I asked Mr. Naik (Parts Manager) and told him I am
thinking of writing a letter to G.M. at H.O., for the same. He told me, Dulys will not
listen anything, and they will tell you, if you want to leave, you may leave the job. I
explained whole thing to my wife Hema, and told her , if I write letter to G.M., and if they
don’t consider, we may have to go back to India, in case we don’t get another job, or our
permit is not transferred to another company. She supported me, told if you are right, you
may go ahead, we will see what to do.
I wrote a letter to G.M. explaining him in detail everything, and requested him
that my salary should be 750/ instead of 700/ I also wrote that, I have never grumbled in
Livingstone, as that Branch was smaller and having very little profit, but Kitwe is a bigger
branch, making good profit, and if this branch can’t afford to pay me 750/ per month,
well I am sorry , I will have to look for some better prospects.
Within 2 days , My local Branch Manager got a fax reply from G.M., stating that
my salary should be increased to 750/ per month , with back pay from the date I started
my job at Kitwe Branch. Branch Manager, Mr., Schattil, was bit upset, telling me why I did
not approach him for the same, I was sure he would have not done anything, so I told him
well H.O. has appointed me for this post, and it’s my duty to inform to H.O. for the same.
We were quite happy with the decision and Mr. Naik was also surprised with decision
from H.O.
In January 1976, our Branch Manager Mr. Schattil had some health problems and
was going for 3 month leave to South Africa for operation, My G.M. from H.O. asked me if
I could handle the branch and act as an Acting Branch Manager for the Kitwe Branch. I got
a good chance and also better for my future prospects, so I agreed and had to undergo
certain extra duties at the Branch. I definitely got good experience. G.M. was also quite
happy with my duties and at the end of 3 months had offered me award in cash for the
same.
In the month of February 1976, Hema was very uncomfortable, as she was
pregnant, she was feeling very uneasy, we took her to Dr. Prasanna for his advice, Dr
Prasanna told she needs complete bed rest otherwise there are chances for miscarriage.
Complete bed rest was not possible in Zambia as she had to look after Rakhee as well as
domestic work. She was advised to go to India immediately and take complete bed rest
down there. In month of March Hema and Rakhee both of them went to India, Hema had
tough time with Rakhee on her journey to India, as Rakhee was running here and there at
Kenya Airport. Luckily she reached safely to India , and very next day she took
appointment with Dr. Padmamehta, she had to take some stitches and asked Hema to take
complete bed rest, not to walk at all, and asked her to take rest until July 76 the date when
it was due.
I was all alone in Kitwe, Zambia, but I took three months leave and left Zambia on
21st May 1976, and Chhaya my younger sister got married on 22nd may 1976. We all
attended the marriage, but Hema was kept in one separate room taking complete bed rest.
Most of the time she was staying at Zaveri Bazar, but there after she came at Opera House
by end of may 76.
Fortunately everything went on well, and I had gone to Ahmedabad to visit
Palithana and so on, and on 16th June 76 I got a call from Bombay , that I should reach
Bombay immediately as Haman might have to go to Hospital. I took up train on 16th night
to reach Bombay by early morning on 17th June 76, and Hema was admitted to hospital on
16th late night. I reached at 6 am on 17th and immediately rushed to hospital, there after
Hema was taken to labour room, and luckily Sagar was born at 7.50 a.m. being 3 to 4
weeks ahead of schedule time, and he was very week. It was a normal delivery and both
were fine.
They stayed in hospital for nearly 8 to 10 days, and then were transferred to
Zaveri Bazar. On 12th day Sagar was very week , had lost weight and could not even cry,
so immediately we took him to one Pediatric Doctor at Opera house, He gave some
medicine plus tonic, and within few days he started picking up weight and was OK. Since
there were too many mosquitoes at Zaveri Bazar, we shifted Hema and Sagar at opera
house. There was nothing to do in Bombay, we could not go out until Sagar is 40 days old,
and as it is there was lot of rain in month of June and July. We were just passing time at
home.
After few days we came back to Bombay. After coming to Bombay we had a
ceremony for Sagar’s name, Hema liked the name Sagar very much as he was born near
chowpatty sea shore, and as it is she liked water and sea very much. By August we started
doing some shopping as we had to go to Zambia very soon, I was completing my 3 months
vacation by August 21st. But we over stayed and we all four left India for Zambia on 3rd
September 1976, nearly three and a half months leave.
Before leaving India, I met Sasiwadanbhai, whom I trust a lot for my Horoscope
predications. I asked him about my future, and he told me 3 very good things. 1) I have
chances for promotion in December 1976, and that is post as Branch Manager, that’s the
only promotion after Branch Accountant. 2) I will receive better Salary plus commission
on my promotion. 3) I will not stay permanently in Zambia, will definitely come back to
India by 1983/1984, or may go to some other place. 4) In 1973 also when I was in India
Sasiwadanbhai had predicted that I shall get promotion in 1974, at that time I was
appointed as Branch Accountant for Livingstone branch. When we came back to Zambia
we again started our routine life in Zambia at Kitwe branch. I was not sure how will I get
Promotion , as next step was as Branch Manager, and all the four branches had Zambian
Branch Managers all white residents.
While I was in Kitwe, Mrs. Indira Gandhi Prime Minister of India had come to
visit (Kitwe) Zambia. As our company where I used to work was partly owned by
government, Unip government, by President Kenneth Kaunda, I was requested by my
company to go to Airport To receive Mrs. Indira Gandhi. So we all four of us went to
receive her at Airport. We went up to the first step of the plane and as soon as Mrs. Indira
Gandhi landed from the plane she shook hands with Rakhee. Thereafter she gave a speech
at the Airport , and after finishing she was taken by Zambia delegation and we went back
home. It was a credit for us and we had very pleasant time.
As I was talking about promotion, luckily for me, one Mr. Scott, Branch Manager
at Livingstone Branch, wanted a transfer to Lusaka branch. His father had a Business in
Lusaka, and his father being quite old he wanted to help him in his business. He requested
head office for a transfer. Secondly Livingstone Branch was making loss for last two years,
and Head Office also wanted to curtail the cost at Livingstone branch, by transferring
Branch Manager as well as Branch Accountant to some other branches. They were
planning what to do.
On 17th December I got a call from Head Office, asking me to fly to Lusaka for
one day. I was worried as well as surprised as to what could be the reason . I was told if I
was interested in going back to Livingstone and handle both the post as Branch Manager
as well as Branch Accountant. It was a challenging post, as the Branch was running at loss.
They also asked me if I could take over from 1st January 1977.
The package was Salary ZK 1000/ plus four bed room company bungalow
(House) well furnished, plus 1st class fare after each contract for trip to native place full
family, two house boys, one for domestic and other for garden, one security guard at
night, Car as usual with full maintenance, Telephone at residence, Education allowance
for kids, and so on.
I agreed for the contract, came back to kitwe, gave good news to Hema, she was
also very happy as we all liked living in Livingstone very much, we had good friends
down there as well as many places to move around. Well we stared preparing for going to
Livingstone, this time all our house hold belongings were to be transferred by Head Office
expenses by movers and takers, so we had nothing to worry for shifting our goods, and we
all four to fly by plane to Livingstone.
Well it was very tough time for me, as kids were not allowed to enter the hospital
premises. I went home with kids , had to cook food, give bath to kids, feed both the kids ,
specially Sagar with milk and then take food to hospital in morning as well as in
evening, and leave both the kids in car in parking lot, go up and feed Hema and come
back and go home. And after two days after long weekend holidays, I had to attend my
office, it was a hell of a job.
Due to this sudden accident I had to postpone my transfer to Livingstone Branch.
I told Head Office I will accept transfer as soon as Hema is out of Hospital, so they
agreed.
After 9 days as soon as Hema was discharged from Hospital, we were thinking
now what to do as I had to take over my duties at Livingstone Branch. Mr. Acharya
suggested, well you go leaving Hema, Rakhee, and Sagar at Kitwe at His residence for 2 to
3 weeks , so Hema will get complete rest, and we will look after the kids. Well that was a
good idea, but instead of leaving Rakhee with them, I took Rakhee with me at Livingstone,
as we had few friends who could look after Rakhee during day time while I attend my
Office. Now Hema and Sagar were in Kitwe and myself and Rakhee at Livingstone, Rakhee
used to stay with my friends either Jitubhai or Arvindbhai. I also took admission for
Rakhee at Convent school, in 1st standard where she used to enjoy during morning hours.
I started my job at Livingstone taking position as Branch Manager/Accountant. Most of
the staff who knew me were very happy to see me back at Livingstone Branch. There I had
to train Mr., Sinkala as Assistant Branch Accountant.
When Hema was absolutely OK I went to pick her up during one weekend, and all
the house hold stuff came to Livingstone thereafter by movers and takers. As soon as
goods came, our friends. Jitubhai and his family and Arvindbhai and his family came
home unpacked all our goods and placed them in proper order, i.e. Kitchen goods in
Kitchen, kids stuff in their room and so on and so forth. Thereafter slowly we started
arranging everything in proper order, and Hema was still bit week and not allowed to
pick Sagar due to weight, we employed one full time nanny (English) to take care of Sagar
from morning 8 am to 6 pm .
I was doing very well at office and during 1st year, year ending accounts I showed
Nearly ZK 67,000 profit instead of loss which they used to show in last two years. Head
Office GM and other staff were very pleased with my performance and congratulated me
for the same. Since they were happy with my performance, I requested two things from
my Head office, which are as follows.
1) To build Brick Concrete Wall all around Bungalow, the area was nearly 7000 sq
ft., as there was only wire fence which was not very secured, and this wall was costing ZK
7000/ with height of 8 ft, they immediately agreed to my first proposal as it was good
asset for Head Office being their own property. 2) Kitwe was a smaller branch, I had 47
employees under me in all different departments, i.e. Sales, Parts, Petrol, Workshop, and
accounts. As a smaller branch, the Branch Manager Salary was ZK.1000 per month
compare to other Branch Managers in other Branches i.e. Lusaka, Kitwe, and Ndola where
they were paid ZK.1200 per month. This was the fixed scale as per constitution.
I suggested one scheme to Head Office through my letter addressed to General
Manager, stating that , I can understand that Livingstone is small branch, and the scale is
ZK 1000, Why can’t you add one more clause into constitution that who so ever takes over
the branch as Branch Manager will be paid ZK.1000 only, but in future who so ever takes
over as Branch Manager/ Branch Accountant , both the post at same time should get same
salary as other branches i.e. ZK 1200. Mr. Breene our Company secretary who was very
good with staff, talked with GM MR. Watson, about my suggestion, and they agreed that
Mr. Shah has a point to be noted, so they decided to pay me ZK. 1200 per month from back
pay starting 1st January 1977. Hema and I were very glad that Head office had heard to
our suggestion, and I was also very happy as I was the only Indian to reach such a high
post at Duly Motors (Z) Ltd. for the first time non white, as Branch Manager.
My best period had started in Zambia from January 1977 up to March 1984, always
with upward trend going up every year. I also started getting yearly gratuity of 25% of my
salary after every 2 years contract. Which was a lump sum of money after 2 years.
As we were doing very well and had good reputation in whole of town, we were
planning in April/May to celebrate Rakhees 5 years and Sagar’s 1st Birthday in June 1977,
and were planning to invite nearly 150 friends for the same. But we were bit hesitant due
to Heman’s health.
As we were discussing above matter, one of our friend Dhanshukbhai and his wife
Neelaben came to our residence for social visit after dinner at about 9.30 p.m., she heard
few details which we were discussing about party, Neelaben was very social worker and
used to help anyone and everyone in town, She also told us, you don’t have to worry at
all, go ahead and prepare your list for invitation, we will set up menu, and surely you
don’t have to do any single work for preparing food items, you may leave it to me and I
shall make arrangements for everything. We were quite happy and agreed to her proposal,
and started making arrangements, and had few meeting with her before birthday party for
all the preparations. I bought everything which she told us to buy for preparations of food
stuff.
Menu was prepared, Undhioo, Jalebi, Patra, Three vegetables, Salad, Papad, Rice,
Puri, Dal and Khadi, and so on. We also arranged for all types of Drinks, hard as well as
soft. We had a big lawn in front of our house as well as parking place inbetween the
house and the lawn. In the parking area we had arranged tables for food stuff as well as
Drinks, and Party in lawn. Nearly one hundred and fifty people could easily fit in lawn
area. The climate was very cold indeed, and we had to place nearly 6 to 8 drums with fire
wood all around to warm up in open area. One of our Muslim friend’s wife offered us to
stitch party dress for Rakhee and Sagar which were quite matching with each other. We
got all the utensils including drums, chairs, tables, big sagadis and so on from local Hindu
Samaj on hire which was a great help at very low cost.
On the day of the Party, early morning Neelaben came with 8 to 10 ladies for
preparation of food stuff and they took over complete kitchen for the same. Our other
friends Jitubhai, Arvindbhai, Mohanbhai, Bharat, K.D, Siddharthbhai and few office staff
came for complete decoration in lone and to place all Tables and chairs and so on. By 5
p.m. everything was ready for the party, so we all went to get ready and dressed up for
Party purpose. By 6.30 all invites started coming in and out of 150 which we invited,
nearly 125 big and small turned up for the party.
We had two cakes one with 5 steps for Rakhee and one with one step for Sagar.
Party timing was from 6.30 to 10 p.m. and we had cut cake around at 7 p.m. Thereafter
everyone was seating in groups around fire place and enjoying the party, By 8 p.m. we
started Food as all were enjoying drinks before dinner. The party was going on so well as
it was Saturday evening, and no one was interested in leaving the place.
Luckily the party lasted up to 2 a.m. , mid night, few left, but remaining who were
there they requested for tea and coffee at mid night. Luckily I had also made arrangements
for enough milk nearly 4 to 5 liters, and everyone enjoyed tea and coffee also. When the
party was over, our friend Jitubhai and Arvindbhai stayed behind to place everything
back in order, and also counted all the utensils and put on one side to be delivered back
next day at Hinduhall. They also left the place at about 4 a.m. This was the first biggest
birthday party to be celebrated in whole of town , and everyone who attended , had a talk
of town being one of the finest party in town. Today even after so many years when we
meet some of our Zambian friends they still remember the said party.
After coming back to Livingstone from Kitwe in 1977, I used to enjoy playing
Badminton on Tuesdays, Thursday and Saturdays between 5=30 p.m. to 7.30 p.m. also
going for a swimming at Mosi O Tunya, weekend for picnics, visit Victoria Falls, and local
game park and so on. Luckily in 1977 Zimbabwe got independence, so we could go across
the border which was only 12 kilo meters from our residence and visit Zimbabwe falls
town and buy few groceries, fruits, Ice Creams, clothings and so on as it was cheaper then
Zambia.
Everything was going on very well. Every six months I used to get new cars from
our office as Demo Vehicle. I had to use it either for 6 months or maximum 10,000 kilo
meters. Now when this Demo car was for sale, I used to buy it at cost price as my own
second car for personal use. This way I also used to change my personal car every six to
nine months. By this time I have owned nearly 28 four wheel Vehicles in my life, a list of
which is attached at the end for reference purpose, and 5 to 6 two wheelers vehicle. There
being shortage of vehicles in Zambia due to economic position, when I used to sell my
personal secondhand car I used to make bit of profit on the same as I used to get from
company at cost price.
Kusumben my mother in law , had come to Zambia in may 1978 for 6 month
holiday, she liked it very much and enjoyed a lot, She also enjoyed 2nd and 6th years
birthday of Sagar and Rakhee down there. She went to copperbelt north of Zambia with
our friend Jitubhai for couple of days to see other part of Zambia. After few months she
also went to London for nearly one month holiday to see her relatives down there. Her 6
months visa was completing in November 1978, so she was planning to go back to India.
Unfortunately she had corn in her feet and could not walk properly, so we went to
Livingstone Hospital, there the Doctor gave some medicine in which it contained
Penicillin, Hema told Doctor not to give such medicine as she was allergic to Penicillin,
but Doctor told nothing will go wrong don’t worry.
She took only one dose and had severe reaction, nearly on death bed, all the skin
started peeling off, nails coming out, and rashes all round the body. We had to admit her
to hospital as it was serious case, and had to stay in hospital for nearly 21 days. By that
time we also got notice from immigration for her to leave Zambia immediately as her visa
expired, We had to produce a letter from hospital that she is ill and has been admitted for
treatment, thereafter we got another letter stating that we should produce a letter to
immigration office regarding her discharge from hospital. We submitted another letter of
discharge and she was given only 7 days to leave Zambia. Since she was very week , We
did not want her to travel all alone to India. I applied for 2 month leave and we all four
along with Kusumben decided to go to India via Nairobi.
We booked our tickets for 10th December 1978, and also planned to visit far east
after landing in India, after few days stay in India. We bought tickets to India via Kenya,
and further to Singapore, Hongkong, Japan, and Bangkok. All these tickets were paid by
my company, as they were providing me 1st class fare for full family, we booked through
economic class, to cover all the above places with company paid fares.
We left India on 23rd December 1978 for Singapore, stayed for 3 days, and on 26th
December we went to Hongkong, there we stayed with one of our friend from Zambia for
6 days, we enjoyed moving with him and did quite a good shopping also. Things were
very cheap. On 1st January 1979 we left for Bangkok, there we stayed for 3 days and back
to Bombay on 3rd January 1979. We had very nice break and excellent holiday, with lot of
shopping as some of the items were not available in Zambia.
After few days I with my family and my mother decided to visit Ahmedabad and
Palithana for pilgrimage. We met lot of relatives in Ahmedabad, and after visiting
Palithana we came back to Ahmedabad. One afternoon when I was sleeping at Ahmedabad
I felt very uneasy and feverish. So we all decided to fly back to Bombay immediately that
afternoon, reaching Bombay by 6 p.m. My temperature went up by 5 to 6 degrees, it was
beyond control, I took some medicine but of no use. Slowly it went on increasing, with
few other problems also, such as vomiting, Diaoria, Asthma (Breathing Problems) and also
started losing weight. After 5 to 6 days I told my wife Hema to get me admitted to
Hospital as soon as possible as all relatives were giving all different types of advice. She
took my blood, got it tested at one laboratory, called one Physician at our residence, who
told I am suffering from Typhoid and should be admitted to hospital immediately. There I
will get complete rest, peace of mind and proper medicine and full time under
observation.
Same evening I was admitted to nearby Hospital at C.P. Tank, and same Doctor
Presswala was looking after me. Very 1st day I was given 6 bottles of Glucose. My mother
was worried and she had given up hopes for my recovery. I was firm with my will power
and was sure nothing will happen to me and will be OK within few days. I was discharged
from Hospital after 21 days, but in mean time I lost nearly 20 pounds of weight, and I was
given very heavy dose of medicine 99 capsules and injection for typhoid, due to this I had
effect on my lever. After coming home, within 7 days I was again sick suffering from
Jaundice, Now again complete bed rest, started new medicine Liv 52, BComplex, All
liquid juice Channa and so on. I was also asked to wear one Mala in neck tied up with
string and was told slowly it will become long as I go on getting better. Nearly after one
week, we were playing Cards in my father’s Bed room where we all four used to sleep, we
played up to 2 a.m. and then went for sleep.
A great miracle took place between 2 a.m. to 5 a.m., I don’t know exact timing as
it was midnight and we all were sleeping.
I saw my younger brother Satish (his Atma) who had passed away in may 1975,
entering from one open window, coming near my bed, he took out mala from my neck
which I was wearing due to jaundice, ( actually it was impossible to take it out from top of
head as it was tied with knot in neck, or wear it again from top of head, as it was too
small) and he placed it in my hand and asked me to keep it in my pocket, and told me
everything will be OK, nothing to worry, you will be alright very soon.
I woke up at 730 a.m., and saw that mala was not in my neck, instead it was in
my pocket, So I was just about to tell this incident to my mother, but she told me I should
first go to Gods room and tell everything to him and then tell to all family members. I told
everything to god what happened during my sleep, and then the same story to my mother
and family members, Thereafter we all tried to place the said mala into my neck through
top of head, but as it was too small it did not enter the head. Thereafter my mother told
me it’s OK, now you take bath and go to chowpatty and immerse the said mala into to sea
with good luck. Immediately I started getting well within couple of days.
I had lost weight nearly 21 lbs. and was very slim, none of my clothes used to fit
me. While I was sick, I had to inform my head office regarding my sickness and I needed
extra leave for the same as it was impossible for me to travel. I was granted extra leave ,
and I had to stay back in India up to 23rd March 79.
After reaching Zambia on 24th March 79, my wife received call from head office
stating that she should allow me to take complete bed rest for another 15 days before I join
my office. Thereafter within couple of days my G.M. as well as other Lusaka branch staff
came to Livingstone to see me at my residence. I felt very happy and very nice with their
well wishes. Within 10 to 15 days I started putting up weight and was OK so in month of
April 79 I started going to office for the full time.
When I was in hospital in Feb 79 , Rakhee was also very sick, she had food poison
due to Bhel she ate at Chowpatty and suffered very heavily with vomiting and diarrhea.
She was also in danger. Hema had tough time looking after me as well as Rakhee. Our that
trip to India was really horrible except visit to Far East for nearly 12 days.
