“Every time my father lent or donated some money to people, I would scold him. ‘Save it for yourself, social work won’t do you any good’ – I’d say. Years later, when I tookover his business because of his poor health, I made one wrong decision and everything shattered. At that time, many people helped us and didn’t expect anything in return. My dad never doubted my capabilities even then. I was broken, but he was my support system. He would tell me that money will come and go. We came from a small town (Shimoga) and started a new life here many years ago. What if we lost some money? We can always earn it back – were his words. My wife too gave away her jewellery to help me. It was a tough time. But I didn’t give up. I got back to karate, which had always been my passion. Unfortunately, I had to take a break from it after college because of my dad’s health. But I knew that if anything can help me make money, it was karate. I spent everyday of my high school learning the martial art. I didn’t have the money to take a bus, so I would walk from Chappal Bazaar to Ramanthapur to attend classes. Such was my dedication! However, when I started teaching, I realised that a lot of my students were talented but they didn’t have the resources to pay fees. I didn’t want them to give up on something they loved like I did, many years ago. So, I continue to teach students, whether or not they are in the position to pay fees. I have ends to meet too, but I can’t see another child sacrificing his passion. Instead, I want to give them hope. I see myself in each one of them. I know they have a long way to go if they get the right support. Although it’s difficult, I want to do whatever I can to make that happen.”

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