The Dream Worth of My Life

I vividly rememember that day of December 2007. I was travelling to Pune with my dad and eager to show him a flat that I was interested into. It was located at Kothrud.

Kothrud, is a happening place for cultural activities especially for Marathi people. My dad like Marathi literature and was a good poet. So undoubtedly, I preferred Kothrud as my next abode (after Mumbai). I recently came back from my first onsite travel, hence very excited also.

I was talking with my dad about recent happenings. I can feel relaxation on his face. He was satisfied to see that everything is going smooth. After all discussions, I asked him how his job going on.

“Let it be my son. Let’s not discuss this topic now. Going to office just for the sake” dad replied.

“Why?”

“I am really fed up with the working in pub. Though I am looking after inventory and accounts, I can see downfall of human ethics, as pub culture is growing in Mumbai.”

“Oh, is it?” I replied. Actually, I was thinking of giving treat to all of my friends in the same pub, but now dropped that idea.

“I really hate liquor and non-veg, but since I am a inventory manager, I have to look after their quality. The pub is lagging in basic facilities to workers and I frequently suffer from headache.”

“That’s why I told you dad, you should have your physical checkup and you can plan for retirement also. Now Pinkey (my elder sister) got settled and this year probably Megha (younger sister) too!”

“That’s true. But one should always be busy in work.” I was expecting such reply from dad, since he spent most of his life in hard work and ensuring that we all are well educated.

“Hmm… I have an idea, why don’t we start exporting Alphonso mangoes?” I cited.

“Yes dad, its family business of our relatives and they are not into distribution. If we get a certificate and export in domestic and international market, we will earn a lot. I know you are inclined towards a new business and tried couple of time. You are inventory manager and know how to ship consignments and send them overseas. You have some contacts in custom also. So it would be a great business.”

My dad started to gain interest into my idea. I continued –

“Mango is a seasonal business. We can plan for some other things for rest of the period. We can start a library in Pune or you can be visiting lecturer in a college. You will really enjoy reading book and share your knowledge and gift of creativity with students”

“That’s an ingenious idea Bunty. Next month I will resign from the company and start a new business with the name Rashmi Enterprises.”

I know, since my dad started a business with the same name, during my childhood.

“Brillant! But I want you to take rest and have your complete checkup prior to that. You seem very tired.” I added.

“Hmm.. Yes dear. It has to happen with age, isn’t it?” dad replied.

I nodded my head, but could feel his reluctance to spare time for medical checkup. Since New Year event was coming close, my dad could hardly spare time from his job.

Now, days are going really in our favor. I was recollecting my efforts for search of new flat. Very first time, plan of buying flat did not work out as agent did not come up during the day of agreement. Secondly, we missed an opportunity to buy a flat in Bhandup and property prices soared like anything.

This time, discussions were going good. We gave a word to the owner and he agreed to the said value. Next year, I will be a Punekar (localite of Pune), I started wondering.

Next week, being a New Year weekend, I took a leave on 31st and thought of being with family.

But all dreams shattered after sudden demise of my dad. A severe heart attack ended his journey and that too during the time, when it was our privilege to serve our parents.

I was not afraid of responsibilities, since I was prepared and hence suggested dad to retire, his absence could not be filled at any cost. We all were left alone.



So many months are passed after that incidence in 2007. Our parents are the only reason, because of whom, we are here now. I and my dad dreamed of pioneering a business. Now I realize that, it was not me who was chasing the dream, but the dream is chasing me.

Now, I have started business of selling mangoes in Pune and Mumbai. I am really excited to begin with implementing this idea. Now, mango business is first phase of my business plan for 5-6 years down the line and I know I have long way to go. It requires lot of sincerity, dedication and put extra efforts to make it a big success.

Everyone I have shared my thoughts with, has appreciated this idea and promised to help me at every stage. I cordially thank all of them for providing me moral boost.

I am sure, my dad’s blessing will always be with me and its the fundamental reason which keeps my spirit going for the mango business.