In 1979, President of India Mr. Zailsingh came for a visit to Zambia, he also
visited Livingstone where we used to stay, As I was Branch Manager for Duly Motors in
Livingstone, and also Secretary for an organization known as Zambia India Friendship
Association, I again had an opportunity to go to Airport to receive President of India, We
received him and brought him at Hindu hall, where all the Indian of Livingstone were
waiting for his speech down there. All the time I was besides him along with his body
guard and at the same time I used to take his photographs. It was a great pleasure
throughout the day.
From 1978 to 1983, I was member for five different organization, giving voluntary
services to such organizations after office hours , and helping them to the best of my
ability for one or the other requirements. So I was very popular in Livingstone. Following
are the organizations where I used to be voluntary member. 1) Rotary Club of Livingstone.
2) Treasurer for Badminton Club, where I used to play Badminton 3 days a week i.e.
Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, from 530 to 730 p.m. Once we had open tournament
for Livingstone players and I took part in Doubles and stood 3rd for Doubles match. 3)
Secretary for Convent High School, where Rakhee and Sagar used to study, we used to
have Parents Teacher meeting once in a month where I used to take notes of the meeting
for Agenda. 4) Secretary/Treasurer at Livingstone Primary School Parents committee,
where I used to keep records of the funds and well as the Minutes of the meeting for the
said committee. 5) Committee member and joint secretary with Dr. Tikku, for ZIFA,
known as Zambia India Friendship Association.
Every year we used to have trade fare in Livingstone and mostly all big as well as
small companies used to take part. We also used to have Duly Motors stall displaying our
cars and other products. We, Duly Motors in Car category section used to receive first
prize nearly every year. We also used to have Rotary club stall, where we used to have
pick a lot and different games to make some money for the club. My family and I used to
spend most of the time at such trade fare for nearly 3 days. Kids used to enjoy riding in
small toy train, and play different games at most of the stalls and win some prize.
Days were passing by and again in July 1980 I applied for 2 and half months leave
starting 1st August 1980 for visiting Europe, U S A , and Canada. My leave was granted
and we left Zambia on 2nd August 1980 reached Italy on 3rd August 1980. One of my
friend Mr. Acharya’s daughter had also accompanied us for the whole trip starting from
Zambia, as her father requested us if we could take her with us as he and his wife had
seen around the world but her daughter had never been there, and this would be her first
trip with us. We agreed for the same.
Saw most of the parts in Italy, Rome, Venice and many church, three coins in the
fountain, and many other sightseeing places as ruins of Italy. We left Italy on 7/8/1980
reaching Switzerland on the same day, where we visited Geneva, Zurich, Interlaken, and
Alps nearly 11,000 feet, above sea level, saw cheese factory, and so on stayed there for 5
days , we enjoyed very much in Geneva as 8/8/1980 was their independence day.
Reaching to Alps we had to change 3 trolley and there was lot of snow on top of the hill,
where we enjoyed playing with snow. Left Swiss on 12/8/1980 reaching same day at
France, on 12/8/80. We visited Eiffel Tower, as well as other places.
Now here we were worried for our food, as the food which we brought from
Zambia started getting exhausted. As soon as we entered our room, Hema picked up
telephone directory as started looking for Shah and Patel families. She phoned one shah
family, luckily one old jain lady replied the call, Hema asked if there was any Indian
Vegetarian Restaurant where we could get some Jain food. She was very kind and first of
all she said if you have any problems regarding food, you may come at my place for the
same, but we thanked and said we are five and its better if you could give us some
address for the same.
That’s how she gave us address for one Indian Restaurant, where we found Indian
Thali with 5 to 6 vegetables, Dal Rice Roti etc all nice and hot served by Indian waiters
and the charges were USA $ 8 per Thali. It was hardly 4 stops by train or bus from where
we were staying. We all were quite happy and we used to take one meal daily down there
for 3 days. We used to catch a tourist bus three times in a day to visit whole of France,
Paris, morning 9 am to 12 noon, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. and night 9 p.m. to 11 p.m., We visited
most of the parts within 2 days and on 14819080 we reached London. We stayed in
London for two weeks, we stayed with my elder Brother Rameshbhai and his family. He
took us around local places in London as well as surrounding places during weekends. We
visited famous places, London Bridge, Madam Tussad, Museum, and so on and also went
to Manchester, Black pool Morecumbe Beach, Leicester and so on. We had nice time taking
ride in different Rides. We also did a bit of shopping for clothes and other articles. After
two weeks on 2881980 we left London arriving USA.
After leaving Dallas we arrived at Florida, outside the Airport we hired a Car for
one week to move around Florida, self driven Chevrolet Car, and I was driving the same
for one week. It was very cheap during those days, only USA $ 123 for one full week
including what I spent for fuel. It was very nice experience as it was left hand drive,
which I drove for the first time in my life. We started looking for a hotel, and we ended up
at Holiday Inn. It had very nice apartment for full family, Bed room, Drawing room,
Kitchen and so on fully furnished, and also vessels for cooking food, Rent was only USA $
20 per day. Every day morning by 8 a.m. we used to go out for sightseeing and come back
to hotel in evening by 7 p.m. As there was swimming pool kids used to enjoy swimming.
After coming back we used to cook our own food , enjoy the same after getting tired for
full day roaming here and there.
We visited Disney World for two days, one day for Circus world, one day for Sea
world, One day for Nasa and so on. During those days as there was no terrorism going
and visiting any place in USA was no problem at all. We could enter UNO, USA Mint, and
other important places just without any pass , it was open for one and everyone, without
any permission. From there we straight flew back to New Jersey, after couple of days on
1st October 1980 we flew back to London. We spent nearly 32 days in USA, stayed again in
London for one week and on 7th October 1980 reached back home (Zambia) nearly 67 days
(two and a quarter Months) holiday in all. It was very great experience as well as
enjoyment, and one the best holidays of life time. We saw and experienced many new
places, and learned lot of new things. Specially how people with different community
leave in their own places and in own country.
I used to renew my contract with Duly Motors for every 2nd year, and after every
2 years I used to get 84 days paid leave, Plus 1st class Airfares from Zambia to India and
back for full family.
After completing my Europe and USA tour in October 1980, I came back to
Zambia, and started my work as usual. Now Zimbabwe boarder was also open for
everyone, and as we were leaving just 12 kilometers from their first town Victoria falls, we
used to go there many times during weekends for a day or so, specially for shopping as
things were very cheap compared to Zambia, but we had to spend foreign exchange for the
same. Victoria falls sightseeing also was one good attraction. Secondly Botswana was also
very near about 50 kilometers from our residence, so we also used to go there for
shopping as well as to see Botswana Game park which was very huge and good. All wild
Animals and at times we could see 17 lions, and 1000 elephants in a group. Because of
these two countries and also sightseeing in Livingstone we were enjoying our stay down
here. There was very good small museum in Livingstone.
Slowly the economy in Zambia was getting worse, and they had to depend on IMF
(International Monetary Fund). We had to face lot of shortages for essential commodities,
food stuff and so on. Things were getting expensive due to devaluation of local currency.
Also education was getting worse due to foreign teachers leaving the country, and local
teachers taking over the Job. Now we were planning that sooner or later we also will have
to immigrate and leave the country very soon. We made up our mind that as soon as
Rakhee completes her 7th Standard Exams (as it is Board Exam) we will leave the country,
whatever the circumstances. If we don’t get chance anywhere in other part of world, we
will definitely come back to India.
Most of the Indian specially Doctors, Accountants and others coming to Zambia
from other countries for jobs, in government as well as privates companies, and who had
more qualification then me, were very jealous, as my salary and terms of contract were far
better compared to their contracts. They all did not know my terms of contract which was
as follows, High salary, A Bungalow with four Bed rooms , Two Paid servants one for
house and other for garden, Company Car fully maintained by Company and unlimited
Petrol to move around anywhere, New Car after every six months, Telephone expenses
paid by company, School fees paid by company, One Security guard on the gate, Club
membership fees, and entertainment expenses at Hotel with customers, plus 84 days leave
after 2 years of contract with 1st Class air fares for whole family (Return Ticket to India)
25% Gratuity out of monthly salary to be received at the end of contract, plus commission
2% on net profits, and much more. All the Indians very jealous and were thinking how am
I leaving such a luxury life, as they did not know my terms and conditions with the
company.
Now as everything was in order and all doubts clear, work was going on as usual,
I again applied for two months leave starting 25th November 1981 to 30th January 1982 .
Luckily my leave was granted so we decided to go to India for holiday and visit few
places in northern part of India. I booked tickets for the full family as follows, Zambia
Bombay Delhi Agra Jaipur Udyaipur Ahmedabad Bombay Zambia. We left
Zambia on 27th November, 1981, arriving Bombay on 28th Nov. 1981. We started in
December 1981 our tour to north, visiting Delhi, temperature was 3 Degrees very cold,
then to Agra, Fatepursikri, Jaipur, Udaipur, Ranakpur, Ahmedabad and so on by Air.
Before 14th January 1982 we came back to Bombay to enjoy kite flying festival. We all
enjoyed very well as we could visit all the places any time of the day, because during
those days there was no fear for terrorism, and being for the first time it was very good
experience. Did some shopping from all the places which we visited. After spending few
days in Bombay with Family, we went back to Zambia on 27th January 1982 arriving
Lusaka, Zambia on the same day. As the flight to Livingstone was in the evening, Rakhee
and Sagar enjoyed staying at Hotel Ridgeway in Lusaka.
February 1982 I again started my job as usual, but conditions were getting worse
economically. One Zambian Kwacha was only Indian Rs. 7.50. Value of currency was going
down day by day. When I first came to Zambia in 1969 the currency value of Zambian
Kwacha one was India Rs.13.50. Thus savings in foreign currency became less day by day,
as we had to pay more Kwacha then what we used to pay before.
I started looking at prospects for settling outside Zambia, I wanted to try for USA
and immigration on investment basis was nearly down payment USA $ 40,000, and I had
savings of nearly USA $ 56,000 in all. If I invest $ 40,000 and fail to do some business, I
will ruin my life as well as all the savings of last 14 years. I dropped the idea of USA, as
there was no other means for going to USA. Regarding Zimbabwe, Botswana and South
Africa nearly same as Zambia so no point taking any chance down there, and lastly
London was also out of question. Finally we decided that best place would be India,
because it was possible to settle down in India with whatever saving we had in our hands.
In 1983 when I had planned to come to India, Luckily I saw my passport and I
found that (Immigration status not required) was not stamped in my passport, on the same
day when I was to leave Zambia, Now if I come to India without stamping that in my
passport, I may not be allowed to go out of India thereafter. I phoned one of my friend at
Indian High Commission at Lusaka Office which was nearly 480 kms away from
Livingstone where I used to stay, I explained to him the situation, he advised me bring the
passport and we will stamp it for you. I told him well it’s too late now, today I am flying
to India after 7 p.m. from Lusaka, and my flight comes to Lusaka from Livingstone after
5.30 p.m. It’s not possible for me to reach your office as your office closes at 5 p.m. He
told me don’t worry, I will personally come to Lusaka Airport at 6 p.m. and will stamp
your passport. Luckily he did come to airport, and my passport was indeed stamped and
now I had nothing to worry for the same.
Most of our friends in Zambia specially Doctors, had taken up their education in
Baroda, and had given me advice that if I am going to Gujarat, I should first think of
Baroda, because education is very good and that was my primary aim of migrating from
Zambia There is low population, cosmopolitan city and standard of leaving very low,
Property prices also very low.
I took up my trip for Gujarat from Bombay and started visiting known places i.e.
first Navsari, Bhrauch, Surat, Baroda and finally Ahmedabad. Stayed two to three days at
each place, studying all the possibilities for migration to such places. I wanted to find out
which place will be best for education, business and peacefully leaving. I had three aims
in my mind before I finally leave Zambia, i.e. Best Education for my both children,
Secondly I should have my small ownership residence and thirdly my own place where I
can do some business small or big just to make our leaving very comfortable.
Out of the five places I visited in Gujarat, I also was very much impressed with
Baroda. No doubt education was excellent up to college level, even well known in foreign
countries, Degrees well recognized overseas. Secondly residence available in plenty in all
different parts of the city, and Two bed room, Drawing, and Kitchen, were costing
between 1.5 lacs to 2 lacs, either tenement, row house or flats, in any good locality within
city limits. Shops were also not more than 2 lacs in centre of the city, main road Alkapuri.
I had no friends of my own or relatives who could take me around, but fortunately My
elder brother Dineshbhai had one of his college friend who was running a factory , he
gave me best advice and after his office hours he used to take me around the city showing
me few places for Business outlet and residence area. His name was Krishnakant K Shah. I
stayed for three days with One Mr. O. J. Shah, brother of one of my best friend in Bombay
Virendra C Shah.
I noted down the areas and outright prices for purchasing said properties. Going
around I was very much impressed with one building known as Bombay Shopping Centre
tallest building in Baroda up to 13 floors, and first three floors for business and office area
and from 4th to 13th floor residence. Right in the centre of the city, on a corner plot facing
the main road. There were few shops completely closed, mostly on resale basis. One shop I
liked was nearly 300 sq ft belonged to Dinbandhu medical store near Raopura. I went
there to make enquiries for the price, and he told me its
Rs. 2,25,000/.
After going through all the hassle, I made up my mind that if at all we are going
to plan to come to India in 1984, we will definitely try to settle down in Baroda, because
we could buy both one shop and another residence with whatever we have saved in last 14 years,
i.e. Indian Rupees 4,50,000/, as I had money in UK Bank, about London Pounds 31,000. I
could buy both the properties in good locality for nearly Rs. 4,00,000/ only, and balance I
could use for business purpose.
I decided that we should leave Zambia by 1984, because Rakhee was completing
her primary education by December 1983 and Sagar was only in grade 3. If we wait for
Rakhee to complete her secondary education, then by that time Sagar will arrive in
Secondary and for him to complete secondary, means another 9 to 10 years in Zambia. I
also will become very old to move and settle down in a new country. As it is in 1984 I
would be 44 years old, nearly middle age of my life, and for the said reason I had to take a
firm decision.
After making all the notes in one diary, I came back to Zambia on 18th August
1983. I discussed in detail everything with my wife in presence of Rakhee and Sagar,
because I wanted to take all the decisions in presence of my whole family. As kids also
should know what are the plans. The picture was very clear, and it was very prospective
as per our thinking. If we had to move we had to leave Zambia by February/March 1984
as schools start in India in the month of June, and we had to obtain admission for both the
kids. Finally we decided to leave the Paradise World (Zambia) It was a tough decision, so
I decided to hand over my resignation to our General Manager and Chair Lady Mrs.
Chisamba. I handed over my resignation on 1st September 1983, giving Company enough
time of nearly 6 months to look for somebody to take over my position, stating that my
last day of job will be 31st March 1983. I selected 1st September, as I started my job with
the said company on 1st September 1972, worked for nearly 11 years and 6 months,
continuously in one company, for the first time in my life for such a long period with one
employer.
I stated three main reasons in my resignation first education for my kids, secondly
I would like to have my own residence and thirdly I would like to start my own business.
At the same time thanked all the Dulys staff for being very kind to me through my stay
with them and enjoyed my work fully with great satisfaction.
All my good wishing friends also started telling me that I am a fool to take such a
decision, leaving such a good job for the sake of education purpose. They told me it’s
better not to hand over my work permit, instead take nearly 6 months leave form the
company, try to settle down in India, and if it is not possible, I should come back and start
again where I am happy. I gave it a thought and told them it’s not advisable to keep feet
on both the ends. If I do so, I will certainly not settle down in India and will definitely
land back in Zambia. I told them if I have to settle down in India, I need at least 2 to 3
years of time, then only I can know whether it is possible to settle down or not, (within 6
months it is very short period). Finally I decided to hand over my Work Permit and
resignation, so that there is no room for me to come back to Zambia. No doubt I will have
to struggle a lot in India, as doing business in India is not that easy and specially with
Indian population, but if you succeed even sky is not the limit.
My family and I started sorting out all the items in house as to what to take to
India and what to dispose off in Zambia. Dispose off either by way of sale or to give it
away to friends and office staff freely as per their requirements. At the same time we
started packing goods in wooden boxes writing each item in one diary as per number
given on each box.
Some of the boxes I had to make myself ( I knew Carpentry) for 27" T.V., two
V.C.R.’s, Music System and other house hold items.
We decided to go to India in 2 lots. Hema, Rakhee & Sagar to leave in month of
February 1984 and they should go through Mauritius as all three of them had not seen the
place and I go after 3131984 as soon as my contract ends. We decided for going in 2 lots
as we could take facility for T. R. (Transfer of Residence) for both of us and take as many
goods and items from Zambia in 2 lots.
Before going to India finally, we decided to have some short holiday at
Zimbabwe, Botswana, Gabrone, Francis Town, Kariba Dam, few game parks and so on. We
also did some final shopping in above countries to bring things with us to India. We were
not sure as to when again we will get chance to visit such places once we go finally back
to India.
In 1983/84 there was shortage of imported vehicles in India, and who so ever used
to come to India during those days on T.R. basis used to bring one imported Car to India
specially to dispose it off at a margin of profit. In 1983 when I was in India I also studied
and made enquires as to which car I should bring , I ask one of our family friend Mr.
Pradumalbhai owner of Thakercy Group of Mills. He asked me if I could manage to bring
Mercedes Benz, I said OK I will try for the same.
I had planned to bring one Mercedes Benz to India, but unfortunately, Zambian
customs did not allow me to take the car out of Zambia as per customs and immigration
rules. I decided to go to Gabrone (Botswana) and buy one second hand from there, drive it
to Zambia and then send it to India by Ship. I selected one M.B. at Gabrone 380 S (Petrol
Driven) it was a huge Vehicle. I paid for the same out of my U.K. funds, Pounds 8,000
nearly Indian Rs.1,20,000/. I drove it to Zambia, and at the Livingstone boarder was
closing at 6 p.m. I left Bulawayo (Zimbabwe) to reach Livingstone before 6 p.m. The
distance was nearly 500 kms, so I had to drive straight nonstop for 500 kms at the speed of
nearly 140 to 160 kms per hour, I did not even stop for filling petrol throughout 500 kms.
Luckily I reached the boarder at 5.45 p.m. and cleared the customs and immigration and
reached home by 7 p.m.
Now I had to apply for an Import License for the same to bring it to India, I
contacted Indian High Commission for the same, they told me we have the forms for the
same, you better fill it up down here, so that we can submit the same to Delhi office and
by the time you reach India, The said Import License will be in your hands in India. I
completed all the procedure for the same.
Rakhee had to appear for her final Board exam for 7th Standard in December 1983,
and four days before the exam was to start , Principal of her school called me and told me,
unfortunately Rakhee can’t sit for the exams as he had forgotten to write her name in the
list for board exam, which was submitted to board in Lusaka before one and half month
back. He also told me there are another 3 students he has forgotten along with Rakhee.
Rakhee was in the same school since standard 1st. so I told her Principal, how can you
forget her name, and what’s to be done now. He replied there is nothing we can do and
she will have to sit for the exams next year i.e. 1984 December. I got wild and worried,
and told that is absolutely impossible, as we are leaving this country before April 1984,
and she can’t get admission in standard 8th in India unless she gets a clearance certificate
for standard 7th.
Hema had a very tough time in the beginning with two kids all alone for the first
time in India. Hema had to look for a teacher to coach both the kids for their entrance
exams at Baroda for std.4th and std 8th. Luckily after a good try she got hold of one
Tuition class just opposite our residence in Bombay. There she got hold of one Mr. Bhatt
and his wife who took proper care for Rakhee and Sagar. Mr. Bhatt and his wife took
enough pains to see that they both catch up with Indian education system and get through
interview in Baroda. They managed to get books for std. 8th and std 4th from Baroda so
that they could train them accordingly. Daily they used to sit for nearly 2 to 3 hours and
they charged only Rs.600/. Now they were settling down peacefully in India.
I was alone in Zambia, I used to complete my work at office and started handing
over duties to next Branch Manager posted through Head Office. I used to take lunch and
dinner at my friends house, and started packing my luggage in Cartons, I also had a 27"
T.V., V.C.R., Music System, Spool Tape Recorder, Mattresses, Carpets, Xerox Machine and
so on, nearly 18 packages.
Back to India -
Zambia journey ended and landed back in India from March 1984
to date in Vadodara, Gujarat, India.
When I came to India in March 1984, I had not yet received my Import License for
my Mercedes Car. I was bit worried and I had already received notification that my Car
has arrived at Bombay Dock. Meantime I received a letter from one of the Agents of Delhi
asking me for clearance of my Import License, and he can help me for the same at
Rs.25,000/ fees. I don’t know where he got my address from, I am sure from the Licensing
office, and they had tie up for making such money out of incoming Residence.
I started taking advice from local friends in Bombay, luckily one of my friend
from Indian High Commission came to India and he was supposed to stay in Bombay for
two days before he went to Delhi as he wanted to see Bombay. He contacted me on my
local telephone Number, I met him and I borrowed one car from my friend to take him
around Bombay, and show him few places. While we were moving, I told him about
Import License which we had applied when I was in Zambia and narrated to him the
whole story. He told me don’t worry, we will sort it out by this evening when we reach
home. At 8 p.m. when we came home, he phoned his father who was P.A. to Presidents
Office in Delhi, He told whole story to his father regarding Import License, His father
told ok I will look into the matter next day morning as soon as I reach my office.
Early morning next day his father went and phoned Licensing office, and gave the
details regarding import license to the person concerned, and at the same time he told him
are you interested in saving your seat or you want to keep that license pending on your
table for good. Only these words were enough, and within 3 days I received my import
license at my Bombay address by courier without any fees for the same.
