The Hands That Built Me

"Hard work and dreams exchanged for my destiny."

"Their dreams became the wings that carried me to new heights."

Every milestone in life has a foundation, and mine was built on the sacrifices, dedication, and unconditional love of my parents. From a small, modest village to the bustling avenues of the National Capital, my journey is not merely one of personal achievement but a tribute to the silent heroes who shaped it—my parents.

Humble Beginnings in a Quiet Village of Jajpur, Odisha

Born and raised in a serene village in Jaipur, Odisha, where life unfolded amidst simplicity and nature’s quiet rhythm, my parents carried dreams that soared beyond the visible horizon. They envisioned a life for me that transcended the boundaries of our small world a life filled with opportunities, growth, and contributions to a larger purpose.

Their vision was not limited by the modesty of our surroundings. Instead, it was fuelled by their unwavering belief in the power of education and hard work. In a community where daily life revolved around tradition and resilience, my parents dared to dream big not for themselves but for me.

The Sacrifices That Shaped My Path -

Their sacrifices began with the smallest things: skipping their personal needs to save for my education, toiling harder during lean times, and making tough financial decisions that prioritised my future over their comforts.

When the local school could no longer meet their aspirations for me, they made the bold decision to send me to a better institution. At just ten years old, I was enrolled at SVM, Gatiroutpatna—a renowned boarding school in Cuttack, about 100 kilometres from our village. It was my first step toward realizing our shared dream, but it came with a heavy emotional cost. During that time, I was just 10 years old and left the home to study and have a dream to do great in the future.

Leaving home at such a young age was difficult for all of us. My parents endured the pain of separation, knowing it was necessary for my growth. Our interactions were limited to weekly phone calls on Sundays and rare visits every few months. Yet, they never let their longing for me hold me back. Their resilience became the cornerstone of my education, and their sacrifices filled the gap left by their absence.

After excelling in my 10th board exams, I transitioned to Bhubaneswar for my intermediate studies, marking another chapter in our journey. My success was, in part, a fulfilment of their dreams, but there was still much to achieve.

From Village to National Capital Delhi-

The transition from our village to the National Capital was transformative, not just for me but for our entire family. The financial strain of city life was immense, yet my parents bore it with quiet strength. My father took on additional responsibilities, while my mother supported me emotionally, often calling just to say, “We are proud of you. You will do so well in the future. Whenever anyone is coming to our home and telling my parents that your son will go so mile in the life and do much better.”

Their belief in me became my greatest motivation. Every success I achieved in the city was built on their sacrifices, and every failure reminded me of their unwavering support. They taught me to rise, to persevere, and to remain grounded no matter how high I soared.

Lessons That Last a Lifetime -

My parents imparted values that have become the cornerstone of my life:

• Hard Work: Watching my father, taught me the value of persistence. Success is not handed to you; it is earned through dedication.

• Resilience: My mother’s quiet strength through hardships showed me that challenges are not permanent, but the determination to overcome them is enduring.

• Humility and Gratitude: They taught me never to forget my roots and to always remember the hands that helped me rise.

As I moved forward in life, I carried these lessons with me. They shaped my character, influenced my decisions, and reminded me to honor their sacrifices by striving for excellence.

Today, as I stand in the National Capital Delhi, representing not just myself but the aspirations of my family and my village, I know that my success is not mine alone. It is a reflection of their love, perseverance, and sacrifices.

No material gift or words can ever repay what my parents have done for me. They exchanged their dreams for mine, endured sleepless nights, and overcame countless challenges so I could achieve what they couldn’t even imagine for themselves.

Their story is my story—a tale of two incredible individuals who taught me that love knows no bounds, and sacrifices made with love are the greatest form of strength.

Eternal Gratitude -

To my parents: You are the reason I stand where I am today. Every step I take, every success I achieve, is dedicated to you. Your sacrifices are etched in my heart, and your love is my guiding light.

You are the hands that built me, the hearts that dreamed for me, and the strength that will forever inspire me. Thank you for everything—for every dream you set aside, for every hardship you endured, and for believing in me when I couldn’t see my own potential.

"Your dreams may have remained unfulfilled, but you have fulfilled mine beyond measure. For that, I owe you my life and every bit of my success."

“They are the Sacrificial Stars who dimmed their own light to make me shine.”