Author’s Note

I am writing this book and dedicating it to my wife Dr. Hemagini Kirish Shah. She was born on 18th September 1941 and passed away on 10th November 2008. I am writing a book for the first time in my life. This book is regarding my life since the age of 4 years old. I will try to narrate as much as I remember since the age of 4 till today. I don’t know anything about my future, so I will write only till the day I finish this book.

I started this book on 17th, February 2009, and I plan to finish, as soon as possible. I want the book to be out before October 2010. I started it when I was in USA for a holiday during February/March 2009.

My personal details are as under:

Kirish Amthalal Shah

B/53, Citizen Society, Near Atmajyoti Ashram, Ellora Park, Vadodara - 390 023.

Telephone: (Cell) 9825482059, (R) 2390154, (O) 2332574.

I was born in Bombay on 21st October, 1940. My Hindu rashi is Mithun and English sun sign is Libra.

Some of my hobbies from childhood till date. (I consider myself as Jack of all and master of none)

1) Sports: Badminton, Cricket, Carrom, Chess, Cards, Swimming, Skating and many other games.

2) Travelling: I have always been interested in visiting different countries, I have visited 17 countries and more than 100 places in these countries, traveled over 100 times in airplanes of different varieties. I also like travelling by car and have traveled very long distance, self driven for more than 500 kms non stop. I have self driven for 1000 kms in 12 hours with only three stops for refreshments.

3) Vehicles: I like different types of vehicles, have owned more than 38 different vehicles, 29 four wheelers and rest two wheelers. I have had many imported vehicles. (See the list on page No...........)

4) Coin Collection: I have collected nearly 350 coins of different countries. I have full sets of coins of 17 countries that I have visited so far.

5) First Day Covers: I have very few of these, mostly from my early years.

6) Souvenirs (Monuments) & Artifacts: I have collected a few of these from different places I visited. These have been placed at my residence in a 60 years old showcase belonging to my father.

7) Reading: In my spare time I like to read novels, magazines, general knowledge & educational books.

8) Dresses: I am very fond of new dresses. I spend a lot on new trendy dresses and ties.

9) Photography: From a very early age I developed a passion for photography. Later – during a period of financial crisis - I converted this hobby into my profession. From June 1986 to mid 1992, I was busy doing photography & videography to earn my daily bread.

10) Music: I developed a keen interest in music during my college days, but had to give it up due to financial problems. After 10th May 2009, I restarted music lessons by learning harmonium and electronic keyboard. I enjoy this and also utilize my spare time. I think it is never too late.

Acknowledgement

First to my daughter Rakhee and my son Sagar, who gave me wonderful inspiration for writing this book when I was in USA in January / March, 2009. Thanks a lot to both of them for such an excellent advice.

Secondly, thanks to Mita ben, Rakhee’s sister in-law, who met me at Rakhee’s residence in February, 2009 in USA. She also gave me very good advice for writing this type of a book, stating that, your grand children will have a complete idea of your life style in past in India.

Thirdly thanks to Ashit Pathak and his wife Madhvi, because when I came back from USA in April, 2009, I had completed nearly 1/3rd of this book and had given it to Ashit bhai, to go through whatever I had written and give me his sincere idea, as to how he liked it and also let me know if it is worth completing and publishing it in the form of a book. Ashit bhai & Madhvi both gave me positive support and told me to go ahead, complete writing the whole book and they will help me for editing and publishing. I am very obliged to them for the same. It gave me courage to complete the book as and when time permitted.

Lastly my special thanks to Sharad bhai Panchamiya, a friend of Ashit bhai, who came forward to edit the whole book, print it, as well as complete the binding for the same. I gave him my time limit and he agreed to do the needful within the time limit.

This book would not have been so beautiful without the moral support from both Ashit bhai and Sharad bhai.

Thanks to all those friends and relatives who have given me right advice for publication of this book.

In Bombay - my childhood from 21-10-1940 to November 1969

I was born on 21st October 1940 with a silver spoon in my mouth. My parents were quite rich during those days, and I was born in a very big family. I had four elder brothers, an elder sister, one younger brother, two younger sisters, two grandmothers, one masiba, all staying in one big joint family. Our house hold comprised of six brothers, three sisters, father, mother, masiba, two grandmothers, Hasoo mama (mother’s brother), two domestic servants, one cook, one driver one shop assistant (Mr. Champaklal) all residing at Opera House. I was born at 497, Banji Nivas, 3rd floor, Sandhurst Road, Bombay 400 004 (now known as Sardar V. P. Road). We had a huge flat, nearly 3000 square feet, with 5 bed rooms, huge drawing room, kitchen which could accommodate nearly 25 to 30 persons, one store room, and three front galleries with a very good view. We could see Chowpatty from these galleries. The whole flat was very spacious, with large rooms, full of windows and quite airy & light. The building had four floors and one tenant on each floor. We occupied the 3rd floor. The owner of the building lived on the fourth floor, but most of the time he was in Jaipur. Another tenant, Dr. Sardesai lived on the 1 st floor and Dr. Ghokle lived on the 2nd floor.

Once while playing with a toy on the 3 rd floor, I got lost. The toy fell down from the gallery, and as I could not speak I did not tell anyone in my family, instead I went straight down to pick it up, and just forgot the way back to my home. As I was wandering down stairs, few people saw me and handed over me to a policeman. I could not answer any of their questions, so they took me to the nearest police station, which was at Lamington Road. That’s how I landed at the police station at the tender age of four!!!!. After some time when my parents realized that I was not around, they started looking for me, and all the while, I was quietly sitting at the police station eating sweets given by officer in charge. Luckily my parents located me at the police station and I was taken back home.

I say I was born lucky, because, my parents had a very good reputation and nearly everyone around the area knew them well. I was born in a very reputable religion i.e. Jainism, my parents were very rich and in those days we had a family car - Vauxhall. My father was a cloth merchant, and owned a shop at Muljijetha Market, 2nd Chandra Chowk, Kalbadevi, Bombay. We had a telephone at our residence – a rarity during those days.

I don’t remember a lot up to the age of 4. I started talking at the age of five, and was admitted to one of the best school in Bombay- Queen Marry High School, near Congress House, Lamington Road, which was very near to our residence. I was admitted into kindergarten. All my elder brothers & elder sister were in the same school. This school did not have Metric or SSC. The final highest class was Cambridge, and the exams were held by UK Institute. It was a very strict school with very high discipline. School uniform was white shorts, white half sleeve shirt, white buttons, white socks and white tennis shoes. The colour varied according to the grades.

We had lots of toys to play with. There was big open ground and a huge enclosed lobby. The school used to provide tricycles and four wheel small cars for driving in the lobby. In the afternoon we had to sleep compulsory for one

hour. We were provided green folding beds. Whenever I had any problem I used to run to my elder brothers class.

Unfortunately, we had to leave the school as it was converted to an all girls school after class 3. Thereafter we brothers were admitted at another English medium school- St. Sebastian Goan High School, situated at Chirabazar, Bombay. I was admitted into Senior K. G. class. My elder brothers went to higher classes. My elder sister continued at Queen Marry School.

St. Sebestian Goan High School was a Christian school and most of the students were Christian, Sindhi or Punjabi. Gujarati boys were very few, only 20 to 25 in the whole school. Amongst them we were six of one family.

Our school building was 5 stories high and the layout was in a U shape. The back portion was facing Marin lines sea face. The school was sandwiched between two cemeteries, a Christian and a Muslim one. We had a very huge playground where we used to play games like marbles, cricket and so on during recess time. We used to have our drill period in the ground. In between the U shaped building there was an open space where all the students had to assemble for morning prayers (Assembly). As soon as the prayers were over we had to go in one line into our respective classes.

Each standard had 3 divisions A, B & C and from Std 1 to Std 11 i.e. S. S. C. (Secondary School Certificate).

I don’t remember much of the first seven years but during that period I was good at studies and used to play lot of different games during recess time. My rank would be within the first 5.

From Standard 8 I started having difficulty in studies as new subjects entered in our regular course, i.e. Sanskrit, Hindi, Marathi and Elementary Mathematics and so on. Till class 8, I could not read or write Gujarati.

We used to get 2 Annas (twelve paise as per present currency) for our to and fro transport, One Anna equal to 2 x 2 paise, so morning journey to school, back to home in the afternoon for lunch, again going after lunch and back home in the evening. Bus or tram used to charge 2 paise per trip. Sometimes we used to walk down and save some money to eat chhana /nuts during recess. The school was 1½ km from my home.

Till my 8 th class, my father was doing very well in Business. He was the sole distributer for the Thakercy group. He was also involved in various side businesses, such as, Parachute cloth, string, hats, sewing needles all imported (I still have 3 to 4 packets made in China, Germany and UK more than 55 years old and still not rusted). He also produced a 35 mm movie Bhaver - between 1948 and 1952. Many actors used to come to our residence. Our father had also given shelter to Mr. Parsuram Parikh who was involved in film industry and not settled very well, he stayed with us for 7 years.

Our father was very friendly with us and used to play lot of different games with us, such as Cards (Rummy, Flash, Bridge, and Bizic), Chess, Carrom, Marbles, and Cricket etc. He was also found of music and had a lot of musical instruments in house, i.e. Harmonium, Sitar, Tabla, Tamboora, and Violin etc. At our residence we had a long passage of 24 ft. x 7 ft., so we used to play cricket nearly every day. Very often we used to break the window / door glass and had to stop playing as my mother used to

get angry and shout at us. At times on Sundays we all used to go to play cricket at the open grounds near Marine Drive.

Father used to take us for picnic on Sunday afternoon after lunch to National Park near Borivali, Vihar Lake and Cannary caves. All of us - nearly 12 to 14 used to travel in our family car ‘Vauxhall’. During those days, the price of petrol per gallon was Rs. 3.50. My elder brother Dinesh bhai used to drive the car. We used to carry 2 jugs containing Tea and Coffee and few snacks like Cream Cracker Biscuits Tins.

Our father engaged a teacher Mr. Cannery, to teach us our school lessons, he used to come early morning at 5 am and we all had to get ready very early. Mr. Jasubhai – the music teacher used to come for my elder brothers and sister.

At times on early mornings, especially on Sunday all of us - six brothers, sisters, mother and father - used to go for a walk from residence to Narimain Point and walk 6 km, all wearing the same uniform - white trouser and green coat.

On Saturday night, my father used to arrange Musical concert in our drawing room. He would call friends who could sing and play different instruments. My elder brother Dinesh bhai, Ramesh bhai and Suresh used to take part as they were good at singing as well as playing instruments. The concert would start at 9 p.m. and end at 2 or 3 a.m. with break for snacks and tea/coffee.

My mother was also very lively, soft at nature, and used to take part in all activities. She was very strong, cool, and quite healthy. She was very good at preparing very tasty food. She was an expert in making sweet mithai, such as mysore, mohanthaal, magaj, barfi and so on. She was interested also in playing different cards games.

She liked watching movies, and when she dressed up she looked like a Parsi Lady. She had different types of sarees, many pairs of shoes, sandals and slippers to match each clothing, and different perfumes.

She had nine deliveries, but she was still very strong, fit and healthy. She treated everyone with the same spirit. Smita and Chhaya were the youngest in our family and whenever she wanted to play cards or go out with father, we had to look after Smita and Chhaya.

Father used to reach from shop to Seksaria building near Marine drive and mother used to meet him there. Then both used to go to Patanwala Library, pick up some books and come home walking by 8.30 p.m.

She was 47 years when she lost my father who was 52. She had a lot of courage; she looked after the whole family very well after the death of father. With the help of Dinesh bhai and her brother Ramu mama, she looked after the Business as well as entire family. She had very good control over everyone. We all brothers and sisters were very young, eldest brother Dinesh bhai was studying in Inter Arts, and I was in 9th standard.

Slowly she also diverted herself towards religion and did lot of Taap, such as Aathai, Navanoo, Varsitap, etc. My eldest sister had problems with her husband even after delivering 3 kids and she had to take divorce, and ultimately mother had to look after her till the end of her life.

She was very strong at heart. She ensured that all the brothers received good education. Then they started going abroad, first Rameshbhai, then Suresh, then I, then Mahesh. She also visited Zambia in 1970 when Suresh and I were in Zambia at the time of Anal’s birth. She passed away at the age of 80 after seeing everyone very well settled.

We had automobiles business and shops in our area (Opera House), nearly all the shop owners were very friendly with my father. Usually during weekend starting Friday night, Saturday night up to 6 a.m. on Sunday morning, nearly 10 to 12 friends from Auto business used to come at our place, occupy one of the rooms, and play Rummy. My father usually used to watch and give advice to his partner. He was excellent at playing cards - nearly any game in cards. His friends used to bring brand new Caravan cards which were very famous during those days, nearly 6 to 8 pairs, and when they used to finish playing for the week they used to leave the cards with us, so we used to play amongst ourselves and learn different card games.

My father was very good at heart, he used to help the needy, he was soft, but very strict. His nature was ‘play while you play and work while you work’. No one could argue with him. Even all our relatives could not say anything against him. All our relatives in Ahmedabad also were very scared when they used to hear his name.

During Diwali my father used to wake us up at 4 a.m. We had to go to temple for puja, and also Chopda Pujan at our shop, where we used to enjoy a lot. After the pujan we used to get Boni in cash, and Jalebii /Ghatia, dry fruits, soft drinks. Most of our relatives’ kids also used to come at our shop for chopda pujan. My father used to bring lot of crackers, and we could not even finish them up to 1 to 2 a.m. (night). All the neighbours used to enjoy the same.

My father was very fond of flying kites and on the 14th January (his birthday) - Uttarayan – the whole family would fly kites from morning till evening. After I came back from Zambia, I have restarted this tradition and we all, my wife, Rakhee & Sagar and other relatives used to stay on the terrace for the whole day, from morning 6 a.m. to night 10 p.m. for three days i.e. 13th, 14th & 15 th of January. We would just fly kites and enjoy.

My father was very fond of movies, especially English movies. Though he did not know English, he used to enjoy the movies. Whenever he wanted to go for a movie, he used to call us and ask our opinion about good English movies in town.

My father liked cricket match very much. At times he used to go to the Brabon Stadium, or listen to the running commentary for whole day on Radio. No one could disturb him when he was busy listening the score. He had a very nice big Grundig changer, radio/record player, and would buy many records from H.M.V.

My father was not educated, but he wanted all his children to get good education. Hence we all went to English medium schools. He wanted all his children to have at least a Bachelors degree.

If any of us failed, he would never scold us. On the contrary he would give Rs.1/- and ask us to watch a movie and get fresh. Luckily we all brothers fulfilled his wish even though he was not alive with us. Dinesh bhai completed Law, Ramesh bhai completed B.Sc., Mahesh became an Architect, Suresh got his C.A. degree (Chartered Accountant) and I completed B.Com.

When I was in Zambia I did few courses in higher studies through postal course obtaining fellowship degrees. My younger brother Satish completed Pharmacy, younger sister Smita became an Architect, and unfortunately youngest sister Chhaya could not finish higher studies.

When I was very young, my father had one friend whom we all remember used to come from Afghanistan. He was a giant Pathaan. We used to look very tiny in front of him, and he used to bring tins of Rasgoola & dry fruits. He was very kind and used to wear long Pathani suit with Bandi on it, and turban on head. He was very handsome.

My father used to take lot of precaution while shaving. He used to have 7 bowls of hot water. He used to clean his shaving blade in one bowl, discard the water and use another bowl to clean his razor.

He would have his morning tea between 8 & 8-30 a.m. in drawing room while reading the newspaper. He would have a kettle of hot water with tea, separate milk and sugar pots and prepare the brew leisurely. He would sip slowly for almost an hour and read the newspaper. At 9 a.m. everyday our mota mama (Ramu mama) used to come to see us. He too enjoyed having tea with father.

My father was so kind that he had helped many of our relatives to settle down in business, especially all the three mamas, and many others who used to come from Ahmedabad and stay with us for a year or two, learn the business or take up a job in Bombay.

Every six months we all had to take Typhoid and Cholera Vaccination, which was compulsory as per father’s instructions. Our cousin, Dr. Bachubhai used to come to give us the vaccines. We were given paracetamol to alleviate the pain.

After 1954/1955 my father had down fall in the Business. He was facing lot of problem in selling goods. The warehouse was full of unsold goods (Gasadhis). This affected his health. But he did not lose courage, he always hoped for the best.

During October 1956, (the year I was in class 9), my father’s brother Mr. Kantilal Shah who was staying in Ahmedabad, was severely ill. He was suffering from Cancer, and survival chances were very low. Father was facing business problems and had lot of debt. He had to pay Thakarcy group for unsold goods. It was a very critical period for him, and he could not decide what to do. He had to go to Ahmedabad to see his sick brother who could pass away any time.

As I recall, my mother, Ramu mama and other elder family members advised and forced him to go and visit his brother at Ahmedabad. At last he decided to go with mother, and leave all of us at our residence in the care of Ramu mama. Dinesh bhai, who was earlier in Wilson College, Bombay, was in Ahmedabad studying in Inter Arts and taking training at Mitha kaka’s shop. Mitha kaka and father were very close.

At last father went to Ahmedabad, visited his brother, stayed with him for 6 to 7 days and realized that kaka’s chances for survival were nil. He also realized with shock that he would have to look after his brother’s five small children and kaki.

As a single earning member – looking after such a big family single handedly was a matter of great concern. The stress built up and he had a stroke

on the 8th day at 12:30 a.m. (night) at Mitha kaka’s house. Doctors were called in, Oxygen cylinders were brought to facilitate breathing, but facilities were very rare during those days. Despite all the efforts from Doctors he passed away at 2:30 a.m. within 2 hours of the stroke.

This was on October Sudd Pacham, 1956, he was only 52, a very young age to die. We received a call at 3 a.m. asking us to go to Ahmedabad. We were told that father was very sick and we must catch the early morning train and reach Ahmedabad by evening.

We assumed that Kaka must have passed away. When we reached Ahmedabad at our fuwa’s house in Dhanasutani pole, we saw everyone mourning. We thought we would visit our father on the top floor where he usually stayed. Our cousin Sashikant bhai broke the news to us about our father’s demise. We were shocked, and could not think of anything. But shocks were not yet over - within 24 hours i.e. Asoo Sudd Saatam morning at 4 a.m. our Kaka passed away. So both family heads died together leaving us all alone to bear the grief. Ahmedabad was buzzing with the news of shocking deaths of 2 brothers within 24 hours.

The dynasty started falling down, and we all brothers, mother, and mama had to suffer and struggle for survival.

My father was really a great man; he was the only earning member of our family and nearly 20 members of the family survived under him. The monthly expense during those days used to be approximately Rs. 3000/-. He performed his duties very well and excellently. Unfortunately he could not see any of his children getting married. Luckily he had arranged my elder sister’s engagement just 6 months ago and also match making for Dinesh bhai to get married to Ranjan ben who was his best friend Babubhai’s daughter.

The earnings dropped drastically. We were getting only Rs.10/- per month for all our personal expenses, Rs.150/- per year for our clothing.

Mother was brave, she tackled everyone very well, she was not afraid of any one, had lot of courage, looked after home as well as business very well, and treated everyone with same respect.

She also had very good support from her brother Ramu mama. He was very honest, sincere, and was working with father in same shop. He had good knowledge of our Business. He and Dinesh bhai started looking after family cloth business. We all brothers were studying to fulfill high hopes and wishes of our father. Dinesh bhai was looking after the business and studying for B. A. at Wilson College. Ramesh bhai too was looking after the business and studying for B.Sc. at Wilson College. Mahesh was at J.J. School of Arts studying Architecture. Suresh, Satish, Smita, Chhaya and I were still at the school. I was just in class 9. Two younger sisters were studying at Queen Marry High School, but unfortunately they had to give up that very good school and join Vanitavisharam School, at Prarthanasamaj, due to financial problems, as Queen Marry High School was very expensive.

During my school days, I had five good friends. Virendra, since 1955 staying next door at Ramchandra Mansion, Nayan - Virendra’s cousin, who left for USA in 1964 for further studies. Other two friends were from school -one is Janakraj Khanna who is Punjabi and film actor Jitendra’s cousin. Jitendra’s real name was Ravi, and he was also in same class with us in same school. Sham

Wadhawa is Sindhi, and Kanti, who was elder to all of us, but good at nature and he was working in a laundry, just below our house in the same building.

Our friendship was growing, and we used to meet every day in the evening, but Sham was staying bit far near Bhuleshwar, so we used to meet at the school. We four, Virendra, Janak, Kanti and I, used to go out hiking every Sunday at 5.30 p.m.

Starting from Operahouse at our residence, first we used to go and visit Hanging Garden, Kamla Nehru Park, going through Chowpatty/Babulnath, climbing the hill where we used to take few rounds in the garden, reaching there within 45 minutes. From there through back road via Hanging Garden we used to go to Breach Candy, walk through the beach upto Mahalaxmi, visit mandir for prayers, then go and sit on the rocks behind the Mandir near the sea, watch wonderful water waves coming and going , sometimes even touching our feet. We sat and ate famous Daal Wada with hot and sweet chutney. It’s even famous today.

Thereafter via Peddar Road we used to come home by 9 p.m. My friend Kanti had shifted to Baroda which I was not knowing, but one day I went to deliver my suit for washing at Snow White Laundry, luckily I found him there working for the same laundry, there after we used to meet in Baroda at his laundry, but unfortunately, he is no more he passed away due to old age. Other three friends are still there in Bombay i.e. Virendra, Janak, and Sham, and whenever I go to Bombay I meet them quite often. My friend Virendra comes to Baroda also many times and stays with me down here. Our friendship is since 1954/55, nearly 55 years as of today. During these 55 years of friendship, we never had hard feelings, never quarreled, whereas we have always helped each other for anything and everything throughout this period. Since Kanti was working at laundry I had very good chance of learning how to iron clothes. Since my school life, I iron all my clothes. I never give any clothes outside for ironing or for washing. I personally wash all my clothes. Today also after so many years I have continued the same practice regarding ironing and washing, I never keep a single dress ironed in my wardrobe, I just wash and keep clothes in my cupboard, and iron them just few minutes before I want to wear the dress. I have taught same practice to both my kids i.e. Rakhee and Sagar, they also iron their clothes themselves since very young age.

At Bhatwadi (lane adjacent to our building) we used to take part in different activities, annual sports in which I once got first price for Air gun shooting. During ten day Ganpati festival they used to have many different programs, such as movie, evening with music party, drama, magic show, fancy dress competition so on and so forth. All ten days we were very busy from 9 p.m. to 12 p.m. At fancy dress competition, I used to ask my younger sister to take part and, I had different ideas for the same.

Three consecutive years I had obtained 1st prize in fancy dress competition for my sister-1st year I made her as a ‘Merry go Round’, top to bottom white cloth standing as pillar with red ribbon all around her, on her head we placed a cone type round based hat, and six horses with balloons on it hanging on the base of hat, and when music was played she turned round and round so horses also go round in circle appearing as a ‘Merry Go Round’. During 2nd year I made her as a statue of ‘Mirabai’. Complete white saree and all other parts of the body which were open, i.e. hair, face, hands, legs all covered with Plaster of Paris, making her totally white from top to bottom. She was sitting in the middle of the stage with Tambora in one hand and Manjira in

other. In the third year she was a ‘Kissing Couple’, one lady appearing as two, i.e. one man and one lady, kissing each other, only face covered with umbrella so it looks like two people kissing behind the umbrella, half body with male clothes and half body with female clothes. Then during 4th year all other participants started asking me that this year if you are taking part we are not interest at all to enter into competition. Well thereafter Chhaya had grown up so we decided not to take part for the competition. It was lot of fun and specially winning for 3 continuous years was great pleasure.

When I was in school, I found studies bit difficult in higher standards, especially 9th, 10th and 11th (S.S.C.) standards. It was may be because I was at the same time involved in other activities. I used to do some things for pocket expenses. Regarding Sanskrit, I used to take help from my friend Mr. Sham Wadhawa, Physics and Chemistry my friend Janakraj and I used to take help of my elder brother Ramesh bhai who was a Science student at Wilson college, and elementary Mathematics, i.e. Algebra, Geometry, and Arithmetic, these three combined for one paper having 30 + 30 + 40 marks respectively. In standard 9th we had a change of teacher in mathematics, and I could not follow him very well so I became very weak in Maths, especially Arithmetic was total headache for me. In exams I used to solve only questions for Algebra, and Geometry and leave all the questions of Arithmetic blank, and out of 60 marks I used to score passing marks for the said paper, but I was good at Maths upto Standard 8th.

I was very fond of playing all different types of games at school. All of us friends used to play Badminton in the school compound or at Balbhavan just across Charni road. None of my friends could defeat me during those days, and during recess we used to play Carrom or Chess or Table Tennis within school premises. 9th standard onwards I was very good at games, and also had lot of interest in indoor as well as outdoor games.

When I entered S.S.C i.e. 11th standard, I found myself very weak at Mathematics, so I decided to drop the said subject for S.S.C. exams and select other seven subjects. These seven subjects were as follows: - Higher English, Hindi, Sanskrit, General Science, Special Physics and Chemistry, Social Studies and Special Geography. Well even after selecting above seven subjects, I could not get through in first attempt. When I passed my S.S.C. exams, thereafter I started seeking admission for Arts college, as I was under the impression that I can’t get admission in any other college except Arts, i.e. either Science or Commerce. So I started visiting Wilson, Bhavans and K.C. College respectively. Lastly when I visited K.C. College, I saw a new building coming up next to the said college, where they were going to open a Commerce College in the same name. (It is now known as H.R.Commerce College). I just visited for the sake of curiosity, to find out if I can get admission in Commerce without Maths as my subject in S.S.C., so I was told ‘yes definitely you can get it’, as I had two special subjects i.e. Higher Geography, Physics & Chemistry and Higher English. I got the Application form and filled up the same for 1st year commerce admission. Unfortunately, I was told they have been given permission for 2 divisions i.e. A, & B for 1st Year commerce, and both have been filled up, but they have also applied for 3rd division and if the permission is granted I stand the chance for admission. They told me if they receive applications for 100 students they will open 3rd division otherwise it’s not possible. Usually colleges open on 20th of June all over Bombay, and luckily I received letter on 23rd June that I have obtained admission in C division. That’s how I took admission and landed up in Commerce College for B. Com studies. Started attending college from 24th onwards, and within few days made friends nearly 5 to 6 of them, and one of them became my best friend whose name is Mr.