Schools were to start in the month of June, Rakhee and Sagar were busy with their
tuitions for seeking admission in 8th standard for Rakhee and 4th standard for Sagar.
Rakhee had to learn 3 new languages, i.e. Gujarati, Hindi and Sanskrit. She had very
tough time for the first year in 8th standard. Well they decided to come to Baroda in
month on May 84, but I could not stay for very long with them as I was to come back to
Bombay for clearing my Mercedes Car from Customs which I had to do personally.
Rakhee and Sagar got first a call from 2 schools, Navrachana and Shreyas.
Navrachana was out of question as they told Sagar’s age is less and they will give him
admission in Standard 3rd, and secondly they wanted donation. Now they visited Shreyas,
took interview and they offered admission to both of them, it was ok, but it was very far,
but for the safety purpose I told Hema to pay necessary fees and obtain admission, till we
get call from other 2 schools.
Thereafter we started looking for residence in Manjalpur area, but in no time we
got a call from Baroda High school also. Rakhee and Sagar went for interview plus test for
admission, Sagar was sitting in queue and when they announced who is coming first for
interview, Sagar just walked in 1st without any fear for an interview and Rakhee also did
the same when her turn came for her class. Couple of days later their names appeared on
the notice board that they both have got admission in Baroda High School. Hema went to
pays the fees, and casually she asked how much donation we have to pay, so Principal
told who told you we accept donations in this school, we give admission on merit basis
only and your kids have got admission as per their merits.
After obtaining admission at Baroda High School, we wrote letter to Shreyas High
school, to cancel Admission for Rakhee as well as Sagar, so that they could accommodate
some other students for the said class. Baroda High school was absolutely near to the flat
where we were staying, only 5 minutes walking distance, that way we were very lucky.
Rakhee used to go all alone, but for Sagar we had to drop him and pick him up as he was
very young. Hema had to carry on all this job as I was staying in Bombay.
I had already cleared my car in Bombay, but unfortunately I had to pay very
heavy duty as well as dock charges. Duty was Rs. 2,95,000/, Dock charges Rs.50,000/,
Clearing Agent charges Rs.12,500/, the price of car went higher with all such charges,
which I had not accepted being a second hand car. When I left Zambia, I had expected that
I will make some profit out of this car, and will settled down peacefully with some extra
money, but unfortunately it turned out the other way. Unfortunately two cars Maruti and
Honda Accord, both imported cars started coming to India in the year 1984 and they were
very cheap, Honda being Rs. 3,50,000/ only and Maruti still cheaper. So the prices of all
other imported cars started going down. This Mercedes Car cost me nearly Rs. 5,50,000/
after I got it in my hands.
Plus I had to pay Interest for the Loan I took to clear my car. I was expecting to
sell the same for Rs.7,00,000/ so that I can make some profit out of the same, but
unfortunately when I put for sale in market and showed to some customers, I was offered
only Rs.3,50,000/ or Rs.4,00,000/, whereby I was Making net Loss of Rs.1,50,000/ out of
what I had paid. When I had left Zambia I had only Rs.4,50,000/ in UK Bank and had left
Rs.1,50,000/ in Zambian Bank, which they were supposed to send when foreign exchange
is available with Zambian bank, but no guarantee as to when it will arrive in my hands. It
was known as Money in pipe line with local bank.
I finally came to Baroda in September 1984 for good, and now I started looking for
a shop for Business and also residence on ownership basis. I wanted to have both the
places nearby to the school, so all they could be in walking distance. I was interested in
buying a shop in Bombay Shopping Centre because it was very near to school and also
there were 8 to 10 shops for sale. I contacted the owners but the prices were beyond my
Budget, and I was worried what to do. Luckily we found one shop No.33, which was
closed , so we started looking for the owner, and fortunately the owner was very well
known to Hema as well as to her family. Mr. Bipinbhai Sura, who used to stay in same
building for nearly 40 years in Bombay. We went to see him at his new premises in
Bombay Sagar Mahal at Walkeswar and asked him if he was interested in selling the same.
He told us he bought the same in 1974, when the building was being constructed by
themselves only and he bought it for investment basis to make some profit on the same.
We told him, see we have come to India for good from Zambia and are planning to settled
down in Baroda, we are very much interested in buying your shop, and now it’s already 10
years since you have bought this shop, and it has also appreciated in value. We would be
very grateful if you could sell the same to us.
The story got into his mind, and since he was known to Hema he told well I will
try to find out latest price for the same and offer you as soon as possible. Within one week
he told us the price will be Rs.1,20,000/ plus other transfer and society charges, which
came to be Rs.1,35,000/. Price was very reasonable compared to other shops in same
building, and we were very lucky to get it where we wanted.
We immediately paid in full and took the possession and started renovating, as
we wanted to start some business before 21st October 1984 , i.e. before Diwali as well as
my Birthday.
Now within one month I started looking for what business to start in the said
premises. Actually, I was interested in starting some kind of automobiles business as I had
12 years of experience in Automobiles in Zambia. I had also decided what name I will give
to my shop, i.e. KWACHA AUTO SALES. This also had my initials KAS (Kirish Amthalal
Shah.) All my friends were laughing at me when I used to tell them in Zambia regarding
this name. I wanted to use KWACHA as it was the name for Zambian Currency, and all the
money I made to settle down in India was from Zambia. I wanted to give respect to the
said currency.
We both were moving around in Baroda to look for what type of Automobiles
Business we should do in Baroda. We came across one show room at Karelibaug dealing
with TVS Mopeds, and they were the main dealers for the same. The owner was Mr. Anuj
Patel. We had a meeting with him, and asked if he was interested in giving us sub
dealership for Alkapuri Area, where we could sell new mopeds, parts and also repairs and
servicing for the same. In short a small mini garage. We had enough space for the same.
Luckily he agreed, he saw the place, and also helped us fully to start our Business before
our dead line, and also provided two mechanics to handle workshop at our place for
repairs and servicing of the said mopeds.
I was very keen for a grand opening on 21st October 1984 on my birthday, but
unfortunately the day was not good so we opened on Desara 22nd October 1984, We had
invited Local Mayor for the Grand Opening and for Cutting the Red Ribbon. Many friends
and relatives came for the same from Bombay, Ahmedabad, Surat and so on as this was the
first family business in India after my father’s shop from 1942 to 1976, in Bombay at Mulji
Jetha Market, as cloth merchant.
After the grand opening was over, all the guest started going back to their
respected places, and I started looking for ownership residence premises very near to my
shop and kids school, so that if no vehicle is available we could go walking either to
school or shop. I saw nearly 25 residence places through one estate agent Mr. Bhrambhatt,
near Ellora park, Subhanpura, Gorwa, Gotri and so on. In all these areas either a Flat,
Tennament, or Row House all were costing nearly Rs,1,25,000/ to Rs.1,50,000/, which
was very good price, with Two Bed Rooms, Kitchen, and Drawing room. But unfortunately
I did not like any of the residence place out of 25 which I saw.
We had one friend in Zambia Mr. Mahendra Patel and his parents had settled
down just in 1983, at Baroda, we knew them also very well, They had bought a 3 Bed
Room House at Citizen Society, near Ellora Park area, we just came to visit them and
narrated whole story regarding looking for Residence, and gave our Budget nearly
Rs.1,50,000/ approximately.
Immediately he told us there are few Row houses in the same society ‘B/Type’ so
if you are interested I can take you to the society office and contact you to the right person
Mr. Mukundbhai Patel, who is the builder for this society. We met Mr. M. Patel, and he
told there are only 4 houses left for sale and the numbers are 44,51,52,& 53, we saw all the
four houses and were quite impressed with the area as well as the structure. Houses were
totally incomplete, only Box, nothing inside, not even plaster to the walls. The whole B
section was the same, No Drainage, No Electricity, No Water Connection and so on. But
we were impressed with the Society. No one had occupied a single house out of 35 houses,
and if we were to book, we could be the first to enter in such Row Houses. The Price for
the same was Rs.1,50,000/, plus nearly Rs.10,000/ if we want extra tiles, kota stones on
stairs, water tank at back yard, and Iron gates for four doors, 2 at bottom and 2 at terrace.
We asked when do you think you can complete and give us the possession, as we want to
leave the rented house as soon as possible because the rent is too high. He told well if you
pay in full may be before end of November or latest by 1st week of December 1984. The
agreement was completed , paid money in full and work started immediately in full
swing and they completed all internal work before end of November 1984, except, no
electricity connection, no water connection, and no drainage facilities, as they were
waiting for corporation permission for the same.
We performed Vastu Puja on 2nd December 1984, our was the only house
completed fully and we were the first to enter this society on 2nd Dec. 84, in 16 Row
houses from No. 39 to No 54 on our side. All three side surrounded like a jungle, farming
area. Early morning the view was excellent at back yard, where we could see lots of
animals such as cows, donkeys, and so on and at evening very good sun set as there were
no high rise flats at all in this area. We could see Rameshwar mandir from our kitchen,
Gotri water tank from our front door as the surrounding was completely empty. We did
not have any vehicle to move around as we had in Zambia, I had two cars in Zambia but
here I had to move by rickshaw. I also had a chauffeur in Zambia, and Mr. Punamkaka and
his wife who had seen my Luxurious life in Zambia, were feeling very pity seeing me and
my family struggling down to settle in India. Here I either had to walk or go by riksha.
In my house I did not have and furniture such as Fans in rooms, fridge, beds in
bed rooms, sofa in drawing room, dining table and so on, nothing at all and I did not have
any money to buy the same in the beginning as I had to invest for business as well as look
after day to day expenses.
I had to sell few items which I bought from Zambia for my personal use as I
wanted money badly for my expenses.
First I sold my car container and bought two bicycles for Rakhee and Sagar . The
balance I kept it for daily expenses.
Then I sold one Xerox Machine which I had bought from Zambia, I wanted to
make profit out of it, but unfortunately made very little loss while selling. This is because
it got damaged in transit, all the ink had spilt in the whole machine and it was totally
useless, no prints were coming out, and few people suggested to sell it as scrap, but
fortunately I got one repairer who charged me Rs. 6,000/, he opened up the whole
machine each and every part, cleaned with petrol , fixed it back and it was working in
perfect condition. Totally it had cost me after landing at India for nearly 45 to 47 thousand
and I got a customer and sold the same for only Rs. 40,000/ making very little loss. This
money was very useful for me for few months in business as well as domestic expenses.
I had also bought 2 T.V.’s from Zambia, one 27" and other 19", in beginning I
started giving 19" T.V. with V.C.R. on hire to Hotel Express one of my first customer for
hiring such equipments, and other residential customers and used to make some money
every month. Unfortunately the said T.V. and V.C.R. were not matching properly, so I
thought of selling of 19" T.V. and got Rs. 9,000/ for the same. This money I utilized to
buy few domestic items, one fridge 165 Lts., 3 fans, two for bed rooms and one for seating
room, dining table with six chairs, and kitchen pantry with drawers under the platform.
I had bought 3 V.C.R. with me when I came from Zambia, National 370 and 310,
and one Sharp with camera. Since the V.C.R. were very expensive in India during those
days, many wanted to hire the same for watching Movies. Few of my friends suggested
that why I should not give the said V.C.R. on hire to customers, charges being Rs.50/ for
12 hours and they used to see nearly 3 movies. At the same time I invested some money
and bought one Salora T.V. and gave T.V. along with V.C.R. on hire for Rs.100/ per shift.
I started making some money every month for my daily expenses.
I started my Auto Business in October 1984 and by the end of December 1985 it
was not picking up to the mark. I had to think something else, so I went for seasonal
business, i.e. during Rakshabandhan I used to sell Rakhadi’s, during Diwali I used to sell
Diwali greeting Cards, this also did not pick up very well as my shop was not on main
road, and advertising was very limited.
I had no vehicle to move around, and those days new vehicles specially two
wheelers were not easily available, had to book well in advance. I had to pay foreign
exchange USA $ 600 plus local money if I wanted to buy Bajaj Chetak. Well I did so and I
bought a Bajaj Chetak Scooter for
Rs.12,500/ in all. I tried to ride it but was not very comfortable with the small wheels as I
was used to Motor Bikes with large wheels. I tried it for 6 months and as it did not suit me
I sold it for Rs.12,000/. Now again I was without a vehicle.
When I started TVS Moped business, I did not know what this vehicle is? But as
per my tendency I pick up everything very fast only by watching the same. As I was
watching my mechanics working on the mopeds for repairs and servicing, I started
picking up how to do the same, and within 6 to 9 months I could repairs this moped fully
without the help of my mechanic or when he was absent. I used to repair the moped
myself and see that the customers don’t suffer. I could even repair complete engine for the
moped.
Rakhee and Sagar were doing very well at school, Hema used to look after their
school progress as she was full time housewife, so she could teach them and no need for
private tuitions. She used to go and see their class teachers every now and then and solve
all the difficulties. Rakhee had few problems as she started in standard 8th where she had
3 new subjects i.e. Hindi, Gujarati and Sanskrit, which she had never studied in her life in
Zambia. Credit goes to Hema as she took her full time to teach all these subjects to
Rakhee, and Rakhee also picked up very well and she passed her standard 8th with flying
colours. Same with Sagar, he also worked hard and passed successfully standard 4th.
Rakhee had to take tuition classes in standard 9th, 10th and 12th for Maths, Science and
English, at Lulla classes, and also private teachers in standard 12th, Sagar also followed
same in higher classes.
Rakhee and Sagar both had problems regarding their teeth, they had to undergo
treatment for it through a specialist Doctor Heena Desai, she said the course will be for
nearly 2 years for both of them and the charges will be nearly Rs. 2,500/ for each, and
was asking for advance payment. I told her advance is not possible, but I promise to pay
Rs.100/ for every seating and complete full charges in installments. Well she agreed and
luckily both had very good treatment.
As I was badly in need of money and photography was my hobby I converted into
commercial business for the purpose of survival. (Sometimes hobby as well as things you
learn in your life may help you for your survival) I started advertising and also told few
of my photographer friends that I am also going into photography business, for
Videography as well as still photography. Now this was my new business from June 1986.
I started getting orders for Marriage ceremonies, Private Birthday parties, Conferences
and so on. I used to charge Rs.1,500/ to Rs.1,800/ for marriages and Conferences and
nearly Rs.700/ for Birthday Parties. I started making nearly Rs.8 to 10 thousand per
month, so now I was very comfortable with my day to day expenses, and also started
giving Rs.5,000/ to Pravin’s relative in Baroda. I was in this Business from 1986 to 1992,
thereafter I gave up as it was very tiring, plus new instruments started coming in market
and my being very old model, I was not interested in investing more money in the said
business.
In September 1986, two years had been completed for sale of my Mercedes Car,
and as per customs rule I could transfer my name only after 2 years after bringing from
overseas, I came to Bombay for the same and got the car transferred.
I was in Bombay for few days, and luckily through my Brother in Law Mr.
Deepak, I came through one Morris 1952 model car belonging to one of his office friend
who was interested to sale the same. I went to see the same, took a ride with him at
Marine Lines at the speed of 80 to 100 miles, i.e. 140 to 160 kms, running was perfect, but
the body was black and totally half of the bottom part eaten up with big holes all round,
due to Salty water in Bombay. I asked for the price and it was Rs.12,500/ for the same.
The engine, battery, tyres, seats all other parts except body were good and as good as new.
I asked if I could take a long ride myself and see the running and then decide whether to
buy or not. He agreed, so next day I, My elder brother Dineshbhai, my cousin brother Jitu
went for a ride from Marine Lines to Borivali nearly 35 to 40 kms, and back. There was no
problem at all and the running was smooth and comfortable. I asked if he could give it for
Rs.10,000/, but he did not agreed, he wanted Rs.12,500/ for the same. I told him ok I will
inform you next day, I phoned my wife explained to her about my interest in buying the
said vehicle, she agreed and I made the deal for Rs.12,500/. I paid cash, got the car
transferred within 2 days in my name, and drove it from Bombay to Baroda, with my
bhabhi, cousin brothers Jitu and Amit.
Left Bombay at 7 a.m. visiting Chikli one of my Zambian friend Mohanbhai, then
stopped at Valsad my Bhabhis brother , took lunch there and then to Surat my brother in
law Rashmibhai took tea/coffee breakfast and reached Baroda at 7.30 p.m. same day. At
times on our way when the roads were very clear I used to drive at the speed of 100 miles
per hour, i.e. 160 kms. Wife was not very impressed with the body, but I told nothing to
worry, we will get it done in Baroda and also change the color fully. I was proud to be
first owner for 4 wheeler (Car) in Citizen Society in 36 houses on our side from No.11 to
30, and from 39 to 54.
After two years of struggle, now I think I started settling down, recovered my
confidence, and earned enough for my day to day expenses, But not enough for luxuries.
At last my three aims which I had started getting successful, i.e. education , own business
and own residence.
In 1984 I had brought my cousin brother Jitu from Bombay to help me in business,
we had started a TVS Moped business, but unfortunately it was not picking up at all, and I
had to pay salary to him as well as the mechanics, out of my pocket as the income was not
enough from the repairs of TVS Mopeds. Finally after 17 months I had to decide and tell
Jitu to go back to Bombay as I could not afford to pay Rs.1,000/ salary every month to
him. He also understood and went back to Bombay, but he was very much interested to
stay in Baroda, as he liked the place compared to Bombay. Luckily my elder brother
Dineshbhai sold our family house at Opera House where we used to stay since 1938, and
he was also interested for investing money in Baroda. He bought one flat and two shops in
Baroda.
Since Jitu was very keen to come to Baroda, my brother Dineshbhai opened one
shop at Gotri and started doing cloth business down there and asked Jitu to look after the
same. Thus Jitu once again came back to Baroda, and now at present he is very well settled
in his own Estate Business and his daughter having flower business and his son doing job
with one very well known company.
As I was staying outside Baroda for quite some time due to Video shooting, I
could not look after two business at the same time one Videography and other TVS
Moped. I called in Bhailal my mechanic for moped repairs and told him if you can handle
repairs business for moped down here on your own, then I will give you your regular
salary as well as 50% share on Labour which we charge to customers.
He agreed for the same, and after couple of month he started charging very high
labour charges to customers for making more money. Some of the customers started
complaining for the same, I looked into the same for couple of days, the complain being
genuine, I called Bhailal and told him see I am not here to spoil my name because of you, I
don’t like such false charges. I am not interested any more to carry on this Moped
business as there is not much profit in it. I don’t mind if I make loss for the parts which
are remaining in this office which will be of no use, I want to stop this business
immediately from tomorrow onwards, and I literally did close down moped business very
next day. I gave Bhailal whatever was due to him, and told him you may look for some
other job or do what you think is fit for you.
In 1986, my wife did not have much work as she was now not busy with kids
studies, so she was getting bored at home, she planned for opening dispensary at
residence in drawing room where she can see the patients, keep her practice running and
also pass time with patients. We bought necessary equipments, medicine in wholesale,
plus big curtain to separate drawing room from dining room, so that Hema could examine
ladies patients without any difficulty. We organized the opening for the dispensary and
called in all the members of Citizen Society, people from Arbudanagar, Chetna Society and
other surrounding societies. It was a nice opening and on the same day she had some
patients and they all said, well it’s a very good idea as we all can come here being very
near to us. Now she was quite busy and actually there were no fix timing as all were good
friends and used to come at any time of the day. Sometimes they used to seat with Hema
and discuss few latest topics or their domestic problems and pass their time. Now Hema
was quite happy being little bit busy as well as being helpful to general public. The
charges were absolutely nominal, just for the sake of charging, as it was not a profit
making dispensary. If some patients could not pay, she used to give medicine free of
charge.
In 1986/87 Rakhee also had tough time as she was in 10th Standard being Board
exam, she had to attend school as well as classes for 2 hours in evening. She was doing
fine with her studies, had no problems at all and at the same time she was helping me in
my business as well as to Hema in kitchen and dispensary.
Rakhee had two very good friends in her school right from standard 8, i.e. Aarti
and Lata both were very brilliant and they used to help Rakhee to solve all her problems
in studies. She got through standard 10 with very good percentage and selected Science
subjects for standard 11th and 12th. When Rakhee joined her school in 1984 in 8th
standard, school had classes up to standard 10th only. Luckily when she passed her
standard 10th school got permission to open up new classes for level 12th, so she had no
problems for admission into standard 11 for further studies.
When I left Zambia, I had deposited Zambian Kwacha 22,000/ which is Indian Rs.
1,65,000/ nearly, which is known as money in pipeline. This is because Zambian
Government did not have enough foreign currency, and they used to transfer the said
money as and when they had facility for foreign exchange. Luckily in 1987 I got my first
installment through my bank from Zambia and that was approximately Rs.70,000/. I was
planning to invest nearly half of it in some kind of business.
During those days there was craze for video cassette library. I also thought of
opening one at my present shop, so that if I get 10 customers to hire one each cassette I
will earn Rs.100/ per day. I talked with Hema, Rakhee and Sagar they all agreed. We all
four used to seat and take decision together for any such new items. We started
renovating our shop, It was open from all sides, only shutters, so I build glass doors for
all the three openings. This is because of safety for theft as well as dust. I also changed my
shop name from Kwacha Auto Sales to Kwacha Vision/Studio. Everything was now set at
my shop, so I went with one of my friend Pratapbhai to Bombay as he knew where to buy
Video Cassettes in Bombay.
