a home way from home

We often disregard the fact that people make sacrifices to earn a living. We assume that when people relocate, they do so with ease, solely for employment purposes and that they are probably doing it with the idea of a "fresh start" or perhaps a better future. We don't realize that one struggles and must work very hard in order to survive, and this is, in fact, a problem in the country today. We take people for granted and we do not acknowledge the fact that their sweat, blood and tears, has, in fact, gotten them to where they are today. Jeet Budhathoki, a 30 year old from Nepal, shares with us his story and his experiences in Bangalore. He moved here 10 years ago, and has had a series of ups and downs, highs and lows. Nonetheless, his views are interesting ones. Here are some of them.

Jeet Budhathoki (30) from Nepal, relocated 10 years ago and hasn't gone back home since.

Why did you relocate to Bangalore?

I first came here 10 years ago mainly in search of a job. There was a time when Nepal was full of riots and fights. Half the country wanted a king and the other half, wanted a president, whom they could vote for. As a result, the country broke out into pandemonium and it became very hard for us children to go to school everyday. I stopped going to school in the seventh grade and hence, it became hard for me to find a job. I found it hard to live in a country that was constantly fighting. I had seen on TV that India was a country of color, one of many opportunities and decided to come here to earn a living.

Is it easy living here, in Bangalore? Do you face any struggles? What do you find particularly challenging?

In my opinion, Bangalore is really expensive. Even the most basic things such as fruits and vegetables and medicine are relatively expensive. Also, one major issue for my family and I is the language barrier. Since we only speak Hindi and Nepalese, it is incredibly difficult to communicate with the locals when, for example, I need directions to go somewhere or if I need to catch a bus to run errands.

What are somethings that you find pleasant about living here? What are some benefits of life in Bangalore?

When I first came here, I was lost. I didn't know anything, anyone. But I was able to get through it because of the friendly people here. Everyone is extremely helpful and kind, I never once felt conscious of where I am from. I also noticed that women here are treated here respectfully, something that may not always be seen in Nepal. Moreover, I have a good supply of water, electricity and food here, which are in abundance.

What do you miss the most about Nepal? What are some of your favorite memories?

I miss the food and my friends and family the most. Everything is available here but life in Nepal was very different. The thing that makes me sad is not being able to work in the field with my friends anymore or eat dinner together as a family. I miss going to the swimming hole and feeling free. I don’t have these things now. Life is very different, but good.

Were you ever mistreated or harassed in public?

One evening, I was going to the city and a group of people snatched my phone. I was startled and I could feel my face go red. They threatened me and even hurt me. My phone was returned after half an hour, and I apologized. It was the first time I was made feel vulnerable and uncomfortable. It was a horrible experience.

Thank you, Jeet.

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