Most of the times when we are not able to do what we want to, we blame our circumstances for the situation, saying we could not do it because the situation was not favorable, had God been more benevolent towards me I could have done that.

I would like to share with you all a small story of a small village boy Jehangir who against all odds managed a good life for himself and his family..

Many years ago, an eight year old boy went to Kailash a tailor in Kolkata, with his uncle, asking for work. He lived in a village Ranihati, outside Kolkata. His family was skilled in embroidery. Kailash told his uncle that he was too young to be employed, and could probably come back to me a few years later. His uncle begged that he be given some work as his family needed the money and he agreed.

A few days later, that little boy went to Kailash with a beautiful piece of embroidery. After that, he continued to give him work, and he kept spilling his magic over cloth. His designs were outstanding.

One day, Kailash decided to visit his village, which was a beautiful place with coconut and bamboo trees around. Everyone lived in huts and their main occupation was embroidery. They didn’t have adequate money for sending their children to school. So, he decided to work along with them, to help their art of recognition.

Meanwhile, this boy became a young man. One day, he told Kailash, “My parents didn’t have enough money to get me educated. But, when I see children coming out of school, wearing uniforms and smiles, I feel I will not deprive my kids of schooling.

That boy’s name is Jehangir and it’s been over 30 years since the tailor met him. He still lives in the same village, but his son goes to school and learns embroidery too. The boy, who used to travel on the top of a bus with a “potli” (bundle of cloth), now comes to meet him in his own car. The dress that Miss India Lara Dutta wore, for her NATIONAL Costume Round in the Miss Universe pageant, was designed at is workshop. That picture still fills him with pride.Jehangir is now counted among the best embroiders in the country. Along with other villagers, Jehangir work has been displayed at places like Lalit Kala Academy, Birla Art Museum and Jehangir Art Gallery.

I find Jehangir’s story really touching and inspiring. If you have the talent and dedication, nothing can stop you from making it big in life.