He took me to Andheri, and we selected nearly 120 to 150 new cassettes with old
movies, such as Raj Kapoor’s series, Dev Anand Series, Dilip and so on and few English
movies. I invested nearly 18 to 20 thousand and rest for day to day investment in new
movies.
We had another grand opening for Video Cassette Library, and called many
friends and relatives from all round, so that we could attract as many customers as
possible for hiring such movies from us, there was also very heavy competition in this
business, nearly 4 libraries in Bombay Shopping Centre including my library. I had two
Video Cameras so one I fixed it on one wall facing the entrance and other moving around
catching up all the public coming for the opening of such library. It was great fun and we
kept it open for the whole day and the response was quite good on the very first day.
She was quite happy as now she could stay out for nearly 2 hours from 530 to 7
30 p.m. and meet new people. I used to drop her while going to office in evening and pick
her up after my office hours. If I was not in town she used to go by Riksha or sometimes
even walking. There she made one very good friend Mrs. Advani who used to come and
seat with her and pass time talking few topics, slowly they started coming to our
residence and we started going to their residence, so they were now very good family
friends.
Whole day she was practicing at home and evening she used to go to dispensary.
But she never neglected both the kids and domestic work. She was capable for everything.
All the patients were very happy with her services as well as her diagnosis as she used to
give or prescribe very light medicine. She was trying to keep herself busy to keep her
knowledge up to date. She never used to like going here and there even in the society and
keep on chatting with society members, she was dedicated to her work and mainly to her
family. She used to like watching T.V. in evening hours after dinner, but no serials at all,
only news, sports and sometimes old movies. She was very particular for kids studies and
used to see nearly every day that they are all done with their studies.
With the help of this money Rs.10,000/, I bought 3 Divan Beds with box type to
store goods in it. Two for our room and one for kids room as the room was very small for
2 beds. We paid Rs.7,500/ for 3 beds. Slowly we were settling down with all necessary
items.
Business was going on quite good, with Photography and Video Library. I had one
office boy to help me to look after library and also to hold the Video light while shooting
movie, and his name was Jitu who worked for me for nearly 3 to 4 years.
In February/March 1988, I contacted 3 big hotels for hiring of my video Cassettes,
i.e. Hotel Welcomgroup, Hotel Surya Palace, and Hotel Express. They had T.V. Sets In
each room and through their engineering room they used to show movies nearly 6 to their
customers for the whole day. I thought if they hire 6 cassettes every day then the business
will be very good. But unfortunately they had already tied up with other libraries. I also
asked if they would like to hire T.V. and V.C.R. for conference purpose. At Hotel
Welcomgroup I was asked to contact Banquet department for the same.
I went to Banquet department and thereafter they started giving me order for T.V.
and V.C.R. for their conference purpose. One day as I entered their conference room
Chandarwa hall, I saw one projector placed in the room. For the sake of curiosity I asked
Jayesh who was handling the Banquet department, as to what is this projector, how does
it work, and where do you get it from. He told me its known as Over Head Projector.
Usually the speaker brings transparencies A 4 size, they put it on the top glass and the
image is reflected on the screen, so that all seating in conference room can watch what is
displayed on the screen. Further I asked how much does it cost and where do they get it
from and what are the hiring charges for the same. Jayesh told me the cost is nearly
Rs.5,000/, they bring it from Bhatt & Co., situated near Mandvi area in centre of city and
we pay them hiring charges Rs.150/ per day. I further asked if I buy the said projector
will they hire the said projector from me also. Jayesh said definitely, we will help you ,
and at the same time it will be good for us as the projector will be completely new and as
you are situated just opposite our Hotel , it will be very easy for us also to give orders and
enjoy your services.
In month of June 1988 I made up my mind to buy one after consulting my family. I
went to Bombay and bought one from there (make Photophone) which was Rs. 4,750/
plus tax and Octroi at Vadodara entry post. Totally it cost me nearly Rs. 5,000/ plus. Now
this was another new business, but I had made up my mind not to say to anyone nor have
an opening party for the same. Just start the business with the same as soon as orders are
received and do the business silently without any propaganda. I started receiving orders
for the same from Hotel Welcomgroup, and I even told same to Hotel Express and they
also started giving orders.
Luckily within six months I got so many orders that I recovered the full cost for
the said projector. My family and I were quite happy for the same, thinking that this new
business will fetch some good returns in future. I was not knowing what this Overhead
Projector is and I just went into the said business without any knowledge, thinking if I try
I may succeed and make some money. Thereafter I asked Jayesh now what do you think I
should buy as another product. Jayesh told me you may buy Slide Projector (Kodak), I was
familiar with slide projector because I had one manual slide projector in Zambia to watch
my own personal slides.
Again I went to Bombay to buy slide projector, well I made enquiries for Kodak
Slide Projector and the cost was Rs.23,000/. It was beyond my limit, so I saw another
make i.e. Kinderman with a straight tray that could carry 50 slides at a time in one tray,
and the cost was Rs.11,500/. This seemed to be reasonable so I phoned Baroda and talked
with Jayesh, telling him the difference in price for both the projectors. Jayesh told me no
problem buy Kinderman and then in future you may go for Kodak. I bought Kinderman
Projector and the hiring charges were Rs.200/ per shift. This also fetched me some good
money and after another six months I was ready to buy something else. Those days only
Overhead Projectors, Slide Projectors, T.V., V.C.R. and P. A. System were in use for all
type of conference, meetings and training programs. Now I was told to buy P. A. System,
which contains one amplifier, two speakers, and four mikes with stands and long wires.
This I bought locally from Deepak Agency in the city, make Ahuja Amplifier, and
Ahuja Mikes and Speakers I got it made locally to match the Amplifier. Totally the cost
was nearly Rs.9,000/ to 10,000/. Now I was fully equipped with all the products for
conference purpose. I was doing very well and if I had to supply all the items in one
conference at one place, I had to sit there for the full day to see that nothing goes wrong
and to change the equipments as and when required by the speaker.
I started making good money and at the same time I used to put some aside for
future requirements for the said products. I started contacting other Hotels in town and by
1988/1989 I used to get orders from all over. I had to increase my inventory i.e. Assets to
cop up with my orders with other parties. I bought another Overhead Projector and also
Slide Projector and one more T.V. Business was picking up very fast as there was no
competitor in whole of town. If we were busy with orders, Rakhee or Sagar had to rush to
fulfill the order or even at times Hema had to go and deliver the same. Now we all were
engaged actively full time in this business.
To increase my customers, I printed Quotations with all the necessary equipments
with price, the price for private customers were a bit more for hiring compare to what I
used to charge to Hotels. This is because I did not want to spoil hotel business as well as
my terms with the Hotel management. I started getting private customers who used to
hold meetings in their private Companies.
1988/1989 was another though year for Rakhee as she had board exams for 12th
standard. For 12th standard she had to undergo private tuitions for Maths, Science and
English, all at different places, I could easily manage for the fees for the said classes, but
she had tough time going on cycle at all different places and in all type of weather. She
managed very well and got through with good percentage. She was very confused as to
what line she should take, either Fine Arts, Architecture, Physiotherapy, and so on.
1st she had a call from School of Architecture, she appeared for the test and out of
535 students only 36 students were selected and Rakhee was one of them. The college
started and she attended for few days. Thereafter she got call from Physiotherapy
department, she and Hema went for an interview to Ahmedabad. She for keen for the said
line and as she got admission they paid the fees and submitted all the original papers at
local office.
Now after coming to Baroda she was confused either to go for Architecture or for
physiotherapy. The Dean at School of Architecture came to know that she might go for
Physiotherapy, so he called me and told me why is Rakhee thinking of going for
physiotherapy. We have selected her out of 535 students, she is brilliant in this line then
how can you allow her to go for any other line. Now Rakhee was totally confused, she
took advice from few of our friends and also when she was in Ahmedabad some of our
relatives told her how can you go for physiotherapy when you have got admission for
architecture. She was told even if you work for full day massaging all your patients you
will not earn as much as you can being an Architect. Secondly she was told only sick
people will come to you all the time and spoil your mood.
Now she wanted to select Architecture but it was too late as all the original
papers were submitted for physiotherapy. The Dean at School of Architect told us, she can
carry on her classes down here, and we should again go to Ahmedabad write a letter for
cancellation of admission for physiotherapy , and get all the papers back and submit the
same at local office at school of Architect. I had to go 3 or 4 times to Ahmedabad for the
same and luckily I got the papers before 1st term and submitted at School of Architect.
As the School of Architecture was very far from our residence and she used to get
tired on cycle, I thought of buying her one Luna Moped. After buying Luna Moped, I told
her I am buying this Moped for you because you are getting tired so you must ride very
safe and if possible at the speed of a cycle. She was quite happy and enjoyed going to
college. In the first year she had dislocation of her knee, she was just trying to seat on her
friends moped and her knee got dislocated. She had to stay home for nearly one and half
month. All her friends used to come home and solve lessons which they studied at college.
Luckily she was ok and she also passed her 1st year with good percentage.
My hiring business for conference equipments was picking up very well, and
video cassette was not that good and I had to go on investing for every new movie that is
released. Video Cassette business being very slow and at the same time raids from Police
department for duplicate cassettes, I thought its right time to close down before I invest
lot of money in the said business. I took immediate decision, closed down the said
business and disposed off as many cassettes as possible to other friends and libraries.
Now I had two businesses in hand, one conference equipments and other photography.
Both the business were going on very well, we had no more problems for day to day
expense, we could even afford luxury items. I could also do some saving out of these two
businesses.
1988/1989 and 1990 everything was running very smoothly. Sagar was doing very
well in School for his junior classes. He passed with a good % from Std. 4th to Std 9th.
Now 1990/1991 was a tough year for Sagar being Board exam for standard 10th. Sagar was
good at studies, but being 10th standard he too had attended Lulla classes for English,
Science and Maths. He passed with a good percentage and got admission in same school
for standard 11.
In 1990 I was very lucky to get my other installment remaining money from
Zambia. This was nearly Rs.90,000/ full and final payment. I had to keep reminding
through one of my friend staying in Zambia in the year 1989, so finally I got it in 1990.
Around June to August one of my friend Pravin Patel came to India from USA. He visited
me several times as he was staying in Baroda with one of his friend. He was joking with
me why don’t you come to USA, Arvindbhai (a friend) and I will see that you settle down
in USA. I also told him well I am ready, when should I come, if you say I will definitely
come after Diwali. He told me, I am going back before Diwali and will see you in USA
after Diwali. He told me we will try for White Card, which is a type of residence card or
will try for H1B visa for a job. I told ok, will see and contact you for the same.
I thought as we are not fully settle down and satisfied, with present business,
specially photography which was very tiring, why not to give a try for USA and if
everything goes well we all can migrate to USA for good. Photography business was a
headache, at time for marriages Video shooting I had to go out of Baroda many times and
also do video shooting for nearly 22 hours nonstop. After coming back I had to take rest
for a day or two.
Due to my final installment from Zambia Rs. 90,000/ I thought I should give a try
for USA. I set with my family and discussed in detail for the same and estimated nearly
Rs.35 to 40 thousand for trip to USA. I told, I will go for 3 months and see if it is worth
will settle down and then call all three of you as soon as possible. I started preparing for
Visa, Tickets and foreign currency. I had no problem with Visa and did not even go to
Embassy as I had once visited USA in 1980. My tickets and also foreign exchange were ok
in time. I took only USA $ 500 with me.
Immediately after Diwali I went to USA (California) for the first time at this part
of the world. I Stayed with Pravin at his motel. Then we obtained a form for white card, a
kind of resident card. There were 36 questions to be answered, and only one question true
i.e. name, and other questions bogus and false. After filling up form we had to go to local
Immigration office and pay USA $ 6,000 (Illegal) as fees for obtaining the white card. It
was 100% risky job as all questions were wrongly answered, and by chance if you are
caught by immigration officer, you will land up in jail or face any other problems.
I told my friend Pravin and Arvindbhai I am not at all interested in obtaining
white card illegally, I will forget and go back to India, and also forget what I have spend
for coming here, but I am not interested in this manner. If something happens to me whole
my family will suffer in India. Then we met a Lawyer and asked for H1B visa facilities.
Since I was educated, that was possible if I get an employment letter from any company
who requires my services. The fees were nearly USA $ 1000, that was not an issue, but
there were conditions for H1B visa during those days. If government issues my H1B Visa, I
cannot leave the country for 3 complete years whatever the circumstances. And after
getting H1B visa my salary was going to be only maximum USA $ 1000, which would not
have been sufficient for me to leave in USA as well send some money to India for
Domestic expenses in India. Secondly if I can’t come for 3 years to India whatever the
reason, again my family would have suffered and both Rakhee and Sagar were still
students. All my family would have to look after my running business for 3 years which
would be impossible along with the studies.
I gave up the idea for USA totally, and went to Canada to see how likely chances
are there to settle down in Canada. There was no chance in Canada as they were very
strict with immigration laws. After 3 weeks I came back to USA and from there I went to
London. There were no likely chances in London also for settlement. Finally after nearly
three and half months I decided to come back to India, as my family were suffering a lot in
handling the business and the kids had to run around for business leaving their studies.
Being 10th standard for Sagar it was very tough for him to move around, but he still
managed very well.
The day when I landed at Baroda after 40 hours journey in evening my family had
taken an order for Video shooting at MS University Hall. Same day of my landing I was
back in my business from 6 p.m. to 11p.m. For three months my Video Shooting business
was nil as I was the only one looking after the same. When I was in USA I had decided if
Rakhee and Sagar are interesting for going to USA after graduation, I will definitely try
my best and settle both of them in USA. whatever be the circumstances.
The only alternative now was to concentrate in my present business and try to
expand as much as possible and invest money in new inventories and equipments. My way
of advertising my business was quite different, I took up yellow pages directory, looked
for some big companies within Vadodara and started writing them letters with quotations
regarding my conference equipments. I started getting good response. There was no one
doing same business like mine, in Ankleshwar, Bharuch, Surat, Nadiad, Anand, Rajkot and
all nearby areas. I started getting orders from all above places. Business started expanding
and now I had to keep nearly 5 Overhead Projectors, 3 Slide Projectors and so on.
After coming from USA my employee Jitu who had worked for me nearly more
than 3 years, wanted to leave as he was getting double salary then what I was giving and
he wanted to go as a Car Driver for some private party. I told well that’s very good, you
may go for better prospects and I will look for someone to replace your duties. There was
one Mr. Sony Thakur jobless seating here and there at Bombay Shopping Centre, so one
Mr. Chetan Megani asked me if I could employee Sony in my Shop as he is interested in
doing job at your place. Chetanbhai told me it will be ok if you give him Rs.1200/ salary
per month. I checked, he had his family, wife and two small kids. My wife Hema told
1200/ is very less, I should give 1500/ and then rise after 3 months if he is ok with the
job. I called Sony explained him all the duties and told him I will pay you Rs.1500/ per
month for 3 months and if I find that you are ok with the job I will rise your salary to
Rs.1,800/ per month. He was quite happy and so he started the job very next day. I was
also happy as I had assistant immediately as soon as Jitu left.
In 1991 Sagar completed his 10th standard with good percentage, and now we
were running around for his admission to classes for Physics/Chemistry, Maths, and so
on, for 11th and 12th standard as he wanted to go for Science subjects. Luckily he got
admission where he wanted. He was ok for another 2 years.
In 1991 I had been to Bombay. Dineshbhai told me that Adhir (his son) had a
Yamaha motor bike, which he used while he was in Bombay, after he has migrated to USA,
the bike remains unused. He asked me to take it to Baroda. I had no problem so I bought
the Bike to Baroda. I used it when I travelled single and used Morris Car when the whole
family had to go out.
1991/1992 we were going on very well in business, I was doing both Hiring
conference equipments and also Photography. 1992 onwards I gave up video shooting and
photography, reason being my cameras were being outdated and new latest products had
already arrived in market and it was difficult to carry on with competition in market with
old outdated products. Secondly new were very expensive and I was not interested in
investing for the same as I wanted to increase my Conference equipments business, and
lastly it was a very tiring business. My age at that time was 52 years and it was not
advisable to stay whole day out for photography facing all types of climate. Now my only
business was conference equipments and I was interested in investing money in the latest
equipments for conference purpose.
My wife had a dispensary at Gotri area. When I was in USA she had stopped
going to dispensary for more than 3 months, and when I came back she told she is not
interested in going to dispensary as it is not picking up very well. We thought of
disposing it off and utilize the same money for my present business. We got a customer
immediately and sold the same for Rs.72,000/. Now I had enough money in hand this
plus the money which I had received from Zambia before I went to USA.
Whole of 1992/1993 we were not doing anything extra as Sagar was very busy
with his 12th standard exams. We all were interested that he should pass with good
percentage so that he get admission in Electronics which was his most liking subject. We
did not even take cable connection for TV programs since Sagar was in 12th standard.
Sagar worked hard and he passed his 12th standard with good percentage nearly 82/83%.
When the exams were running, Sagar had very big problem during his 1st day, He
was writing his paper and during last 10 minutes he asked for a supplementary paper, and
he was refused by the examiner telling now the time is nearly over and there is no
supplementary papers in stock. Due to this problem he had to leave a question of 15 marks
in which he could score full marks. He was totally upset, had lot of arguments with the
examiner (the shortage of supplementary papers in the hall was due to back door supply
by examiner to students friend outside the hall, who used to fill up answers illegally.)
After 6 p.m. we had lot of arguments with the Principal also but all in vain.
Thereafter at night we went to News paper press and gave whole article in the
paper to appear in next day paper. Early morning we also went to School Principal and
City Collector and explained everything to them, they also told it is unfair but we can’t do
anything now, but will see that it will not happen for other papers. They kept Police squad
all round the school from very next day and very strict with anybody going in or out of
the school. No one except the students allowed to enter the school. All the parents who
had paid illegal money for their students to copy in exam had to suffer a lot.
From very next day there was no shortage of any supplementary papers and all
the students had no problem what so ever.
After the exams we all four went on a holiday for 17 days to Bombay, Pune,
Mahableshwar. Panchgini and so on and also did lot of shopping from Fashion street in
Bombay.
Sagar was absolutely keen to go for Electronics subjects and our friends used to
tell me as well as to Sagar not to go for Electronics, either go for Electrical or Mechanical
Engineering. But Sagar was firm for Electronics and he told me if Electronics had no value
when he passes he will look after Family Business but he will go for Electronics only. We
went for his admission at Ahmedabad and when his turn was nearby, there were 5
students left on waiting list and only 2 seats remaining for Electronics. We were worried
whether he will get admission or not. Luckily Sagar got admission in Electronics as other
four students took admission in other courses as per their requirements.
We paid the fees immediately and he started his college at Vadodara MS
University. He was doing very well, he had very nice group of friends all with very high
percentage and all staying very near to our house.
In 1992/1993 there was a new item in the market for conference purpose known as
Video Projector, 3 gun projector. The item was very huge and also very heavy in weight,
nearly 40 kg. I went to Bombay for demonstration as well as for further enquiry. I was
interested, but the cost was nearly Rs.2,25,000/ very high for my budget and also we
require nearly 3 to 4 people to carry to take it to the site. I just gave up the idea for the
same as it was beyond my limit. I thought I will go for something light and single gun
projector when it is introduced in the market.
Fortunately in mid 1993 I saw an ad in TV showing very compact single gun Video
Projector manufactured by Sharp Company, introduced for the first time in world market.
It was hardly 3 to 4 kg in weight and only 12"L,9"B,7"H. I made enquiry and again went to
Bombay for the same, I got a quotation for Rs.1,43,000/ planning to obtain loan from
Bank for the same. I submitted papers to the Bank and was waiting for the reply.
In December 1993, I had a friend who had come from USA Dr. Pradeep Mistry and
his wife. We were moving around at National Plaza for shopping purpose, it was one the
best shopping place in Baroda during those days. Luckily I saw the same single gun video
projector in one of the shops, Sharp 310, on 29th December 1993. I entered inside and
asked for the price, I was told it is Rs.82,000/. I was totally surprised with the difference
in price between Baroda and Bombay. I immediately booked the same and told the shop
owner not to sell it to any one, I will come and pick up the same within few days. I had
enough money so I need not go for loan now and luckily one of Sagar’s friend staying next
to us was a relative of the said shop owner. We went with him with the Cheque book on
3rd January 1994, and bought it at Rs.78,000/ after negotiation.
I was the first one to introduce the said projector in whole of Baroda for hiring
purpose. I started advertising and also started giving live demonstration to customers and
Hotel management. I had fixed Rs.2,000/ rent for the same for one shift. I started
receiving order and now the business was picking up fast giving me enough money what I
used to get for photography. Everyone was quite happy with the said product.
In the year 1993 I was also interested for buying one Kodak Carousal Slide
Projector as it was in high demand for conference purpose. The cost for the same was
Rs.90,000/ approximately in India, which was again too high for my budget, and we
could fetch Rs.750/ maximum as rent for one shift. Luckily my brother Mahesh was
coming from USA with his family, during November 1993. I asked him if he could bring
one Kodak Slide Projector from USA with him and I will pay him in full for the same as I
knew it is very cheap down there. He did bring one, but it was 110 V , but no problems as
I could get a transformer done step down from 240V to 110 V, and the cost of the said
projector was only Rs.17,500/. All my customers were very happy with the product. My
inventories for equipments started increasing and so my income also started increasing
day by day as well as my business.