Harish Motiwala, who is my friend at present also. Others were Harshad, Praful and so on, all staying at Santacruz West. College timings were from 7:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. nearly 4 periods every day. In between we had 15 minutes recess. We were enjoying studies very well, and we had one subject known as organization of Commerce, teachers showed us how to do Business, and during first period, Professor told us ‘now I am going to teach you how you should organize your Business’. He told us best business in Bombay as well as in India is a small restaurant, with fancy furniture, low dim lights, with light music in one corner, and then see how it is runs, even if you give junk food it’s going to run very well. That’s how he was joking and completed his first lecture. Accounts and Auditing Professor was also very friendly and he also gave few hints for accounts in business during his first lecture. Statistics was my favourite subject, and I used to enjoy a lot. Others were language and Maths. Here also in first year we had Arithmetic, which was a headache for me, but it was combined with Accounts for few marks so I did not have any problem in leaving the questions for the same during exams. Sometimes we all friends used to bunk last class (period) and either go for an English Movie (Matinee show) at Eros, Regal or some other theater, or sit in a restaurant near Church Gate station in Hotel Sattkar, or M.L.A. canteen, or Jai Hind college canteen.

After S. S. C. my friendship became very intimate with my next door friend Virendra. We used to meet every day in evening and take one round in Bhatwadi, buy Parles Extra Strong sweets and chat for couple of hours. Slowly I started visiting his house, and also became one of their family members. His father and mother used to treat me in the same manner as they used to treat Virendra. His sister Minaxi ben also was very friendly with me, and she used to give me company when Virendra was not at home. His sister, father and mother used to force me to take dinner with them at times when they had some good variety. Slowly I became very friendly with all his relatives i.e. kaka, mama, and masa. All had very good respect for me, and any one or every one used to give me company when I was at his place. Especially on Saturdays and Sundays all his relatives used to meet at his place. In case I was not there, they used to phone me & call me for my company.

During mornings I used to enjoy my college life with studies as well as with college friends. I used to travel by train from Charni Road to Churchgate, since college was very near to Churchgate and my house very near to Charni Road. Going by bus would have been very expensive daily as there was no system of monthly concession pass, whereas in train it was very cheap. A students concession pass cost only Rs. 2/- for three months which could be used as many times you want to use going and coming each day, and sometimes other friends also could use the same pass as there was no photo identity on the pass. I used to get only Rs.10/- per month for pocket expense. Life was very tough and family business very dull, we had to live very economically. After father’s death, financial position was very, very weak, and no one had courage to face the situation like my father.

For more pocket expense money, I used to go to our shop, and our next door business owner used to sell pant and shirt pieces as full taaka i.e. 20 meters cloth at whole sale price. I used to take such pieces from them, and add couple of Rupees on each piece and sell them to students in my college so as to make some extra pocket money, and students also got clothes at cheaper rate compared to market price. We could not ask any extra money from home except college fees which were Rs.150/- per term i.e. for six months.

When I used to go to my friend Virendra’s house, I used to see his sister and her friends busy with embroidery on saris and different types of cloth pieces such as handkerchiefs. I used to watch very carefully as to how they were doing it. One day Minaxi ben was not around and the sari she was embroidering was lying on the bed, so I picked it up and started trying to do embroidery on the same similarly as she used to do, when she saw me she got very angry, that I may spoil her sari, but as she came closer and saw the work done by me, she was quite happy, as there was no mistake and the work was perfect. Thereafter, I thought that I should make some money by doing embroidery, so I started buying white plain ladies handkerchief from Mafatalal and Kohinoor stores, started printing designs with the help of carbon paper on one corner, either initials or flower designs. I used to do embroidery with the help of Anchor thread with different colours and make a pack of twelve i.e. one dozen and sell the same to ladies and this way made very good profit. Thereafter, Minaxi ben and I started doing embroidery on malmal saris together. This is how I completed my first year of commerce and got through with second class.

When I was in 1st year, one of my brothers’ friend - Yogesh bought a proposal for running a movie for one week at Imperial Theater which was very near to our house. The conditions were, if all the shows go full, we get a collection of Rs. 11,000/- per week and we have to pay rent for one week which was Rs. 8,000/-, this way we could make Rs. 3000/- profit. The two of us were not ok with the risk, so I asked my other friend Dilip Trivedi who lived at Ramchandra Mansion to join us as he was very rich, and Yogesh asked another friend. The four of us got together and hired the movie ‘Tisree Manzil’ starring Shammi Kapoor and Asha Parekh, which was a hit movie. We had booked the theater but unfortunately we got our chance during the time of 10 days Ganpati festival in Bombay, and during those days everyone used to go to see and attend functions at different places where they used to keep Ganpati idols . Due to this the 2nd show at 6 p.m. and last show at 9 p.m. were quite empty for the whole week. Unfortunately we made a loss of Rs. 2,800/- instead of making profit. Now we had to pay the loss which per head came to Rs. 700/- for the partnership deal. I had not informed this to anyone in our house. I had no money. I had a school friend- Janakraj Khanna who had settled down in Calcutta, doing cloth business. I wrote him a letter asking him to send me Rs. 700/- urgently if possible as I need it for a short period and will return the same as early as possible. He was so kind that without asking any questions he immediately dispatched a cheque of Rs. 700/- in my favour, which I later repaid when I had the money. Even till today I can’t forget that help as Rs.700/- was good money in those days.

During vacation between first year and intercommerce, I saw one advertisement in the newspaper regarding beginners’ wireman course at an institute in Dadar. The course duration was one and a half month long and each day during morning hours for 2 hours. I joined it and learned basic wireman course, i.e. for minor repairs for wiring at residence plus how to repair irons and smaller basic electrical instruments. That’s how my vacation was over with classes and playing around, going for movies, site seeing and so on with friends.

In the month of June on 20th our college restarted i.e. Inter Commerce-2nd year, and final exams were held by Bombay University at the end of the year. Slowly, I found studies ok. We had 8 subjects, out of which I found Arithmetic and Hindi bit difficult. I was not very good at languages. For Arithmetic, I was not much worried as it was included along with Accounts and

Auditing paper for 1/3 marks, so I used to score in Accounts and get through. Our timings for college were as usual, in mornings from 7:30 a.m. to 11 a.m., so after coming home and taking lunch at 2 p.m., I used to go again to college for sports with some of my college friends as I was very fond of sports. We used to play Badminton, Carrom and Cricket, I was very good at all the three games, and in cricket I was the opening bowler. During those days my friends used to call me Gilchrest and Hall (one of the opening bowlers for West Indies Cricket team). At College annual sports tournament, I took part in few games, and out of them one was Javelin Throw, and luckily I was best and first to throw the javelin till a very long distance. Thereafter, I was selected to take part in Inter college tournaments of Bombay University Colleges, for Javelin throw, representing my college. As I was selected, every afternoon, I had to go to Marin Lines Sports Ground and practice the Javelin throw, and when I used to finish practicing, instead of bringing the Javelin back to my residence or leave it at college, I used to leave it at Asha’s residence, one of my sister Smita’s friend who used to stay just next to the ground. I did take part at University level, but unfortunately I did not succeed. In cricket also I was a very good bowler and in my first over I usually used to take one or two wickets. I was a fast off spin bowler. In badminton also I took part in tournament in both singles as well as doubles category but did not win any title.

During weekend sometimes all of us friends, both boys and girls used to organize private picnics especially on Sundays, and visit different places in Bombay such as Cannery Caves, Elephanta Caves and National Park etc. From morning 6 a.m. to evening 7 p.m. We used to take readymade food with us and few games, radio and so on to pass our time. While preparing sandwich, I was best at cutting tomatoes in very fine thin slice, and all the girls used to see and appreciate the same.

When I was in K. C. College, at times during winter I used to go walking from residence to College via Marine Lines, enjoying morning walk along the sea shore.

During my second year of college, I was introduced to a new friend Mr. Nandu Bhatia, who was Viriendra’s friend, so I started going to his house also along with Virendra. He was staying just opposite to Virendra’s house which we could see from one of his galleries. Slowly there also I got in touch with his elder brother Mr. Manu bhai, and his three sisters, Vadiben, Anu, and Sushila. Virendra and I started going there very often, and especially during Ganpati festival they used to invite us to do some decoration at their house, and every evening we used to go to Nandu’s house for Ganpati Arti at 8 p.m., and on the last day we all used to go to Chowpatty for Ganpati idol immersion. On the last day, i.e. 10th day, Chowdas it’s a big festival for immersion of all Ganpati idols into the sea waters at Chowpatty. Our house was facing the main road, and nearly all big and tall Ganpati’s of Bombay used to pass through this road as Chowpatty was just five minutes’ walk from our house. It’s a very big festival throughout India (mainly in the State of Maharashtra). We had three big and small galleries in front facing the main road, from where this procession used to pass. All traffic for vehicles used to be totally closed from morning 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., so that the procession could pass smoothly. All our relatives and friends used to come at our house to watch this procession; they used to come early by 1:30 p.m. to occupy better position in gallery from where they could see properly. Nearly 100 to 125 big and small friends and relatives used to come and at 8 p.m. everyone used to take dinner at our place. We used to prepare handwo, tea/coffee, and buy chevdo, ghathia, penda and so on for everyone.

On Sundays especially from morning 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. nearly 6 to 8 friends used to go to Mafatlal Bath for swimming. Before starting swimming, we used to play Chess, Carom or Badminton, Billiard and so on, thereafter have some hot breakfast such as idli /sāmbhar, upma, or jalebi ghathia and so on and thereafter at 11:30 a.m. or 12 noon jump into the swimming pool. We used to have some fun there, and reach home by 1 or 1:30 p.m. All my brothers used to wait for me to have lunch together, as only on Sundays we used to get time to sit together for lunch, and we had one big thaali, (thaal-big round plate usually of kaasa or brass metal), where we all six brothers used to sit in a circle, and have different vatki (bowls) for daal for everyone. We used to challenge our cook and mother that we are going to finish all the rotli that you have prepared and you will have to make more for us, and they had to do so as we all used to eat a lot. I used to eat 15 to 16 rotli's during those days.

As the time went by, we were coming near to our final exams for Inter Commerce which was held by Bombay University. During those days the results were very tough. In whole of Bombay among all students, there were only 15 to 20 students who would get first class, and similarly very few in second class and all others in pass class. The result was tough and we all friends Harish, Praful, Harshad and I, all four of us failed in different subjects, i.e. I in Hindi, Harish in Accounts and so on. In those days there was nothing like ATKT (ATKT = allowed to keep terms), so even if you failed in any one subject, you had to appear for all the exams during your next trial. Since the four of us failed, instead of appearing in October after six months, we decided to again join another college, thinking that the Professors were not very good at K.C, College. The four of us joined National College of Commerce at Bandra. Timings were the same, from 7:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. I used to catch a fast train from Grant Road reaching Bandra station within 20 minutes, and nearly 7 minutes walk from Bandra station to National College. Now we were serious in our studies, and no bunking of classes.

Ramesh bhai was looking after business as Dinesh bhai was preparing for Law exams. Fortunately Ramesh bhai got a chance to go to U.K. for job through Thakercy Group, through one of their friend. He was the first from our family to go out of India. During that time I was free from 12 noon onwards after coming home from college, so from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. I had to attend shop business along with Ramu mama, because Dinesh bhai was preparing for Law, Mahesh for Architecture attending full day college, and Suresh for higher studies as a Chartered Accountant for which he had to attend full time office as an Article Clerk.

Unfortunately Ramesh bhai came back to India within 8 to 10 months, as the job was very tough in which he had to carry cartons and so on, and at the same time the climate was not very suitable. Now as he was totally free, he started looking after the shop. Business was not very good, so he was also going as a M.R. (Medical Representative) for one medical organization, and at same time he also started some business in Bhivandi, making cloth with hand machines (Loom-hand weaving machine) employing a few people. In morning he used to go to Bhivandi which was very far from our residence, nearly 2 hours journey, come back in afternoon and looking after business at the shop. Life was very tough for all of us as business was going down, so we all had to live very economically. Luxuries were out of question for all of us, and I also had to work very hard in different field right from S.S.C. onwards up to 1969, that’s when I went to Zambia in November 1969.

After passing Inter Commerce, I joined Siddharth College for my further studies i.e. Jr. & Sr. B.Com. (Bachelors degree in Commerce), which was located in Fountain area opposite of Handloom House, because Bandra College was very far for me. As this college was in Fountain area I could not go by train, because Churchgate Station was very far from my college. So I had to travel by bus which used to cost Rs. 10/- per month. College hours were nearly same during morning 7:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.

One day in morning I was having tea and breakfast with my family, especially mother, Dinesh bhai and Ramesh bhai. I suggested an idea to them of a method to save money spent on regular bus fare for coming and going to college. Our Modi i.e. (grocery shop owner) at Prarthnasamaj was trying to sell his two secondhand bicycles at Rs. 120/- each. One was of ‘Rally’ brand and other ‘Hercules’. I told them – “if you are prepared to invest Rs. 240/- and buy both the cycles, one for me and the other one for my younger brother Satish, we will not ask any money for bus fare and within one year these two cycles will become free by saving all the money for bus fare, and secondly we will be in a position to do some other work during day time with the help of cycle, again saving bus fare for going and coming for other domestic work. Also at the same time the use of the cycle is not going to end within one year, but it will go on saving money for as many years as we use them”. Well they thought the idea is not bad, so we all agreed and bought both cycles the very next day. During those days owning a cycle was like owning a car at present. In whole of college there were only three students riding a cycle to college. I used to tell my friends “see I own a vehicle”, and sometimes my friends also used to take a round on my cycle after college hours. This cycle became very helpful for domestic work also as I used to go to Nalbazaar or Byculla to buy vegetables on wholesale basis, saving few Rupees compared to buying in retail shops at Prarthnasamaj market. In those days, I was able to buy vegetables for Rs. 5/-, average daily cost for quantity of vegetables to prepare for nearly 25 people.

When I was in Jr. B.Com., most of the time in afternoon I used to pass my time at Virendra’s house and 90% I used to stay down there only. One day I was sitting and watching a typewriter and trying to figure out how it worked. Luckily, Virendra’s father was passing by and he asked me what I was watching and whether I was interested in learning how the typewriter operates. I said “yes I don’t mind learning any new things”, so he told me go to a book stall and buy a ‘Pitman’s Beginner’s Typing Book’, and then “I will teach you how to type”. I bought the said book and every afternoon he started giving me lessons from that book and showed me how to place fingers on the typewriter. I was doing very well and completed whole book with good speed in one and half month, where as in class they teach for one hour and the course is for 4 months with charges of Rs. 15/- per month which would amount to Rs. 60/- for full course, which I could not have afforded, while this book cost me only Rs. 3.50. Thereafter just to obtain typing certificate, I joined one class for one month, did some practical typing and I got reasonably good speed of nearly 45 words per minute. That’s how I got certificate from the typing class.

One day Mr. Mahendra Shah who lived next door to Virendra’s flat and was also my friend, knew that I know how to type, so he approached me and asked me if I could handle his typing job for three months at the place where he used to work, as he wanted to go on leave and visit Bangalore. He also told me it would be okay if I go after college hours at 11 a.m. and finish at 6 p.m. His office was at Bhuleshwar, not very far from our residence. He gave me an idea regarding work at his office, describing that it was not very complicated and one had just to type 15 to 20 letters which his boss would dictate, and the

salary would be Rs.125/- per month. In morning I used to go to college by cycle, from there straight to Bhuleshwar office, and between 1 p.m.to 2 p.m. used to come home on cycle for lunch, and evening by 6:30 p.m., back home finishing all the work at office. I did this job for 3 months making Rs.450/- which was good enough for my pocket expense for the whole year. Thereafter I had very good confidence in typing.

At the same time there was one family friend of Minaxi ben, Mr. Satish Bhansali, who used to come very often at Virendra’s house. He came to know that I am in need of money, so he offered me a job to write the sales books of his clients as he was practicing as a Sales Tax Consultant. This sales book was to be written from the invoices, and as I was a commerce student I did not find it difficult. I agreed and started writing and got some additional money for my pocket expense. At the same time if there were any minor repairs to be done for basic electrical instruments such as iron and so on, I used to do the same and earn some money.

When I used to study, I always used to keep high aim, keep plans in mind, and try to work accordingly, and many a times I used to succeed. At the same time when I was studying and performing my job, I had planned that I will not marry until I earn enough money to run my family expenses. I also had high hopes and wish for going abroad before marriage, settle down very well and then come back for marriage, so that I would not have any problems at all. I wanted to go to a foreign country on my own luck and not after marriage on my wife’s luck. (As there is a saying in Gujarati “Ke Bairi na Pagle overseas jawa malioo”).

Luckily Ramesh bhai got a chance to go to London again, this time for clerical job in one office dealing in export and import business. Mahesh completed his studies as an Architect and he decided to settle in Ahmedabad and do service for one Architecture office, so two brothers out of six settled down outside of Bombay, one overseas and other in Gujarat. Dinesh bhai was looking after shop and at the same time studying for M. L.A. (Master in Law); Suresh completed his studies as a Chartered Accountant and obtained a good job with handsome salary at Central Automobiles which was very near to our house, just 5 minutes walking distance located near Opera House theatre. I was also looking for permanent job somewhere in Bombay. Luckily I got a job through one of my brother Suresh’s friend, but it was very far from our residence and was located at Kandiwali. He told me I will have to work as an accounts clerk and my salary would be Rs. 325/- per month, so I agreed and started going for the job. I used to leave very early in morning as it was nearly one hour journey, and used to take tiffin (my lunch box) with me. I worked for 2 to 3 days and I was called by my boss, who told me that my salary would be Rs. 250/- per month. I was shocked and I told him that I was informed that I would be getting Rs. 325/-. They told me it will not be more than Rs. 250/-, so I told them “it’s okay, I will not come from tomorrow if that’s the case”, and I left that job within 3 days.

When I was in college, during one vacation I had got a chance to attend a camp for 10 days at Panchgini. There was an ad in the newspaper to select few students for the camp at Panchgini. Some organization had come from USA and had organized the same. If one was selected then they would have to pay only token Rs. 20/- per day i.e. Rs. 200/- for 10 days. We four friends went for an interview, Harish, Harshad, Praful & I, and luckily I was selected for the same. I went for the camp and there were nearly 600 students’, both boys and girls from all over Bombay. It was quite enjoyable, everything to be done on our

own. They had organized few classes in which they taught nearly 10 different items, and we had to select which one we would like to attend every day. So I selected carpentry, and they taught us how to handle all different types of carpentry instruments, and prepare some article within those 10 days. It was a very nicely organized camp.

I failed again in one subject when in Senior B.Com., so I had to appear for all 10 papers after 6 months. Since I had to only revise the course, and as I was getting a good job at National Ekco Radio through Virendra’s father’s influence, as an accounts clerk (job time being 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.) and it was also very near to my house (near Opera House theatre), I agreed to take up the job and started immediately with a salary of Rs. 300/- per month. I was doing very well and my bosses were also quite happy with my work, I was there for nearly 5 months, and I was on probation period for 6 months, with appointment letter stating only 7 days notice period during probation. After five months I applied for one month’s leave without pay, so that I could concentrate on my studies for Sr. B.Com. exams, but unfortunately my Accountant refused me any leave, so I had to make a decision. The next day I went to office with my 7 days notice resignation letter. That’s how I resigned and worked hard for my studies. I told my Accountant, “if you don’t give me leave, I may suffer in my exams, but if I pass B.Com. I will definitely get another good job, but if I continue here I have no future scopes”.

Now I will write down a few examples of my 6th sense (Day Dreams).

1. I am not sure whether I was in my Jr. or Sr. B.Com, one Sunday afternoon at nearly 4 p.m. while I was reading in our big gallery which faced the main road, all of a sudden something came to my mind –‘how parents would feel if one of their children gets involved in a car accident while crossing the road just under their residence’, and guess what happened, just within 15 minutes there was a big noise, a car involved in an accident in front of our residence. There was a building opposite our residence just across the road - Powell Building, and on the first floor there was one Marathi family whose youngest son, nearly 8 years old, was trying to cross the road to reach our building to visit his friend on the 1st floor, unluckily he got involved in that car accident and he had a major fracture on his leg, leaving him with a permanent defect, as well as other minor injuries. Luckily he survived.

2. When I had settled down in Baroda after 1984, I was passing through Polo Ground, there I noticed they were building a stage and placing chairs and making arrangements for a speech to be given by Prime Minister - Mr. Rajiv Gandhi the very next day. All of a sudden I thought ‘what nonsense, they are building a stage without any security all around, and in case while building the stage, if someone puts a time bomb under the stage, what will be the consequences’. Unfortunately same thing took place after two days when he had a meeting in south of India, where he was killed by a suicide bomber.

3. One of my friends’, Mr. Philip had been operated at Bhailal Hospital in Baroda and I had to go to see him. Before I sat in my car to go and visit him, a thought ran through my mind ‘that today I may be involved in an accident’. So I was trying to be very

careful while going and driving very slowly. I reached very safely at the hospital. I had a new Matiz Car which was bought recently, so I wanted to do the same while coming home, but unfortunately while coming out from the parking lot, the passage was very narrow and a big round cement block was built up in a corner near the turning. I tried to avoid that, but my car dashed into it while turning as the road was very narrow, and it got damage (big deep scratch) at the bottom from front door to rear door.

This is how my 6th sense guides me. I had few more incidents, but I don’t remember all of them at present.

When I was in college, I used to maintain a diary in which I used to write down all the quotations that I read and come by if they are good, and a second small diary in which I was writing which movie I have seen, on what date, in which theatre, which show, how much I paid for the ticket so on and so forth.

During vacation I used to join some or the other classes to learn something new instead of wasting my time. I was very keen to learn something new all the time, and at the same time if I saw somebody doing something, only by watching them do the task, I could easily learn how to do the same.

If I start something I don’t give up very easily, as there is a saying ‘try, try till you succeed’, that’s how I react towards anything that I under take.

In 1967 Mahesh had a plan to build some flats in Ahmedabad and go into construction line if it is feasible. Actually he did not have money for down payment for the land he wanted to buy at Paldi area so he took a loan from Dinesh bhai, from our family shop, and paid Banna (token money) for the land, with the intension that if he gets booking for the flats and deposit money from the customers, he will pay full amount for the land and start building flats. He had a scheme for 12 flats. Since he could not handle this work all alone along with his office work, he requested Dinesh bhai if he could send me to help him out as I was not doing any job in Bombay during that period.

Well that’s how I landed in Ahmedabad for nearly 12 to 15 months. The plot of land for which Mahesh had paid the deposit, was at walking distance from his residence, so in the morning I used to go and sit at the site with brochures to see if any customers came to make bookings. At the same time Hemang was only 3 years old, so I used to drop him and bring him back from his nursery on my cycle. I had bought a brand new cycle, as it was very difficult to move around in Ahmedabad city without any type of personal transportation, since public transport facility was not that good. In the afternoon after lunch I used to go to Mahesh’s office which was situated in town area near Raipur Darwaja. I used to go on cycle. At 6 p.m., used to come back home and pass time with few friends which I had made in near by societies, and especially next door just behind our house. We used to play cards or some other game, or go for a walk and pass our time up till when it was time for dinner. There was not much work in office, and also there were no new customers for flats, I was getting bored and finding it difficult to pass my time in the office.

Very next door to Mahesh’s office, there was another office which had classes (mini school) for Radio Mechanic Course. They used to teach how to repair and assemble an absolutely new Radio set, and I got interested and went there and asked what the duration for learning the above course was. The Principal told me that it’s nearly 6 to 12 months for full course, daily 2 hours.

So I thought of utilizing my afternoon time. It was a certified course, certificate from same classes. I told the Principal that I had limited time, that in case my work did not materialize down here, I may have to go back to Bombay within 3 to 4 months. I asked him, “I am prepared to pay full fees as per your terms, but do you think you can teach me the full course within 2 to 3 months, if I attend for more than 4 to 5 hours per day, and work hard as per your instructions”. I was very keen in learning as my friend Virendra was having a radio repairing outlet at Bombay and no body to look after the same since his father had passed away and he (Virendra) had a very good job at Mukund Iron and Steel in Bombay. Due to my good luck, the Principal agreed and said let’s try and see how it goes. Well very next day I paid the fees and started my tuitions, I worked so hard that I nearly completed the full course in 2 months.

The Principal also took my oral, written and practical test; which I passed, so he issued me the institute certificate for the same. Thereafter as I had enough time he told me if I am interested in assembling one complete radio set, I should go to the market and buy all the necessary parts, and also a wooden cabinet which is available readymade. I did so and under his guidance started assembling a new radio set, of 5 bands, 6 valves, and 2 speakers. I completed the assembly of the radio set within one week and it turned out to be very nice. My cousin brother Mr. Sashikant bhai saw this and he also wanted to have one for his house, but a smaller one, so as per his requirement in the same class I assembled another radio of 3 bands and 1 speaker, which cost me nearly Rs. 300/- only. Thereafter, I got another order and made another radio for one of my relatives. I got good practical experience for the same immediately after completing the course.

When I was in Ahmedabad I also had friends where Mahesh used to stay before, (near Sardar Patel colony). One of them was Miss Sadhana (Dharmista) who had come to Bombay and used to stay at Ramchandra Mansion, in 1964. I came in contact with her. We were good friends. When I first went to Ahmedabad during holidays; I went to her house at Chaitania Society, and got in contact with her two elder brothers and one of their friends’ - Bharat who used to stay opposite to their house. So, in 1967, I used to go there sometimes after dinner and pass time with all of them for a couple of hours.

