Raju's father was a daily wage worker. His mother managed the house carefully, counting every rupee before spending. They never pressured him directly, but their silent hope was heavy.
He wanted to help them. He wanted to reduce their struggle. But every job required "experience" or "higher qualification." Some demanded computer skills. Others wanted fluent English.
He applied everywhere — small offices, local stores, factories. Many times, he stood in long lines under the hot sun just to submit a form. Sometimes he traveled far for interviews using borrowed money.
The reply was always the same:
"We will inform you."
No one informed him.
Slowly, relatives began comparing him with others.
"Shyam's son is working in Kolkata."
"Rina's daughter is studying engineering."
Comparisons hurt more than rejection.