In January 1994, Mahesh had arranged one 8 days Grand Puja at Chanasma village
near Ahmedabad, very well know place for our family, (my father when he was very
young had a dream for the said place, and he had been there for Puja and since that day
till his death he had no problems for money. Fathers name is in local book of that Derasar
in Chanasma). Whole of our family as well as relatives attended this puja for eight days.
Sagar and Hema were there for all eight days. Rakhee and I used to go and come, I went
for three times for the said puja , as I was too busy in business down here. Well this puja
helped our family extremely, business in that month i.e. January 1994 was highest since
1984, and my total income in January alone was nearly Rs.44,000/ for one month which
was very good during those days, and since 1994 till today I have not faced any problems
for money in my life. Today also I visit Chanasma (Bhatewa Parswanath) God in that
temple as and when time permits, and our whole family does the same nearly every year.
1993/1994 Rakhee was in her Final 5th year of Architect. She had to work very
hard sometimes 2 to 3 full day and night for making models and drawings for her project.
We had one house totally empty No 44 just opposite our house and there she was working
full time with her 3 to 4 friends. She was working hard to obtain a Gold medal in her final
year. Unluckily she stood 2nd and lost the chance for the Gold Medal. We all had been to
her college at the time of submission of her project, and it was very nice experience as we
had not seen such a gathering before.
In forth year when Rakhee had to go for 6 months internship, Hema was just
going around our office building and next building she saw one Architects firm, she went
there and asked if they were interested in a assistant for 6 months internship, and that’s
how Rakhee got a job for 6 months down there for her internship, just very next door.
After Rakhee finished her graduation in India, she was planning for further
studies and trying to get admission at a USA University. She started applying to nearly 6
University, and for the same she had to make folders with her complete work and
photographs. Each folder cost was nearly Rs. 5,000/ and total cost was nearly Rs.30,000/
plus other nominal expenses. Luckily she got the admission and during those days we had
to show nearly USA $ 8,000 in our Bank Balance or get Sponsor letter for the same. Well
showing balance in our bank was next to impossible, and we tried for sponsor letter from
several people, but in vain. We needed a sponsor letter only to enter the USA country,
thereafter I could manage everything, but that too was not available. I told Rakhee let’s
forget, at present I can’t help you, but will see what we can do in future for you.
Thereafter Rakhee took up job in Baroda and she was doing very well in her job. She
learned a lot in her job and had very good practical knowledge.
Business was running very good, day by day picking up and having new
customers from all over Gujarat. Regarding my conference equipments specially,
Overhead Projectors, Slide Projectors, T.V. , V.C.R., old projectors and so on, I used to sell
it every 2 years and buy latest with new technology so that all my customers were very
happy with new products. Now there was a demand for Hi Lumen Overhead Projector, i.e.
5000 Lumens (brightness), and the cost for the same was Rs. 32,000/. To fulfill my
customers demand I had to buy one and bought the same on 12th March 1996. The hiring
charges for the same were Rs. 500/ per shift.
In the year 1996, after completing 25 years of marriage, we gave a small party to
our friends (nearly 50) at Sayaji Hotel to celebrate our 25th Anniversary (Silver Jubilee).
Had a very nice time and also very good remembrances.
In 1996 again new product came in market known as LCD Panel, which could be
connected to Computer or Laptop via VGA Cable, and this Panel had to be placed on Hi
Lumen Overhead Projector for image to be reflected on screen size 6' x 4'. This was new
technology where computer image could be reflected on screen and at the same time, 100
to 200 participations could watch the program. This panel could also connect to a VCR or
CD player. The cost was Rs.1,80,000/, I had to buy the same, and again I was the first to
introduce this product for customers in Baroda. My customers were very happy and I did
very good business with this LCD Panel. The charges in beginning were Rs.3,500/ per
shift, and the customers used to pay happily that too in advance to book the same.
I made very good profit out of this Panel. My employee Sony and myself used to
look after this product personally and not allow anyone else to handle the same, and we
used to seat on site for the whole day till the meeting lasted. I used to get very good time
on site for reading magazines or story books, for passing time.
At the same time we used to enjoy Hotel 5 Star Lunch offered to us by our
customers.
After completing we performed one Puja at our office and invited many Jain
friends, relatives and all from Bombay shopping shops. Everyone appreciated the work
well done by Rakhee, it was really amazing and very neat and clean place with very
attractive steps for going upstairs. It was planned in such a way that if Sagar wants to
start anything in this office in future he can seat in ground floor office, and nearly 8 to 10
staff upstairs, Plus reception and so on.
The shop was also designed in such a way that it could be converted into three
different parts, because it had 3 different doors on three sides for entry. Two doors in
front for two shops of 125 sq ft each on ground floor, and side door could be used to go
upstairs for upper entry, without disturbing ground floor office.
In 1st week of march 1997, one of my friend brought a Maruti Suzuki 800 Car,
secondhand for sale, he showed it to me and told me it is in very good condition, driven
by one lady in Baroda only and has never gone out of Baroda. It was original Suzuki from
Japan in 1986. It was 11 years old but perfect in condition, and only 57,000 kilometers on
clock. The price she was asking was Rs.90,000/. I was interested in the same as I wanted
one for going out of Baroda, as well as for Rakhee and Sagar to move around, because
Morris was not good enough for going out of Baroda. Plus this was an A.C. car. I drove it
to our residence and gave a surprise to my family telling them I have bought this car.
Then I told well I am joking, I wanted to know if you all like this car I am interested in
buying the same for our family. Everyone liked it and we negotiated the price and got it
for Rs.82,000/. I bought the Suzuki Car on 10th March, 1997. I had enough money on
hand during those days as business was very good. Now we had two cars, two motorbikes
and one moped. Now I started living luxuriously as I used to live in Zambia. Lifestyle was
changing day after day.
Rakhee was already doing job and earning normal salary. Sagar also was looking
for a job and he was interested in one company known as Matrix, dealing in
telecommunication. The salary in Baroda was nearly 7 to 8 thousand per month and in
Bangalore his friends used to get nearly 15 to 16 thousand per month. I told him well if
you want to go to Bangalore I don’t mind, but seat and do the calculations, if you go there
you will have to rent a house, plus transport, plus food expenses all that will be nearly 7
to 8 thousand and you will be remaining with what you will get here per month. So it’s
better you stay here, you will save your full salary as I don’t want a single penny for
domestic expenses and secondly you will also enjoy with family and good family food. He
understood and he also told I am not interested in staying away from family and specially
mother.
Sagar wanted to work for Matrix company and no other company, so I told him
you go for a interview and tell the owner there that you are interested in working for
them. Also tell them if you have no vacancy, I will just come on my own and will not
accept any salary for the same, as I want to learn something new at your company and
have practical knowledge.
The owner told if you don’t take salary how are you going to survive, Sagar
replied, well my father is in business and I am not worried about money, I am just
interested in knowledge. Thereafter he was offered the job and they also offered him
salary of Rs. 7,000/ per month. He started the job immediately and he as well as his
bosses seemed to be very happy with each other. Most of his college friends had gone to
USA for further studies and when we used to tell him why are you not trying for yourself.
He used to say I am not interested in leaving this family and go to settle down in USA. I
am quite happy down here and don’t want to leave my mother.
In 1997 I employed another employee and is name was Rajiv, this is because
business was expanding, Sony alone could not handle moving around when the orders
were many. Rajiv was new to Baroda, he came from a village and did not know anything,
slowly I trained him, showed him all the places in Baroda and he started getting used to
business and well as conference equipments.
Sagar worked for nearly one and half year with Matrix company, and he was not
very satisfied with the terms and conditions. Salary was not moving up at all, and
working hours were abnormal. Morning he had to go at 10 a.m. but no fix time for coming
back, sometimes even late night, may be 12 midnight or 1 a.m.
His friends from USA started forcing him to leave the job in India and come to
USA on students Visa, one of his friend also dispatched application form for admission as
a student at University of Southern California. The fees were nearly Rs.15 to Rs.17 lacs for
two years course. He asked me what to do, I told well if you are interested you may fill up
application form and we will manage for the funds, you need not worry. He filled up the
form and also got admission for the said university. Now we had to prepare a file with all
the documents for obtaining Visa, and show that much amount in our Bank Balance, We
got house and shop Valuation certificate, plus all Tax papers, plus Bank Balances and so
on for obtaining Visa. We had to take loan from Sagars friend plus my friends to show
enough balance as we ourselves did not have that much money. Sagar got appointment for
Visa call, Sagar and I went to Bombay for Visa purpose, Sagar handed over the file to
embassy, unfortunately while going through the file, the Lady officer dropped main paper
of income on floor, and as she could not trace the same in file she refused the Visa.
Sagar was very upset, we came back to Baroda and Sagar was telling I am not
interested for another 6 months, I told nothing doing we are going again next week for the
same and if you are refused again we will see what to do. Meanwhile to pass one week I
told Hema, Rakhee and Sagar to go on Jatra at Sankeshwar and so on and after one week
we will go again to Bombay. Next time Haman and Sagar went for Visa, luckily he was
offered Visa without any problems. I did not tell any of my relatives or friends that I am
trying to send Sagar to USA for studies.
I was not interested in disclosing as I knew I am not going to get any help from
anywhere. Once he got Visa in hand, first we phoned our elder brother Dineshbhai at
Borivali and told that I am sending Sagar to USA for further studies. Well everyone in my
family got very surprised, how did I manage for the money as well as the Visa for U S A .
Sagar had another problem now from his employers, they were not ready to
release him. On the other hand they told they will cancel his Visa and stop him from going
to USA. We had to contact a Lawyer, and the Lawyer said he cannot do anything and even
if he does something, USA government is not going to listen anything from him. The
lawyer told us you make all the arrangements, and quietly leave the country. And luckily
there was no problem and Sagar could go very safely in time. I had send him bit earlier
during Christmas time before the college opens, as he could get used to local atmosphere
and also enjoy Christmas.
In the beginning I gave him USA $ 9,700 for his fees as well as six months general
expenses. After 6 months I had send him another installment for fees and for domestic
expenses there. After 6 months he could manage on his own as he got a job at the
university where he was studying. For last month fees, he took a local loan of USA $ 6000
which he paid immediately after completing his studies. He got a job at the college
interview with Ericson Company, dealing with hardware and software in
telecommunication, where he was very much interested.
From the 1st installment of his salary he paid off USA $ 6000/ loan which he had
taken. Company paid him nearly USA $ 20,000 as shifting amount for going to San Diego
and start job down there. Two years while he was in college, he had three local friends of
Baroda with him, staying with him all the time and they all four enjoyed very well
regarding studies as well as, food and moving around. For two years while Sagar was
studying in USA we three in Baroda had to live very economically, no unnecessary
expenses as we have to save as much as possible and send it to Sagar for his fees and other
expenses in case he needs anything.
As the business was expanding and lot of demand for Video Projector, I had one
already, but I had to buy another Sharp Video Projector Model 348 a better quality in 1998.
Some times in Doctors meeting we had to put two at a time one showing pictures and
other details in writing for the said picture. My income also started increasing slowly with
new products.
January 1999, Sony came to me and told me he is interested in leaving the job
from 31st January 1999. I told well that was ok. As per my nature in my business I never
have removed anyone from employment, nor have I asked them why they want to leave
the job. I just accepted their resignation without any question. Sony was under the
impression that he might get better job elsewhere, but unfortunately after trying with two
to three companies dealing in same business as mine they refused him a job. They said we
cannot pay you what Mr. Shah used to pay, and secondly you are too old for this type of
job as there is lot of running around. Well he had to suffer a lot thereafter and literally he
did not have money to run his domestic expenses. Everyone used to tell him he made a big
mistake, and it was too late now, as I had already employed a new gentleman in his
capacity.
The new employee was Hemant, and he was introduced by Ashwin our next door
employee at Swiss Watch Company. Slowly he got used to my business and all the
equipments and now he as well as Rajiv used to look after the order very well. If there
were more orders, I had to run around, otherwise they two were enough for the job.
There was a new product in market known as LCD Multimedia Projector, this was
replacing LCD Panel with much better quality. This new Projector was similar to Video
Projector, single lens, and easy to carry, and could accept Computer, DVD, VCR, Camera,
TV and so on, all in one. Hiring charges for the same were Rs.4 to Rs.5 thousand per shift.
Cost was nearly 3 to 4 lacs per piece, which was beyond my capacity.
In the beginning when I used to get order, I used to hire the same from
Ahmedabad, as there was no one in Baroda having that projector. I used to get commission
of nearly Rs.500/ to Rs.1000/ depending what I have charged the local customer. So I
worked out how many times I get order in a month, and what are the possibilities for
buying one for business. Thereafter in 1998 I bought one Sharp Model 3795 LCD
Multimedia Projector from Videoman Ahmedabad and I paid Rs. 2,75,000/ for the same, I
paid in three installments. I was all alone having this type of projector in Baroda, so I
could charge nearly Rs.4000/ to Rs.6,000/ per shift depending on the customer. I was
doing very well in business as I had nearly all new and latest types of conference
equipments.
In 1997 when Sagar finished his final exams for BE Electronics, he gave surprise to
me and Hema. Sagar through his Scott Sir who was also engaged in Travel Business, he
booked tickets as well as accommodation for Hema and I for Sasan Gir and Verawal for
nearly 6 to 8 days, and came home and told well now I am free, I will look after the
business for a few days, you both go on holiday and enjoy yourself. Rakhee and I will stay
here alone and look after home as well as business. So we went on holiday for few days
and enjoyed as it was our first time going on this route.
Sagar when he started his job at Matrix in Baroda, out of his first salary, he went
for shopping and bought one sari for mummy, one tie and belt for me and a dress for
Rakhee. I told well thanks very much, since this is your first salary I am not saying
anything, but in future you have to deposit your full salary in your bank account and
accumulate so that it may be helpful to you in future for one or the other reason. There is
enough money out of our business every month, for all four of us to enjoy in all respect.
You as well as Rakhee have to save as much as possible.
In the year 1998 and 1999, I made good profit and out of which I was sending to
Sagar at USA as well as saving as much as possible. In May 2000, Sagar and Shrenik son of
Adhir came to India for a holiday as Sagar completed his studies. Sagar had told me in
advance that when he comes in May, he would like to go out for holiday, instead of
staying in Baroda at home. I had booked all the tickets in advance for our holiday trip to
north. As soon as both of them came, we went to Delhi, Manali, Dalhousie, Dharamshala,
Kulu and from there back to Delhi and Agra. We all five of us had very nice holiday for
nearly 17 to 20 days in all. Sagar was also fresh after his two years of hard work for
studying in USA.
After Sagar left for USA again to join his Job at Ericson, we were back to normal
with our duties. In August 2000, there was a meeting and launch for new Car at Asian
Motors and I was called by the owner for the same with my LCD Multimedia Projector, to
place in showroom and show to public new model of Matiz Passenger Car, 800 cc,
imported Korean manufactured. I personally was very much impressed with the model. I
immediately phoned my wife Hema and Rakhee and told them to come to the show room.
They came, they also saw the car, we took test drive, and I told Hema and Rakhee, as our
Maruti is too old now, why not to go for this new car.
The Cost was Rs. 3,65,000/ all inclusive, Taxes plus RTO and Insurance. I had
that much money in UTI Bank as Fixed deposit and was getting interest at 13% per annum.
Luckily the owner told me that if you are interest to buy this car, you will have to pay Rs.
55,000/ down payment and we can arrange Rs.3,10,000/ loan from bank for 3 years
installments. We agreed on the spot and I also tried for Loan from my Bank ABN Amro
and they were also prepared to give me for 3 years and the interest worked out nearly Rs.
58,000/ for 3 years, I immediately took the loan and got the delivery of the said car on
31st August 2000. Installment being Rs. 12,800/ per month for 3 years.
Dineshbhai my elder brother was very happy to see my progress and told
everyone in Bombay that Kirish has brought Zambia to India, meaning that he is now
enjoying all the luxuries that he used to enjoy in Zambia. After 15 years from 1984 to 2000,
now I think I was very well settled down in India. Now I was owner of 3 cars in India,
Morris, Maruti, and Matiz. I was interested in selling the Maurti and was offered
Rs.50,000/ nearly for the same, but my wife Hema told me you are not selling that car,
you give it to Rakhee as she has to move all around Baroda for her work and it’s too hard
to move on Moped. So we kept that car and Rakhee was using the same and Moped was
used by office employees.
Matiz was a excellent car and also had a very good road grip and nice to move
outside Baroda also. Some of the relatives were under the impression that Sagar must have
send money for the car, as he started his job in USA.. Sagar also brought a brand new car
for himself Toyota Corolla and got rid of his old car.
My present LCD Multimedia Sharp 3795 was getting old now and new models
were coming in market with better Lumens and Resolutions. Customers were also
interested with new products. I was also planning to change and buy a new product.
Beginning of 2001 I saw one advertisement for Sharp PGC20X, very compact
model only 3 kg weight and 1000 Lumens and Resolution 1024 x 786. I was interested with
the model, and I contacted the dealer L & T Ltd. They told me this has been just launched
in India for the first time by Sharp Manufacturers. I told I am interested and the Price was
Rs. 2,75,000/, I placed the order by seeing only the advertisement and got the delivery on
30th March 2001. You know what, I was very lucky for the said model, and I was told by
the company that I am the first owner in whole of India to have this product. Sharp
Business Systems (India) Ltd, also gave me in writing a letter on 7th May, 2001,
congratulating me for being first owner in India. Because of this they also gave me one
Sharp Fax machine costing nearly Rs. 18 to 20 thousand free as a Gift. I was very proud for
the same, and at the same time there was an article in India Express Newspaper on 8th
May, 2001, regarding this projector and my company profile as to how I started this
business and how I expanded the same. Both the letter from Sharp as well as the article in
Indian Express I am printing herewith for reference purpose. All my customers were very
happy with this new product and I used to charge nearly Rs. 3,500/ to Rs. 4,000/ per
shift and for the other sharp model 3795 I reduced hiring charges as it was now old
model.
In the month of August 2001 ICICI Bank contacted me and asked me to furnish
them with the names and address of my customers. I asked why what is the reason, they
told me they have just launched new kind of loan known as Business loan, and would like
to give loan to those customers who are interested in buying LCD Multimedia Projectors. I
told him well you have customer right in front of you, I am myself interested for the same,
and if you could please come and see me personally.
Next day he came to my office with all the details, and I told him there is new
product of Sharp LCD Multimedia projector just launched in India, Model No PGC30X,
with 1700 lumens, two VGA inputs, and resolution 1280 x 800. (This type of projector was
asked by one of my customer at ORG for their meetings) The gentle man of ICICI Bank
told me well if you want the same please get one quotation and your 3 years of Tax
returns, your identity, plus residence proof and so on. Very next day I got everything
ready and called the gentlemen of ICICI Bank, he took the papers and within three days
got my loan approved through their head office.
The price for the projector was Rs,3,46,800/ plus interest which came to
Rs.4,20,000/, I had to pay 6 installments in advance, of Rs.16,800/ and remaining 18
installments of Rs.16,800/ in 18 months. I calculated if this projector goes for 5 times in a
month I will be ok with the installment. I bought it and got delivery on 31st August 2001,
again I was the only one (first) in Baroda to have this model in my possession.
I had to work very hard for next two years as I had to pay the installments for the
car of Rs.12,800/ and another of Rs.16,800/ for the projector. Nearly Rs.30,000/ per
month as installments plus all other office and domestic expenses.
I had taken a big risk, but I was sure and had enough confidence that I will make
it and two of my employees Rajiv and Hemant worked hard to make sure we cover up all
the expenses.
First we contacted Dr. M.O. Shah skin specialist, on 30th Sept., 2000, and he told
its Psoriasis, and gave cortisone ointment medicine and some oral tablets, but instead of
improving it was getting worse. Then we contacted Dr. Shyam Verma another skin
specialist, on 19th January 2001, he started his treatment but he was not sure what it is,
but initially he started same cortisone ointment and oral tablets. Meantime we went to
Bombay on 23rd January 2001, and one of my friend suggested to contact his friend Dr.
Harvinder Singh Marwah who was also Skin specialist, he said it is Eczema, and medicine
he prescribed was same as Dr. S. Verma. Dr. Shyam Verma also could not cure and Hema
was worried it may be Skin Cancer. Dr S. Verma suggested we should have skin biopsy,
we did the same and it was found that I have Papular Mucinosis. After all this reports, Dr
Verma also could not cure me and as I had planned to go to USA in the month of May
2002. I asked Dr. Verma if it is possible for me to show to some skin specialist down there.
He gave me names of two Doctors one in San Diego where Sagar used to stay Dr. Steven
Emmet and another Dr.Kenneth Greer at Virginia.
As I was in San Diego first I contacted Dr Steven Emmet on 13th June 2002, he saw
me and then he saw reports of India. He told me all this reports from India are totally
bogus, there is nothing as they have mentioned. This skin problem has increased only
because of scratching all over through nail. If I cut your hand and leave it as it is, within
15 days everything will subside. He told me see I am going to apply very old theory,
ancient theory, and let’s see the result within one week. He also asked me to apply very
little of Tenovat ointment on effected parts when I go to sleep, and rap plastic paper on
the said ointment, leave it for whole night, remove it next morning and repeat with fresh
plastic paper following day for one whole week and see me again on 18th June 2002. I did
as he had instructed and went to see him on 18th. He was very surprised to see very good
improvement, he told well its nearly 40% to 50% improvement, continue for some time and
all will be clear.