Bharat had seen one advertisement in the news paper regarding cigarette company, for a survey purpose, as to which cigarette is being used highest in terms of quantity in the market, i.e. whose sales is maximum. This was for short period nearly of 10 to 15 days, and we could do the survey as per our timings. We would have to fill up nearly 10 to 15 survey applications per day. This is how we had to work - to move around in the streets, and if someone threw a cigarette butt on the road after smoking, we had to pick up that cigarette butt, approach that gentleman, and ask him a few questions as per details in the form i.e. ‘which brand do you smoke, how many cigarettes do you smoke in a day, why do you like this brand the best, have you tried any other brands’, then finally take his name and address and complete the form and hand it over to the employer. At the end of fifteen days we got Rs. 300/- for the said job done. It was a nice experience, and we got to meet lot of different people.

Immediately after that, the Local Government had introduced a rule that all the property owners should have a valuation certificate for their property, and this had to be done by Architects only who had a license to do so. Unfortunately, Mahesh did not have a license, but he was interested in doing the job, so he approached his previous boss who had a license and in

partnership with him he started valuation of properties. He used to draft the complete report and give it to me for typing, and I was totally busy typing all the reports day and night as they had to be submitted within stipulated timings.

Ultimately the reason for which I had come to Ahmedabad - that is for the construction of flats, totally failed, we could get only 3 bookings and it was not possible to pay for the land and take such a big risk of investing to build the flats and then wait for the customers. So the land was given back to the owner loosing the Banna (token) money which we had paid at the initial stage. Since there was no other reason for me to stay in Ahmedabad I landed back in Bombay and started looking for a job in Bombay, but I had good time in Ahmedabad. I learned many things and also enjoyed with my friends.

Before I could get a job, I saw that Virendra’s workshop for radio repairing is ideal, no one looking after the same, so I took his permission, cleaned up the place, and started looking after repairs of radios and minor electrical equipments. I used to sit there from morning 10 a.m. to late night. I was not very good at repairs, I could handle only minor problems, but for any major problems, I used to take help from his elder brother Madhu bhai or his Masa or next door tenant, as all of them were in the same business. I was doing okay, continued for a few months, sometimes used to get good profit for minor repairs. At the same time I was looking for a job, so that I could get some fixed amount per month, and can look after the radio workshop in evening from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

As I was interested in a job and looking for the same, Mr. R. T. Shah (Rameshbhai), husband of Minaxi ben and brother in-law of Virendra one day asked me if I would like to do a job, as there was vacancy in his office in Accounts department. He used to work for Godavari Sugar Mills office which was situated in Fountain area. I said ‘I don’t mind’. R. T. Shah had arranged for an interview with his Financial Accountant Mr. Parikh, I was luckily selected for the same as an Accounts clerk, and had to go to Gateway of India office, situated opposite Regal Talkies (theatre), timing being 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and I had to handle Sales and Purchase Register. My salary was fixed Rs. 300/- for a probation period of nearly 6 months. Out of Rs. 300/-, I had to give away Rs. 270/- to Dinesh bhai for domestic expenses as he demanded for the same. The remaining Rs. 30/- was not enough for my pocket expenses, so after office hours I used to go to Virendra’s house and look after radio repairs up to 10 p.m. or 11 p.m. depending on urgency for the work and also on my mood to do the work. Between 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. I used to go home and have dinner, or if there was something nice, I used to eat at Virendra’s house. While I was working at Godarwari Sugar Mills, I did not have enough time to go home for lunch, so I used to receive my tiffin from home for my lunch. As I was writing Purchase and Sales Register, there were nearly 30 to 35 full scape pages in one month for both registers, and during those days there was no calculator in offices, we had to do the total of all the pages manually, and I was pretty fast at doing that job. While I was working at above office, I had applied for a passport, which I received within 6 to 8 weeks. I was happy to have the same, as I could now apply for job in foreign countries. I started looking for advertisements in ‘Times of India’ and also applied for jobs in Middle East, Baharin, Fiji and so on but unfortunately no luck. Slowly as the year end was coming nearer, work load started increasing at my above job, and all of us in accounts department had to work late night up to 10 p.m. having lunch and dinner both in office. Even after working so hard every day, there was no extra money for overtime. I used to reach home by 10:30 p.m. or 11 p.m.

After 5 months, I started looking for another job. I started applying for the same, and luckily, I got an interview call from Singer Sewing Company in Fountain area next to Handloom House. I went for the interview and was selected and offered a job as a ‘Relieving Shop Assistant’, in short ‘Assistant Show Room Representative’. They had 5 to 6 branches in different parts of Bombay, and I had to go to a shop where the local manager was on leave in any particular branch. They offered me Rs. 325/- per month during probation period which was again 6 months. Now I had to give resignation at Godwari Sugar Mills, which I did, and they called Mr. R. T. Shah and asked him ‘Why is Kirish leaving the job, what’s wrong?’, so he told them that I got a better offer at some other place, and the timings are unsuitable for me down here.

After 10 days I started my new job at Singer Sewing Machine. First three weeks they gave me training, theory as well as practical. We had to know each and every part of the machine, their code numbers, how to stitch, as well as embroider on machine, and how to handle valued customer entering our showroom. All this training was given to me at Fountain Head Office. Since then I started wearing a tie as it was one of the foreign organization and I was working in the sales department. As the training was over they took my practical test at the Fountain showroom for one week, then they placed me at their Bhindi Bazaar branch as they had heavy load due to one sales scheme at that particular branch. We used to sell Singer sewing machines on hire / purchase scheme, so at times I had to go out for collection of installments or even repossess the machine if someone fails to pay installments for more than 3 months. It was a very tough job, as I had to go deep into slum areas, deal with uneducated public, and travel up to Kalyan on Central Railways train line, and Western Railway up to Boriwali, going to such places even if it was raining. Timings were from morning 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. as it was a showroom. After a few weeks I was transferred to Sandhurst Road branch which was walking distance from my house, but I used to go on cycle, as to move around for office work was very easy on cycle, when we had to go to nearby places. At that branch, the assistant had gone on leave, and main branch manager was a Parsi, and was very friendly with me. He gave me very good respect, I enjoyed working with him and he used to sit and talk on many topics as well as taught me in detail regarding sales and how to handle customers. It was very pleasant working with him.

Thereafter there was a very big sales campaign organized at Ahmedabad showroom near Relief Road. The Manager there was Sindhi and doing very well in sales throughout Ahmedabad. Head Office General Manager called me and asked me if I could go to Ahmedabad for one month for this campaign and help the staff down there as there are many customers throughout the day. They would pay me to and fro fare from Bombay to Ahmedabad, plus local bus fare on daily basis, plus Rs.10/- per day extra as pocket expenses and regular salary which I used to get. The total worked out to nearly Rs. 625/- net per month, so I agreed as I was known to the place, had many friends as well as I could stay with my brother Mahesh, so no other expenses for me. There were all different type of customers coming and I used to enjoy talking with them in different languages such as English, Hindi, Gujarati, and also Marathi. No one in the branch knew how to speak in Marathi and also fluent in English, so the branch manager was very glad that I could speak these languages, and he used to ask me to tackle all the customers. He also told me that I don’t have to go out for outside work. I should just look after the showroom for the whole day.

The sales were fantastic for the whole month and luckily the branch got an award for maximum sales. The branch manager had given a very good report

regarding my work for one month to the head office. He was very keen to keep me permanently and he asked me to apply to head office for permanent transfer to Ahmedabad branch, but I had to go back to Bombay after one month and was placed at Thakurdwar Branch as Branch Manager was on leave. While I was at Thakurdwar branch, I received a letter from my brother Suresh who was in Zambia (Central Africa) since October 1968, and at present he had completed exactly one year while I was at Thakurdwar branch. He asked me if I was interested in going to Zambia to join him down there. The only risk was, I had to go there as a visitor, look for a job, if a job was available than apply for work permit and then work down there if everything goes well in my favour.

He also wrote that one of the relatives of his boss had gone on the same basis and was lucky to settle down there. The risk was nearly of Rs. 4000/- to 5000/- approximately. Well, I did not have that much of money but was prepared to take risk as I was very keen on going to a foreign country since past many years. I had to travel by ship as by plane it was not possible due to R. B. I. bank (Reserve Bank of India) ruling. I had to obtain ‘P’ form from R. B .I. which would not have been granted to me as I was only a commerce graduate, but on the ship in ‘bunker class’ this certificate is not necessary. Slowly I started making arrangements for the trip, got new clothes, and spent all my balance on shopping. The ticket for ship travel from Bombay to Dar e Salam was Rs. 690/- plus Rs. 90/- for special food, which I agreed, but I did not have that much money to pay for my tickets, I spoke to Dinesh bhai to help me from the shop account. He agreed on one condition that as soon as I get a job in Zambia, I should send complete fare money back to him (which was not fair, but still I agreed as I wanted to go) and Suresh also had sent me an airplane ticket from Dar E Salam to Lusaka which was ZK 100/- (ZK - Zambian Kwacha) i.e. Indian Rs. 1000/- only (at the conversion rate that time), so within Rs. 2000/- I would reach Zambia, which I did. I got everything organized and got all the tickets ready in my hand.

As I was based at Thakurdwar branch I had to go to Kalyan for repossession of machines or get the outstanding money. There was no transport available from Kalyan railway station to residence of the said customer, so I had to catch a taxi for the same, which I did in past on two occasions when I had to go there. Every weekend we had to submit expense voucher to the head office or to our departmental manager. When I submitted all the expenses including taxi fare, he refused to pay me for taxi fare, and told me that there is no such clause to pay taxi fare in the rules set by the Company. I got wild, I wrote him a very rude reply through a letter, giving all the details of my past trips, and told him “how can you say that there is no such clause in company for taxi fare when you yourself have passed two vouchers - one for Bhindi Bazaar branch and one for Thakurdwar branch, so why are you mentioning in your letter there is no such clause?”

My Departmental Manager took the said letter to the Branch Manager. They told me ‘how can I reply in such a rude way to my Manager?’ They asked me to visit the head office next morning at 9:30 a.m. with a letter of apology for the same. I did not go there and at 10:30 a.m. I received a phone call from the head office asking me why I had not obeyed the rule for going to the head office. I told ‘well I am the only person in this branch, so how can I leave the branch unattended, there is no one else except me at present and at the same time you did not give me instructions that I can lock the branch and come to head office’. The Branch Manager then told me ‘I am now giving you instructions to lock the branch and come to head office’. When I reached the departments head office, he asked me for the apology letter, which I had not

written at all, so he took out two pages as well as a carbon paper from his table and gave them to me to write an apology letter. I took the pages and kept it in my brief case, and at the same time, I took out my letter of resignation from my briefcase and handed it over to him.

He went through my resignation letter and was surprised as well as very scared and told me take back my resignation letter because Branch Manager would ask him and what would he reply regarding my resignation. I told him ‘that’s your problem, you now handle your case, I am no more interested in this job and I can’t take my resignation back’.

Same day by afternoon the story had passed through all the other branches regarding my resignation, so all other staff was very happy and was saying ‘you have taught a very good lesson to head office staff’. They also said I have taken very bold step regarding resignation. Luckily, the day before I had received all my tickets for Zambia, which I had not told anyone at Singer Sewing company and any how within couple of days I would have had to resign, but this way I got a good chance for submitting my resignation. That’s how I ended my job down there as well as in India. This was my last job in India.

Zambia - (Central Africa) -my journey from November 1969 to March 1984

Thereafter I started preparing for going to Zambia as I had to leave on 7th November 1969, which was again 1st day of Diwali, i.e. Dhanteras, so I had to enjoy my Diwali on the ship with new surroundings and altogether new people on board. My priority was to first settle down very well and then think of marriage. My family was pursuing me since 1965 for marriage, but I always refused and told I will marry only after I settle down very well. Before going to Zambia I started visiting all my friends as and when I got time, especially at Godawari Sugar Mills and Singer Sewing Company. All were very happy with my progress and wished me good luck for the overseas trip. I also visited all friends and relatives at Ahmedabad, they were also happy to see me off for overseas work prospects. All staff at Singer Sewing Company told me ‘you have given them very good lesson, so now on they will behave properly with remaining staff’.

In 1968, I met one gentleman Mr. Sashiwadan bhai at Ramchandra Mansion, at one of my friend Dilips’ house; he used to come there as he was working with Dilips’ father in Chemical Business. I heard about him that he was very good at astrology, who reads horoscope casually, and his predictions are perfect. It was his hobby to read horoscopes, and did not do it commercially. My way of thinking for showing horoscope was that if someone predicts that your period is good, I should take maximum efforts to work hard during that period and try to obtain maximum benefits, and if the period is bad, I should take utmost care and precautions so I am safe by all means. Sashiwadan bhai told me it is better if I settle down away from my birth place, and secondly if I try hard, I definitely have a chance of going abroad by November 1969. That’s how I decided first to apply for a passport, and then started looking for opportunity to go abroad. As it had been predicated that I could go abroad, I did not sit idle thinking that as I will be going abroad why I should I work in India. I worked in India throughout 1968/1969, until I got a chance to go abroad. Luckily in September / October 1969, it just clicked through my brother Suresh for me to go to Zambia, as I have already mentioned before. As per

prediction by Mr. Sashiwadan bhai Trivedi, I left India on 7th November 1969, since then I had very good faith in his predictions and I always used to ask him in all my difficulties as well as for my future life.

I started my journey, I had a ten day trip by ship from Bombay dock up to Dar E Salam, going via Zanzibar, Mombasa and then reaching Dar E Salam. My complete family, relatives and friends came to send me off at Bombay dock yard. I left at nearly 1:30 p.m. on 7th November 1969, all alone by ship for the first time, knowing nobody on ship and had to travel for ten days in sea, could not see anything except water all around. On 7th during dinner time, I made one friend on the ship. He had come to India for studies and was living in Mombasa. He was going back as he had completed his M. B. B. S. (Doctors’ degree) and was planning to start his practice at Nakooru near Nairobi, in Kenya.

There were many students on the ship, who were going back either to Mombasa, or Dar E salam, since they had finished their studies in one or the other subjects, or few of them going back for holidays. On the second day, the two of us were moving around on the ship and started talking with other students and made some new friends, mixed group of boys and girls. We were now nearly 16 to 18 in all within 2 to 3 days, so we started playing games on the ship. This particular ship had 3 floors and nearly 4 to 6 steps all round, on front, back and middle to go up and down. Sometimes we used to play, running round catching each other, running up and down the steps, and unfortunately I missed one step and had a head injury as well as injury on my cheek, where it started to bleed. They had all the medical facilities on the ship, so I had a bandage all round my face. I also have photo from this incident.

One Christian lady had a camera. She took my photo and posted it to me at Lusaka address. It was so good of her to do so for my remembrance. They also had different games on the ship such as Bingo, Cards, Swimming pool, Library, Table Tennis, and Movies at night and so on. We used to take advantage of all the above items and enjoy the same and pass our time. Food, especially breakfast, lunch and dinner were very good and all was included in the ticket amount of Rs. 700/- fare from Bombay to Dar E Salam for complete ten days.

Our first stop was at Zanzibar, only for a few hours. On the day of Diwali and on the day of the New Year, we had very good food and everyone on ship started greeting each other. On Bhaibeej, all elderly ladies, came to us, greeted all gentlemen, and gave sweets to everyone, which they had brought from India. It was a very nice get-together. When the ship reached Mombasa, it was to stay on dock for 3 days for loading and unloading of cargo. Only few were going to remain on the ship, all the rest were going to step down at Mombasa. Even my friend was to stay in Mombasa for a while with his family. He asked me what I was going to do on ship for 3 days, I told ‘I don’t know’, so he suggested that I go with him, stay with his family in Mombasa for 3 days and come back when the ship would leave for Dar e Salam. He offered to take me with him and then drop me after 3 days. I did not mind, so we went together and I stayed with him. He was kind enough to take me all around Mombasa and show me different places, especially the beach, shopping mall, temple and so on for 3 days. His elder brother and bhabhi were also very nice and gave me good company, good food, and moved around together for sightseeing. After full enjoyment for 3 days he came to drop me at Mombasa Dock for my trip to Dar e Salam. On our way he asked me if I knew any one at Dar e Salam, so I told, ‘no,

I don’t know anyone’, I will just catch a flight and go to Lusaka, Zambia. He asked me if I was interested in staying for a few days at Dar e Salam, and see the place and then go to Lusaka, as I will not get a chance again to visit Dar e Salam. I told him ‘well I don’t mind for a couple of days’, so, he phoned one of his friend - Kishor, who had a garment factory in Dar e Salam, manufacturing shirts, asking him if he can look after me for a couple of days and then drop me at airport for flight to Zambia. Luckily Kishor agreed, he came to pick me up at Dar e Salam Dock.

When he came to pick me up he was quite busy practicing for one drama, so, we went straight to the site where they were practicing for the drama, at about 11 p.m. When they finished we went home, and he had arranged one special room for me in his house, where I used to stay. He took me to his factory, even gave me one shirt as a present, and took me around town, to the Game Park, and movie and so on. I stayed there for 3 days, but he was keen to keep me for few more days, but I told I have to go now, and took a flight for Lusaka, Zambia. Suresh - my brother had come to pick me up at the Lusaka Airport, Zambia.

As soon as we reached home, I was shocked to see the living place where Suresh was staying. It was a small tiny house with two rooms of 10 ft. x 10 ft. size, a kitchen and a bath in the middle, and on top was a metal sheet roof, and the toilet was outside in the yard, few walking steps from main house, situated in one big yard behind a big bungalow of the owner and usually they used to give this house to their servants to stay in, who worked in their bungalow. It was shocking because we used to stay in a very big house in Bombay, which was a flat of nearly 3000 sq. ft., had 5 bed rooms, huge kitchen, large drawing room, two bathrooms, two toilets and so on and landing in such a small house, that also in a foreign country was unbelievable for me. I could not adjust myself for days, and was always thinking of going back to India, but Suresh told me everything will be okay as time passes, just start looking for a job, and you will be okay once you see more money in your hand compared to money in India.

I took his advice and started looking for a job, keeping in mind, in case I don’t get a job, I have to go back within 3 months, so it’s okay, if I get a job, and pass only 2 years on contract basis, I will at least recover my expenses, and at the same time save some money before going to India. I started looking in all the advertisements in local newspaper, as well as in morning till afternoon I used to knock at different offices in town, asking if there is any vacancy.

Within one month, Suresh’s boss Mr. Sharma had a grand opening for a jewellery shop at a location on the Main Street in town; Suresh asked me if I was interested for a job in that shop. I told him I would rather go to India instead of working with an Indian employer in foreign country, as I knew their attitude very well, but without charging any money to Mr. Sharma, I tried to help him out in his shop during Christmas timing as there was huge rush of customers coming and going for jewellery, as well as Watches, specially Omega brand. Mr. Sharma’s son was very young, nearly 21 years old, he became my good friend and I used to enjoy in his shop. After sometime he was to go for further studies outside Zambia, so before he left he gave me one present from his shop, i.e. Army Knife made in Swiss, which I had till today, and kept it with me and used it while traveling. I have recently given it to Rakhee as a remembrance from me.

After one and half month there was an ad for an assistant accountant at one of the Cardboard factory - The International Cartons and Packaging Company Limited. I went with Suresh as it was in an industrial area nearly 10 to 12 kilometers from our residence. I appeared for an interview and luckily was selected for the job. They offered me ZK. 200/- per month, which was equal to Indian Rs. 2000/-, and it was a lot compared to India where I used to get only Rs.300/- per month. After all my expenses per month, I could easily save ZK. 8/- per month, i.e. Rs. 800/- per month savings. Now the main problem outstanding was to obtain a work permit as I was on Visitors Permit. The company was not prepared to apply for my work permit, so I told them to give me an appointment letter and I myself will arrange for the work permit. They gave me an appointment letter and there was one gentleman who was the owner of - Bonds Tailor, who had contacts at the immigration office and he promised me that he will see someone and make arrangements for my work permit.

Before applying for work permit I had to leave the country as I was on visitors’ permit, and once granted work permit, I re-entered on a 2 years work permit contract. On 8-1-1970 I left Zambia and went to Malawi, a country neighboring Zambia, and stayed there with one Indian family, who were in bicycle business. They also had same business in Zambia, and other family members looking after the same, and I had gone to Malawi through their reference. My work permit was granted immediately within one day, and I landed back in Zambia on 10-1-1970. My Work Permit No. was 23385 valid up to 5-1-1972.

My mother was also supposed to come to Zambia for Anila bhabhi’s delivery. Luckily we both landed at Lusaka Airport at the same time – at around 1 p.m., I coming from Malawi and mother coming from India. I did not know her flight details, but all of a sudden we both were there at the same time. I was standing in immigration queue and I saw my mother asking some passenger to fill up immigration form for her, immediately, I approached her and told her not to worry, I am here and now I will do all the needful for you. We both cleared immigration, my passport was stamped for 2 years work permit, and mother as a visitor for 6 months. Thereafter clearing customs we both came out, where Suresh was waiting for us, we all drove back home.

Now I had no problems for staying in Zambia for 2 years, and I was thinking that once two years are completed, I will have some balance amount, by which I will easily settle down in India after 2 years. I started my job immediately, and Suresh, bhabhi and I used to go in one car, dropping bhabhi at Standard Bank where she was working, then Suresh used to drop me at my factory which was just behind his factory where he used to work, and in evening us all three came home together in same manner.

This was not very feasible every day, as Suresh had to do a lot of running around and I also needed some transport, as there was no government transport in whole of Zambia. I started looking for a second hand bike. Luckily one priest had advertised in the newspaper to sale his Honda - 80 CC Auto start bike. I went to see the same after office hours, the price was ZK 160/- where as new was nearly ZK 300/-. This was in perfect condition, and only 3000 kilo meters on the clock. I made a deal to buy the same, but I had never driven a bike before and did not know how to ride one. I was only used to riding a bicycle in India. I took one of my friends to take the delivery, we brought it at home, and that same evening my friend told me there is nothing difficult to ride this bike, it’s same as a bicycle as it did not have any gears. He showed me how to start it, so I started taking rounds in our yard, thereafter; we had a big

parking lot for civic office next door to our residence. I went there and started riding there and after a few rounds I went on the road and now I had full confidence. Next day morning, I just drove to my office very peacefully without any problems. Now I was on my own with a vehicle and could go anywhere I wanted to go after office hours. I was okay but at times still not fully settled as back of my mind I used to see pictures of India in my mind.

Now as I was earning money, Suresh one day requested me that I should pay half fare for flight expense for mother who has come from India. Well I agreed even though she had come especially for bhabhi’s delivery. I also started paying ZK. 35/- every month for domestic expenses, And within 3 months I also sent Rs. 700/- to Dinesh bhai which I had taken for my ship ticket and paid ZK 260/- in part payments to Suresh –the amounts being ZK 100/- for ticket from Dare Salam to Lusaka and ZK 160/- for Honda bike which I borrowed from him.

After finishing all these debts I started saving 1/3rd of my salary and used to credit it into London Bank, because legally we were entitled to remit 1/3rd of our salary outside country anywhere in world. This saving was more than double then actually what I used to earn in India during those days. Everything was going on very well, and I used to enjoy as mother was also with us. One of our friend was going to Nairobi and that place was cheaper then Zambia, so I requested him to buy a camera for me on his way back as I was interested in photography. He bought me a Yashica Electro 35 for ZK 60/- only, and I was very happy to have the same. Then we all started taking lots of pictures here and there in different dresses and so on.

While I was working in my present office at the factory, I had to go to the city many times to a company ‘Leopold Walford’ office for clearing of goods which we used to receive from overseas, and also for banking money, clearing import papers and getting draft for overseas party payments. With my present job I had completed nearly 5 months, but I was not fully enjoying the job. My manager was quite good, but no other staff in office with whom I could talk. Whenever the manager used to come to office, we used to drink coffee together, so from there onwards, I used to drink nearly 4 to 5 cups of coffee in a day.

One day I had to go to Leopold Walford in city for clearing of goods, I saw nearly 5 Indians working there in accounts department .Out of curiosity I just asked one of them (Mr. Panchbhaya) if there is any vacancy in their accounts department. All five of them were Mohammedans, but none educated as they were local, whereas I was a B.Com. Graduate. Mr. Panchbhaya told me ‘let me ask the Branch Manager for the same’. It was a big office, as clearing agents as well as travel department; with nearly more than 25 people working under one roof. Mr. Panchbhaya told me that the Branch Manager would like to meet me, so they asked me few questions and took a sort of interview. The Branch Manager (Mr. Brown) told me ‘yes we can offer you job as an Assistant Accountant and the salary will be ZK 250/- per month. Plus overtime if you have to work after 5 p.m.’. I agreed, but told I can only join after one month, as I have to give resignation at my present job, as well as I need an appointment letter so that I can hand it over to immigration office for change of name of employer on my work permit. Mr. Brown told me ‘that’s fine, you sit outside for few minutes’ and within 15 minutes he handed over to me my appointment letter, for which I was surprised, and he also told me, now we see you here in this office after one month.

I was very glad. I went home and told everything to my brother Suresh, so he made arrangements for transfer of name on work permit and handed it

over to immigration office and at the same time I handed over my resignation letter at my present office. There was no problem from immigration office, so after one month I went to Leopold Walford office, told the manager there , I need another 10 days before I join your company as I would like to go on leave since I will not get leave until one year. They agreed, and as I had some bank balance, I thought of going to Salisbury, Rhodesia (now known as Zimbabwe), as the return fare by bus was only ZK 18/-. There was one Indian family in Salisbury, whom Suresh knew, so I stayed with them for 9 days, went on 16th June, 1970, and returned to Zambia on 25th June 1970. I saw the whole city within 9 days and also did shopping for clothes and gift articles.

