As I visit college to collect my documents and bid farewell, I reminisce the land of chai, late-night adda sessions, and an endless stream of exams. As an alumni, I look back at those days with both nostalgia and glee, knowing that my college journey not only prepared me for my career but also taught me some valuable life lessons. Today, I stand before you, seasoned with experience and a dash of humor, to inspire you to follow your heart and make your careers.
First things first, my fellow Indians. It’s time to embrace your inner Shah Rukh Khan or Deepika Padukone – be a Bollywood star in your career pursuits! No, I don’t mean you have to dance around trees (unless you’re into that sort of thing). What I’m saying is, don’t be afraid to dream big, like those epic three-hour-long movies with improbable plot twists.
Remember when we were told to “think outside the box”? Well, I say, forget the box altogether! Picture it as an annoying relative you don’t want to invite to your wedding. Embrace the weird, the unconventional, and the quirky. Your heart will lead you to paths others haven’t even considered. Who knows, you might end up inventing a chai-making robot or a self-stirring sambar pot! The world needs more inventive minds like yours, so don’t hesitate to sprinkle some ‘Bollywood masala’ in your career choices.
Now, I know what you’re thinking: “But Uncle, Auntie, and every relative I’ve ever met expect me to become a doctor or engineer!” Fear not, my young friends! Let me share a little secret with you – as an Indian, you’re born with a superpower called “jugaad.” Harness it like a true Gandalf of your career quest. Use jugaad to turn your passions into a fulfilling profession. Be it fashion designing, gaming, or even stand-up comedy, let your heart guide you through the epic journey of self-discovery.
Ah, yes, the infamous question – “Log kya kahenge?” (What will people say?) This pestering query follows us like a mosquito on a hot summer day. But let me assure you, folks, worrying about what others think is like trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube after two rounds of tequila shots – futile and headache-inducing.
In the grand scheme of things, people’s opinions matter as much as last year’s exam syllabus. Instead, focus on what ignites the fire in your belly, what makes you leap out of bed in the morning (even after a night of binge-watching your favorite series). Life’s too short to live it according to someone else’s script. Follow your heart, and the applause you’ll receive will drown out those irrelevant critics.
Now, let’s take a moment to address the ‘Plan B’ enthusiasts. You know who you are – the ones with the emergency engineering or MBA option just in case your real dream crashes like a server during peak hours. Having a backup plan is prudent, but relying solely on it is like having an umbrella in the desert. You’ll never face the storms if you’re too busy seeking shelter.
So, let’s rewrite the script together, my dear friends. Embrace your heart’s desire and give it your all. Trust me; life has a way of surprising us when we least expect it. Those dance moves you perfected in the college cultural fest might just earn you a spot in a reality show. The blog you started on a whim might turn into the next big sensation, and your doodles could become a best-selling graphic novel. Success often finds those who are brave enough to follow their hearts.
To illustrate my point, let me share a little anecdote from my own journey. Back in college, I was a self-proclaimed expert in procrastination. But in those late-night study sessions, I discovered my passion for writing. Armed with a laptop and a bottomless mug of chai, I pursued my love for words with fervor. Today, I’m a writer, and it’s the best decision I ever made (aside from adopting my cat, Mittens).
So, dear college buddies, embrace your unique quirks, dance to your own rhythm, and march to the beat of your heart. Your dreams are your superpower, and there’s no force in the universe that can stop you if you put your mind to it.
Remember, life isn’t always a bed of roses, but it’s the thorns that make the journey worthwhile. Take risks, laugh at your failures, and keep pushing forward with the tenacity of a street food vendor during the monsoons.
As you set forth on this roller-coaster ride called ‘life after college,’ keep your heart close and your sense of humor closer. It will be your guiding star on those days when the future seems as clear as a foggy Delhi morning.
Now, my dear friends, go forth and conquer! Be the Shah Rukh Khan or Deepika Padukone of your own life’s blockbuster. Embrace your inner Bollywood hero and let your heart write the script. The grand finale will be nothing short of epic.
Regards,
Your fellow dreamer and chai enthusiast.
Deepankar Bhat
(2020 batch)
Content Writer
Mirage Vialista.