Luckily on 21st June, 2002 I was in Virginia, I also contacted Dr Kenneth Greer, he
saw me and he also told me exactly what Dr. Steven Emmet told me and he also prescribed
the same medicine. By 2nd July 2002 I was totally normal and all clear, except black spots
all over the skin. Dr. Steven Emmet, told me well now you are ok, and leave the skin as it
is, and within 6 months all this black spots will disappear by itself. You need not apply
anything at present.
I did as I was advised by Dr. Steven and I was very happy as every spot got
cleared and skin was normal as before. In January 2003 Dr. Steven came to Bombay for
international conference, I went to see him specially to thank him as well as to give him
gift and show him my skin. He was extremely happy to see me down there and also very
happy to see that my skin is now normal and clear with all black spots.
In 2002 I also visited my friend Nayan at Cleveland to attend the marriage
ceremony of his two kids. My other friend Virendra also came from Bombay for the same
reason, and thereafter they came at Sagars place and we moved together for sightseeing.
My 2002 trip to USA was very successful. I was staying with Sagar and his 3 friends. His
friends also used to take me for sightseeing at times when Sagar was quite busy.
Evening I used to cook food for everyone as they used to come home after 7 p.m.
June 17th was Sagar’s Birthday and he had invited nearly 15 to 20 friends for dinner. After
lunch in afternoon, when nobody was at home , I started preparing Samosas because Sagar
liked it very much, I had prepared nearly 36 big samosas, and kept it in the warmer,
nobody knew that I have made samosas, When everyone sat for dinner, slowly I took out
the plate and gave a surprise to everyone. All were so shocked and at the same time very
happy to see so many samosas made by me all alone without any help.
I used to enjoy cooking down there and used to make different varieties every
day. Sagars friend used to enjoy my company and we used to play Badminton, Cards,
Chess and also Kite flying when we used to go for picnic. No one could bit me in Chess
and Badminton. I came back to India on August 2002.
After I came back from USA, Hema left for USA after Diwali. While she was in
USA, I bought one shop at Pusti complex very near to our house, just 5 minutes walking
distance. Our neighbour at Bombay shopping centre wanted to sell the same. I had bought
it for investment purpose, as I had to pay in installments. When Hema came back from
USA in the beginning of 2003, she saw this shop and got interested in opening a
dispensary for herself, so she could practice for couple of hours and pass time outside
residence, as she was getting bored whole day in house. She told Rakhee to develop the
place and make it look like a dispensary. Rakhee did the complete interior and it was
fantastic, whosoever saw the place were very much impressed with the interior, as well as
the furniture. We told Hema, well your dispensary is ready now, but you don’t have to
worry if you don’t get any patients. This is just for you to pass your time, and you must
use it as a sophisticated library, and keep reading all type of books and magazines. We
have not developed it for making money, but just for you to stay out of house for couple
of hours.
In 2003 at the time of pajusana, I performed fast on 1st day, and second day also I
thought of performing another fast, I told Hema and Rakhee not to prepare any food for
me, until I tell them. Two days passed very nicely so I wanted to continue and see if I can
perform 8 fast, i.e. Aathai, and luckily without any problem I could perform Aathai very
easily.
I was busy with my all regular duties, going to office regularly and also going and
coming to Derasar in morning and evening. I was so fit that no one in my society also
knew that I am performing Aathai. On 7th day we declared in society and to all relatives
that I have performed Aathai and going to celebrate on 9th day for Parana. I did not invite
any one from outside Baroda as it was difficult for them to come at short notice, but
invited everyone from society, nearest friends and all from Bombay shopping centre.
Nearly 75 friends came and specially Dineshbhai and Bhabhi as soon as they heard
that I am performing Aathai, they rushed from Bombay and came to Baroda, to look after
me, on 5th day onwards, so that nothing goes wrong after Aathai is complete. We have to
take utmost care after 8 days and take only liquid for nearly 3 days, i.e. Hot mug water,
Ker Water, and Gur water, that’s all, and no food at all. Next year in 2004 also I wanted to
try if I can continue for Aathai , I tried and succeeded without any problem. So from 2003
to 2009 I kept on trying as usual for Aathai , and I could do it very easily without any
problems. I used to perform all my domestic work, office work and also driving the car
wherever I used to go. In all I completed 7 Aathai’s in seven consecutive years. In 2009,
when I performed Aathai I was all alone, no one with me, as Hema also passed away in
November 2008. Everyone were surprised to hear that I have performed Aathai in 2009
being all alone in house.
Rakhee was doing very well with her practice and she was very famous among
Doctors as well as Jewellery shops. She had completed nearly 40 to 50 projects in Baroda.
As she was due for a candidate we were looking for one since she completed her studies.
She left her job and started her own practice at my office. As she was doing very well in
her practice, she had employed 3 assistants to help her. She also built one building for
Rubamin Factory at Dhabasa, Padra. On 13th march 2004, I asked Hema and Rakhee to go
to Bombay as there were four candidates to see and choose one of them if possible, On
13th when they went they got an appointment with one at Versova who had come from
USA, and Sagar had got his address from Shadi.Com., and had a meeting for nearly 2
hours. About 50% was yes from both the sides, so they arranged meeting on 14th again for
further talk. This time our Elder Bhabhi had accompanied as well as Sudhir’s wife, Hema’s
brother. They were now 100% interested from both the sides, but Prafulbhai’s (Candidate)
father was little bit worried, and said we do not know anyone in Baroda with whom we
can make some enquiries. At the same time he told we know only one gentleman by the
name of Animaesh C. Dhaftery, so Hema told one who stays at Sama road, they told yes.
Then luckily at the same time Animesh phoned and asked Hasmukhbhai what’s
the progress for Prafulbhai. Hasmukhbhai told at present there is one party from Baroda
and they know you very well so we will talk later. Thereafter Animesh who was knowing
my sister Smita, he told to my sister that if your brothers daughter Rakhee is interested for
Prafulbhai, I would give guarantee to go for it, there is no problem at all and the family is
very well known to me as well as they are my relatives. And at the same time Animesh
told to Hasmukhbhai that if you are interested for Rakhee, you may go for it, I know
Rakhee very well since she was in 8th standard studying in Baroda. Both the parties were
very happy with Animaesh suggestion.
This was Sunday afternoon at 4 p.m., they were interested for doing marriage on
Monday 15th, but Hema told it is not possible as Rakhees father is in Baroda and all her
ornaments as well as passport is in Bank locker and it can be taken on Monday and Kirish
can come on Monday evening, so marriage can take place on Tuesday. I told Hema to go to
Goregoan marriage hall and book the same for Tuesday, and on Sunday evening after 6
p.m. they started shopping for Rakhee as well as Hema for Marriage purpose, and made
arrangements for Beauty Parlour as well as Photographer and so on. I phoned Sagar at 4
p.m. on Sunday and told him that if everything goes well Rakhees marriage will be held
on 16th, so if possible book your ticket and I will tell you when to leave.
Thereafter I went to buy few shirts for myself and Sagar, also bought Kurta and
pyjama, and Trousers for Sagar as well as Suit for me. I went to Topex tailor and asked
him to stitch 3 to 4 trousers for Sagar has he had his measurements, and one suit for me,
and asked him to deliver the same to me by 4 p.m. On next day Monday so that I can take
with me when I catch my flight for Bombay at 6 p.m. They told me we are closed on
Monday, and if you want deliver you will have to pick it up from our house, I told no
problem I will do so, and I got everything organized. I also collected Rakhees ornaments
as well as her passport from the Bank locker. And I told Sagar to leave USA as soon as
possible to reach India before 16th morning. I did not inform anyone that Sagar is coming
for the marriage, I kept it as a surprise for everyone. I just informed my friend Virendra
and my brother in law Vasantbhai to go to Airport on Monday night to pick up Sagar.
Rakhees marriage took place on 16th, morning court marriage and evening we had
arranged marriage come reception at Goregaon hall, and invited nearly 125 people from
Bombay, and very few from outside Bombay as time was very sort. There wear four to five
common friends which I or Hasmukhbhai did not know, and it was nice as they also told
Hasmukh that the family is very good. Everyone enjoyed Marriage, Food and also
reception in the hall. Sagar was to stay only for one week, and we had a few girls waiting
for him also for an interview, immediately after Rakhees marriage, we started having
meetings for Sagar with few girls, but unfortunately none of them were suitable, so he left
back to USA after one week.
He was suppose to come back in May 2004 for one month holiday as well as to see
if he likes someone, so we could arrange for his marriage also at the same time. He stayed
for one month, we saw many candidates for him, but unfortunately again no luck and he
had to go back all alone without marriage to USA. After going back to USA, Sagar was
interested in buying his personal house, so he started looking around for a good house. I
suggested to him to buy one small house as he was alone and then after few years he
should go for a bigger house. But he had different ideas he wanted to buy a bigger house
from the very beginning so he was looking for a two or three bed room house. I also told
him as soon as he likes one he should call Rakhee and also take her suggestion before
finalizing the deal. When he was ready and wanted to make a deal he called Rakhee, to see
if it is ok.
Both of them liked the house and at the time of Navratri they decided to have puja
on the day of Desera. They informed us on 2nd day of Navratri that they have finalized
the deal for the house, and will be performing pooja on day of Desera. Hema and I
decided that we should any how go to USA before Desera, so we started packing for the
same as well as buy few things for Sagar and Rakhee as per their requirements. Within
five days we were ready to go to USA, and reached there three days before Desera. We
started preparing everything for pooja, inviting all friends and relatives within USA. We
saw the house and were very impressed with the same. There were three bedrooms, Hall,
Kitchen, Dining room, Back yard with very good garden, and Garage to park two vehicles
as well as two vehicles outside house in open, just in front of the house.
I was given one centre copper table by my company staff, Duly Motors, when I
left Zambia for good in 1984, as a gift. This was left packed as it is in Baroda house since
1984, as we had another centre copper table which we were using in Zambia. I decided to
take the said copper table to USA for Sagars new house. I disassembled the said table,
packed it in my bag and took it to USA, there we bought one glass for the same and
wooden plank for bottom frame, and we again assembled the table in USA and at present
Sagar is using the same as centre table. We also took some copper items and frames for his
new house, for decoration purpose. At the same time we gave a few items to Rakhee also
for her house.
Pooja was very well performed starting from nearly 9 am to 12 noon by a group of
religious people who came from L.A. for the same. There wear lot of friends and relatives
who took part in this pooja. After pooja everyone had lunch and there after few left and
few remained just for cleaning up everything in house. We moved into new house on the
same day, and started making list for buying new items for the house. We bought a new
fridge, washing machine, Sofa set, and so on as per requirements.
In the year 2004, when my wife and I had gone to USA for Sagar’s house warming,
we also visited our daughter Rakhee for nearly 8 to 10 days at Sanfrancisco, Califonia.
We visited this part of the world for the first time in our life, and were luck to
visit the same as our daughter had settled down there. Rakhee lives in a rented flat on the
7th floor. It is a beautiful flat situated in a high locality area. Every morning between 11 to
12, after getting ready, Rakhee, my wife and I used to go out for sightseeing and
sometimes for shopping.
We enjoyed Sanfransisco very much, specially the Golden Bridge, Dock (where we
saw the statue of Mahatma Gandhi), etc. This city has a very good government transport
to move around the whole city. There are three types of transport trainbustram and once
we buy a ticket, it could be used for any mode of transport. The tram is antique and very
beautiful, going uphill on a steep hill and coming down on the other side. We also enjoyed
going to Crucade Street which is one of the best streets in the whole world. Overall it was
a very nice and enjoyable trip to Sanfrancisco.
I stayed there for nearly 6 weeks, thereafter I came back alone leaving Hema down
there with Sagar for another few weeks. While Hema was there, they looked for few
candidates for Sagar, but it did not materialize, as the demands from girls wear not
matching with Sagars nature. Thereafter Hema also came back within another 6 weeks
time. As I was all alone in Baroda, my next door friends Mr. Nayanbhai his wife Nitaben
and their parents did not allow me to cook anything in my house for lunch as well as
dinner until Hema came back from USA. I was forced to eat with them for nearly 6 weeks
time. Hema and I are very lucky to have so good friends just next door, which is very rear
in India.
I had left my entire business in the hands of my two employees Rajiv and Hemant
when I was away on my trip to USA. Rajiv was nearly 7 years with me and Hemant also
for three to four years. I had full trust on them, but unfortunately it turned out just
opposite to my thinking.
They did not perform duties efficiently, and they were not in good terms with
Hotel Management staff and they were spoiling relationship with Hotel Management staff,
I was not very happy with their attitude. One day nearly on 19th March 2005 , I called
them to my office both of them, and told them if you can’t keep good relationship with
Hotel Management staff, and wants to spoil business down here, I don’t need your
services. If you want you can leave this job right now at this moment. Both of them had
planned in advance that this day might came, so at that very moment they left the office,
telling me we are leaving the job as from today onwards. And since then they did not
come back to see me for the job. They on the other hand after couple of months started
same business what I am doing and they were trying to pull my customers, but
unfortunately they did not succeed.
For few days I looked after the business all alone, as I did not want to employ
anyone during holastac period. One day my friend Jayprakash having his own
photography business, came to visit me at my office. He saw my situation, and he told me,
he has three employees, and due to less business, he wants to reduce his staff by two
employees. He told me they are very hard working and very honest and efficient. He
asked me if I could absorb both of them in my business. I said well I will take a interview
and thereafter will try them for three months, and if I find them good enough for my
business, I will continue their job in my business.
Within a few days both of them started job with me, they were very good and
picked up my duties quite efficiently. Both were doing fine, one was Suraj Rathod and
other Prasant. After one year Prasant started behaving very odd, he started mixing with
my two old employees who were fired by me. And indirectly he was caught red handed
passing on my order to them. I told Suraj to keep an eye on him and also told him to
explain him not to do such act in future. But unfortunately he did not listen to Suraj
advice, and ultimately he also had to leave the job.
Now I was left with Suraj and one part time employee Natu Vasadia, who is with
me since last 22 years, he is a very honest, hard working and very efficient. But Natu
being part time, I wanted another one employee for full time due to work load. Luckily
one Mr. Sony Thakor, approached me as soon as he heard that Prasant had left job. Sony
was with me in the past for nearly three and half years, he was doing very well, but one
day he told me he wants to leave the job for better prospects, so I let him go on his own.
He tried his best for a better job, but unfortunately no one offered as much as I was giving
him, he also tried to go for Riksha business but failed in that too, he went here and there
for nearly 5 years, and after getting absolutely tired, he came back to me for the job. I
employed him with new terms and conditions, and today also he his very happily working
with me in my office.
As business was expanding, there was one boy very young working for my wife in
her dispensary part time from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., I told him as soon as you are 18, I will
employee you in my business, so as soon as he was eighteen, I employed him from
morning 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and from 6 onwards at my wife dispensary. His name is Mahesh
Chauhan. Today I have all the four employees in my office all doing well and performing
their duties efficiently. At present I am very happy with the staff which I have working
with me for full time.
Since the year 2000 I had three Cars in my possession, one Morris old model
1952, other Maruti 800, and third one I bought in 2000 i.e. Matiz. When I bought Matiz, I
gave Maruti to Rakhee for her personal use as per necessity and advice from my wife
Hema. I was doing very well in business since 1994 onwards, after we had Pooja at
Chanasma Derasar. Rakhee got married in the year 2004, and thereafter as I was all alone
and having three cars, I thought of getting rid of the Maruti car. I sold the Maruti in the
year 2004/2005, to my next door friend Mr. Nayanbhai. He was quite happy with the car
and he also used it for nearly 5 years and then sold it in open market. Now Morris was
also giving me bit of problems for parts and repairs and maintenance, so I thought for
selling the same, and sold Morris in the year 2007/2008. I had bought it in 1986 and I kept
it with me for nearly 21 years, the gentleman who bought it from me at Rs.21,000/, he
spend some money nearly more than one lakh for getting it up to date. He sold it
thereafter the same for nearly 4 lakhs. It was an Antic car as it was a 1952 model. Now I
was left with only Matiz car, which I liked it very much, the performance was very good.
I was suffering from Asthma since 1971, but never very severely ill. Nearly 35
years I had only 3 attacks, and got ok with one injection and so on. Luckily I got hold of
Dr. Sonia, one Chest Specialist in the year 2002, she was school mate with my daughter
Rakhee. She treated me for Asthma, and since then I have never had any problems with
Asthma, I am absolutely fine, healthy, and having very good stamina. I walk everyday for
nearly 5 kilometers in the evening.
The year 2006 was just going on smoothly and when I used to drive late in the
evening or at night, I had problems driving my car. Whenever any car used to come from
opposite direction, I could not see properly. I went for my Eye check up, and I was told I
am developing Cataract, so I will have to undergo a operation for the same, specially right
eye, and left eye was bit ok. Hema and I decided that we should undergo operation in the
winter, as summer is not very good for operations, and I could wait until that period. I got
operated in the month of November 2006. The surgery was nearly 8 kilometers from our
residence, in city area. We went there at 10 a.m. Every 10 minutes they used to put some
eye drops in my right eye. They did this for nearly 6 to 7 times. They took me to the
Operation theatre, gave me a injection near the eye, and at about 1130 am started
operating. Operation was over within ten minutes. They applied bandage on my eye, and
told well the operation is over. I asked what to do now, the Doctor said you may go home
and come back tomorrow for removing the bandage. I, Hema and my office boy came
home, and I myself drove the car with one eye from surgery to our residence. When
everyone in society saw bandage on my right eye, they asked what wrong, so we told I
have Cataract operation. Everyone got wild, they told can’t you inform us beforehand that
you are going for operation, and they told we would have taken you and brought you
back. They told next day you don’t have to go all alone.
Sometime during the year 2006 or 2007, I am not very sure, My wife and I wear
sitting outside in corridor on Sunday evening, and just chatting. Hema was seating in
chair and I was seating on corridor wall. Few society very young girls, nearly 10 to 12
years old, were playing with one plastic bottle, filled up fully with dry mud. They were
throwing from one end to another end nearly 30 to 40 feet distance. I gave them a warning
twice, that they might break the car glass by mistake, if it lands wrongly. But they did not
listen to my advice.
Due to my bad luck, unfortunately the bottle landed straight on top of my nose in
between two eyes. I screamed very loudly and everyone in the society wear socked to hear
my scream. Nose started bleeding very heavily, and in few minutes whole corridor was
full of blood. It was pouring like water coming from tap. All the members of society got
together, and started giving advice to move me to hospital. They all were worried, but I
was not worried, I was sure, bleeding will stop very soon, I held my nose very tight, as
One of the Doctor ENT specialist had told me in Zambia, that if nose is bleeding you
should hold it tight and the bleeding will stop, and I did the same. At the same time I
asked my wife to pour as much water on my head as possible. After some time bleeding
stopped. But Society members were not satisfied, and were insisting that my wife take me
to hospital for further check up. I told my wife, well call Dr. Ashokbhai Bhatt, tell him the
situation and to come here and check up. He is a Orthopedic Surgeon and relative of my
wife, i.e. her cousins sisters Son in law. Within 15 minutes Dr. Ashokbhai came, checked
me, and told there is a fracture on top part of the nose, he gave some medicine, and told
me to go for an Xray very next day morning, and visit him to show him the result. I did
the same, and he told you are very lucky, you will not have to undergo any operation for
the same, but you will have to wear one nose plaster, which will keep your nose straight
so that when it is ok it will not bend on one side. I had to put that plaster for nearly 3 to 4
weeks, and it was removable when needed. Within 4 weeks it was ok, but Doctor told me
for next 3 to 4 months I should see that I don’t get same problem at same place in any
way, otherwise it will be worse. Very luckily, and due to my good fortune, The bottle did
not land on left or right eye, otherwise I would have been blind on the spot, and also it
did not land in the middle of my head, otherwise there would have been chances for
hemorrhage. God saved me very luckily. Thereafter I am totally fine and no problems at
all.
My wife was very fond of watching T.V., Sports and that too Tennis. She never
used to miss any tennis Tournaments held throughout world. One day in month of
May/June, 2007, I noticed that on 21" T.V. she could not read the name and score very
well, due to her eye problems. I decided to buy one Bigger 32" L.C.D. T.V. so it will be
very clear to watch as well as to read everything on the screen. Immediately, on 18th June,
2007, I went and bought one Phillips L.C.D., T.V., it was delivered at our residence in the
evening on the same day. My wife Hema was very happy to see it. Thereafter she had no
problems at all for watching any programs on T.V. She was quite happy with the same.
In the year 2006/2007 one of the Institutes at Sayajigunj contacted me and asked
me if I could give one lecture to their students regarding Conference Equipments. They
had one subject for the same and wanted to have full knowledge for the same as well as
practical demonstration for such equipments. I was lucky to have such a good chance and
they knew I am in this business since last 20 years, and I have all the equipments. I agreed
and one good afternoon was fully booked for the same.
I took all the equipments with me for the lecture, i.e. Overhead Projector, Slide
Projector, P.A. System, L.C.D. Projector, Laptop and so on. One by one I explained which
came in market first in use for conference purpose and followed by other products. I also
gave live demonstration with such products, as to their use, handling, safety and so on.