I joined Leopold Walford on 1st July 1970; timings were from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. I was doing very well and handling Creditors and Debtors Ledger, which was in a total mess, all entries wrongly entered, some showing credit balance and others showing debit balance, nearly two different cards for same party, and amounts wrongly entered in ledger cards. Branch Manager requested that Mr. Panchbhaya and I should sit after 5 p.m. and clear all the accounts and bring all the ledgers in order. We agreed and were working up to 6:30 p.m. or 7 p.m. daily after office hours, and for that we used to get ZK 70/- extra per month as overtime. Which means Salary ZK 250/- plus ZK 70/- making it to ZK 320/- per month which was pretty good.

Mother had come to Zambia in January and now it was time for her to go back to India as she had only 6 months visitors’ permit. We had enjoyed with her for six months. During the time I was working at Leopold Walford, everyday at 10 a.m. I used to order a toasted cheese and tomato sandwich with Coke which cost me only 25 ngwee. (One hundred ngwee equal to 1 Kwacha in Zambian currency). The cost of living was very cheap, and complete domestic expense for kitchen used to be only ZK 35/- to 40/- per head. Within 6 months Panchbhaya and I sorted out all the ledgers and brought the accounts in order, and thereafter, we only used to handle the said ledgers to see that there is no mess again.

As I was working at Leopold Walford office, I came across one gentleman Mr. Aziz Ghumra, through Mr. Chhenia who was working with me. Aziz had his office in the same building where I used to work. Aziz was working for one Accounts Consultants office on 2nd floor. We used to move around in his car after office hours here and there in Lusaka visiting new places, going for movies and so on.

Slowly he became one of my best friends, I started going to his house, where I met his elder Brother and two younger brothers, and three sisters, father and mother. All of them accepted me as one of their family member, at times I used to take dinner at his place, and they used to prepare separately for me as I was fully vegetarian. They all were very kind and helpful in all respects. His sister used to make Sandwich everyday and send it to my office along with Aziz as I was buying from outside for my breakfast. He used to do part time job during evening hours for one show of movie in theatres operating Projectors and he used to take me with him, so I used to sit and watch movie totally free of charge. He also used to take me to his girlfriends house, she was Zambian and he was very keen to marry her, but there was objection from his family.

We all friends used to arrange Musical parties at times in Lusaka inviting few other friends, gents as well as ladies and have dance party starting 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. in morning. Chhenia, Aziz and all other local friends used to arrange the same, It was lot of fun and I attended this type of party for the first

time in my life. All types of Drinks and food, but I was strictly vegetarian and only soft drinks, I took hard drink at times but only at such parties.

Well everything was going on fine all round, no problems at all, But as I was Bachelor and nearly 31 years old. My mother started pushing me through her letters for marriage, stating there are many proposals waiting for me in India. I had not even completed one year in my present job and I started getting such letters, but by December we had brought complete Accounts department in order, and in February 1971 I asked my Branch Manager, if I can get one and a half months leave to go to India for my Marriage purpose. Well I was granted my leave without pay, so I started preparing for my trip to India, Return ticket fare to India was ZK 480/- but at the same time they told me if I take round ticket i.e. Zambia, any places in Europe, India and back will cost only ZK 602/- I started thinking what to do. At the same time I asked my friend Aziz if he would like to join me for a holiday as he had never seen India in past and not even gone out of Zambia. He told me, I have no guts to ask my father, and so if you can ask on my behalf, I am certainly interested in coming with you.

One day I just asked casually to his father, if he could allow his son Aziz to join me for a trip to India as I am going for my marriage and I would be interested if Aziz attends my marriage. His father agreed on one condition, that I should take complete care of his son and he should not get lost anywhere. He has not been out of Zambia in past so many years and secondly he should visit Jamkhambalya because it’s his native place and there are many relatives staying down there. I promised his father that I will look after him, during our complete trip.

We both started our mission, on 5th March 1971. First visiting Nairobi, then Italy (Rome/Venice), and there after France (Paris) and on 11th March 1971 we reached London at my brothers house. We found Italy and France very cheap during those days, we used to pay only USA $ 5/- for two of us in Hotel Accommodation, which was equal to ZK 3=50 only per day. We both had taken foreign exchange of USA $ 600 for our trip, which was enough money during those days. We stayed in London up to 15th March 1971 and proceeded for India. After two days I started seeing brides one after the other, and at the same time I, Aziz and mostly all friends and relatives used to go around Bombay showing different places to Aziz, and nearly every night show go for movies. Aziz used to enjoy a lot as he had never seen such big crowds of people in his life. He mixed very well with my family members.

On 30th March 71, I had my first interview with Hemangini, had meeting at her place, at about 4-30 p.m., We exchanged our views and left the place at 5.30 p.m.. My mother and Ramumama had accompanied me for the same. There was one business gentleman staying next door to us at Ramchandra mansion 4th floor, he met Hemangini’s father and told him there is one candidate who has come from Zambia, why don’t you try for your daughter, So his father spoke to Ramumama at our shop, and that’s how the meeting was arranged.

Luckily her father was in the same business working for someone in Muljijetha Market, and knew my father also very well as he had worked with my father also for a while. During our first meeting my mother and Mama were impressed with Hemangini and on our way back home they told me she is the right girl for you. We again met on 31st March 1971, thereafter we both agreed to become life time partners and arranged for an engagement on 4th April 1971 at our residence. After engagement, we immediately decided to go for marriage

on 16th April 1971, as I was running out of time to go back for my job, as I had only one and half months leave.

I don’t know what happen in-between 4th and 16th, that we both were not interested to get married. She told her parents that she is not interested for marriage i.e. before engagement, before 4th April and I told my parents after engagement that I would like to break the engagement, I am not interested for marriage. But unfortunately or fortunately, both the parents were very firm and told us it’s not possible to break engagement, and you have to get through marriage. Well we had no other alternative and had to do all the preparations for marriage on 16th. While getting ready to go for marriage on 16th, I received a telegram as I was getting ready, from my brother Suresh, that my job is in danger since I have overstayed in India , and my leave is over now. Everyone in my family were worried, what to do.

So I told do not panic, there is nothing to worry, even if I lose my present job, I will definitely get another one immediately as soon as I reach Zambia. So everything went on fine with the marriage and many friends and relatives had attended the same. One thing I did not like and did not appreciate, that my mother, Dineshbhai and Mama did with me and told there is no gold in house (i.e. 10 tolas that they used to give to all family members at the time of marriage and my father had already made arrangements for the same for everyone,) but I can’t understand why they told me like that. And also there is no money for marriage expenses, I told OK no problem, I don’t want the gold, and I will see how much I can spend for my marriage. And immediately afterwards after some time where did they bring gold for marriage for Satish’s, Smita’s and Chhaya’s marriage I don’t know, and I also never bothered to find out also for the same. My wife and I totally forgot about the gold as we were not interested in getting the same.

After marriage within few days Heman, Aziz, my mother and I, we all went to Ahmedabad to meet few relatives down there as there is a custom to visit relatives, and from there we went for pilgrimage to Palithana, and Aziz being Mohammedan he also climbed the hill of Palithana, which is nearly 3,700 steps. He was suffering from Asthma but slowly and steadily he tried and reached the top, at the same time he wore Dhoti and Khess for puja, and did puja as we showed him. We came back to Ahmedabad, and then went to Surat as Heman’s elder brother Mr. Rashmibhai used to stay there, just to visit him also. Coming back to Bombay we were now planning for our trip back to Zambia.

We got our confirm ticket for Zambia via Nairobi for 12th May 1971, so we all enjoyed our stay in Bombay till 12th may 71. Thereafter on 12th May Heman, Aziz and I boarded the plane for our destination to Zambia.

Before Marriage, Suresh had already gone to Ndola another place in Zambia in June 1970 for another Job. So Girish (Bhabhi’s brother who had come to Zambia) and I were staying in one of the rented place together and sharing fifty percent of all the expenses per month. When we came back to Zambia, Girish had got a flat through his company, only one bed room, so Heman and I were staying with him for a while in drawing room. We stayed with Girish for three months i.e. up to August 31st 1971, and were paying him two third of domestic expenses per month.

We were looking for a rented accommodation, as we were not interested in staying permanently with him. Luckily near Hindu Hall, all Hindu Community we saw one out house in one Mohammedan’s yard, who had his house in front of this out house. The said house had two small rooms, kitchen, one bath and

toilet, all under one roof. It was very neat and clean, quite OK for two of us. We hired the same from 1st September, 1971 at ZK 80 per month, plus electricity bill separate.

In month of June 1971 we started looking for a job for Hema as she was getting bored at home. Unfortunately her degree was not recognized by Zambian University, so it was very difficult to get a job. Luckily through Aziz we came across one Doctor, Dr. Limbada, who had his personal Dispensary for practice, plus he had eight such Dispensaries all round Lusaka, and he used to hire Doctors who used to come from India, and hand over each dispensary for them to run on monthly fix salary basis. We asked him if Hema could join him in his dispensary just to pass time and be helping hand, and in return we do not need any salary for the same. Luckily he agreed, he took her to his Dispensary for 10 to 12 days, he found her very good at practice, he was quite happy, so he told he can employ her provided she is prepared to handle one dispensary completely on her own at south of Lusaka nearly 7 kilo meters away from where we used to stay, at the same time he will pay ZK.250/- per month.

He also assured if there is any problem he will short it out. We were quite happy, as I was getting ZK 300/- per month, plus ZK250/- for my wife, we could live with ease. Her Dispensary was 7 kms away from our house, and my office in opposite direction 2 kms, so I had to ride bike 9 kms, X 4 times in a day i.e. 36 kms a day only for work. We used to wake up at 6 a.m., prepare food, get ready and leave house by 7-30 a.m., Lunch hour we used to come home prepare Rotli, eat our lunch and go back for work, and evening come home by 6 p.m. I was very busy from Monday to Friday, as I had Saturday and Sunday off, but in case of Hema, no holidays at all, She had only two holidays in complete one year i.e. Independence and Christmas that’s all, otherwise working all seven days in a week. Saturday and Sunday she had half day off, i.e. morning 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. only.

I was very keen in having our honey moon in a foreign country instead of India, When we came to Zambia, we started knowing each other, and by September we were all set mentally, and we also had our own house from 1st of September, and both used to earn good amount. So I first had my honey moon on 18th September 1971, a gift to Hema on her first birthday after our marriage a big surprise. We waited to see if she got pregnant, but unfortunately she didn’t. So again on my birthday on 21st October 1971, that’s the time she got pregnant, and thus Rakhee was born on 22nd June, 1972.

Thereafter we were passing our days very happily. She continued her work throughout her pregnancy, that is right up to 6 p.m. in evening on 21st June, 1972. After coming home she cooked and as usual we went to bed. Early morning on 22nd June 1972 at 8 a.m. she told me she will have to go to Hospital, I dropped her there, and went to office, as nobody is allowed to stay in Hospital for full day. She delivered Rakhee in evening around 5-45 p.m.. When I was in office, and I got message from Our friend Dr. Bhatt, that Hema has delivered Baby girl. Thereafter at 6 -30 I went to see her at Hospital, took few photographs, and we both were happy to have baby girl.

My mother used to say first Laxmi is very good in house. Luckily there was no complication at all, and usually they ask the patient to go home within 24 hours after delivery, But since we did not have any one to look after at home, Doctors kept Hema in hospital for 3 days, thought her everything regarding caretaking for Baby, how to give bath and so on, and then asked us to go home. As we had no one with us and only two of us, she had to start

domestic regular work on 5th day of her delivery. No rest at all as ladies have in India for more than one month. We had very good friend Dr. Bhatt who used to work in same field with Hema at Dr. Limbad’s another surgery and his wife also Doctor, so they used to come home nearly every day , and give advice to Hema how to bring up Rakhee.

They had two daughters so they had good experience. Aziz and his family also used to help a lot , and Aziz’s father and mother had performed all the ceremony of Jiana, as they were considering Hema to be their daughter. We were very lucky to have good friends in foreign country. Dr. Bhatt, his wife Ashaben and Aziz used to come every Friday evening after office hours, and Saturday after 2 p.m. and also on Sundays after Lunch at our house and we all used to play cards, especially Bridge. This is because it was winter in the month of June, and we could not take Rakhee outside as she was very small. We had to have heater all day round in house as it was very cold. Sometimes we all five used to go for movies during night show, and take Rakhee in her Pram, so she used to sleep quietly and we used to enjoy the movie.

In December 1971 as Hema was pregnant, my brother Suresh advised me to have a car instead of travelling so much on bike, He started looking for a secondhand car in Ndola, where he used to stay, he found one Mazda 800 Coupe, white in colour, which was costing ZK 1000/- I did not have that much of money, so I talked to Aziz’s father if he could give me a loan of ZK.1000/- which I shall return ZK.100/- per month with interest. He told me are you mad, am I going to charge you interest for the same, You are like my son. So he gave me ZK 1000/- and told me there is no hurry, you may pay me whenever it is possible.

Then I informed Suresh to buy said car for me, but I was not knowing driving and had never driven a car, I had only taken 5 lessons for driving when I used to work for International Cartons and Packaging my first job in Zambia, in March/April 1970. Suresh was staying nearly 200 kms from Lusaka, and we had to pick up the car from there. I requested my friend Chennia if he could come with me to Ndola during one weekend to pick up the said car, as Aziz was too busy, he agreed , So I, Hema and Chennia went to Ndole one Saturday morning by Bus, and came back Sunday evening with the car, which was parked in my yard.

As I had taken 5 lessons for driving , I had general knowledge for driving, therefore I requested my friend Aziz, Chhenia and Panchbhaya who ever was free to give me driving lessons after office hours on my said car. Within few days I had confidence so I applied for Driving License. Driving test is very, very tough down there in Zambia, you are very lucky if you pass in first few attempts. I failed for my first attempt, but I took some more lessons and was lucky to pass at my second attempt. We were moving very well in our car and used to go everywhere in the said car, and we got rid of our tinny motorbike. We both were working and Hema also doing very well during her pregnancy period, and no problems at all until last day. She had to work up to last day as we were very badly in need of money, we had to pay loan for the car and were also planning to send ticket to India for my mother or my mother in law whoever could come for Heman’s delivery. Unfortunately both of them could not come, so we were left all alone.

When we came home with Rakhee from hospital, actually 22nd was the coldest day in Zambia, and we had not brought enough clothes for new born, we were planning to buy as we had enough time, but Rakhee came 3 weeks

early, so there was no time left to buy the clothes. We had one of our friend Neelaben who used to stay next door when we were staying with Girish, So Neelaben and Aziz’s elder Sister Aminaben both knew stitching very well , they went to market bought some raw cloth and stitched basic clothes for Rakhee within 24 hours. It was a great help, as such clothes were not readily available in market, and we were OK for couple of months. As it was too cold we had to buy two room heaters for both the rooms. Rakhee was growing well, and we had to spend a lot on her basic items such as food, milk powder, clothes, and nappies and so on.

Now, Hema was not working and we had to cut down on expenses as my salary was only ZK 325/- per month. Due to shortage of money, at times we had to decide whether to buy clothes or buy toys for Rakhee. Out of ZK 325/-, 100/- used to go for remittance (savings), 100/- for rent and electricity, and remaining 135/- we had to pay income tax 35/- so only 100/- remaining for domestic expenses.

Myself and Mr. Panchbhaya used to work together as an Assistant Accountant at Leopold Wallford, and we both were under impression that one day one of us will become branch Accountant for the said company. One day Mr. Panchbhaya’s friend who was working at Duly Motors (Z) Ltd., as an assistant accountant was going to leave his job as he wanted to go for his own business. He asked Panchbhaya if he was interested in Joining Dulys as an assistant accountant, Panchbhaya had two minds whether to go or not, as he was under the impression he may get chance for becoming Branch Manager at present job. Ultimately he dropped the idea of going to Dulys. I asked Panchbhaya, if I could take a chance and apply for the same at Dulys, as I knew there is no growth at present job. He told me well go ahead, so he arranged for my interview at Dulys through his friend. This was in the month of August 1972 after Rakhee birth.

I went for an interview and was selected for the same. They asked me my salary, and they offered me ZK 350/- per month, I told that’s not enough, as I am paying ZK 80/- as rent so I am expecting something more if I have to change my job. They thought for a while, and told me OK we will pay you salary 350/- plus 70/- for your house rent. Total came to ZK420/- which was 100/- more than my present job. I accepted the job, got my permit renewed in the name of Dulys, gave my resignation and by 1st September 1972 I started my new job at Duly Motors (Z) Ltd. I decided to leave my present job because increments were less in my present job, only 75/- in 2 years, i.e. from 250/- to 325/- per month. At the same time I got warning letter from immigration office no more change of jobs, and no more change of work permit, as this was my 3rd job within 3 years. I used to get work permit only for 2 years, and every 2nd year we had to renew it, in case it is not renewed we have leave to Zambia and come back to India, this was another big problem and tension at the end of every 2nd year.

At Dulys I had to handle all the books and mostly there were ledger cards for debtors and creditors Sales, Purchases Fixed Assets and so on, , and I had to do posting of entries on Data Machine, which I learned for the first time at Dulys. I was shown how to do the posting by my Accountant, and I picked up within 15 days, thereafter I was on my own, and I had my separate office 10 x 10 ft facing Show room and main road. Our Branch Accountant was Mr. Bucchi and our Branch Manager Mr. Feldmar, and General Manager Mr. Duckworth, Company Secretary Mr. Watson.

Well I started my job at Dulys on 1st Sept. 1972, I had to do all the accounts on Machine as I have mentioned above, and we had specially designed

Profit & Loss Accounts, Balance Sheet, in which Profit or loss for each department was shown separately , i.e. sales, Parts, Workshop, Petrol Departments, and total net profit after Administration expenses. This Balance sheet had 7 copies, and had to be typed on typewriter, it had to be completed every month before 12th of each month. First two months , I found bit difficult as it was totally new for me, But My Accountant was just next door to my office, he used to come and show me and teach me, and used to guide me to refer previous months postings and so on. He was very good, kind and cool gentleman. I picked up very well and now I was on my own and did not have any help from any one. My Accountant as well as G.M. were quite happy with my work. After probation period being March 1973, I got an increase of ZK.70/- per month, so totally I used to get including housing allowance ZK.490/- which was definitely good, so we had little bit of extra money to spend.

After joining Dulys, during long week for independence holidays 4 days , i.e. 24th October 1972, Myself, Hema, Rakhee and Aziz went to Visit Livingstone as it is tourist place with a very good sight for watching waterfalls, which I had seen in 1970, but wanted to take Hema for a short holiday. We stayed at Intercontinental Hotel and there was a swimming pool also, and Rakhee was just 5 months old and we had put her in the said swimming pool, where she first cried, but thereafter enjoyed in water. We had very nice time down there.

There were also 4 to 5 places for outing as well as for picnics in Lusaka, and we used to go there during weekends specially on Sundays and pass half of the day at such places after lunch. These places are, Kafue River, Botanical Garden, University Gardens, Airport, local corporation swimming pool and so on. We used to take Rakhee with a bag full of her clothes and take as many photos as possible in different dresses at such places. We enjoyed our stay in Lusaka very much with all our friends.

In month of April 1973, our Accountant Mr. Bucchi was to be transferred to another branch, so our Head office started looking for another Accountant. Meanwhile, I was called in by G.M. as well as my Branch Manager, they asked me if I could handle the branch as an acting Accountant, till the time they find somebody for the replacement. I agreed, so they offered me extra ZK. 100/- per month with my salary of ZK 420/- plus 100/- so total being Zk.520/- per month. Along with the increment they also offered me a big and very nice Company Flat, with Two Bed Rooms, One Drawing room, Kitchen, Dining room, Pantry and so on, with all the hard furniture, Beds, Dining Table with chairs, Four Plate Stove with oven, Fridge, Sofa set, and so on. Luckily I had not to pay any rent for the said flat, inclusive of Electric bills. First time we got an opportunity to stay in such a huge and well planned flat in Zambia , after three and half years of struggle.

Now I had to work very hard as whole accounts department was on my shoulders , and had to see during month end that everything is finished for Balance sheet to come out on 12th of each month. At times I had to work up to 12 midnight or 1 a.m. and again be on duty before 9 am next day. I used to go home take dinner and come back to office for work. My wife was worried as Lusaka being Capital place was dangerous at night, I requested my Branch Manager that I will work in office up to 6 or 7 p.m. and if necessary I will take all the books at home complete at night time and bring them next day morning to office and take typewriter also at home to type profit and loss account and Balance sheet. Branch Manager agreed, so I used to work at home after my

dinner until late night, now my wife was OK and could sleep well as I was in house.

During my part time I also obtained 3 degrees within this period of 2 years , from private institute in U.K., being following certified degrees, FCEA, FCES. FFBA, Fellowship in cost and executive Accountant, Fellowship in cost and executive Secretary, and Fellowship in Faculty of Business Administration..

Our Head office had given an advertisement in local newspaper for the post of Accountant and had received few applications. They started taking interviews, but could not find the right gentleman for the post, and most of the Indians who had applied were having same degree as mine i.e. B.Com. only. I continued as an Acting Assistant Accountant from May 1973 to October 1973. I was enjoying and doing very well and happy as I was getting extra ZK.100/- per month.

Ultimately they found one Foreigner of UK., he was given an appointment letter, and I was asked to clear up the Accountants flat and rearrange everything down there. But before joining, this gentleman wanted to go to UK, come back within 2 weeks and then join the Firm as an Accountant. Unfortunately while he was in UK, he went for a swimming and got some severe health problem, so he wrote to our head office, he can’t come and join the company as he is having some health problems. Now head office was back to square one, looking for the Accountant.

They found me quite efficient in last 6 months, and looking at my sincerity they called me at Head office, which was just next door, They told me well we can’t find proper gentleman as an Accountant for Lusaka Branch, so we have one alternative for the same. They wanted me to be a Branch Accountant, but not for Lusaka, another smaller branch i.e. in Livingstone Branch, and transfer MR. Wear present Livingstone Branch Accountant to Lusaka, as a Lusaka Branch Accountant, as he was entitle for a Promotion to a bigger Branch. They asked me if I was prepared to take a transfer to Livingstone Branch , then they can give me permanent promotion as a Branch Accountant. I told them , well I have traveled a long way from India and come to Zambia to make money, and whether its Lusaka or Livingstone for me it does not matter at all, As long as I get promotion and good money I am definitely prepared to take up the post at Livingstone Branch. Please give me a day or two to ask my wife and then I give you definite reply.

Hema was just a house wife, after Rakhee’s birth she had tried to work as an Doctor at the same place with Dr. Limbada, and we had placed Rakhee at Day nursery from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., within 13 days Rakhee started losing weight and was not OK with her mood, so we had to decide Hema should not continue work at the cost of Rakhee’s health. She left the job immediately and looked after Rakhee at home. And now she was full time house wife. Hema had left job, that’s why she also did not mind going to Livingstone as we were going for better prospects.

All my friends were upset with my decision as we all were doing very well after office hours, and specially Aziz was very much upset, being four years of friendship together. He strongly objected and told me please don’t go and don’t accept this transfer. I explained him with logic, that see I have come from India and if I had landed first in Livingstone what would have happened, and secondly if I don’t accept this promotion as well as transfer, my Head office may not give me any chance in future. I think it’s better for me to accept it at this stage.

Within two days I submitted my answer to my head office that I am prepared for the transfer. Everything was OK and my head office was also trying to find right date for transfer and this was in the month of November 1973. All of a sudden we got shocking news by telegram from India that Heman’s father had passed away on 17th November 1973. We got telegram on Saturday/Sunday morning, and our office was closed due to weekend off. I had to go early morning to my Branch Manager’s house, , explain him the situation , and told we will have to go to India, and I need at least 2 weeks of leave for the same. I was granted leave on the spot, so we started preparing packing our bags on Sunday to leave on Monday as soon as travel agents open up and we book our tickets.

I did not have enough funds for the tickets, as well as for travelers cheques, but as I was very fond of cars, I had two cars of mine own, one VW and other Triumph GT 6 sports car. I immediately decided to sell my VW for the expenses, 8 a.m. Monday morning I went to travel agent told him you start preparing tickets for Bombay, India as they were known to me, I had to bring Income tax clearing certificate for the same, I told don’t worry, I will go to tax office and get one immediately with the help of telegram. And after applying for Tax clearance, to be collected after half an hour, we went to bank for travelers cheques, there we got travelers cheques within 20 minutes, went back to tax office got clearance certificate, from there to traveler’s office, got the ticket, by the time everything was finished it was 10-30 a.m. and the flight was nearly at 12=30 noon to Bombay via Nairobi halt for one day. After collecting all this went to a restaurant had sandwiches and soft drink and from there straight to Airport for our flight. Myself, Hema and Rakhee all three boarded the flight on 19th November 1973, and had a halt at Nairobi for one night, stayed in a hotel, and reached Bombay in time on 21st November 1973.

We met everyone in India, and it was sad and unlucky for , Heman’s father as he did not get a chance to see Rakhee after her birth, but he saw her photographs which he always used to carry in his pocket and show to all his friends and relatives and had heard Rakhee’s voice through Tape recorder which we used to send. Rakhee was nearly 1 year and 5 months old by that time. Luckily we got some time in Nairobi to buy essential goods for Rakhee such as nappies, Milk powder, Johnsons products as we did not get in Lusaka due to weekend. We stayed in India for a while and I alone came back to Zambia to takeover my post in Livingstone , on 12th December 1973, Left Hema and Rakhee to join me later after I settle down in Livingstone as it was absolutely new place for us.

After coming back , I accepted letter of appointment for Livingstone Branch, and was transferred on 1st January 1974. From 15th December 1973, I started packing up everything and left for Livingstone in time, there I had to stay in a hotel for 10 days , because Local Branch Accountant Mr. Wear had to show me everything for the Branch , hand over the department to me and then vacate the company house for me. In this Branch I also had to train one local Zambian as an assistant Accountant Mr. Sinkala, who was very cooperative.

