Forty years ago, Soumya defied family expectations, escaped a destructive lifestyle, and pursued a successful career. He looks back at life in an exclusive for Different Truths.

Forty years ago, this day marked a significant turning point as I embarked on my professional journey. It was the moment when I took my first steps towards independence and financial stability. Without notifying anyone at home, I quietly joined the workforce straight out of college, eager to make my mark in the world.

Breaking the news to my family was an unconventional move on my part. I remember sending a telegram, a mode of communication that was prevalent back then, to share the news of my employment. Although my decision disappointed my father initially, he eventually came to terms with it. It took some time for him to accept that I had chosen a different path from the one he had envisioned for me.

Little did he know that my decision to start working right after college was more than a means to defy expectations. It was also a way to escape my downward spiral during college. I got entangled in the dark world of drugs and delinquency, but the new job allowed me to break free from that destructive lifestyle.

Additionally, entering the professional realm helped me overcome the painful end of a relationship I had mistakenly believed would last. It catalysed personal growth, pushing me towards a new phase in life that continues to unfold.

After four decades of navigating through the highs and lows of my career, I am excited to I am thrilled to reconnect with the people I started this phase with. We are planning a batch get-together in Puri, a momentous occasion to reminisce about our shared experiences and celebrate how far we have come.

Being the first non-engineer in three generations of my family, my father expected me to follow in the footsteps of my maternal grandfather, who had a prestigious career as an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer. For him, becoming an IAS officer was the only acceptable profession for a non-engineer or doctor. However, I chose a different path and ventured into the corporate world, defying those expectations.

My decision to join the workforce led me to a company that provided financial stability and showered me with various perks and opportunities. Over time, I could enjoy the fruits of my labour, which included a fulfilling personal life. The company supported me in more ways than I could have imagined.

It began by granting me a stable income, enabling me to support myself and eventually build a family. While I acquired a wife, the company provided me with not just one but five cars over the years, making transportation convenient and comfortable. As my career progressed, I acquired a flat and a series of progressively better houses to call home. The pinnacle of this journey was the acquisition of super luxury flats in Mumbai and Kolkata and an incredible bungalow in Delhi.

Beyond material possessions, my job allowed me to explore various parts of my country and even venture across four continents. I was fortunate enough to travel extensively, with all expenses fully covered by the company. These experiences enriched my life, broadened my horizons, and exposed me to diverse cultures and perspectives.

Even in my current phase of life, where I am no longer actively working, the company’s support continues. It provides me with a monthly income, ensuring my financial security. 

Moreover, it extends its care towards my well-being by covering my medical expenses. The company’s continued support has been an incredible and lasting benefit, making my employment with them an extraordinary deal.

Reflecting on the past forty years, I am grateful for the opportunities, growth, and stability my job has provided me. It has shaped my life unexpectedly and propelled me towards a future full of excitement and possibilities.

Picture design by Anumita Roy

Soumya Mukherjee

Soumya Mukherjee is an alumnus of St Stephens College and Delhi School of Economics. He earns his daily bread by working for a PSU Insurance company, and lectures for peanuts. His other passions, family, friends, films, travel, food, trekking, wildlife, music, theater, and occasionally, writing. He has been published in many national newspapers of repute. He has published his first novel, Memories, a novella, hopefully, the first of his many books. He blogs as well.