First came in was Overhead Projector, Slide projector, Followed by T.V. Scope, then Video
Projectors, and lastly L.C.D. Multimedia Projectors. After the lecture was over, there wear
some questions and answer session, which I answered very well except one or two
questions, which I told them I will let them know within one or two days.
Thereafter again in November 2007, I had to undergo a operation for my left eye
for cataract purpose. Operation was very successful, and since then my both eye are
absolutely clear and ok. Since both the operation took place one after the other very well,
luckily I don’t have to wear my glasses any more either for distance or near number. Now
I can read anything without glasses and also can see distance images very well without
glasses. Thanks to God for the same, and also to Dr. Nikhilbhai who did my surgery very
well and efficiently with confidence.
May 2007 was a big and very important year for my son Sagar. Luckily Sagar got
married on 6th May, 2007, with a lady with same religion, reputable family, and leaving in
Baroda very near to our house, only 10 minutes distance. It was an arrange marriage, both
of them liked each other, and since then they are leaving quite happy in USA. The event
was a three day function, one day Rass Garba, second day marriage and third day
Reception. We had a lot of relatives from outside Baroda, from Bombay. We had arranged
nearly 16 Flats at Bhailee Jain Derasar, nearly 8 kilometers from our house, and given one
flat to each family. I had also booked three Maruti Vans to pick up and drop all the
members from Bhailee to our residence and back to Bhaile. Rakhee and her family who
came from Bombay were given one house belonging to one of my friend at Pawandham,
Baroda, nearly 2 kilometers from our residence. Everyone enjoyed their stay as well as all
the functions.
Now comes 2008, when February was the month for Keyur’s Marriage, my sister
Smita’s son. We went to Bombay for the same and stayed there for nearly one week. I was
asked by my sister Smita to take all the photos for all the functions within four days. I
took nearly 970 photos and out of that selected nearly 350 to 400 and made a CD for the
same and delivered it to Smita. I also did a very nice Rangoli and placed it in the entrance
on the ground floor near the steps, everyone liked it very much. We all enjoyed each and
every function for four days. It was a very good family gettogether after a long time.
After coming from Bombay, Hema was ill, she had cold and cough, so she took
medicine on her own for some time. Thereafter we showed to an specialist, as it was
getting worse. We got the Xray for the same and blood test. It was found that she has
(Pneumonia). This was in the month of April 2008. She took medicine for one week, but no
improvement. Again we had blood test and Xray. As per blood report there was nothing
very serious, but as per Xray Doctor suspected T.B., which was a wrong diagnosis.
Unfortunately we did not take second opinion, and Hema was also not sure what to do, so
she started T.B. Medicine without further examination, as per Doctors advice. Within one
month the chest was absolutely clear, and she was totally ok, i.e. in the month of May,
2008. Now we were in doubt whether its T.B. or (pneumonia), because if its T.B. it can’t be
cured in one month. But as per Doctors advice, he said that since we have started T.B.
medicine, we cannot stop inbetween, we have to complete the six months course. I was
not very happy the way things were going on. But I could not say anything as Hema was a
doctor herself. Well at least we were very happy that is was cured and she again had good
stamina, and move around everywhere very easily. We used to leave life as usual, without
any fear or tension. Hema once told me before taking this medicine, that she knows if
there is any reaction of this medicine it will directly affect kidney or liver, and I was
afraid at back of my mind, as Nareshbhai, her cousin brother who stays in Surat, told once
that she may have abdominal problems within next two years, so we should take utmost
care for the same.
We were living life normally and moving out as usual, and in the month of June,
2008, we decided to buy a new car that is Spark Chevrolet Model. It was a new model for
Matiz which I was driving since last 8 years, and I was very happy with the same. Matiz
was 800 cc and Spark was 1000 cc. There was one good advantage i.e. three years full
warranty for all parts except glass and battery. And the price was comparatively very
cheap as per other makes in same range. Total cost was only Rs.3,23,000/ including
everything on the road. I bought it on cash basis in the month of June, 2008. Immediately
we sold the Matiz as I was not interested in keeping two vehicles. We were enjoying this
new Spark car and used to go out of Baroda at times.
We performed our Pajusana also very well in 2008, and I did my 6 Aathai, very
successfully. Hema looked after me at the time of Pajusana due to my Aathai. Immediately
after Pajusana Hema had to go to Bombay, as her Bhabhi had performed some fast and she
was invited for her parana at Ghatkopar.
Hema went to Bombay just for one day for the sake of her bhabhi and she wanted
to come back immediately as she had to take my care for 3 to 4 days after Aathai. She went
to her brothers house Sudhir at Kandiwali, From Kandiwali they all went to Ghatkopar by
car, but unfortunately when they reached Ghatkopar, it was raining very heavily and
water level on the road was up to the knee. They all were wet and completely soaked with
rain water. After the function was over, all went back by car to Kandivali, and as they
were completely wet, they had to stay in that position as they had no other clothes for
changing, and it took them nearly 2 hours to reach home at Kandivali. Due to such
condition, Hema was again sick, and had another attack of (pneumonia), when she came
back to Baroda. She had to take heavy dose of medicine again for the same, and this time
the medicine reacted. Her liver started getting damaged, which she could not know, as no
reports were taken out for the same. She started feeling week, and could not eat very well
her normal food.
On 17th October we went to the Doctor to complain for the same, and when he
checked, he told stop all the medicines, as they have reacted and now you have Jaundice,
so we will have to treat you for the same, but unfortunately Hema could not digest Live 52
medicine for liver. Neither the Doctor or Hema take care to check how much the liver has
been damaged. Day by day it was getting worse.
Diwali was approaching very near and she wanted to get fit before that, so she
suggested she get admitted to a hospital on Asoo Wad agiaras, for a few bottles of
Glucose Saline water. She stayed in hospital for two days on aagiyaras and baaras, and
had four bottles of water. She was feeling well now, and she thought she had good
stamina now to move around, so she told Doctor on the evening of Baaras that she would
like to go home, as she wants to perform Dhan pooja on next day.
Hema was taking complete rest. Next day morning at 8 a.m. on New year day, she
told me she will have to get admitted to hospital immediately, as water was feeling up in
her stomach, which was very bad sign. We went to consult another physician to take
another opinion, and he went through all the reports, and advice us to go for Xray as well
as blood taste, and could not admit her to hospital as all hospitals wear closed due to
Diwali, so he told she should take complete rest at home, not to sleep straight, or its better
to sit in a relaxing chair. The report was absolutely bad, liver functions had been damaged
nearly by 50%, and hopes for recovery very limited. Sagar luckily decided on his own to
come immediately to India, as Hema was sick since last few months. We admitted Hema
immediately after 3 days of Diwali into hospital and very next day Sagar and Khyati
landed in India. Hema was very happy to see and meet them. Same day at night, Hema
had effects of Coma. Doctor called me and told me did I inform Rakhee to come down to
India, I said no. She told me well ask her to come immediately, as the case is now turning
to coma, we can’t say what’s the future. I phoned Rakhee also and asked her to come down
immediately. So she with Prafulbhai came the very next day, and at that time Rakhee was
pregnant completing 6 months. Liver specialist was not available in Baroda as he had gone
for holiday and was suppose to come back on Pachaam. My brother Dineshbhai and
Bhabhi who had been to USA for 3 months holiday, when they heard about Hema, they
also flew back immediately and came down to Baroda.
Liver specialist Doctor asked us to move the patient to Bhailal Amin Hospital due
to better facilities down there. We went there, but as soon as the Doctors examined they
were not interested to admit her as the case was out of hands. But due to some influence,
we got the admission. There she was being treated very well and after two days she
started coming back to normal from Coma, but still she could not recognize me, on third
day she could recognize me and told my name, there after she was moved to semi ICU
recovery department.
Now she was looking fresh and ok and could take a little bit of food also, and she
was very happy to see Bhabhi and Dineshbhai who came back from USA. I had confidence
that she will be ok now within a few weeks. Doctor advised us to take her to either
Bombay or Delhi for further treatment. Prafulbhai and Rakhee got in touch with some
doctor in USA and the same Doctor from USA got in touch with one Doctor at Lilawati
hospital in Bombay, and then suggested us to shift Hema to Bombay for further treatment.
We took Hema the very next day to Bombay, on 9th November, by ICU Van with one
Doctor, an assistant and nurse, and Sagar and Bhabhi in same vehicle. I, my brother and
other relatives in another car, left Baroda at 6 a.m.
The roads were very bad indeed, and that’s why the vehicle used to jump a lot
and due to that position, all the water which had been in Heman’s stomach, started
jumping and moving up towards lungs and brain. Situation started getting worse,
compared to what it was at Bhailal Amin Hospital.
When we brought her to Bombay doctors examined her and called us for further
talk. He told us well, the situation is very critical, there are only 5% for survival, should
we go ahead or leave it as it is, because the chances are very less. I said, well we have
placed it into your hand, you may go on as you wish, try your utmost best, and see what
you can do, we have left it in your hands. They tried for the whole day from 3 p.m.
onwards the time when we reached and whole night, but unfortunately next day morning
on 10th November 2008 she passed away at nearly 9 a.m.
The shock was unbearable, but I kept full courage, took it as it came, and started
counting Navakar for nearly 3 to 4 hours, until all procedure was completed. I did not cry
at all as I did not want to give any pain to her soul, nor did I have a single drop of water
from my eyes. And up to today I have not cried for her, no doubt it is very painful, but
cannot accept it and it is part of nature. After this pain, I always think it is better if God
takes both husband and wife together for good.
Heman’s father could not see Rakhee after her birth and before he died as we were
in Zambia, and same history repeated in her family. Hema could not see Rakhee’s son as
she was pregnant (6 months). Only three months remaining and she passed away on 10th
November, 2008, both in the month of November (father and daughter).
In the month of September 2008 when she was absolutely fine, we had planned
that immediately after Uttaran, i.e. 14th January 2009, Hema should go to USA for Rakhees
delivery purpose and stay there for 3 to 4 months and I would join her after my year
ending in my business after March 2009. Everything was flop as she passed away in
November 2008. I had also told Hema that Rakhee will deliver nearly 3 to 4 weeks earlier
than the date given by the Doctor, as Rakhee and Sagar both had arrived 3 to 4 weeks
ahead of time.
Few statistics I have worked out regarding Hema after her death.
As per India Calendar she was born on Badarwa Vad Baraas, i.e. Retaia Baaras.
And she passed away on Kartak sud Baraas, both days Baaras. Her mother was also born
on chhat and passed away on chhat.
When Hema died she was 67 years complete. i.e. Total No 13
Date of Death was 10112008. Total No 13
Year as per Gujarati calendar 2065. Total No.13
Bed Number at Lilawati Hospital 616. Total No.13
Funeral Day as per Indian date Teras. Total No.13
I am not sure whether No 13 was lucky or bad for her, bad in the sense she left all
of us at an very early age and good for her because she did not suffer at all up to the last
minute and passed away very peacefully
without any major disabilities or major pain.
Hema was an unique Lady. She was totally dedicated to her Domestic and
Professional work. She never used to move around here and there and waste time
unnecessarily. She was absolutely satisfied with everything. She was totally honest and
did not permit or like any one speaking lies in front of her. She had no demands for
Ornaments, Clothes, Cosmetics and so on. She never used any type of cosmetics on her
face or body, her skin was just natural. My kids and I had to think about what to buy for
her, and whatever we bought she would happily accept the same. When she used to come
for shopping with us, she would select her items within 10 to 15 minutes without wasting
any time, whether it could be Gold/Diamond Ornaments, Clothes for Party and so on.
Hema was never after money or for luxuries. Her life was very simple and a
happy go lucky woman. She would give up everything for the sake of the family. After the
birth of Rakhee and Sagar, she totally sacrificed her life for domestic purpose.
She gave up her medical practice for the future of both the kids. She had left her
practice from July, 1972 to October, 1986. When Rakhee and Sagar were grown up that’s
the time Hema decided to start her own practice, not for making money, but to utilize her
knowledge and help sick people. She even gave medicines free to patients who could not
afford to pay. There was no fix time for her own practice. She used to work round the
clock & never say a word to patients i.e. is this the time to come.
Whenever we used to go for tours and trips, she used to do the foot work, for
moving out to visit for sightseeing. She was good as an organizer.
She was not interest in playing cards except Bridge or Rummy, but whenever I
wanted to play, she has never refused me to go out for playing cards. Since 25 years, I
would go to Bombay to play cards, but she has never refused me for going to Bombay.
She could manage happily good relations with both the family members, my
family as well as her family.
When Hema passed away she left a very good name after her. Today also
everyone remembers her very much be it all friends, patients or family members.
I came in touch with my inlaws when I had gone to see Hemagini first. That’s the
time, I came to know through my mother and elder brother, that Hemagini’s family is very
well known to us since many years, especially when my father was alive (say from 1950’s).
My fatherinlaws name was Amarchand C. Jhaveri, but everyone fondly called him
babubhai. My motherinlaws name is Kusumben. She wanted everyone to call her by her
name “Kusumben”. All the children, grand children, relatives, in fact everyone used to
call her by her name. She did not like anyone calling her mummy, Baa, Masi, Kaki, Aunty
and so on.
They stayed in proper Bombay at Zaveri Bazar. It was very near to our house,
nearly walking distance, hardly 20 minutes walk. Our shop was only 3 minutes walk from
their house.
Hemagini’s father was employed in the same market where we had our shop for
cloth business owned by one of their relatives. Amarchandbhai was very good at business
for his employer. He had very good business contacts with the banks and general public.
He was very helpful to his employer because of his contacts.
He himself was not lucky for doing business on his own, nor did he have
sufficient finance for going into business. Unfortunately he had to stay as an employee
throughout his life.
He was educated and had done his graduation in the year 1935, obtained a
Bachelors degree in Arts. His command over English was very good and powerful.
Education was very tough during those days, i.e. at the time of British rule in India. To
pass the Matric in1930 i.e. SSC as per present date was absolutely tough.
His salary was very low, but he could manage the family of seven very well. It
included himself, his wife and five children. He ensured the best education to all the 5
children and they became graduates. He wanted Hema to be a doctor, as she was good at
science subjects and Hema fulfilled her father’s wish.
Kusumben was from a rich family from Surat. They had a very big house at Surat
and also owned two Drama Theatres. Her father had Gujarati Business Drama business.
She was very interested in drama and movies and she liked action movies very much.
When my fatherinlaw heard that Hema is pregnant he was very happy and
finally when Rakhee was born we sent a few photographs of Rakhee. These photographs
he would always carry in his pocket and show it to all his friends and relatives.
Rashmibhai (elder brother of Hema) after his education, settled down at Surat and
took up a job with a bank. He was looking after grandmother who used to stay all alone.
Rashibhai wife Kalpana bhabhi was also from Surat. When Rashmibhai got an increment
his father wrote a letter to us at Zambia, that Rashmi is now getting a four figure salary.
everyone was very proud about it. In those days to obtain a four figure salary was a credit
as well as a good achievement.
After 1972/73, Deepak decided to separate with his family. This was because the
Zaveri Bazar house was very compact and he thought he will be in a position to manage
his family with his salary. He bought a flat at Kandiwali. This was his 1st step towards his
progress. Thereafter he shifted to Ghatkopar as his office was at Kalyan and it was nearer
to his office.
Sudhir stayed at Zaveri Bazar but after a few years he sold the house at Zaveri
Bazar and shifted to Goregaon. From Goregaon he again shifted to Kandiwali to a bigger
ownership flat. He was doing very well at his job at Mafatlal, but due to some problems
with the management and senior staff he left the job on his own. Thereafter he worked on
his own and did job work and also employment. Finally he retired and at present he is
enjoying his life with his children and grandchildren.
Neela (Heman’s sister) after her education, started with LIC of India as an
Insurance Agent and at the same she used to practice as a Homeopathic doctor. She got
married to Manoharlal on 13.5.1971. Unfortunately we could not attend the marriage, even
when we were in India, because Hema and I after marriage had to leave for Zambia on
15.5.1971. Just a day before the wedding. It was very sad as missed it only for one day,
this was because my vacation was overdue and secondly due to air flight booking.
Manharlal after marriage joined his wife Neela in the Insurance business. They bought a
ownership flat at Borivali.
We got a telegram on Saturday afternoon that Heman’s father had passed away. It
was a terrible shock, unbearable for Hema, because after marriage she had not seen her
father. Immediately by evening we decided to go to India. We started packing and on
Sunday morning I went to see my General Manager. he sanctioned me two weeks leave to
go to India. (Actually I was to take transfer to Livingstone on 1st December, 1973 but it
was thereafter postponed to 1st January, 1974.
We ran around the whole of Sunday for preparation and on Monday morning we
finally caught a flight for India.
Deepak was doing fine with his job, he was indeed very healthy and had no
complaints at all regarding his health.
One morning on 241998 when he was going to office at Kalyan with his co
workers in the car, he started feeling very uneasy. As soon as they reached their office and
signed their attendance muster, one of his friends suggested to get Deepak checked up at
the local first aid department in their office premises. After the checkup, he was told, he
has had a severe heart attack. It’s better to take him to the nearest hospital in their
ambulance. As soon as he was placed on a stretcher he passed away at a very young age. It
was very shocking news, when we got a call from Bombay and could not believe it. We
rechecked and later took a flight for the funeral ceremony.
Deepak and his father passed away all of a sudden and Hema passed away after a
short illness of 7 days. Kusumben also passed away on 1852002 at the age of 80. She
suffered a lot for almost 2 years due to cancer. Manoharlal, Neela’s husband, was sick
every now and then. He had to be admitted to a hospital 2 to 3 times. He too passed away
after a short illness at the age of only 58 on 3041994
At the time of Marriage my elder Brother and Mother did not give a single piece
of ornament, not even one gram of gold, while by rule as per our family everyone got 10
tolas of gold, but even then she did not grumble at all, and never uttered a word for the
same. If I had to help my mother or my family with money from Zambia, she had never
asked me as to why I am helping my family with money, nor did she argue, on the
contrary if by chance I would forget for any single month, she would remind me to send
the money. I was very lucky and happy to have a wife like Hema, which is truly difficult
to find one. She had won hearts of everyone in my family.
Rakhee was born in 1972, and Sagar in the year 1976. When they were born and
growing up, Hema and I had decided that if I say something or scold to kids she should
not come and interfere inbetween, and if she says something to kids, I should not
interfere. If we support them, kids will be spoiled and will find some secure place to hide.
Luckily both Rakhee and Sagar were so well behaved, that they did not get even one slap
either from me or Hema throughout their life, up to today. All three Hema, Rakhee and
Sagar were very helpful to me in all respects. All three had no demands for anything at
all. They were satisfied with whatever was given or offered to them. There was nothing
like fixed pocket expense and at the same time they did not spend any single penny
unnecessarily. Rakhee and Sagar were totally obedient children and 80% of their
upbringing was handled by my wife Hema.
I couldn’t look after them very well as I was in office from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Hema
was totally a house wife and that’s why she could devote her valuable time with children.
Rakhee and Sagar had earned a very good name among friends and their family in Zambia
as well as in school, and after coming from Zambia, they had the same respect in our
society in Baroda. Both of them never gave us a chance whereby we had to scold them for
anything. Today also when they have settled down in USA they have earned their name
for good, and I would say definitely that I am very lucky to have such a nice small family,
with no regrets at all for anything, and I am sure I have enjoyed my life fully in all
respects. Both in laws for Rakhee and Sagar are very happy to have them as one of their
family member. They both are well educated and nearly Jack of all. Rakhee is very lucky
to have one child and his name is Aadi, who is nearly one and half year old as per today.
Aadi is also very cute, healthy, smart and well behaved.
When I left Zambia, I had three main aims in my life for settling down in India.
First perfect and good Education for both Rakhee and Sagar. Second to have my own small
apartment or house. Third to have one small Business by which I can run my family daily
expenses very effectively. Luckily and through God grace I succeeded in all three Aims
very well, and very happily settled down. Rakhee got her Architecture degree and she also
passed her exams in USA and got practicing License to practice in USA. Sagar got his BE
Electronics degree from MSU Baroda, and thereafter he went for further studies to USA
and obtained Masters Degree in Electronics. I had a good chance to buy my own house in
1984 a Row house in one of the best society centrally located within Baroda.
And lastly I got one very good shop on ownership basis in 1984, where I tried
nearly 5 business and since 1988, very well settled in my present business which is going
on fine since 1988 till today, regarding Hiring of Conference Equipments.
Every day I thank God for listening to me very peacefully and helping me very
well in all respects.
In 2008 after Heman’s death, my elder brother Dineshbhai and Bhabhi stayed with
me in Baroda at my residence for nearly one and a half month, but unfortunately
Dineshbhai had health problems, something to do with Kidney, so we admitted him to
Nadiad Hospital, there he stayed for 3 days, after getting better, my other brother
Rameshbhai took him straight from Nadiad to Ahmedabad with him for further check up
with specialist doctors in Ahmedabad.
Now as I was alone, my next door friends, Nayanbhai and Nitaben, did not allow
me to open up my kitchen on my own, and told me you have not to cook anymore. You
have to take lunch as well as dinner at our place, I tried to convenience them but they did
not listen to a single word from me. My cousin brother Jitu also told me the same, but his
house was nearly 4 kilometer away from my house so it was not feasible to go there every
day. I continued as per my next door neighbours request and started taking lunch as well
as dinner at Nayanbhais place. They look after me very well, and as I am not eating Onion
and Garlic, they used to cook food separately for me. It’s really very difficult to have such
a nice neighbour in present days.