Now in Livingstone I was on an 2 years contract basis with following terms and conditions, Salary ZK.550/— plus 25% Gratuity at the end of contract, Company independent house with very big yard having nearly 14 trees for Mango and other facilities, Company Car Fiat 128 with Petrol, Servicing and so on, and Airfare for whole family after the contract from Zambia to India and back. It was a wonderful package for the first time after coming to Zambia in 1969.

After joining as an Branch Account I was very happy and on the top of my mood, as I was the first Indian (Non White) to reach this post in Dulys life history for last 50 years, and that to only with one and half years after joining the said company. It was a big achievement.

In Livingstone, slowly we made good friends i.e. Jitubhai, Arvidbhai, Bharat, Mohanbhai, Siddharthbhai, Dr.Motibhai, Dr. Mistry Pradeepbhai, Dhanshukbhai, this were our best friends among many other local friends, and they are our good friends till date, having settled in USA , Canada, and London and other places. We used to have lot of picnics and outings at falls, game park, and so on during weekends.

Mr. Wear our Branch Accountant was very good at Tarot Cards, once he brought his cards and asked me to pull one card, and he predicated my past life to see if it is correct, Thereafter my future and told me you will reach highest post in this Organization.

When I had joined the company at Lusaka branch and used to see the life of Mr. Feldmar, our Branch Manager, I also had an aim and made up my mind that one day I should reach this post sooner or later.

I used to enjoy playing Badminton every Tue, Thru and Sat, between 8 p.m. to 9-30 p.m., as there was only one hall, we had to play in shifts of 8 players at a time on alternate days. I also used to enjoy playing cricket on Sundays. I tried tennis and golf, but was not too good so I did not continue.

We had Branch Manager MR. McCabe who was very kind and friendly after office hours, And also very polite during office hours. He used to give right advice to everyone. I started my work and before 10th January 1974, was the deadline for sending profit & loss accounts and Balance sheet to our head office at Lusaka. I worked hard and on 10th morning first thing I had send a Telex message to our head office with all the figures of our December 1973 accounts, Immediately within half an hour I received telex back from my General Manager as well as Company Secretary Congratulating me for sending FRS 6 figures to HO in time, stating that You are the first one in all the four branches to send such figures. My Branch Manager MR. McCabe was also happy to see such telex.

In the beginning I used to stay at Fairmount Hotel in town for 10 days, there I used to sit at Casino after dinner to pass time, and made few friends down there as well as Hotel Owner, and his wife used to prepare special food for me as I was strictly a vegetarian. I used to play Bingo and Roulette at times. I used to keep beard, so most of the Gujarati’s in town were gossiping, that there is one Mr. Shah (Mohammedan) who has joined Duly Motors as an Accountant. Slowly when local people became my friends they came to know that I am Gujarati and my religion is Jainism. People in Livingstone were very friendly compare to Lusaka, and also very helping nature.

As I had settle down very well in Livingstone, Hema and Rakhee joined me in the month of February 1974. Till then I was cooking on my own as there were no restaurants specially Indian in whole of Livingstone. I had gone to Lusaka Airport to pick up Rakhee and Hema, Rakhee completely forgot me, see used to stay away from me as I had beard, and she used to tell me Mummy and Daddy to Hema.

In month of April/May 74 we admitted Rakhee to Livingstone Nursery (Play School) which was walking distance from our residence. I used to drop her

and bring her as and when I was free in my office, or Hema used to go walking to drop and pick her up. Rakhee was enjoying at her school, except for first few days.

We were settling down very well with many Gujarati friends, compare to all Muhammadan friends in Lusaka, and there were 4 Jain Families also in Livingstone.

After Six months I got an increment and my salary was now 600/- per month, My Fiat car was replaced by Red Cortina 1600 cc Ford Car, Branch Manager and Branch Accountant used to get brand new cars for Demo purpose of different brands, i.e. either Ford, Fiat or Mazda, and the old ones to be sold at cost price, if we like we had an option to buy the demo car which we were using, at cost price. Every six months I used to buy the same and change my personal car also. In town friends used to tell me , you are changing cars like changing of shirts.

Livingstone Falls was one the biggest natural fall in the world, and also seven wonders of the world. We were residing only 12 kilo meters away from the falls, and we used to travel nearly 3 to 4 times in a week during evening after office hours near falls and river side. Mini game park was also situated on the river side with nearly all types of animal in an open park, it was not advisable to come out of the car while you were inside the game park. Except Lion in cage all other Animals were in open field. Rakhee was very young and used to enjoy a lot watching the said Animals. Game Park was only 7 kilo meters away from our house. The 12 kilometers ride was very beautiful, on one side river flowing very smoothly and on the other side Game Park. Sometimes on Sundays we used to arrange picnics with friends on this river side.

In October we were getting four days off due to Independence, I applied for 10 days leave, since we were interested for a holiday to Malawi, next to Zambian boarder, northern part, nearly 800 kilometers away from Livingstone. At the same time I asked My Branch Manager if I could take Company Car Red Ford Cortina for our holiday, both were granted, my leave as well as the car. , I was not aware of roads towards Malawi and also within Malawi, so I asked my friend Mr. Chennia, if he could accompany us from Lusaka for a holiday at Malawi.

Luckily he agreed, he also took leave, and Myself, Hema, and Rakhee, drove up to Lusaka nearly 480 kilometers, there we picked up Mr. Chennia, and proceeded to Chipta last town on the border between Malawi and Zambia. Chipta was full of Muhammadans, I had never visited before, but most of the residents knew me very well by my name, Mr. Shah, that was through their relatives who were my friends in Lusaka. We stayed for one night at Chipta due to long run from Livingstone. Next day we started for Malawi, and crossed the border on 19th October 1974, visiting 1st place Lilongwe, stayed there for one night , moved around the town area, and saw one movie at night in an open Air Theatre.

Thirsty type of theatre well known in African countries. From Lilongwe we went to two different beaches out of that one was Monkey Bay which was nice and clean, we went for swimming at that beach. Thereafter we proceeded towards Zomba Plateau situated on the top of the hill, with lot of Fog, difficult to see the road and driving became very tough. Going up one way and after round circle coming down at the other end . After coming down we went to Capital City Blantyre, stayed there for one day, and then to Main Biggest well-

known Game Park, to observe Animals. We stayed there for 2 days, and saw nearly 17 Lions in a group, and thousand of Elephants at a time.

Absolutely dangerous to come out of car, and unfortunately we had two punctures in middle of the game park. We were stuck, walking we could not go to our hotel, Luckily we got help from another visitor, who took Mr. Chhenia along with two tyres for sake of fixing puncture in city area. We were just seating in car waiting for him to come back, at the same time car was stuck in deep mud. When Chhenia came back, we replaced the tyres, but could not move the car as it was stuck in mud, A four wheel Jeep was passing by, and they helped us pulling our car out of mud. By the time it was now 6-30 p.m. and getting dark, our whole day was useless, and now we had to rush back to hotel before it was too late. On 24th October 1974 we crossed the border and came back to Chipta, from there to Livingstone via Lusaka. Totally 10 days trip, and we drove 4000 kilometers in 10 days.

Got back to job, and another increment after six months for ZK 30/- per month , total salary now 630/- per month. We were quite happy with above salary as we had to spend only on domestic items and clothing, rest all was free from office. Life here in Livingstone was far better than Lusaka and other parts of the country.

We could not celebrate Rakhee’s 1st and 2nd birthday, due to two deaths in our family, first year Ramumama, and 2nd year Masiba. June 1975, we were planning to celebrate Rakhee’s birthday 3rd birthday, Unfortunately shocking news from India, My Younger Brother Satish passed away on 1st May,1975. Two members of nearest to family passed away, i.e. my father in 1956 and younger brother in 1975. We were planning to cancel 3rd year birthday party also due to such news.

Rakhee used to attend many birthday parties of her friends, So most of my friends advised me to go for a small get together party only for kids, (Rakhees friends) No adults, at our residence, so that Rakhee can enjoy with her friends. We agreed with the idea, kept a mini party at our house with few Rakhee’s friends, she received few presents and she like it and enjoyed the same.

We were very happy at Livingstone Branch, but unfortunately in July 1975, I again got a call from Head Office requesting me for another transfer at Kitwe Branch as an Management Accountant, on promotion basis, to train 12 assistant accountant as well as accounts clerk at that branch, so that Zambian’s can take over the post in future. Present Accountant Mr. Breene was getting transfer as a Branch Manager in other branch. I was not very keen for the said transfer as we were very well settled down in Livingstone, but my Branch Manager Mr. McCabe told me it’s better to accept the transfer to a bigger branch, so that in future if there is vacancy as Branch Manager in Livingstone Branch, I may have first chance to come back on promotion basis. I also had an aim for becoming Branch Manager one day at Dulys, because no Indian or other caste had reached this post except Whites.

I accepted the transfer for Kitwe branch, and we all went to Kitwe on 13th August 1975 by Air, my Head Office company Parts manager was with me on plane and he said jokingly what a date (13th) to accept for a transfer. Livingstone branch driver brought my personal car to Kitwe. I started job within couple of days at Kitwe branch, My Office was double the size of Livingstone branch, and the whole branch was quite bigger than Livingstone branch.

In Livingstone we had 47 employees, whereas in Kitwe we had nearly 90 employees. There was also one Indian Mr. Jitu Naik working at that branch as an assistant Parts Manager since many years. Now I also started looking for a nursery for Rakhee, found one but it was quite far from our residence, it was very nice, only 20 to 22 students, and out of that mostly 17 foreigners. It was a huge place, very big open garden with swimming pool , play ground and so on. I used to leave home at 7 -30 a.m. leave her at nursery and then go to office, and at 12-30 again pick her up and come home for lunch. At 2p.m. back to work till 5 p.m. I was given salary ZK.700/- per month plus all the benefits as per Livingstone Branch. Here I was given a purple Ford Cortina 1600 CC, I liked the colour very much, and I also had my personal Red Cortina with me which I bought in Livingstone.

Slowly I started making friends locally, first Mr. Chimanbhai who had shop just opposite Dulys, relative of Dhanshukbhai of Livingstone, then Chandrikaben and her husband, she was sister of Mahendra Patel whom I knew in Lusaka, through her Mr. Acharya, and all three were Teachers at Kalulusi school. Thereafter we came across Dr. Prassanna and his family, he had two daughters, one as old as Rakhee. Suresh my brother was also in Ndola, only 60 kilometers away from Kitwe, so we used to meet him quite often, and we used to arrange picnics at nearby places within 50 to 60 kilometers during weekends. Other surrounding towns were Chingola, and Mufulira. Another friend Mr. Nikhilbhai, Pharmacist with whom we used to arrange picnics. Luckily all these friends of Zambia (Lusaka, Livingstone, and Kitwe.) are still to date my good friends, and most of them have settle outside Zambia, either in USA, Canada, and UK. We are in touch with each other and meet when time permits.

Dr. Prasanna’s wife and other ladies used to do part time accounts course from 5-30 to 7-30, and Hema was also interested in doing the same, She started , just did basic course for 5 to 6 months (Book Keeping), and had to leave as she was again pregnant in Sept- Oct. 1975, she was not keeping very good health.

Dr. Prasanna came to know that I am interested in playing cards , specially Bridge, we played casually during weekends, and as he found me OK, he asked me if I could become his partner at Kitwe Bridge Club, where he used to play on every Thursdays only, between 7-30 to 10-30 p.m. I did not mind, I went with him, there were 12 tables and 48 players. Each table has its own Cat, which moves in circle completing 12 tables, at the end they see who has done best among all the 12 cats, and declare 1st , 2nd , & 3rd winner. During December 1975, Christmas time, there was open competition for Bridge at the said club , among 48 players, Luckily Prasanna and I were I st in that tournament and got the first price for the same. Thereafter in January/February, 1976 there was open competition for whole of Zambia, to be held at Ndola, from morning 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., we took part, but unfortunately we did not have any chance for winning.

In December 1975, I was very lucky and got a chance to Visit Chingola Copper Mines , through My Friend MR. Acharya who had obtained specially passes from his school for the same. Hema was not interested in coming as the journey was very tough. We left after Lunch and went underground 28,000 ft, and the arrangements were very nice and safe, at some places we had to go by lift. (I am lucky I have stayed on earth, went underground 28,000 feet and above ground level more than 3000 ft by Air. ) We were suppose to come back to Kitwe by 7 p.m., but when we came out of mines, we saw it was raining very heavily, absolutely impossible to drive a car, we drove very slowly and reached

home by 9 p.m. Hema was totally worried, as she had heard many accidents of mines and we were too late, but after seeing us at 9 p.m. she was OK.

When I was transferred to Kitwe on promotion basis , I was offered only 700/- per month. Actually I was due for 6 months increment at Livingstone branch which is nearly 30/- to 35/- . In that case salary of 700/- was not enough on promotion basis. I should have got 750/- what previous Accountant Mr. Breene used to get. I asked Mr. Naik (Parts Manager) and told him I am thinking of writing a letter to G.M. at H.O., for the same. He told me, Dulys will not listen anything, and they will tell you, if you want to leave, you may leave the job. I explained whole thing to my wife Hema, and told her , if I write letter to G.M., and if they don’t consider, we may have to go back to India, in case we don’t get another job, or our permit is not transferred to another company. She supported me, told if you are right, you may go ahead, we will see what to do.

I wrote a letter to G.M. explaining him in detail everything, and requested him that my salary should be 750/- instead of 700/- I also wrote that, I have never grumbled in Livingstone, as that Branch was smaller and having very little profit, but Kitwe is a bigger branch, making good profit, and if this branch can’t afford to pay me 750/- per month, well I am sorry , I will have to look for some better prospects.

Within 2 days , My local Branch Manager got a fax reply from G.M., stating that my salary should be increased to 750/- per month , with back pay from the date I started my job at Kitwe Branch. Branch Manager, Mr., Schattil, was bit upset, telling me why I did not approach him for the same, I was sure he would have not done anything, so I told him well H.O. has appointed me for this post, and it’s my duty to inform to H.O. for the same. We were quite happy with the decision and Mr. Naik was also surprised with decision from H.O.

In January 1976, our Branch Manager Mr. Schattil had some health problems and was going for 3 month leave to South Africa for operation, My G.M. from H.O. asked me if I could handle the branch and act as an Acting Branch Manager for the Kitwe Branch. I got a good chance and also better for my future prospects, so I agreed and had to undergo certain extra duties at the Branch. I definitely got good experience. G.M. was also quite happy with my duties and at the end of 3 months had offered me award in cash for the same.

In the month of February 1976, Hema was very uncomfortable, as she was pregnant, she was feeling very uneasy, we took her to Dr. Prasanna for his advice, Dr Prasanna told she needs complete bed rest otherwise there are chances for miscarriage. Complete bed rest was not possible in Zambia as she had to look after Rakhee as well as domestic work. She was advised to go to India immediately and take complete bed rest down there. In month of March Hema and Rakhee both of them went to India, Hema had tough time with Rakhee on her journey to India, as Rakhee was running here and there at Kenya Airport. Luckily she reached safely to India , and very next day she took appointment with Dr. Padmamehta, she had to take some stitches and asked Hema to take complete bed rest, not to walk at all, and asked her to take rest until July 76 the date when it was due.

I was all alone in Kitwe, Zambia, but I took three months leave and left Zambia on 21st May 1976, and Chhaya my younger sister got married on 22nd may 1976. We all attended the marriage, but Hema was kept in one separate room taking complete bed rest. Most of the time she was staying at Zaveri Bazar, but there after she came at Opera House by end of may 76.

Fortunately everything went on well, and I had gone to Ahmedabad to visit Palithana and so on, and on 16th June 76 I got a call from Bombay , that I should reach Bombay immediately as Haman might have to go to Hospital. I took up train on 16th night to reach Bombay by early morning on 17th June 76, and Hema was admitted to hospital on 16th late night. I reached at 6 am on 17th and immediately rushed to hospital, there after Hema was taken to labour room, and luckily Sagar was born at 7.50 a.m. being 3 to 4 weeks ahead of schedule time, and he was very week. It was a normal delivery and both were fine.

They stayed in hospital for nearly 8 to 10 days, and then were transferred to Zaveri Bazar. On 12th day Sagar was very week , had lost weight and could not even cry, so immediately we took him to one Pediatric Doctor at Opera house, He gave some medicine plus tonic, and within few days he started picking up weight and was OK. Since there were too many mosquitoes at Zaveri Bazar, we shifted Hema and Sagar at opera house. There was nothing to do in Bombay, we could not go out until Sagar is 40 days old, and as it is there was lot of rain in month of June and July. We were just passing time at home.

As soon as Sagar was 40 days old and now we could go out, we decided to go out of Bombay as it was raining very heavily at Bombay. We phoned one of our friends Mr. Gunvantbhai known to our cousin brother Sashikantbhai, at Bangalore to find out how was the climate down there, they told its fine.

We decided to go to Bangalore myself, Hema, Rakhee and Sagar only 45 days old. We went by plane and stayed in Bangalore for 6 days visiting different places, hiring Taxi for full day which cost only Rs.50/- per day. We visited nearly all the important places, and sometimes we used to leave Sagar in Taxi and driver used to look after him. From Bangalore we went to Mysore by Bus, and visited most of the tourist places in Mysore also museum and so on, and within couple of days came back to Bangalore. From Bangalore we straight flew by plane to Ahmedabad, via Bombay. We stayed in Ahmedabad for few days and visited few friends and relatives down there, all were very surprised to see Sagar so small and we are traveling so much with him. From Ahmedabad we visited Ambaji, went there by taxi and came back on same day .

After few days we came back to Bombay. After coming to Bombay we had a ceremony for Sagar’s name, Hema liked the name Sagar very much as he was born near chowpatty sea shore, and as it is she liked water and sea very much. By August we started doing some shopping as we had to go to Zambia very soon, I was completing my 3 months vacation by August 21st. But we over stayed and we all four left India for Zambia on 3rd September 1976, nearly three and a half months leave.

Before leaving India, I met Sasiwadanbhai, whom I trust a lot for my Horoscope predications. I asked him about my future, and he told me 3 very good things. 1) I have chances for promotion in December 1976, and that is post as Branch Manager, that’s the only promotion after Branch Accountant. 2) I will receive better Salary plus commission on my promotion. 3) I will not stay permanently in Zambia, will definitely come back to India by 1983/1984, or may go to some other place. 4) In 1973 also when I was in India Sasiwadanbhai had predicted that I shall get promotion in 1974, at that time I was appointed as Branch Accountant for Livingstone branch. When we came back to Zambia we again started our routine life in Zambia at Kitwe branch. I was not sure how will I get Promotion , as next step was as Branch Manager, and all the four branches had Zambian Branch Managers all white residents.

While I was in Kitwe, Mrs. Indira Gandhi Prime Minister of India had come to visit (Kitwe) Zambia. As our company where I used to work was partly owned by government, Unip government, by President Kenneth Kaunda, I was requested by my company to go to Airport To receive Mrs. Indira Gandhi. So we all four of us went to receive her at Airport. We went up to the first step of the plane and as soon as Mrs. Indira Gandhi landed from the plane she shook hands with Rakhee. Thereafter she gave a speech at the Airport , and after finishing she was taken by Zambia delegation and we went back home. It was a credit for us and we had very pleasant time.

As I was talking about promotion, luckily for me, one Mr. Scott, Branch Manager at Livingstone Branch, wanted a transfer to Lusaka branch. His father had a Business in Lusaka, and his father being quite old he wanted to help him in his business. He requested head office for a transfer. Secondly Livingstone Branch was making loss for last two years, and Head Office also wanted to curtail the cost at Livingstone branch, by transferring Branch Manager as well as Branch Accountant to some other branches. They were planning what to do.

On 17th December I got a call from Head Office, asking me to fly to Lusaka for one day. I was worried as well as surprised as to what could be the reason . I was told if I was interested in going back to Livingstone and handle both the post as Branch Manager as well as Branch Accountant. It was a challenging post, as the Branch was running at loss. They also asked me if I could take over from 1st January 1977.

The package was Salary ZK 1000/- plus four bed room company bungalow (House) well furnished, plus 1st class fare after each contract for trip to native place full family, two house boys, one for domestic and other for garden, one security guard at night, Car as usual with full maintenance, Telephone at residence, Education allowance for kids, and so on.

I agreed for the contract, came back to kitwe, gave good news to Hema, she was also very happy as we all liked living in Livingstone very much, we had good friends down there as well as many places to move around. Well we stared preparing for going to Livingstone, this time all our house hold belongings were to be transferred by Head Office expenses by movers and takers, so we had nothing to worry for shifting our goods, and we all four to fly by plane to Livingstone.

Unfortunately early morning at 8 am on 25th December 1976 day of Christmas, Hema was preparing breakfast she tried to take cups from lower drawer as usual , she band down and all of a sudden she had a stroke of slip disc attack. She could not get up or even stand straight, she had to literally walk like an animal with two hand and two feet on floor, completely banding position. Due to long weekend holidays we had no friends in whole of kitwe all gone out for holidays. Rakhee was hardly 4 years old and Sagar only 6 months old. We all four rushed with great difficulty at Kitwe General Hospital, There was one Indian Mr Kapadia working in that hospital who helped us a lot . Ultimately Hema was admitted to Hospital she was put on traction nearly 5 pounds on each feet to stretch body and back, and she had to stay in this position at hospital for 9 complete days.

Well it was very tough time for me, as kids were not allowed to enter the hospital premises. I went home with kids , had to cook food, give bath to kids, feed both the kids , specially Sagar with milk and then take food to hospital in morning as well as in evening, and leave both the kids in car in parking lot, go

up and feed Hema and come back and go home. And after two days after long weekend holidays, I had to attend my office, it was a hell of a job.

Luckily after 3 days our friend Mr. Acharya who had gone to India for long leave came back to Lusaka, and somehow he heard about Hema, He immediately came back to Kitwe with his wife Hansaben and straight to our residence with all his Suitcases. He did not even bother to open his own house. He told me you have nothing to worry now, we will stay here with you as long as you wish, until Hema gets back home, and will see that she gets OK. Well it was a great help as well as great relief for me. They did all the domestic work and also looked after the kids. I was now OK with my office work and was attending Hema at Hospital.

Due to this sudden accident I had to postpone my transfer to Livingstone Branch. I told Head Office I will accept transfer as soon as Hema is out of Hospital, so they agreed.

After 9 days as soon as Hema was discharged from Hospital, we were thinking now what to do as I had to take over my duties at Livingstone Branch. Mr. Acharya suggested, well you go leaving Hema, Rakhee, and Sagar at Kitwe at His residence for 2 to 3 weeks , so Hema will get complete rest, and we will look after the kids. Well that was a good idea, but instead of leaving Rakhee with them, I took Rakhee with me at Livingstone, as we had few friends who could look after Rakhee during day time while I attend my Office. Now Hema and Sagar were in Kitwe and myself and Rakhee at Livingstone, Rakhee used to stay with my friends either Jitubhai or Arvindbhai. I also took admission for Rakhee at Convent school, in 1st standard where she used to enjoy during morning hours. I started my job at Livingstone taking position as Branch Manager/Accountant. Most of the staff who knew me were very happy to see me back at Livingstone Branch. There I had to train Mr., Sinkala as Assistant Branch Accountant.

When Hema was absolutely OK I went to pick her up during one weekend, and all the house hold stuff came to Livingstone thereafter by movers and takers. As soon as goods came, our friends. Jitubhai and his family and Arvindbhai and his family came home unpacked all our goods and placed them in proper order, i.e. Kitchen goods in Kitchen, kids stuff in their room and so on and so forth. Thereafter slowly we started arranging everything in proper order, and Hema was still bit week and not allowed to pick Sagar due to weight, we employed one full time nanny (English) to take care of Sagar from morning 8 am to 6 pm .

I was doing very well at office and during 1st year, year ending accounts I showed Nearly ZK 67,000 profit instead of loss which they used to show in last two years. Head Office GM and other staff were very pleased with my performance and congratulated me for the same. Since they were happy with my performance, I requested two things from my Head office, which are as follows.

1) To build Brick Concrete Wall all around Bungalow, the area was nearly 7000 sq ft., as there was only wire fence which was not very secured, and this wall was costing ZK 7000/- with height of 8 ft, they immediately agreed to my first proposal as it was good asset for Head Office being their own property. 2) Kitwe was a smaller branch, I had 47 employees under me in all different departments, i.e. Sales, Parts, Petrol, Workshop, and accounts. As a smaller branch, the Branch Manager Salary was ZK.1000 per month compare to

other Branch Managers in other Branches i.e. Lusaka, Kitwe, and Ndola where they were paid ZK.1200 per month. This was the fixed scale as per constitution.

I suggested one scheme to Head Office through my letter addressed to General Manager, stating that , I can understand that Livingstone is small branch, and the scale is ZK 1000, Why can’t you add one more clause into constitution that who so ever takes over the branch as Branch Manager will be paid ZK.1000 only, but in future who so ever takes over as Branch Manager/ Branch Accountant , both the post at same time should get same salary as other branches i.e. ZK 1200. Mr. Breene our Company secretary who was very good with staff, talked with GM MR. Watson, about my suggestion, and they agreed that Mr. Shah has a point to be noted, so they decided to pay me ZK. 1200 per month from back pay starting 1st January 1977. Hema and I were very glad that Head office had heard to our suggestion, and I was also very happy as I was the only Indian to reach such a high post at Duly Motors (Z) Ltd. for the first time non white, as Branch Manager.

My best period had started in Zambia from January 1977 up to March 1984, always with upward trend going up every year. I also started getting yearly gratuity of 25% of my salary after every 2 years contract. Which was a lump sum of money after 2 years.

As we were doing very well and had good reputation in whole of town, we were planning in April/May to celebrate Rakhees 5 years and Sagar’s 1st Birthday in June 1977, and were planning to invite nearly 150 friends for the same. But we were bit hesitant due to Heman’s health.

As we were discussing above matter, one of our friend Dhanshukbhai and his wife Neelaben came to our residence for social visit after dinner at about 9.30 p.m., she heard few details which we were discussing about party, Neelaben was very social worker and used to help anyone and everyone in town, She also told us, you don’t have to worry at all, go ahead and prepare your list for invitation, we will set up menu, and surely you don’t have to do any single work for preparing food items, you may leave it to me and I shall make arrangements for everything. We were quite happy and agreed to her proposal, and started making arrangements, and had few meeting with her before birthday party for all the preparations. I bought everything which she told us to buy for preparations of food stuff.

Menu was prepared, Undhioo, Jalebi, Patra, Three vegetables, Salad, Papad, Rice, Puri, Dal and Khadi, and so on. We also arranged for all types of Drinks, hard as well as soft. We had a big lawn in front of our house as well as parking place in-between the house and the lawn. In the parking area we had arranged tables for food stuff as well as Drinks, and Party in lawn. Nearly one hundred and fifty people could easily fit in lawn area. The climate was very cold indeed, and we had to place nearly 6 to 8 drums with fire wood all around to warm up in open area. One of our Muslim friend’s wife offered us to stitch party dress for Rakhee and Sagar which were quite matching with each other. We got all the utensils including drums, chairs, tables, big sagadis and so on from local Hindu Samaj on hire which was a great help at very low cost.

On the day of the Party, early morning Neelaben came with 8 to 10 ladies for preparation of food stuff and they took over complete kitchen for the same. Our other friends Jitubhai, Arvindbhai, Mohanbhai, Bharat, K.D, Siddharthbhai and few office staff came for complete decoration in lone and to place all Tables and chairs and so on. By 5 p.m. everything was ready for the party, so we all went to get ready and dressed up for Party purpose. By 6.30 all

invites started coming in and out of 150 which we invited, nearly 125 big and small turned up for the party.

We had two cakes one with 5 steps for Rakhee and one with one step for Sagar. Party timing was from 6.30 to 10 p.m. and we had cut cake around at 7 p.m. Thereafter everyone was seating in groups around fire place and enjoying the party, By 8 p.m. we started Food as all were enjoying drinks before dinner. The party was going on so well as it was Saturday evening, and no one was interested in leaving the place.

Luckily the party lasted up to 2 a.m. , mid night, few left, but remaining who were there they requested for tea and coffee at mid night. Luckily I had also made arrangements for enough milk nearly 4 to 5 liters, and everyone enjoyed tea and coffee also. When the party was over, our friend Jitubhai and Arvindbhai stayed behind to place everything back in order, and also counted all the utensils and put on one side to be delivered back next day at Hinduhall. They also left the place at about 4 a.m. This was the first biggest birthday party to be celebrated in whole of town , and everyone who attended , had a talk of town being one of the finest party in town. Today even after so many years when we meet some of our Zambian friends they still remember the said party.

After coming back to Livingstone from Kitwe in 1977, I used to enjoy playing Badminton on Tuesdays, Thursday and Saturdays between 5=30 p.m. to 7.30 p.m. also going for a swimming at Mosi O Tunya, weekend for picnics, visit Victoria Falls, and local game park and so on. Luckily in 1977 Zimbabwe got independence, so we could go across the border which was only 12 kilo meters from our residence and visit Zimbabwe falls town and buy few groceries, fruits, Ice Creams, clothings and so on as it was cheaper then Zambia.

Everything was going on very well. Every six months I used to get new cars from our office as Demo Vehicle. I had to use it either for 6 months or maximum 10,000 kilo meters. Now when this Demo car was for sale, I used to buy it at cost price as my own second car for personal use. This way I also used to change my personal car every six to nine months. By this time I have owned nearly 28 four wheel Vehicles in my life, a list of which is attached at the end for reference purpose, and 5 to 6 two wheelers vehicle. There being shortage of vehicles in Zambia due to economic position, when I used to sell my personal secondhand car I used to make bit of profit on the same as I used to get from company at cost price.

Kusumben my mother in law , had come to Zambia in may 1978 for 6 month holiday, she liked it very much and enjoyed a lot, She also enjoyed 2nd and 6th years birthday of Sagar and Rakhee down there. She went to copperbelt north of Zambia with our friend Jitubhai for couple of days to see other part of Zambia. After few months she also went to London for nearly one month holiday to see her relatives down there. Her 6 months visa was completing in November 1978, so she was planning to go back to India. Unfortunately she had corn in her feet and could not walk properly, so we went to Livingstone Hospital, there the Doctor gave some medicine in which it contained Penicillin, Hema told Doctor not to give such medicine as she was allergic to Penicillin, but Doctor told nothing will go wrong don’t worry.

She took only one dose and had severe reaction, nearly on death bed, all the skin started peeling off, nails coming out, and rashes all round the body. We had to admit her to hospital as it was serious case, and had to stay in hospital for nearly 21 days. By that time we also got notice from immigration for her to leave Zambia immediately as her visa expired, We had to produce a letter from

hospital that she is ill and has been admitted for treatment, thereafter we got another letter stating that we should produce a letter to immigration office regarding her discharge from hospital. We submitted another letter of discharge and she was given only 7 days to leave Zambia. Since she was very week , We did not want her to travel all alone to India. I applied for 2 month leave and we all four along with Kusumben decided to go to India via Nairobi.

We booked our tickets for 10th December 1978, and also planned to visit far east after landing in India, after few days stay in India. We bought tickets to India via Kenya, and further to Singapore, Hongkong, Japan, and Bangkok. All these tickets were paid by my company, as they were providing me 1st class fare for full family, we booked through economic class, to cover all the above places with company paid fares.

So we left Zambia on 10th December 1978 all five of us, stayed in Nairobi (Kenya) for 3 days visited few places in Kenya and then left Kenya on 13th December 1978 arriving at Bombay Airport on 14th December 1978. After a week we were planning to go far east, but my elder Brothers daughter Heena told us , you better leave Rakhee and Sagar with us in India and you two go alone as they are small, so you can enjoy your trip .We were worried as Sagar was only two and a half years old and could not speak a single word. Ultimately Hema and I decided to go all alone leaving Rakhee and Sagar in hands of Heena, and family at opera house.

We left India on 23rd December 1978 for Singapore, stayed for 3 days, and on 26th December we went to Hongkong, there we stayed with one of our friend from Zambia for 6 days, we enjoyed moving with him and did quite a good shopping also. Things were very cheap. On 1st January 1979 we left for Bangkok, there we stayed for 3 days and back to Bombay on 3rd January 1979. We had very nice break and excellent holiday, with lot of shopping as some of the items were not available in Zambia.

After few days I with my family and my mother decided to visit Ahmedabad and Palithana for pilgrimage. We met lot of relatives in Ahmedabad, and after visiting Palithana we came back to Ahmedabad. One afternoon when I was sleeping at Ahmedabad I felt very uneasy and feverish. So we all decided to fly back to Bombay immediately that afternoon, reaching Bombay by 6 p.m. My temperature went up by 5 to 6 degrees, it was beyond control, I took some medicine but of no use. Slowly it went on increasing, with few other problems also, such as vomiting, Diaoria, Asthma (Breathing Problems) and also started losing weight. After 5 to 6 days I told my wife Hema to get me admitted to Hospital as soon as possible as all relatives were giving all different types of advice. She took my blood, got it tested at one laboratory, called one Physician at our residence, who told I am suffering from Typhoid and should be admitted to hospital immediately. There I will get complete rest, peace of mind and proper medicine and full time under observation.

Same evening I was admitted to nearby Hospital at C.P. Tank, and same Doctor Presswala was looking after me. Very 1st day I was given 6 bottles of Glucose. My mother was worried and she had given up hopes for my recovery. I was firm with my will power and was sure nothing will happen to me and will be OK within few days. I was discharged from Hospital after 21 days, but in mean time I lost nearly 20 pounds of weight, and I was given very heavy dose of medicine 99 capsules and injection for typhoid, due to this I had effect on my lever. After coming home, within 7 days I was again sick suffering from Jaundice, Now again complete bed rest, started new medicine Liv 52, B-

Complex, All liquid juice Channa and so on. I was also asked to wear one Mala in neck tied up with string and was told slowly it will become long as I go on getting better. Nearly after one week, we were playing Cards in my father’s Bed room where we all four used to sleep, we played up to 2 a.m. and then went for sleep.

A great miracle took place between 2 a.m. to 5 a.m., I don’t know exact timing as it was midnight and we all were sleeping.

I saw my younger brother Satish (his Atma) who had passed away in may 1975, entering from one open window, coming near my bed, he took out mala from my neck which I was wearing due to jaundice, ( actually it was impossible to take it out from top of head as it was tied with knot in neck, or wear it again from top of head, as it was too small) and he placed it in my hand and asked me to keep it in my pocket, and told me everything will be OK, nothing to worry, you will be alright very soon.

I woke up at 7-30 a.m., and saw that mala was not in my neck, instead it was in my pocket, So I was just about to tell this incident to my mother, but she told me I should first go to Gods room and tell everything to him and then tell to all family members. I told everything to god what happened during my sleep, and then the same story to my mother and family members, Thereafter we all tried to place the said mala into my neck through top of head, but as it was too small it did not enter the head. Thereafter my mother told me it’s OK, now you take bath and go to chowpatty and immerse the said mala into to sea with good luck. Immediately I started getting well within couple of days.

I had lost weight nearly 21 lbs. and was very slim, none of my clothes used to fit me. While I was sick, I had to inform my head office regarding my sickness and I needed extra leave for the same as it was impossible for me to travel. I was granted extra leave , and I had to stay back in India up to 23rd March 79.

After reaching Zambia on 24th March 79, my wife received call from head office stating that she should allow me to take complete bed rest for another 15 days before I join my office. Thereafter within couple of days my G.M. as well as other Lusaka branch staff came to Livingstone to see me at my residence. I felt very happy and very nice with their well wishes. Within 10 to 15 days I started putting up weight and was OK so in month of April 79 I started going to office for the full time.

When I was in hospital in Feb 79 , Rakhee was also very sick, she had food poison due to Bhel she ate at Chowpatty and suffered very heavily with vomiting and diarrhea. She was also in danger. Hema had tough time looking after me as well as Rakhee. Our that trip to India was really horrible except visit to Far East for nearly 12 days.

Slowly I started all my activities in Zambia, going to office, playing Badminton, going for swimming and so on.

In 1979, President of India Mr. Zailsingh came for a visit to Zambia, he also visited Livingstone where we used to stay, As I was Branch Manager for Duly Motors in Livingstone, and also Secretary for an organization known as Zambia India Friendship Association, I again had an opportunity to go to Airport to receive President of India, We received him and brought him at Hindu hall, where all the Indian of Livingstone were waiting for his speech down there. All the time I was besides him along with his body guard and at the

same time I used to take his photographs. It was a great pleasure throughout the day.

Being secretary for an organization known as Zambia India Friendship Association and also working for Semi Government Company, I was lucky as I had very good terms with Indian High Commission staff situated in Zambia. Actually Office for Indian High Commission was in Lusaka Capital City of Zambia, but their staff used to come to Livingstone very often and specially once in a month to Help local Indians for renewal of their Passport or to Issue new Passport. They used to get the forms filled up and do the necessary work at Lusaka, In case of Emergency they used to do complete work down in Livingstone. I had so good terms with them that in case any of my friend or myself had to have any work done I could get it done in 10 minutes. Even if it is a question of getting new Passport, I could get it down in 10 minutes. I was lucky they used to visit my house after office hours and we used to go for a ride and dinner together.

From 1978 to 1983, I was member for five different organization, giving voluntary services to such organizations after office hours , and helping them to the best of my ability for one or the other requirements. So I was very popular in Livingstone. Following are the organizations where I used to be voluntary member. 1) Rotary Club of Livingstone. 2) Treasurer for Badminton Club, where I used to play Badminton 3 days a week i.e. Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, from 5-30 to 7-30 p.m. Once we had open tournament for Livingstone players and I took part in Doubles and stood 3rd for Doubles match. 3) Secretary for Convent High School, where Rakhee and Sagar used to study, we used to have Parents Teacher meeting once in a month where I used to take notes of the meeting for Agenda. 4) Secretary/Treasurer at Livingstone Primary School Parents committee, where I used to keep records of the funds and well as the Minutes of the meeting for the said committee. 5) Committee member and joint secretary with Dr. Tikku, for ZIFA, known as Zambia India Friendship Association.

Every year we used to have trade fare in Livingstone and mostly all big as well as small companies used to take part. We also used to have Duly Motors stall displaying our cars and other products. We, Duly Motors in Car category section used to receive first prize nearly every year. We also used to have Rotary club stall, where we used to have pick a lot and different games to make some money for the club. My family and I used to spend most of the time at such trade fare for nearly 3 days. Kids used to enjoy riding in small toy train, and play different games at most of the stalls and win some prize.

Days were passing by and again in July 1980 I applied for 2 and half months leave starting 1st August 1980 for visiting Europe, U S A , and Canada. My leave was granted and we left Zambia on 2nd August 1980 reached Italy on 3rd August 1980. One of my friend Mr. Acharya’s daughter had also accompanied us for the whole trip starting from Zambia, as her father requested us if we could take her with us as he and his wife had seen around the world but her daughter had never been there, and this would be her first trip with us. We agreed for the same.

Saw most of the parts in Italy, Rome, Venice and many church, three coins in the fountain, and many other sightseeing places as ruins of Italy. We left Italy on 7/8/1980 reaching Switzerland on the same day, where we visited Geneva, Zurich, Interlaken, and Alps nearly 11,000 feet, above sea level, saw cheese factory, and so on stayed there for 5 days , we enjoyed very much in

Geneva as 8/8/1980 was their independence day. Reaching to Alps we had to change 3 trolley and there was lot of snow on top of the hill, where we enjoyed playing with snow. Left Swiss on 12/8/1980 reaching same day at France, on 12/8/80. We visited Eiffel Tower, as well as other places.

Now here we were worried for our food, as the food which we brought from Zambia started getting exhausted. As soon as we entered our room, Hema picked up telephone directory as started looking for Shah and Patel families. She phoned one shah family, luckily one old jain lady replied the call, Hema asked if there was any Indian Vegetarian Restaurant where we could get some Jain food. She was very kind and first of all she said if you have any problems regarding food, you may come at my place for the same, but we thanked and said we are five and its better if you could give us some address for the same.

That’s how she gave us address for one Indian Restaurant, where we found Indian Thali with 5 to 6 vegetables, Dal Rice Roti etc all nice and hot served by Indian waiters and the charges were USA $ 8 per Thali. It was hardly 4 stops by train or bus from where we were staying. We all were quite happy and we used to take one meal daily down there for 3 days. We used to catch a tourist bus three times in a day to visit whole of France, Paris, morning 9 am to 12 noon, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. and night 9 p.m. to 11 p.m., We visited most of the parts within 2 days and on 14-8-19080 we reached London. We stayed in London for two weeks, we stayed with my elder Brother Rameshbhai and his family. He took us around local places in London as well as surrounding places during weekends. We visited famous places, London Bridge, Madam Tussad, Museum, and so on and also went to Manchester, Black pool Morecumbe Beach, Leicester and so on. We had nice time taking ride in different Rides. We also did a bit of shopping for clothes and other articles. After two weeks on 28-8-1980 we left London arriving USA.

We reached USA on 29-8-1980 arriving at New Jersey Airport , received by my brother Mahesh. We stayed there nearly for one week, and visited Philaldhepia, specially mint where USA currency was printed. , Washington, New York, Niagara Falls from both end, USA as well as Canada. Thereafter we flew to Chicago and stayed with my friend for 3 days his name is Pravin. We Visited Jantar Mantar, Museum, and other famous places as well as Pravins Donkey Donuts shop. From there we flew to St. Louis, stayed with my friend Nayan for nearly three days, he had two sons same age of Rakhee and Sagar, so all four had very nice company. We visited St.Louis Arch which is 602 feet high, and from there we could see most of the known places around St.Louis from the top of the arch, and also went around other places. From St Louis we went to Texas, Dallas, at my brothers house Suresh, stayed there for nearly 5 days and we visited Houston also for one day. We saw J. R.’s farm where they used to shoot T.V. Serial Dallas which was very famous during those days and did shopping, Indian Grocery as we were to go to Florida for one week leaving Dallas.

After leaving Dallas we arrived at Florida, outside the Airport we hired a Car for one week to move around Florida, self driven Chevrolet Car, and I was driving the same for one week. It was very cheap during those days, only USA $ 123 for one full week including what I spent for fuel. It was very nice experience as it was left hand drive, which I drove for the first time in my life. We started looking for a hotel, and we ended up at Holiday Inn. It had very nice apartment for full family, Bed room, Drawing room, Kitchen and so on fully furnished, and also vessels for cooking food, Rent was only USA $ 20 per day. Every day morning by 8 a.m. we used to go out for sightseeing and come back

to hotel in evening by 7 p.m. As there was swimming pool kids used to enjoy swimming. After coming back we used to cook our own food , enjoy the same after getting tired for full day roaming here and there.

We visited Disney World for two days, one day for Circus world, one day for Sea world, One day for Nasa and so on. During those days as there was no terrorism going and visiting any place in USA was no problem at all. We could enter UNO, USA Mint, and other important places just without any pass , it was open for one and everyone, without any permission. From there we straight flew back to New Jersey, after couple of days on 1st October 1980 we flew back to London. We spent nearly 32 days in USA, stayed again in London for one week and on 7th October 1980 reached back home (Zambia) nearly 67 days (two and a quarter Months) holiday in all. It was very great experience as well as enjoyment, and one the best holidays of life time. We saw and experienced many new places, and learned lot of new things. Specially how people with different community leave in their own places and in own country.

I used to renew my contract with Duly Motors for every 2nd year, and after every 2 years I used to get 84 days paid leave, Plus 1st class Airfares from Zambia to India and back for full family.

After completing my Europe and USA tour in October 1980, I came back to Zambia, and started my work as usual. Now Zimbabwe boarder was also open for everyone, and as we were leaving just 12 kilometers from their first town Victoria falls, we used to go there many times during weekends for a day or so, specially for shopping as things were very cheap compared to Zambia, but we had to spend foreign exchange for the same. Victoria falls sightseeing also was one good attraction. Secondly Botswana was also very near about 50 kilometers from our residence, so we also used to go there for shopping as well as to see Botswana Game park which was very huge and good. All wild Animals and at times we could see 17 lions, and 1000 elephants in a group. Because of these two countries and also sightseeing in Livingstone we were enjoying our stay down here. There was very good small museum in Livingstone.

Slowly the economy in Zambia was getting worse, and they had to depend on IMF (International Monetary Fund). We had to face lot of shortages for essential commodities, food stuff and so on. Things were getting expensive due to devaluation of local currency. Also education was getting worse due to foreign teachers leaving the country, and local teachers taking over the Job. Now we were planning that sooner or later we also will have to immigrate and leave the country very soon. We made up our mind that as soon as Rakhee completes her 7th Standard Exams (as it is Board Exam) we will leave the country, whatever the circumstances. If we don’t get chance anywhere in other part of world, we will definitely come back to India.

Most of the Indian specially Doctors, Accountants and others coming to Zambia from other countries for jobs, in government as well as privates companies, and who had more qualification then me, were very jealous, as my salary and terms of contract were far better compared to their contracts. They all did not know my terms of contract which was as follows, High salary, A Bungalow with four Bed rooms , Two Paid servants one for house and other for garden, Company Car fully maintained by Company and unlimited Petrol to move around anywhere, New Car after every six months, Telephone expenses paid by company, School fees paid by company, One Security guard on the gate, Club membership fees, and entertainment expenses at Hotel with customers, plus 84 days leave after 2 years of contract with 1st Class air fares for whole

family (Return Ticket to India) 25% Gratuity out of monthly salary to be received at the end of contract, plus commission 2% on net profits, and much more. All the Indians very jealous and were thinking how am I leaving such a luxury life, as they did not know my terms and conditions with the company.

Some of them indirectly complained to Customs and Immigration that I am fiddling with company Money and making illegal income. I was called in by Police Department as well as local customs office for enquires as per such complaints, They checked my local bank account as well as my Overseas Bank Account, but could not find anything, they also made enquiries with my Head Office, but fortunately Head office gave a very good report that I am absolutely clean and totally honest with my duties. Thereafter everything was totally clear and I was a free man, and nothing to worry at all. People who had complained were surprised and since then they became my enemies, as I stopped talking with them. Thereafter nobody ever tried anything against me. Everyone were just surprise how can I afford so many luxuries, as nobody knew terms of my contract and I did not have to explain to any one of them. No doubt I was very lucky to have such a good employers and managers above me, so I enjoyed working with them for nearly twelve and half years.

Now as everything was in order and all doubts clear, work was going on as usual, I again applied for two months leave starting 25th November 1981 to 30th January 1982 . Luckily my leave was granted so we decided to go to India for holiday and visit few places in northern part of India. I booked tickets for the full family as follows, Zambia - Bombay - Delhi - Agra - Jaipur - Udyaipur - Ahmedabad - Bombay - Zambia. We left Zambia on 27th November, 1981, arriving Bombay on 28th Nov. 1981. We started in December 1981 our tour to north, visiting Delhi, temperature was 3 Degrees very cold, then to Agra, Fatepursikri, Jaipur, Udaipur, Ranakpur, Ahmedabad and so on by Air. Before 14th January 1982 we came back to Bombay to enjoy kite flying festival. We all enjoyed very well as we could visit all the places any time of the day, because during those days there was no fear for terrorism, and being for the first time it was very good experience. Did some shopping from all the places which we visited. After spending few days in Bombay with Family, we went back to Zambia on 27th January 1982 arriving Lusaka, Zambia on the same day. As the flight to Livingstone was in the evening, Rakhee and Sagar enjoyed staying at Hotel Ridgeway in Lusaka.

February 1982 I again started my job as usual, but conditions were getting worse economically. One Zambian Kwacha was only Indian Rs. 7.50. Value of currency was going down day by day. When I first came to Zambia in 1969 the currency value of Zambian Kwacha one was India Rs.13.50. Thus savings in foreign currency became less day by day, as we had to pay more Kwacha then what we used to pay before.

Life was getting tougher, shortage of essential commodities, lack of education facilities, devaluation of currency and so on, we had to make up our mind as to when we should leave this country. We started thinking seriously for migrating as early as possible, before it becomes worse. Rakhee was in 6th standard and after 7th standard being board exams, higher secondary studies was not at all good due to lack of educated teachers. So we planned our future and made up our mind that we should leave immediately after December 1983, as soon as Rakhee appears for her final board exam for 7th standard in the month of December 1983, and wait for the results to come to India in near future.

I started looking at prospects for settling outside Zambia, I wanted to try for USA and immigration on investment basis was nearly down payment USA $ 40,000, and I had savings of nearly USA $ 56,000 in all. If I invest $ 40,000 and fail to do some business, I will ruin my life as well as all the savings of last 14 years. I dropped the idea of USA, as there was no other means for going to USA. Regarding Zimbabwe, Botswana and South Africa nearly same as Zambia so no point taking any chance down there, and lastly London was also out of question. Finally we decided that best place would be India, because it was possible to settle down in India with whatever saving we had in our hands.

In 1983 after a long thought, I decided to come all alone to India, move around at different places and see where to settle down with whatever we have in hand. I left Zambia on 2nd July 1983, and thought of coming via Mauritius to see new place before we leave Zambia for final migration. Stayed in Mauritius for 3 days and arrived at Bombay on 5th July 1983. In Mauritius I stayed with one of my Friend Cheenia’s Father in Law, I decided as I did not have to pay anything more via Mauritius. I had a nice time for 3 days and the family where I stayed were very good and polite. One more country was included in my list before I come to India permanently. My visit to Bombay was also a big surprise to all my family members in India, as I did not inform in advance, I went straight from airport to residence without informing anyone. That time it was also big surprise as Rameshbhai and his family had come from London and Suresh and is family had come from USA. We all got together down at Opera House by surprise.

In 1983 when I had planned to come to India, Luckily I saw my passport and I found that (Immigration status not required) was not stamped in my passport, on the same day when I was to leave Zambia, Now if I come to India without stamping that in my passport, I may not be allowed to go out of India thereafter. I phoned one of my friend at Indian High Commission at Lusaka Office which was nearly 480 kms away from Livingstone where I used to stay, I explained to him the situation, he advised me bring the passport and we will stamp it for you. I told him well it’s too late now, today I am flying to India after 7 p.m. from Lusaka, and my flight comes to Lusaka from Livingstone after 5.30 p.m. It’s not possible for me to reach your office as your office closes at 5 p.m. He told me don’t worry, I will personally come to Lusaka Airport at 6 p.m. and will stamp your passport. Luckily he did come to airport, and my passport was indeed stamped and now I had nothing to worry for the same.

Migrating to Bombay was next to impossible, because elder brothers were interesting in disposing off our family house at Opera House, secondly we did not have enough money to settle down in Bombay as residence were very expensive, beyond our budget, and doing Business in Bombay without own property was also out of question. I had to start looking for some place in Gujarat as time was very limited.

Most of our friends in Zambia specially Doctors, had taken up their education in Baroda, and had given me advice that if I am going to Gujarat, I should first think of Baroda, because education is very good and that was my primary aim of migrating from Zambia There is low population, cosmopolitan city and standard of leaving very low, Property prices also very low.

I took up my trip for Gujarat from Bombay and started visiting known places i.e. first Navsari, Bhrauch, Surat, Baroda and finally Ahmedabad. Stayed two to three days at each place, studying all the possibilities for migration to such places. I wanted to find out which place will be best for education,

business and peacefully leaving. I had three aims in my mind before I finally leave Zambia, i.e. Best Education for my both children, Secondly I should have my small ownership residence and thirdly my own place where I can do some business small or big just to make our leaving very comfortable.