14th January 2009, for the first time I decided not to fly kites, so my brother
Mahesh from Ahmedabad called me and told me lets go to Palithana for Jatara for 14th
15th & 16th, we all will enjoy and your time will pass very well with some religious
ceremonies. I accepted and we went on 14th January 2009 at Palithana.
After coming back, I decided to go to USA as Rakhee was expecting in the month
of February 2009, and she had no one with her, she was given a date of 22nd February by
her Doctor, and they requested if I could join them at the time of delivery. I left India on
30th January 2009, reaching USA on 30th same day on Friday. Saturday and Sunday being
weekend Rakhee and Prafulbhai were at home, so we moved out for both the days
watching site seeing, and San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge. Rakhee walked a lot on 1st
February 2009 being Sunday. And after coming home we took dinner, set for a while and
went to sleep. All of a sudden, at midnight Rakhee woke up and told she will have to go to
hospital as she has pain in her stomach.
I as well as Rakhee were very lucky, as I was there right in time, so they were
little bit satisfied, as I reached in time. Both Rakhee and Aadi were quite healthy and had
no problems with delivery, everything went on smoothly and normal. I stayed with them
for nearly 3 weeks, and when everything was normal, Prafulbhais mother came from
India. I left San Francisco to stay with Sagar in San Diego for nearly one month.
When I was with Rakhee in San Francisco, Prafulbhais sister Meetaben had come
from New Jersey to visit them and to see Aadi. Meetaben nature was very soft and mixing
with everyone. One day we were just sitting and talking casually, and I mentioned that, I
was interested in writing a book on my own life, so she told me well it is very good idea,
and she said, I think every grand parents should write so that their grand children will
know how difficult a life you have spend during old days, in India.
I got inspiration and so I took one blank book from Rakhee and started writing
whatever came in my mind starting from my child hood. I started writing few points age
wise and also started expanding in the form of a book. I started writing on 17th February
2009, when I was in USA. Today when I am writing this book, the date is 18th July 2010, I
am nearly on the completion and I think I will complete within one or two days. I have
written and narrated whatever I remembered from the age of 4 up till date. I intend to
give for publishing as soon as possible to one of my friend Ashit Pathak who was kind
enough to go through the first draft and gave lot of suggestions. My plan is to either cut
ribbon for this book on 18th September 2010, Heman’s Birthday if it is ready, or on 10th
November 2010, the date when she passed away.
Mita ben I am 100% sure you will definitely get one copy for your personal
possession. I am also sure you will read this book with interest, and at the same time be
proud that you gave me inspiration and advice to me to write this book. All the credit
goes to you for such inspiration. I thank you very much for giving me right advice at right
time, because as per this project I could pass and make use of my valuable time for last
one and a half year with success. I think I have achieved something in my life, and who so
ever reads may enjoy knowing my life. Once again thanks very much.
Originally I had booked my tickets from 30th January 2009 to 17th April 2009, but
unfortunately I was not very comfortable being all alone in USA, I requested Sagar to alter
my booking and get fresh booking for 3rd April 2009, and I said instead I will try to pass a
few days in Bombay with all relatives and then go back to Baroda for good.
So I flew back on 3rd April 2009 and stayed in Bombay for one week and back to
Baroda in time. Again I was forced to take my Lunch and Dinner next door, but within one
week I organized everything in my house, bought all the groceries, and requested Nitaben,
please excuse me, I will start my own Kitchen, and I don’t want to forget what ever
cooking I know. So from that day up to today I am cooking my own food for both the
times, except for some occasion I go to eat next door, or at Jitu’s house or Subhasbhais
house, Sagars in Law.
During Pajusana in the year 2009 I was all alone, and I wanted to perform Aathai,
fasting for 8 days, and that would be my continuous 7th Aathai. I tried my best and
luckily with grace of Sasandevi and God I succeeded without any problems as usual like
the last six Aathais. All my relatives as well as friend were very surprised as I performed
Aathai without help from anyone. That’s because of my strong will power and grace of
God.
We had one dispensary for Hema, and now as it was lying idle, I thought of
disposing off immediately after Diwali or at the time of Diwali. I was expecting 6 lakhs for
the same. Luckily at the time of Pajusana I got a dream of Hema, telling me to use the said
money Rs.6 lakhs in the form of some donation, and to help needy people. I also thought
the idea is not at all bad. Immediately after Pajusana my Employee Natu who is working
with me since last 22 years, came to see me with his family to say me Michamidookadam. I
asked him what standard her daughter is studying now, so he told she is in 8th standard
and son in 3rd standard. I was surprised how they are managing to stay only in one room
and both the children studying very well, and within 2 years his daughter will be in 10th
standard board exams. I thought this is the right time to make use of Heman’s dispensary
money which will come in near future.
One Sunday morning before Navratri, I went to Natu’s house with one contractor,
without informing him, and started taking measurements for his plot as well as his
present house. He had enough space to build one room in front, and rebuild Kitchen in old
room at back of seating room, and on top, build one more room 20 ft x 12 ft, with bath and
toilet, as well as gallery in front. Natu and his family were surprised as to what I am
doing. We sat and calculated how much it will cost to rebuild whole house, with one
kitchen, bath toilet and sitting room at ground floor and on larger room on 1st floor and
terrace with Water Tank. It was estimated at Rs.1.5 lakhs.
I told well start immediately on first or 2nd day of Navratri and try to finish
before Diwali. I was prepared to give all the cost for the same. Work started as per
schedule, but could be completed after Diwali. Now the house is absolutely new with nice
tiles all over, repainted and very large room on first floor. Now the whole family is
staying very peacefully, children have good space for studying, and all are very happy.
All his relatives, friends and neighbours were surprised to see such a drastic change in his
house. Everyone liked the plan very much, and all the neighbours are also thinking of
changing their house in similar way. Now Natu is living with peace of mind and he has
not to see any expansion or new house for his whole life.
Now my next employee was Suraj, who has been working with me since last 5
years. He was staying in rented house one room and kitchen, and paying rent Rs. 1,700/
per month, which was very high, as per his salary. I asked him if he could search around
for a house with one room and kitchen within Rs.3 lakhs, so that we can buy and he can
stay there for good. He started looking, and fortunately within his area, nearly 2
kilometers away from shop in gotri area, a brand new flat was available, one room and
kitchen. The builder was asking Rs.4.20 lakhs for the same. I went there just before
Navratri, during shradha, I offered him Rs.3.5 lakhs for the same but he refused. I told
him no one is going to come to you for nearly 15 days due to shradha, if you are interested
last I can offer is Rs.3.7 lakhs, if so I can give you right now Rs.11,000/ as a token and
rest at the time of 3rd Navratri in full payment.
He was bit hesitant, but ultimately he agreed, so I gave him Rs.11,000/ and
booked the flat and asked him to get all the papers ready for Dastavage before Navratri.
Suraj started staying in that house from Desara onwards, and at the time of pooja, at his
new residence, after the pooja was over, I told him I will transfer this flat in your name, if
you sincerely work for another 5 years for me continuously. He agreed and now let see,
nearly one year is coming to be complete this year, and at present he is very sincere in his
job. His whole family, father, brothers and all are quite happy with his new residence.
This is how I made use of money which I got from the sale of dispensary which
belonged to my wife Hema. My all staff members, are very happy and specially Natu,
Suraj and Mahesh have hanged big Photo of Hema in their house as a remembrance. They
all liked Heman’s nature very much.
From the year 2009 I am all alone in house and handling all my domestic work
myself, except washing clothes, vessels and so on. But since child hood I wash my clothes
which I wear for office use and for going out in parties. Remaining domestic clothes are
washed by domestic servant. I also do ironing to all my clothing myself, I have never
given any clothes for ironing outside in laundry or elsewhere.
My daily duties from 7 a.m. to 12 midnight are as follows, and I try to keep myself
fully occupied and busy as much as possible.
When I wake up at 7 a.m. first thing I pray , and then make my bed, thereafter I
strain boiled water in mattla, collect milk from the milk man, strain ordinary water for
cooking purpose, prepare breakfast and coffee. My breakfast is usually 4 to 5 khakara with
coffee. After breakfast, I soak clothes for washing, fill up top tank with the help of electric
motor, and also fill up corporation water for drinking and for cooking purpose which
comes at 830 a.m. From 730 a.m. to 830 a.m. I prepare cooker in which I place Rice and
Tuwer Dal after washing, cut vegetable, and place all three in cooker for cooking purpose,
if vegetable is to be prepare outside cooker, I do it that way. Then I take wheat aatta and
build it up for roti, and leave it until I come back from office. Around 9 a.m. I take bath,
and sit for pooja, which takes nearly 1 hour. Between 1030 a.m. to 11 am, I get ready for
office and before I go to office I have a mug of Coffee with some biscuits or dry fruits.
Come back at home around 1 p.m., I make Dal on one stove and vegetable on the other
stove. And start making Roti on the third stove. Within 20 minutes everything is ready,
and then seat for lunch at about 130 to 2 p.m. Watch news, etc on T.V. for nearly one hour
and then take rest for 2 hours between 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Wake up between 5 p.m. to 5.15
p.m., get ready for going to office, come down and prepare Coffee, drink the same and by
6 p.m. I am out for office. While coffee is getting ready, I place all the vessels which are
washed in the afternoon by the house servant, on the rack at right place for use when I
need next time. Between 6.30 to 7.30 I walk nearly 5 kilometers outside my office
premises, so that I can attend phones call if any or customers who come to my office.
Between 7.30 and 8 pm. I go to mandir and then to derasar, I come back home, have bath
before dinner or late at night before going to bed. After 8 p.m. I start preparing something
only one item for my dinner, may be, uppama, Puda, Sekala, Paua, Dhebra, Dhokla, any
one item per day. Take dinner between 9.30 to 10 p.m., with coffee. Thereafter I sit on
Computer, watch all my emails, sometimes chatt with Rakhee or Sagar, and also see Aadi
live on yahoo through web camera. From 10 p.m. to 11p.m. I daily talk with both Rakhee
and Sagar. I watch local and world news on Yahoo, Msn and google and so on. By 12
midnight I am ready for my last Mug of coffee before I go to sleep. This is how I am busy
from 7 a.m. to 12 midnight. Inbetween whenever I used to get time I was busy writing
this book to see that I complete it as early as possible. I also used to take it to office if I
had free time in office.
At the age of 69 I thought of learning music on Harmonium, One teacher used to
come by 730 to 830 in morning twice a week on Wednesday and Sundays, and he used to
teach me classically, he thought me basic 16 soors, I was playing very well one after the
other as and when he used to teach me, thereafter he thought me 8 to 10 old filmy songs
also. Now all I need is to practice as and when I get time, but since last 2 months I did not
get time at all to touch Harmonium as I was very busy writing my office Accounts Books
to be submitted before 31st July 2010. I just completed my accounts books on last Friday,
i.e. 16th July 2010, and now will submit the same to Income tax office in a day or two. I
was very much interested for learning music when I was young in college, but
unfortunately could not afford the fees for the same. And now all of a sudden as I was all
alone, and could afford, I took the opportunity to learn and pass my time.
Today all the children and grand children of both our families, brothers, sisters,
brotherinlaw, sisterinlaw, they all call me either kaka, mama, masa, fuwa and so on as
per actual relationship, but in actual life we live like friends rather than relatives. We all
spend time together and talk on any subject. We are very intimate with each other, as we
move around together and we also play different types of games such as Cricket,
Badminton, Carom, Chess, Cards and so on. There is no difference in our age or
relationship.
Young ones would like to talk with me on phone. I will give only one example.
Nehal, my brotherinlaws son and his daughter Mehak (4 years) visited me once at
Baroda. Within a few minutes she became very friendly with me. She came here for the
first time and when she went back to Surat, she used to say, I want to talk with that white
hair uncle of Baroda on phone. At present she also talks with me from USA. She has not
forgotten me. This is only one example, but it is the same with all my grand children.
Though my wife has is no more, all the family members from my inlaws family
continue to maintain very good relations with me. They give me full respect and keep in
touch with me by means of phone every now and then. Members of my family keep in
touch with me and are very worried about me, as I am staying all alone. They keep on
worrying though I know how to manage everything on my own. I am very lucky with both
the families, as they look after me and care for me. I thank all the members for their
affection and love.
Since November 2008, my life has become very lonely. This is first time I am
experiencing such miserable life. I will have to face it for the rest of my life and get used
to it as time passes. As soon as I enter the house coming from outside, it is worse than a
jail, all alone no one to say hi or hello, how was the day and so on. No one to greet, no one
to share happiness or sorrow, no one with whom I cam share my days duties, activities or
ideas. No one to offer a glass of water, and just have to stair 4 walls and start performing
daily duties all alone. Whether you like it or not, there is no one to say may I help you,
one has to do everything all by himself. When I am outside house at office at least I have
few friends in shopping centre and office staff with whom I can talk for a while and share
my views.
Well that’s it, I don’t know how long I will have to continue this type of life, all
depends what’s written in faith and how much more I have to suffer.
Concluding entry: 13 t h September, 2010. This year three of us – Sagar, his wife
Khyati and I observed Paryushan. For me, it was the 8 t h Athai, for Sagar it was 2 n d and for
Khyati it was the first ever Athai. We all expect good blessing on this holy occasion.
SUMMARY
Never give up hopes, try, try till you succeed. My father was very brave man; He
did not give up very easily, did many types of jobs and changed many businesses, such as
cloth merchant, made one movie Bhaver, sewing needle business, parachute business, Topi
(Caps) business so and so forth. Similarly I also did the same from my child hood, if you
have read this book carefully, you must have notice how many jobs I have changed and
how many business I have tried till finally I succeeded in my present business, just to
survive I had to undergo all such troubles.
My suggestion is no one should give up at any stage, work hard and honestly; one
day you will definitely earn the fruits of your labour. This is my personal experience, and
I try to share my same views with all general public, friends and relatives. My family and
I have enjoyed our life fully in all respects, I have no regrets at all, I don’t think anything
is left out for enjoyment in my life, I have also learned a lot through my life, Now if god
needs me I am ready at any time, because there is nothing left for enjoyment, or duties in
my life, I have fulfilled everything.
Following are the vehicles which I have used, liked, owned and enjoyed with
complete satisfaction. I think I am very lucky with vehicles, and since 1970 onwards up to
today I have owned 29 (twenty nine) Cars 4 wheels, and 9 (nine) bikes, mopeds or scooters
two wheels, Totally 38 vehicles in last 40 years, List as follows.
02) Mazda 1200 White 1972
03) Mazda 1600 Mustard 1973
04) Mazda 1300 Green 1973
05) Triumph GT 6 Red/Bla. 1973
06) V.W.1300 Red 1974
08) Mazda 1600 White 1974
09) Mazda Pickup White 1974
This car total 9 was my lucky number, I was 41 and Hema 40 yrs old, I was born in
1940, Hema born in 1941.
35) Yamaha Bike Black 1996 GJ6 4362
36) Maruti 800 A/c. Green 1997 GBW 9050
37) Matiz SD T/Beige 2000 GJ6 AB 2280
38) Spark Chevrolet Platinum 2008 GJ6 CM 5627
Now I will be writing regarding my hobby for traveling, and how many places I
have seen throughout the world.
I have visited 17 Countries throughout the world, and nearly 150 places within
these countries. My wife lately was very keen in visiting Australia and New Zealand, we
tried once or twice, but since it was very expensive we postponed for sometime in future,
but unfortunately, Hema passed away and she could not fulfill her wish for the same. I
have travelled in nearly all different types of Plane with different Airlines, and used
flying in plane for nearly more than 150 times from 1969 up to today.
Following are the countries I have visited so far, while reading the book you must
have noticed as to when I visited all these places. 1) India my mother land to be first. 2)
Kenya 3) Tanzania 4) Rhodesia/Zimbabwe 5) Malawi 6) Italy 7) France 8) U.K. 9)
Singapore 10) Hongkong 11) Thailand, Bangkok 12) Switzerland 13) U.S.A. 14) Canada 15)
Mauritius 16) Zambia 17) Botswana
Well that’s all for the countries.
Lastly I will write down details of my Family TREE starting from my Parents to
all grand children.
1) Lt. Father Mr. Amthalal Chunilal Shah
2) Lt. Mother Mrs. Lilavati Amthalal Shah
Total Nine children, 6 Boys and 3 Girls as follows.
a) Lt. Saryabala Amthalal Shah
b) Dinesh Amthalal Shah
c) Ramesh Amthalal Shah
d) Mahesh Amthalal Shah
e) Suresh Amthalal Shah
f) Kirish Amthalal Shah
g) Lt. Satish Amthalal Shah
h) Smita Amthalal Shah
i) Chhaya Amthalal Shah
3) Lt. Saryubala Praful Rana
4) Praful C. Rana
Children
a) Akshay Praful Rana
b) Shilpa Praful Rana
c) Lt. Chetan Praful Rana
5) Akshay Praful Rana
6) Rekha Akshay Rana
Children
a) Rohan Akshay Rana
b) Nishan Akshay Rana
7) Shilpa Shalil Kinthawala
8) Shalil Kinthawala
Children
a) Shital Shalil Kinthawala
b) Ankur
c) Karisma Shalil Kinthawala
9) Lt. Chetan Praful Rana
10) Dinesh Amthalal Shah
11) Ranjan Dinesh Shah
Children
a) Heena Dinesh Shah
b) Adhir Dinesh Shah
12) Heena Nailesh Shah
13) Nailesh Bhogilal Shah
Children
a) Urvi Nailesh Shah
b) Alapi Nailesh Shah
c) Anuj Nailesh Shah
14) Urvi Nayan Shah
15) Nayan Shah
16) Alapi Vinay Shah
17) Vinay Shah
18) Adhir Dinesh Shah
19) Bharti Adhir Shah
Children
a) Shrnik A. Shah
20) Ramesh Amthalal Shah
20) Rita Ramesh Shah
Children
a) Naju Ramesh Shah
b) Roma Ramesh Shah
22) Naju Raju Mehta
23) Raju G. Mehta
Children
a) Aastha Raju Mehta
24) Roma Nirav Shah
25) Nirav Shah
26) Mahesh Amthalal Shah
27) Hansa Mahesh Shah
Children
a) Hemang Mahesh Shah
28) Hemang Mahesh Shah
29) Deepika Hemag Shah
Children
a) Alisha Hemang Shah
b) Nishani Hemang Shah
c) Jaya Hemang Shah
d) Soniyoo Hemang Shah
30) Suresh Amthalal Shah
31) Anila Suresh Shah
Children
a) Anal Suresh Shah
b) Anuja Suresh Shah
32) Anal Suresh Shah
33) Sheetal Anal Shah
Children
a) Shoham Anal Shah
34) Anuja Suresh Shah
35) Joe
36) Kirish Amthalal Shah
37) Lt. Hemagini Kirish Shah
Children
a) Rakhee Kirish Shah
b) Sagar Kirish Shah
38) Rakhee Praful Shah
39) Praful Hasmukh Desai
Children
a) Aadi Praful Desai
40) Sagar Kirish Shah
41) Khyati Sagar Shah
42) Lt. Satish Amthalal Shah
43) Praguna Satish Shah (left)
44) Smita Vasant Chotalia
45) Vasant Shamji Chotalia
Children
a) Keyur Vasant Chotalia
46) Keyur Vasant Chotalia
47) Megha Keyur Chotalia
48) Chhaya Nikhil Shah
49) Nikhil Jayanti Shah
Children
a) Nikita N. Shah
Ending with a small note:
Everyone has a tendency of saying there is no time. No one should complain that he has
no time, and because of lack of time, I cannot do this or that. There is enough time with everyone,
if he knows how to utilize and when and where to utilize. If you have strong will power and firm
determination, you can manage time from anywhere. Everyone should make use of time in right
direction, Life is very short, and time flies very fast. Once the time is lost it is never gained
again. If you need you can see my example, I am very busy from morning 7 a.m. to 12 at
midnight, as I have written in detail my whole days job. But I was determined, to publish this
book, with strong will power, I managed somehow to successfully complete this book within one
and half year. Time is there for everyone, if you take full advantage and make proper use at the
right time. Where there is a will there is a way.
Thanks to all who have taken pains to read this book.
Lastly I will write down details of my wife’s family TREE starting from her
parents to all grand children.
1) Amarchand C. Jhaveri
2) Kusumben A. Jhaveri
3) Rashmi A. Jhaveri
4) Kalpana R. Jhaveri
5) Dhaval R. Jhaveri
6) Harini D. Jhaveri
Kids : Ronak & Helina
7) Nisha R. Jhaveri (Kapadia)
8) Dhananjay Kapadia
Kid : Mahek
9) Hemangini A. Jhaveri (Shah)
10) Kirish A. Shah
Kids : Rakhee married to Praful Desai
and Sagar K. Shah married to Khyati Shah
11) Deepak A. Jhaveri
12) Javneeka D. Jhaveri
Kids : Anish D. Jhaveri married to Pina Kids : Aagam
and Khyati Jhaveri (Shah) married to Hitesh Shah Kids :
Darshil
13) Neela A. Jhaveri (Kapadia)
14) Manharlal B. Kapadia
Kids : Viral M. Kapadia married to Neelam Kids : Kosa &
Vipasa
and Kezal M. Kapadia married to Mansi Kids : 1 daughter