Out of the five places I visited in Gujarat, I also was very much impressed with Baroda. No doubt education was excellent up to college level, even well known in foreign countries, Degrees well recognized overseas. Secondly residence available in plenty in all different parts of the city, and Two bed room, Drawing, and Kitchen, were costing between 1.5 lacs to 2 lacs, either tenement, row house or flats, in any good locality within city limits. Shops were also not more than 2 lacs in centre of the city, main road Alkapuri. I had no friends of my own or relatives who could take me around, but fortunately My elder brother Dineshbhai had one of his college friend who was running a factory , he gave me best advice and after his office hours he used to take me around the city showing me few places for Business outlet and residence area. His name was Krishnakant K Shah. I stayed for three days with One Mr. O. J. Shah, brother of one of my best friend in Bombay Virendra C Shah.

I noted down the areas and outright prices for purchasing said properties. Going around I was very much impressed with one building known as Bombay Shopping Centre tallest building in Baroda up to 13 floors, and first three floors for business and office area and from 4th to 13th floor residence. Right in the centre of the city, on a corner plot facing the main road. There were few shops completely closed, mostly on resale basis. One shop I liked was nearly 300 sq ft belonged to Dinbandhu medical store near Raopura. I went there to make enquiries for the price, and he told me its Rs. 2,25,000/-.

After going through all the hassle, I made up my mind that if at all we are going to plan to come to India in 1984, we will definitely try to settle down in Baroda, because we could buy both one shop and another residence with whatever we have saved in last 14 years, i.e. Indian Rupees 4,50,000/-, as I had money in UK Bank, about London Pounds 31,000. I could buy both the properties in good locality for nearly Rs. 4,00,000/- only, and balance I could use for business purpose.

I decided that we should leave Zambia by 1984, because Rakhee was completing her primary education by December 1983 and Sagar was only in grade 3. If we wait for Rakhee to complete her secondary education, then by that time Sagar will arrive in Secondary and for him to complete secondary, means another 9 to 10 years in Zambia. I also will become very old to move and settle down in a new country. As it is in 1984 I would be 44 years old, nearly middle age of my life, and for the said reason I had to take a firm decision.

After making all the notes in one diary, I came back to Zambia on 18th August 1983. I discussed in detail everything with my wife in presence of Rakhee and Sagar, because I wanted to take all the decisions in presence of my whole family. As kids also should know what are the plans. The picture was very clear, and it was very prospective as per our thinking. If we had to move we had to leave Zambia by February/March 1984 as schools start in India in the month of June, and we had to obtain admission for both the kids. Finally we decided to leave the Paradise World (Zambia) It was a tough decision, so I decided to hand over my resignation to our General Manager and Chair Lady Mrs. Chisamba. I handed over my resignation on 1st September 1983, giving Company enough time of nearly 6 months to look for somebody to take over my position, stating

that my last day of job will be 31st March 1983. I selected 1st September, as I started my job with the said company on 1st September 1972, worked for nearly 11 years and 6 months, continuously in one company, for the first time in my life for such a long period with one employer.

I stated three main reasons in my resignation first education for my kids, secondly I would like to have my own residence and thirdly I would like to start my own business. At the same time thanked all the Dulys staff for being very kind to me through my stay with them and enjoyed my work fully with great satisfaction.

My Chairlady and other senior staff were very shocked to receive my resignation, immediately I got a call from my chairlady from head office, asking me not to take any hasty step, she also flew from Lusaka to Livingstone (nearly 500 kms) within one week to see me and to discuss with me in detail regarding my resignation and they were not ready to accept my resignation. She told me that I can transfer my Kids either to UK or to India for education purpose and all the fees will be paid by the company and for business and residence I am all OK in Zambia as everything is on my own at Livingstone Branch. I also explained that I would like to start my business at this age and established very well, so that in case due to some or the other reason my son does not get proper education he can at least look after my business and survive on the same, and told her, this is my right age to take a decision. No doubt I am quite happy down here, but now I would like to start something on my own otherwise it will be too late for me. She was very kind to understand what I had to say and with regret she accepted my resignation. At the same time she was kind enough to tell me that in case you have problems in settling down in India, doors are always open for you, and you may just walk in for your position in said company. I was so glad that even after my resignation, my Company cares so much for me, because they have full trust in me and my work for the last 11 years. I thought at least I am secured if I fail to settle down in India.

All my good wishing friends also started telling me that I am a fool to take such a decision, leaving such a good job for the sake of education purpose. They told me it’s better not to hand over my work permit, instead take nearly 6 months leave form the company, try to settle down in India, and if it is not possible, I should come back and start again where I am happy. I gave it a thought and told them it’s not advisable to keep feet on both the ends. If I do so, I will certainly not settle down in India and will definitely land back in Zambia. I told them if I have to settle down in India, I need at least 2 to 3 years of time, then only I can know whether it is possible to settle down or not, (within 6 months it is very short period). Finally I decided to hand over my Work Permit and resignation, so that there is no room for me to come back to Zambia. No doubt I will have to struggle a lot in India, as doing business in India is not that easy and specially with Indian population, but if you succeed even sky is not the limit.

My family and I started sorting out all the items in house as to what to take to India and what to dispose off in Zambia. Dispose off either by way of sale or to give it away to friends and office staff freely as per their requirements. At the same time we started packing goods in wooden boxes writing each item in one diary as per number given on each box.

Some of the boxes I had to make myself ( I knew Carpentry) for 27" T.V., two V.C.R.’s, Music System and other house hold items.

We decided to go to India in 2 lots. Hema, Rakhee & Sagar to leave in month of February 1984 and they should go through Mauritius as all three of them had not seen the place and I go after 31-3-1984 as soon as my contract ends. We decided for going in 2 lots as we could take facility for T. R. (Transfer of Residence) for both of us and take as many goods and items from Zambia in 2 lots.

Before going to India finally, we decided to have some short holiday at Zimbabwe, Botswana, Gabrone, Francis Town, Kariba Dam, few game parks and so on. We also did some final shopping in above countries to bring things with us to India. We were not sure as to when again we will get chance to visit such places once we go finally back to India.

In 1983/84 there was shortage of imported vehicles in India, and who so ever used to come to India during those days on T.R. basis used to bring one imported Car to India specially to dispose it off at a margin of profit. In 1983 when I was in India I also studied and made enquires as to which car I should bring , I ask one of our family friend Mr. Pradumalbhai owner of Thakercy Group of Mills. He asked me if I could manage to bring Mercedes Benz, I said OK I will try for the same.

I had planned to bring one Mercedes Benz to India, but unfortunately, Zambian customs did not allow me to take the car out of Zambia as per customs and immigration rules. I decided to go to Gabrone (Botswana) and buy one second hand from there, drive it to Zambia and then send it to India by Ship. I selected one M.B. at Gabrone 380 S (Petrol Driven) it was a huge Vehicle. I paid for the same out of my U.K. funds, Pounds 8,000 nearly Indian Rs.1,20,000/-. I drove it to Zambia, and at the Livingstone boarder was closing at 6 p.m. I left Bulawayo (Zimbabwe) to reach Livingstone before 6 p.m. The distance was nearly 500 kms, so I had to drive straight nonstop for 500 kms at the speed of nearly 140 to 160 kms per hour, I did not even stop for filling petrol throughout 500 kms. Luckily I reached the boarder at 5.45 p.m. and cleared the customs and immigration and reached home by 7 p.m.

Now I had to apply for an Import License for the same to bring it to India, I contacted Indian High Commission for the same, they told me we have the forms for the same, you better fill it up down here, so that we can submit the same to Delhi office and by the time you reach India, The said Import License will be in your hands in India. I completed all the procedure for the same.

When we came to Livingstone, I started making enquiries as to how to take the said car to India, By Air it was very expensive, the only alternative was by Ship via Dar e Salam (Tanzania) and by road from Zambia to Daresalam. I contacted AMI office freight consultants in Zambia (Lusaka). They also advised me that if I send the car as it is by ship there are likely chances to few things missing from the Car by the way of theft. I decided to buy one container for the same, which cost me ZK 1,500/- i.e. Rs.12,000/-. Packed the Car inside the container, locked and sealed the same by Zambian Customs to be opened only in India. Freight charges from Lusaka to India were ZK.5,000 i.e. Rs.38,000 and AMI consultation fees ZK600 i.e.Rs.5,000/-so the Car was handed over for delivery at Indian port.

Rakhee had to appear for her final Board exam for 7th Standard in December 1983, and four days before the exam was to start , Principal of her school called me and told me, unfortunately Rakhee can’t sit for the exams as he had forgotten to write her name in the list for board exam, which was

submitted to board in Lusaka before one and half month back. He also told me there are another 3 students he has forgotten along with Rakhee. Rakhee was in the same school since standard 1st. so I told her Principal, how can you forget her name, and what’s to be done now. He replied there is nothing we can do and she will have to sit for the exams next year i.e. 1984 December. I got wild and worried, and told that is absolutely impossible, as we are leaving this country before April 1984, and she can’t get admission in standard 8th in India unless she gets a clearance certificate for standard 7th.

I went to my office and sent a detail Fax to my Chairlady and my General Manager explaining all the problems. Our Company being Semi Government, they took up the matter to the Board Authorities. I also contact one of my friend Mr. Mahendra Patel, who was Business man in Lusaka, he also tried his best to contact Board Authorities. There were only two working days in hand Thursdays and Friday and Exams to start on Monday. Board Authorities contacted Principal of Convent School to find out in detail regarding the said problem. Principal agreed that it was his own fault not including four students name in final list handed over to board.

Principal was advised to allocate new numbers to these four students and allow all the four students to appear for final exams. I also got a fax from my head office, which I took to the Principal and he also agreed that my daughter Rakhee may appear for final exams. Now I was Ok and relieved from heavy tension.

After the Exams were over, we started final packing of goods which we wanted to take to India with us. We decided that Hema, Rakhee and Sagar should leave Zambia in February 1984 via Mauritius, and bring with them 50% of the goods on T.R .basis. There were nearly 17 to 18 packages including wooden boxes, containing T.V., V.C.R., Music system, Mattresses, Carpets and other domestic Items. They left Zambia in February 84 arrived Mauritius, stayed for 3 to 4 days and finally reached Bombay for good. All the unaccompanied baggage left Zambia on the same day by air and cargo charges for 18 articles was ZK 2500 i.e.Rs.19,000/-. When they reached India, goods had already arrived at Airport and had to get it cleared through one local agent and he charged Rs.25,000/- to clear all the goods from customs. Finally they came to our Bombay residence at Opera House.

Hema had a very tough time in the beginning with two kids all alone for the first time in India. Hema had to look for a teacher to coach both the kids for their entrance exams at Baroda for std.4th and std 8th. Luckily after a good try she got hold of one Tuition class just opposite our residence in Bombay. There she got hold of one Mr. Bhatt and his wife who took proper care for Rakhee and Sagar. Mr. Bhatt and his wife took enough pains to see that they both catch up with Indian education system and get through interview in Baroda. They managed to get books for std. 8th and std 4th from Baroda so that they could train them accordingly. Daily they used to sit for nearly 2 to 3 hours and they charged only Rs.600/-. Now they were settling down peacefully in India.

I was alone in Zambia, I used to complete my work at office and started handing over duties to next Branch Manager posted through Head Office. I used to take lunch and dinner at my friends house, and started packing my luggage in Cartons, I also had a 27" T.V., V.C.R., Music System, Spool Tape Recorder, Mattresses, Carpets, Xerox Machine and so on, nearly 18 packages.

I came to India nearly 3 weeks later on March 1984. I had tough time with Indian customs, as I had bought Xerox Machine with me and they were

asking me for Import License for the same. After negotiations I paid necessary duty, got everything cleared. We had 36 packages in all nearly one and half ton of goods from Zambia. We were settling down and relaxing for few days at our family house in Bombay.

Back to India - Zambia journey ended and landed back in India from March 1984 to date in Vadodara, Gujarat, India.

When I came to India in March 1984, I had not yet received my Import License for my Mercedes Car. I was bit worried and I had already received notification that my Car has arrived at Bombay Dock. Meantime I received a letter from one of the Agents of Delhi asking me for clearance of my Import License, and he can help me for the same at Rs.25,000/- fees. I don’t know where he got my address from, I am sure from the Licensing office, and they had tie up for making such money out of incoming Residence.

I started taking advice from local friends in Bombay, luckily one of my friend from Indian High Commission came to India and he was supposed to stay in Bombay for two days before he went to Delhi as he wanted to see Bombay. He contacted me on my local telephone Number, I met him and I borrowed one car from my friend to take him around Bombay, and show him few places. While we were moving, I told him about Import License which we had applied when I was in Zambia and narrated to him the whole story. He told me don’t worry, we will sort it out by this evening when we reach home. At 8 p.m. when we came home, he phoned his father who was P.A. to Presidents Office in Delhi, He told whole story to his father regarding Import License, His father told ok I will look into the matter next day morning as soon as I reach my office.

Early morning next day his father went and phoned Licensing office, and gave the details regarding import license to the person concerned, and at the same time he told him are you interested in saving your seat or you want to keep that license pending on your table for good. Only these words were enough, and within 3 days I received my import license at my Bombay address by courier without any fees for the same.

After few days I alone came to Baroda for 3 to 4 days, I personally had no friends or relatives in Baroda. It was absolutely new environment for me as well as my family who were to join me in near future. I stayed for 3 days with one Mr. O. J. Shah, cousin brother for one of my best friend Virendra of Bombay. I started looking for one flat or house on rental basis so that we could move down to Baroda in the month of May 1984 before the school starts, and also to secure admission. I got hold of one estate agent through news paper advertisement, he showed me one two bed room, drawing room and kitchen flat at 52, Kunj Society, 2nd floor. Rent was pretty high during those days, Rs.1,750/-, plus electricity and Gas bills to be paid. I was desperate for having one as soon as possible and this had all the hard furniture i.e. beds, fridge, dining table, fans, sofa set direct Gas connection and so on. Since I did not have to invest in such items initially, I decided to hire the same Flat and paid one month’s rent in advance, plus Rs.5000/- deposit on refundable basis and one month’s commission to the Estate Agent. Secondly it was in the centre of the city, everything at walking distance. After 3 days I went back to Bombay,

planning to come back in the month of April as I had already paid rent for April 84.

Schools were to start in the month of June, Rakhee and Sagar were busy with their tuitions for seeking admission in 8th standard for Rakhee and 4th standard for Sagar. Rakhee had to learn 3 new languages, i.e. Gujarati, Hindi and Sanskrit. She had very tough time for the first year in 8th standard. Well they decided to come to Baroda in month on May 84, but I could not stay for very long with them as I was to come back to Bombay for clearing my Mercedes Car from Customs which I had to do personally.

Hema had very tough time staying all alone with kids in Baroda as this place was completely new for her, and she had come here for the first time in her life. As she did not know places in Baroda she had to ask Riksha Drivers to take her to different schools and obtain admission forms, fill up the same and submit them in time. She had obtained forms from 4 schools, i.e. Navrachana, Baroda High School, Don Bosco, Shreyas High School. I used to keep in touch with Hema by phone, and visit Baroda once in fifteen days as during weekend as soon as I was free in Bombay.

Rakhee and Sagar got first a call from 2 schools, Navrachana and Shreyas. Navrachana was out of question as they told Sagar’s age is less and they will give him admission in Standard 3rd, and secondly they wanted donation. Now they visited Shreyas, took interview and they offered admission to both of them, it was ok, but it was very far, but for the safety purpose I told Hema to pay necessary fees and obtain admission, till we get call from other 2 schools.

Thereafter we started looking for residence in Manjalpur area, but in no time we got a call from Baroda High school also. Rakhee and Sagar went for interview plus test for admission, Sagar was sitting in queue and when they announced who is coming first for interview, Sagar just walked in 1st without any fear for an interview and Rakhee also did the same when her turn came for her class. Couple of days later their names appeared on the notice board that they both have got admission in Baroda High School. Hema went to pays the fees, and casually she asked how much donation we have to pay, so Principal told who told you we accept donations in this school, we give admission on merit basis only and your kids have got admission as per their merits.

After obtaining admission at Baroda High School, we wrote letter to Shreyas High school, to cancel Admission for Rakhee as well as Sagar, so that they could accommodate some other students for the said class. Baroda High school was absolutely near to the flat where we were staying, only 5 minutes walking distance, that way we were very lucky. Rakhee used to go all alone, but for Sagar we had to drop him and pick him up as he was very young. Hema had to carry on all this job as I was staying in Bombay.

I had already cleared my car in Bombay, but unfortunately I had to pay very heavy duty as well as dock charges. Duty was Rs. 2,95,000/-, Dock charges Rs.50,000/-, Clearing Agent charges Rs.12,500/-, the price of car went higher with all such charges, which I had not accepted being a second hand car. When I left Zambia, I had expected that I will make some profit out of this car, and will settled down peacefully with some extra money, but unfortunately it turned out the other way. Unfortunately two cars Maruti and Honda Accord, both imported cars started coming to India in the year 1984 and they were very cheap, Honda being Rs. 3,50,000/- only and Maruti still cheaper. So the prices

of all other imported cars started going down. This Mercedes Car cost me nearly Rs. 5,50,000/- after I got it in my hands.

Plus I had to pay Interest for the Loan I took to clear my car. I was expecting to sell the same for Rs.7,00,000/- so that I can make some profit out of the same, but unfortunately when I put for sale in market and showed to some customers, I was offered only Rs.3,50,000/- or Rs.4,00,000/-, whereby I was Making net Loss of Rs.1,50,000/- out of what I had paid. When I had left Zambia I had only Rs.4,50,000/- in UK Bank and had left Rs.1,50,000/- in Zambian Bank, which they were supposed to send when foreign exchange is available with Zambian bank, but no guarantee as to when it will arrive in my hands. It was known as Money in pipe line with local bank.

I was now totally worried and in full tension, I was not sure when the car will be sold and at what price. Secondly I could not go and stay with my family in Baroda till I can sell my car in Bombay, and Hema was suffering all alone in Baroda. I used to visit every 15 days during weekend, I transferred all my goods by one truck to Baroda residence which I had bought from Zambia. June, July and August passed but still no luck for selling my car. In month of August due to Shradya I was sure no one is going to buy any new item, so I decided to stay in Baroda with my family. I also visited Palithana during the said period. And during this 15 days I sold my container which I had brought from Zambia, and used money for domestic expenses to cover few months expense. I also bought 2 Bicycles one for Rakhee and Sagar so that they could go to school as well as around Baroda.

During Navratri I came back to Bombay to see if I can sell my car, Luckily I found one Customer, Mr. Pradyumalbhai owner of Thakersey group, who offered me Rs.4,50,000/- only. I had no alternative, I had to make up my mind , so I sold it for the said price, and made Net Loss of Rs.1,00,000/- instead of making profit on the same. I made a net loss in one day in one deal, and now it was very tough for me to settle down. But I did not lose confidence and kept full courage.

I finally came to Baroda in September 1984 for good, and now I started looking for a shop for Business and also residence on ownership basis. I wanted to have both the places nearby to the school, so all they could be in walking distance. I was interested in buying a shop in Bombay Shopping Centre because it was very near to school and also there were 8 to 10 shops for sale. I contacted the owners but the prices were beyond my Budget, and I was worried what to do. Luckily we found one shop No.33, which was closed , so we started looking for the owner, and fortunately the owner was very well known to Hema as well as to her family. Mr. Bipinbhai Sura, who used to stay in same building for nearly 40 years in Bombay. We went to see him at his new premises in Bombay Sagar Mahal at Walkeswar and asked him if he was interested in selling the same. He told us he bought the same in 1974, when the building was being constructed by themselves only and he bought it for investment basis to make some profit on the same. We told him, see we have come to India for good from Zambia and are planning to settled down in Baroda, we are very much interested in buying your shop, and now it’s already 10 years since you have bought this shop, and it has also appreciated in value. We would be very grateful if you could sell the same to us.

The story got into his mind, and since he was known to Hema he told well I will try to find out latest price for the same and offer you as soon as possible. Within one week he told us the price will be Rs.1,20,000/- plus other

transfer and society charges, which came to be Rs.1,35,000/-. Price was very reasonable compared to other shops in same building, and we were very lucky to get it where we wanted.

We immediately paid in full and took the possession and started renovating, as we wanted to start some business before 21st October 1984 , i.e. before Diwali as well as my Birthday.

Now within one month I started looking for what business to start in the said premises. Actually, I was interested in starting some kind of automobiles business as I had 12 years of experience in Automobiles in Zambia. I had also decided what name I will give to my shop, i.e. KWACHA AUTO SALES. This also had my initials KAS (Kirish Amthalal Shah.) All my friends were laughing at me when I used to tell them in Zambia regarding this name. I wanted to use KWACHA as it was the name for Zambian Currency, and all the money I made to settle down in India was from Zambia. I wanted to give respect to the said currency.

When I came to settle down in Baroda, my Uncles (Mama) son Jitu was interested in coming with me to settle down in Baroda. His father had worked with my father in our cloth merchant shop in Bombay for nearly 35 years (Full Life) at Mulji Jetha Market. His father was absolutely honest and hard working Gentleman. So I decided to hire Jitu with me in my Business at Baroda and in the beginning he used to stay with us until finally his family got immigrated to Baroda.

We both were moving around in Baroda to look for what type of Automobiles Business we should do in Baroda. We came across one show room at Karelibaug dealing with TVS Mopeds, and they were the main dealers for the same. The owner was Mr. Anuj Patel. We had a meeting with him, and asked if he was interested in giving us sub dealership for Alkapuri Area, where we could sell new mopeds, parts and also repairs and servicing for the same. In short a small mini garage. We had enough space for the same. Luckily he agreed, he saw the place, and also helped us fully to start our Business before our dead line, and also provided two mechanics to handle workshop at our place for repairs and servicing of the said mopeds.

I was very keen for a grand opening on 21st October 1984 on my birthday, but unfortunately the day was not good so we opened on Desara 22nd October 1984, We had invited Local Mayor for the Grand Opening and for Cutting the Red Ribbon. Many friends and relatives came for the same from Bombay, Ahmedabad, Surat and so on as this was the first family business in India after my father’s shop from 1942 to 1976, in Bombay at Mulji Jetha Market, as cloth merchant.

After the grand opening was over, all the guest started going back to their respected places, and I started looking for ownership residence premises very near to my shop and kids school, so that if no vehicle is available we could go walking either to school or shop. I saw nearly 25 residence places through one estate agent Mr. Bhrambhatt, near Ellora park, Subhanpura, Gorwa, Gotri and so on. In all these areas either a Flat, Tennament, or Row House all were costing nearly Rs,1,25,000/- to Rs.1,50,000/-, which was very good price, with Two Bed Rooms, Kitchen, and Drawing room. But unfortunately I did not like any of the residence place out of 25 which I saw.

We had one friend in Zambia Mr. Mahendra Patel and his parents had settled down just in 1983, at Baroda, we knew them also very well, They had

bought a 3 Bed Room House at Citizen Society, near Ellora Park area, we just came to visit them and narrated whole story regarding looking for Residence, and gave our Budget nearly Rs.1,50,000/- approximately.

Immediately he told us there are few Row houses in the same society ‘B/Type’ so if you are interested I can take you to the society office and contact you to the right person Mr. Mukundbhai Patel, who is the builder for this society. We met Mr. M. Patel, and he told there are only 4 houses left for sale and the numbers are 44,51,52,& 53, we saw all the four houses and were quite impressed with the area as well as the structure. Houses were totally incomplete, only Box, nothing inside, not even plaster to the walls. The whole B section was the same, No Drainage, No Electricity, No Water Connection and so on. But we were impressed with the Society. No one had occupied a single house out of 35 houses, and if we were to book, we could be the first to enter in such Row Houses. The Price for the same was Rs.1,50,000/-, plus nearly Rs.10,000/- if we want extra tiles, kota stones on stairs, water tank at back yard, and Iron gates for four doors, 2 at bottom and 2 at terrace. We asked when do you think you can complete and give us the possession, as we want to leave the rented house as soon as possible because the rent is too high. He told well if you pay in full may be before end of November or latest by 1st week of December 1984. The agreement was completed , paid money in full and work started immediately in full swing and they completed all internal work before end of November 1984, except, no electricity connection, no water connection, and no drainage facilities, as they were waiting for corporation permission for the same.

We performed Vastu Puja on 2nd December 1984, our was the only house completed fully and we were the first to enter this society on 2nd Dec. 84, in 16 Row houses from No. 39 to No 54 on our side. All three side surrounded like a jungle, farming area. Early morning the view was excellent at back yard, where we could see lots of animals such as cows, donkeys, and so on and at evening very good sun set as there were no high rise flats at all in this area. We could see Rameshwar mandir from our kitchen, Gotri water tank from our front door as the surrounding was completely empty. We did not have any vehicle to move around as we had in Zambia, I had two cars in Zambia but here I had to move by rickshaw. I also had a chauffeur in Zambia, and Mr. Punamkaka and his wife who had seen my Luxurious life in Zambia, were feeling very pity seeing me and my family struggling down to settle in India. Here I either had to walk or go by riksha.

I was not at all interested in taking up a job in India as I was 44 years old when I came to India, and I was sure one day I will succeed in business and then there will be no limit to my income. I started my Auto Moped business, I was sure that it will take at least 2 years to pick up, and I had to keep that much waiting period for the same. In business my income was nearly Rs.500 to 700 per month in beginning and the expenses for house as well as shop with 2 employees were nearly Rs.5000/- per month. Very tough time, but had to keep patients.

In my house I did not have and furniture such as Fans in rooms, fridge, beds in bed rooms, sofa in drawing room, dining table and so on, nothing at all and I did not have any money to buy the same in the beginning as I had to invest for business as well as look after day to day expenses.

I had to sell few items which I bought from Zambia for my personal use as I wanted money badly for my expenses.

First I sold my car container and bought two bicycles for Rakhee and Sagar . The balance I kept it for daily expenses.

Then I sold one Xerox Machine which I had bought from Zambia, I wanted to make profit out of it, but unfortunately made very little loss while selling. This is because it got damaged in transit, all the ink had spilt in the whole machine and it was totally useless, no prints were coming out, and few people suggested to sell it as scrap, but fortunately I got one repairer who charged me Rs. 6,000/-, he opened up the whole machine each and every part, cleaned with petrol , fixed it back and it was working in perfect condition. Totally it had cost me after landing at India for nearly 45 to 47 thousand and I got a customer and sold the same for only Rs. 40,000/- making very little loss. This money was very useful for me for few months in business as well as domestic expenses.

I had also bought 2 T.V.’s from Zambia, one 27" and other 19", in beginning I started giving 19" T.V. with V.C.R. on hire to Hotel Express one of my first customer for hiring such equipments, and other residential customers and used to make some money every month. Unfortunately the said T.V. and V.C.R. were not matching properly, so I thought of selling of 19" T.V. and got Rs. 9,000/- for the same. This money I utilized to buy few domestic items, one fridge 165 Lts., 3 fans, two for bed rooms and one for seating room, dining table with six chairs, and kitchen pantry with drawers under the platform.

I had bought 3 V.C.R. with me when I came from Zambia, National 370 and 310, and one Sharp with camera. Since the V.C.R. were very expensive in India during those days, many wanted to hire the same for watching Movies. Few of my friends suggested that why I should not give the said V.C.R. on hire to customers, charges being Rs.50/- for 12 hours and they used to see nearly 3 movies. At the same time I invested some money and bought one Salora T.V. and gave T.V. along with V.C.R. on hire for Rs.100/- per shift. I started making some money every month for my daily expenses.

I started my Auto Business in October 1984 and by the end of December 1985 it was not picking up to the mark. I had to think something else, so I went for seasonal business, i.e. during Rakshabandhan I used to sell Rakhadi’s, during Diwali I used to sell Diwali greeting Cards, this also did not pick up very well as my shop was not on main road, and advertising was very limited.

I had no vehicle to move around, and those days new vehicles specially two wheelers were not easily available, had to book well in advance. I had to pay foreign exchange USA $ 600 plus local money if I wanted to buy Bajaj Chetak. Well I did so and I bought a Bajaj Chetak Scooter for Rs.12,500/- in all. I tried to ride it but was not very comfortable with the small wheels as I was used to Motor Bikes with large wheels. I tried it for 6 months and as it did not suit me I sold it for Rs.12,000/-. Now again I was without a vehicle.

Early 1986, one of my customer who used to bring his TVS moped for repairs and servicing, wanted to sell the same as he bought a new scooter. He was asking Rs.2000/- for it and a new one was costing Rs. 5,500/-. I got interested for the same, so I offered him Rs. 1,600/- and the deal was ok with him so I bought the said moped. As I was dealer for the same, I changed all the necessary accessories and parts and got it fully coloured which cost me another Rs.1,000/-. Now again I was with a vehicle for moving around and I had no problems with the same as I was dealer for said moped.

When I started TVS Moped business, I did not know what this vehicle is? But as per my tendency I pick up everything very fast only by watching the same. As I was watching my mechanics working on the mopeds for repairs and servicing, I started picking up how to do the same, and within 6 to 9 months I could repairs this moped fully without the help of my mechanic or when he was absent. I used to repair the moped myself and see that the customers don’t suffer. I could even repair complete engine for the moped.

Rakhee and Sagar were doing very well at school, Hema used to look after their school progress as she was full time housewife, so she could teach them and no need for private tuitions. She used to go and see their class teachers every now and then and solve all the difficulties. Rakhee had few problems as she started in standard 8th where she had 3 new subjects i.e. Hindi, Gujarati and Sanskrit, which she had never studied in her life in Zambia. Credit goes to Hema as she took her full time to teach all these subjects to Rakhee, and Rakhee also picked up very well and she passed her standard 8th with flying colours. Same with Sagar, he also worked hard and passed successfully standard 4th. Rakhee had to take tuition classes in standard 9th, 10th and 12th for Maths, Science and English, at Lulla classes, and also private teachers in standard 12th, Sagar also followed same in higher classes.

Rakhee and Sagar both had problems regarding their teeth, they had to undergo treatment for it through a specialist Doctor Heena Desai, she said the course will be for nearly 2 years for both of them and the charges will be nearly Rs. 2,500/- for each, and was asking for advance payment. I told her advance is not possible, but I promise to pay Rs.100/- for every seating and complete full charges in installments. Well she agreed and luckily both had very good treatment.

In mid 1986 one of my friend of Zambia now settled in USA Mr. Pravin Patel had come to India and he was here in Baroda. He came to visit me at my residence. In 1977/78 two of my Zambian friends and I had helped him with certain USA Dollars to buy business in USA, as he was interested for going into business from his present job. He did very well in Business and also returned our money in full with interest by 1981/82. He had bought one Movie Camera Panasonic, which he was interested in selling the same if I had some customer for the same. I told yes there is one customer right in front of you, he thought I am joking, but I told I am serious, you just tell me the price for the same. He told its for Rs.20,000/-, I told well that fine, but I can’t give you all the money right now, I will buy it, and start business with the same and pay you Rs.5,000/- per month, if it’s ok with you then the deal is done. We both agreed and now the Camera was with me for good.

As I was badly in need of money and photography was my hobby I converted into commercial business for the purpose of survival. (Sometimes hobby as well as things you learn in your life may help you for your survival) I started advertising and also told few of my photographer friends that I am also going into photography business, for Videography as well as still photography. Now this was my new business from June 1986. I started getting orders for Marriage ceremonies, Private Birthday parties, Conferences and so on. I used to charge Rs.1,500/- to Rs.1,800/- for marriages and Conferences and nearly Rs.700/- for Birthday Parties. I started making nearly Rs.8 to 10 thousand per month, so now I was very comfortable with my day to day expenses, and also started giving Rs.5,000/- to Pravin’s relative in Baroda. I was in this Business from 1986 to 1992, thereafter I gave up as it was very tiring, plus new

instruments started coming in market and my being very old model, I was not interested in investing more money in the said business.

In September 1986, two years had been completed for sale of my Mercedes Car, and as per customs rule I could transfer my name only after 2 years after bringing from overseas, I came to Bombay for the same and got the car transferred.

I was in Bombay for few days, and luckily through my Brother in Law Mr. Deepak, I came through one Morris 1952 model car belonging to one of his office friend who was interested to sale the same. I went to see the same, took a ride with him at Marine Lines at the speed of 80 to 100 miles, i.e. 140 to 160 kms, running was perfect, but the body was black and totally half of the bottom part eaten up with big holes all round, due to Salty water in Bombay. I asked for the price and it was Rs.12,500/- for the same. The engine, battery, tyres, seats all other parts except body were good and as good as new. I asked if I could take a long ride myself and see the running and then decide whether to buy or not. He agreed, so next day I, My elder brother Dineshbhai, my cousin brother Jitu went for a ride from Marine Lines to Borivali nearly 35 to 40 kms, and back. There was no problem at all and the running was smooth and comfortable. I asked if he could give it for Rs.10,000/-, but he did not agreed, he wanted Rs.12,500/- for the same. I told him ok I will inform you next day, I phoned my wife explained to her about my interest in buying the said vehicle, she agreed and I made the deal for Rs.12,500/-. I paid cash, got the car transferred within 2 days in my name, and drove it from Bombay to Baroda, with my bhabhi, cousin brothers Jitu and Amit.

Left Bombay at 7 a.m. visiting Chikli one of my Zambian friend Mohanbhai, then stopped at Valsad my Bhabhis brother , took lunch there and then to Surat my brother in law Rashmibhai took tea/coffee breakfast and reached Baroda at 7.30 p.m. same day. At times on our way when the roads were very clear I used to drive at the speed of 100 miles per hour, i.e. 160 kms. Wife was not very impressed with the body, but I told nothing to worry, we will get it done in Baroda and also change the color fully. I was proud to be first owner for 4 wheeler (Car) in Citizen Society in 36 houses on our side from No.11 to 30, and from 39 to 54.

After two years of struggle, now I think I started settling down, recovered my confidence, and earned enough for my day to day expenses, But not enough for luxuries. At last my three aims which I had started getting successful, i.e. education , own business and own residence.

In 1984 I had brought my cousin brother Jitu from Bombay to help me in business, we had started a TVS Moped business, but unfortunately it was not picking up at all, and I had to pay salary to him as well as the mechanics, out of my pocket as the income was not enough from the repairs of TVS Mopeds. Finally after 17 months I had to decide and tell Jitu to go back to Bombay as I could not afford to pay Rs.1,000/- salary every month to him. He also understood and went back to Bombay, but he was very much interested to stay in Baroda, as he liked the place compared to Bombay. Luckily my elder brother Dineshbhai sold our family house at Opera House where we used to stay since 1938, and he was also interested for investing money in Baroda. He bought one flat and two shops in Baroda.

Since Jitu was very keen to come to Baroda, my brother Dineshbhai opened one shop at Gotri and started doing cloth business down there and asked Jitu to look after the same. Thus Jitu once again came back to Baroda,

and now at present he is very well settled in his own Estate Business and his daughter having flower business and his son doing job with one very well known company.

As I was staying outside Baroda for quite some time due to Video shooting, I could not look after two business at the same time one Videography and other TVS Moped. I called in Bhailal my mechanic for moped repairs and told him if you can handle repairs business for moped down here on your own, then I will give you your regular salary as well as 50% share on Labour which we charge to customers.

He agreed for the same, and after couple of month he started charging very high labour charges to customers for making more money. Some of the customers started complaining for the same, I looked into the same for couple of days, the complain being genuine, I called Bhailal and told him see I am not here to spoil my name because of you, I don’t like such false charges. I am not interested any more to carry on this Moped business as there is not much profit in it. I don’t mind if I make loss for the parts which are remaining in this office which will be of no use, I want to stop this business immediately from tomorrow onwards, and I literally did close down moped business very next day. I gave Bhailal whatever was due to him, and told him you may look for some other job or do what you think is fit for you.

In 1986, my wife did not have much work as she was now not busy with kids studies, so she was getting bored at home, she planned for opening dispensary at residence in drawing room where she can see the patients, keep her practice running and also pass time with patients. We bought necessary equipments, medicine in wholesale, plus big curtain to separate drawing room from dining room, so that Hema could examine ladies patients without any difficulty. We organized the opening for the dispensary and called in all the members of Citizen Society, people from Arbudanagar, Chetna Society and other surrounding societies. It was a nice opening and on the same day she had some patients and they all said, well it’s a very good idea as we all can come here being very near to us. Now she was quite busy and actually there were no fix timing as all were good friends and used to come at any time of the day. Sometimes they used to seat with Hema and discuss few latest topics or their domestic problems and pass their time. Now Hema was quite happy being little bit busy as well as being helpful to general public. The charges were absolutely nominal, just for the sake of charging, as it was not a profit making dispensary. If some patients could not pay, she used to give medicine free of charge.

In 1986/87 Rakhee also had tough time as she was in 10th Standard being Board exam, she had to attend school as well as classes for 2 hours in evening. She was doing fine with her studies, had no problems at all and at the same time she was helping me in my business as well as to Hema in kitchen and dispensary.

Rakhee had two very good friends in her school right from standard 8, i.e. Aarti and Lata both were very brilliant and they used to help Rakhee to solve all her problems in studies. She got through standard 10 with very good percentage and selected Science subjects for standard 11th and 12th. When Rakhee joined her school in 1984 in 8th standard, school had classes up to standard 10th only. Luckily when she passed her standard 10th school got permission to open up new classes for level 12th, so she had no problems for admission into standard 11 for further studies.

When I left Zambia, I had deposited Zambian Kwacha 22,000/- which is Indian Rs. 1,65,000/- nearly, which is known as money in pipeline. This is because Zambian Government did not have enough foreign currency, and they used to transfer the said money as and when they had facility for foreign exchange. Luckily in 1987 I got my first installment through my bank from Zambia and that was approximately Rs.70,000/-. I was planning to invest nearly half of it in some kind of business.

During those days there was craze for video cassette library. I also thought of opening one at my present shop, so that if I get 10 customers to hire one each cassette I will earn Rs.100/- per day. I talked with Hema, Rakhee and Sagar they all agreed. We all four used to seat and take decision together for any such new items. We started renovating our shop, It was open from all sides, only shutters, so I build glass doors for all the three openings. This is because of safety for theft as well as dust. I also changed my shop name from Kwacha Auto Sales to Kwacha Vision/Studio. Everything was now set at my shop, so I went with one of my friend Pratapbhai to Bombay as he knew where to buy Video Cassettes in Bombay.

He took me to Andheri, and we selected nearly 120 to 150 new cassettes with old movies, such as Raj Kapoor’s series, Dev Anand Series, Dilip and so on and few English movies. I invested nearly 18 to 20 thousand and rest for day to day investment in new movies.

We had another grand opening for Video Cassette Library, and called many friends and relatives from all round, so that we could attract as many customers as possible for hiring such movies from us, there was also very heavy competition in this business, nearly 4 libraries in Bombay Shopping Centre including my library. I had two Video Cameras so one I fixed it on one wall facing the entrance and other moving around catching up all the public coming for the opening of such library. It was great fun and we kept it open for the whole day and the response was quite good on the very first day.

In 1987, our friend Mr. Sura was building four shops and flats at Gotri Road near S.T.Colony, The shops were very cheap, 140 sq. ft. area for nearly Rs.37,000/- only, and during those days even Cabins on main road were costing Rs.80,000/-. I thought of buying one for investment basis and my elder Brother also bought one for himself. When Hema saw this place, she was very impressed, and the area was quite occupied by residence. She thought it is nice place for her dispensary. So we asked the builder to build one toilet inside the shop and 24 hours water facility, which was done as per request. As soon as we got the possession we had another opening for Heman’s dispensary.

She was quite happy as now she could stay out for nearly 2 hours from 5-30 to 7-30 p.m. and meet new people. I used to drop her while going to office in evening and pick her up after my office hours. If I was not in town she used to go by Riksha or sometimes even walking. There she made one very good friend Mrs. Advani who used to come and seat with her and pass time talking few topics, slowly they started coming to our residence and we started going to their residence, so they were now very good family friends.

Whole day she was practicing at home and evening she used to go to dispensary. But she never neglected both the kids and domestic work. She was capable for everything. All the patients were very happy with her services as well as her diagnosis as she used to give or prescribe very light medicine. She was trying to keep herself busy to keep her knowledge up to date. She never used to like going here and there even in the society and keep on chatting with

society members, she was dedicated to her work and mainly to her family. She used to like watching T.V. in evening hours after dinner, but no serials at all, only news, sports and sometimes old movies. She was very particular for kids studies and used to see nearly every day that they are all done with their studies.

When we left Zambia we had bought 4 South African Carpets size nearly 9 x 12 ft and 10 x 12 ft. We were under the impression that we will buy 3 bed room house and keep three carpets in this 3 rooms and one for seating room. Unfortunately it was not possible, and also due to heavy dust in India in our society, we were not in the position to use these carpets. I got one customer for the same Ashok who bought all the four carpets, I had priced it for Rs.12,000/-, but after negotiations he gave me Rs.10,000/- for all the four carpets.

With the help of this money Rs.10,000/-, I bought 3 Divan Beds with box type to store goods in it. Two for our room and one for kids room as the room was very small for 2 beds. We paid Rs.7,500/- for 3 beds. Slowly we were settling down with all necessary items.

Business was going on quite good, with Photography and Video Library. I had one office boy to help me to look after library and also to hold the Video light while shooting movie, and his name was Jitu who worked for me for nearly 3 to 4 years.

In February/March 1988, I contacted 3 big hotels for hiring of my video Cassettes, i.e. Hotel Welcomgroup, Hotel Surya Palace, and Hotel Express. They had T.V. Sets In each room and through their engineering room they used to show movies nearly 6 to their customers for the whole day. I thought if they hire 6 cassettes every day then the business will be very good. But unfortunately they had already tied up with other libraries. I also asked if they would like to hire T.V. and V.C.R. for conference purpose. At Hotel Welcomgroup I was asked to contact Banquet department for the same.

I went to Banquet department and thereafter they started giving me order for T.V. and V.C.R. for their conference purpose. One day as I entered their conference room Chandarwa hall, I saw one projector placed in the room. For the sake of curiosity I asked Jayesh who was handling the Banquet department, as to what is this projector, how does it work, and where do you get it from. He told me its known as Over Head Projector. Usually the speaker brings transparencies A 4 size, they put it on the top glass and the image is reflected on the screen, so that all seating in conference room can watch what is displayed on the screen. Further I asked how much does it cost and where do they get it from and what are the hiring charges for the same. Jayesh told me the cost is nearly Rs.5,000/-, they bring it from Bhatt & Co., situated near Mandvi area in centre of city and we pay them hiring charges Rs.150/- per day. I further asked if I buy the said projector will they hire the said projector from me also. Jayesh said definitely, we will help you , and at the same time it will be good for us as the projector will be completely new and as you are situated just opposite our Hotel , it will be very easy for us also to give orders and enjoy your services.

In month of June 1988 I made up my mind to buy one after consulting my family. I went to Bombay and bought one from there (make Photophone) which was Rs. 4,750/- plus tax and Octroi at Vadodara entry post. Totally it cost me nearly Rs. 5,000/- plus. Now this was another new business, but I had made up my mind not to say to anyone nor have an opening party for the same. Just start the business with the same as soon as orders are received and do the business

silently without any propaganda. I started receiving orders for the same from Hotel Welcomgroup, and I even told same to Hotel Express and they also started giving orders.

Luckily within six months I got so many orders that I recovered the full cost for the said projector. My family and I were quite happy for the same, thinking that this new business will fetch some good returns in future. I was not knowing what this Overhead Projector is and I just went into the said business without any knowledge, thinking if I try I may succeed and make some money. Thereafter I asked Jayesh now what do you think I should buy as another product. Jayesh told me you may buy Slide Projector (Kodak), I was familiar with slide projector because I had one manual slide projector in Zambia to watch my own personal slides.

Again I went to Bombay to buy slide projector, well I made enquiries for Kodak Slide Projector and the cost was Rs.23,000/-. It was beyond my limit, so I saw another make i.e. Kinderman with a straight tray that could carry 50 slides at a time in one tray, and the cost was Rs.11,500/-. This seemed to be reasonable so I phoned Baroda and talked with Jayesh, telling him the difference in price for both the projectors. Jayesh told me no problem buy Kinderman and then in future you may go for Kodak. I bought Kinderman Projector and the hiring charges were Rs.200/- per shift. This also fetched me some good money and after another six months I was ready to buy something else. Those days only Overhead Projectors, Slide Projectors, T.V., V.C.R. and P. A. System were in use for all type of conference, meetings and training programs. Now I was told to buy P. A. System, which contains one amplifier, two speakers, and four mikes with stands and long wires.

This I bought locally from Deepak Agency in the city, make Ahuja Amplifier, and Ahuja Mikes and Speakers I got it made locally to match the Amplifier. Totally the cost was nearly Rs.9,000/- to 10,000/-. Now I was fully equipped with all the products for conference purpose. I was doing very well and if I had to supply all the items in one conference at one place, I had to sit there for the full day to see that nothing goes wrong and to change the equipments as and when required by the speaker.

I started making good money and at the same time I used to put some aside for future requirements for the said products. I started contacting other Hotels in town and by 1988/1989 I used to get orders from all over. I had to increase my inventory i.e. Assets to cop up with my orders with other parties. I bought another Overhead Projector and also Slide Projector and one more T.V. Business was picking up very fast as there was no competitor in whole of town. If we were busy with orders, Rakhee or Sagar had to rush to fulfill the order or even at times Hema had to go and deliver the same. Now we all were engaged actively full time in this business.

To increase my customers, I printed Quotations with all the necessary equipments with price, the price for private customers were a bit more for hiring compare to what I used to charge to Hotels. This is because I did not want to spoil hotel business as well as my terms with the Hotel management. I started getting private customers who used to hold meetings in their private Companies.

1988/1989 was another though year for Rakhee as she had board exams for 12th standard. For 12th standard she had to undergo private tuitions for Maths, Science and English, all at different places, I could easily manage for the fees for the said classes, but she had tough time going on cycle at all

different places and in all type of weather. She managed very well and got through with good percentage. She was very confused as to what line she should take, either Fine Arts, Architecture, Physiotherapy, and so on.

1st she had a call from School of Architecture, she appeared for the test and out of 535 students only 36 students were selected and Rakhee was one of them. The college started and she attended for few days. Thereafter she got call from Physiotherapy department, she and Hema went for an interview to Ahmedabad. She for keen for the said line and as she got admission they paid the fees and submitted all the original papers at local office.

Now after coming to Baroda she was confused either to go for Architecture or for physiotherapy. The Dean at School of Architecture came to know that she might go for Physiotherapy, so he called me and told me why is Rakhee thinking of going for physiotherapy. We have selected her out of 535 students, she is brilliant in this line then how can you allow her to go for any other line. Now Rakhee was totally confused, she took advice from few of our friends and also when she was in Ahmedabad some of our relatives told her how can you go for physiotherapy when you have got admission for architecture. She was told even if you work for full day massaging all your patients you will not earn as much as you can being an Architect. Secondly she was told only sick people will come to you all the time and spoil your mood.

Now she wanted to select Architecture but it was too late as all the original papers were submitted for physiotherapy. The Dean at School of Architect told us, she can carry on her classes down here, and we should again go to Ahmedabad write a letter for cancellation of admission for physiotherapy , and get all the papers back and submit the same at local office at school of Architect. I had to go 3 or 4 times to Ahmedabad for the same and luckily I got the papers before 1st term and submitted at School of Architect.

As the School of Architecture was very far from our residence and she used to get tired on cycle, I thought of buying her one Luna Moped. After buying Luna Moped, I told her I am buying this Moped for you because you are getting tired so you must ride very safe and if possible at the speed of a cycle. She was quite happy and enjoyed going to college. In the first year she had dislocation of her knee, she was just trying to seat on her friends moped and her knee got dislocated. She had to stay home for nearly one and half month. All her friends used to come home and solve lessons which they studied at college. Luckily she was ok and she also passed her 1st year with good percentage.

My hiring business for conference equipments was picking up very well, and video cassette was not that good and I had to go on investing for every new movie that is released. Video Cassette business being very slow and at the same time raids from Police department for duplicate cassettes, I thought its right time to close down before I invest lot of money in the said business. I took immediate decision, closed down the said business and disposed off as many cassettes as possible to other friends and libraries. Now I had two businesses in hand, one conference equipments and other photography. Both the business were going on very well, we had no more problems for day to day expense, we could even afford luxury items. I could also do some saving out of these two businesses.

1988/1989 and 1990 everything was running very smoothly. Sagar was doing very well in School for his junior classes. He passed with a good % from Std. 4th to Std 9th. Now 1990/1991 was a tough year for Sagar being Board

exam for standard 10th. Sagar was good at studies, but being 10th standard he too had attended Lulla classes for English, Science and Maths. He passed with a good percentage and got admission in same school for standard 11.

In 1990 I was very lucky to get my other installment remaining money from Zambia. This was nearly Rs.90,000/- full and final payment. I had to keep reminding through one of my friend staying in Zambia in the year 1989, so finally I got it in 1990. Around June to August one of my friend Pravin Patel came to India from USA. He visited me several times as he was staying in Baroda with one of his friend. He was joking with me why don’t you come to USA, Arvindbhai (a friend) and I will see that you settle down in USA. I also told him well I am ready, when should I come, if you say I will definitely come after Diwali. He told me, I am going back before Diwali and will see you in USA after Diwali. He told me we will try for White Card, which is a type of residence card or will try for H1B visa for a job. I told ok, will see and contact you for the same.

I thought as we are not fully settle down and satisfied, with present business, specially photography which was very tiring, why not to give a try for USA and if everything goes well we all can migrate to USA for good. Photography business was a headache, at time for marriages Video shooting I had to go out of Baroda many times and also do video shooting for nearly 22 hours nonstop. After coming back I had to take rest for a day or two.

Due to my final installment from Zambia Rs. 90,000/- I thought I should give a try for USA. I set with my family and discussed in detail for the same and estimated nearly Rs.35 to 40 thousand for trip to USA. I told, I will go for 3 months and see if it is worth will settle down and then call all three of you as soon as possible. I started preparing for Visa, Tickets and foreign currency. I had no problem with Visa and did not even go to Embassy as I had once visited USA in 1980. My tickets and also foreign exchange were ok in time. I took only USA $ 500 with me.

Immediately after Diwali I went to USA (California) for the first time at this part of the world. I Stayed with Pravin at his motel. Then we obtained a form for white card, a kind of resident card. There were 36 questions to be answered, and only one question true i.e. name, and other questions bogus and false. After filling up form we had to go to local Immigration office and pay USA $ 6,000 (Illegal) as fees for obtaining the white card. It was 100% risky job as all questions were wrongly answered, and by chance if you are caught by immigration officer, you will land up in jail or face any other problems.

I told my friend Pravin and Arvindbhai I am not at all interested in obtaining white card illegally, I will forget and go back to India, and also forget what I have spend for coming here, but I am not interested in this manner. If something happens to me whole my family will suffer in India. Then we met a Lawyer and asked for H1B visa facilities. Since I was educated, that was possible if I get an employment letter from any company who requires my services. The fees were nearly USA $ 1000, that was not an issue, but there were conditions for H1B visa during those days. If government issues my H1B Visa, I cannot leave the country for 3 complete years whatever the circumstances. And after getting H1B visa my salary was going to be only maximum USA $ 1000, which would not have been sufficient for me to leave in USA as well send some money to India for Domestic expenses in India. Secondly if I can’t come for 3 years to India whatever the reason, again my family would have suffered and both Rakhee and Sagar were still students. All my family

would have to look after my running business for 3 years which would be impossible along with the studies.

I gave up the idea for USA totally, and went to Canada to see how likely chances are there to settle down in Canada. There was no chance in Canada as they were very strict with immigration laws. After 3 weeks I came back to USA and from there I went to London. There were no likely chances in London also for settlement. Finally after nearly three and half months I decided to come back to India, as my family were suffering a lot in handling the business and the kids had to run around for business leaving their studies. Being 10th standard for Sagar it was very tough for him to move around, but he still managed very well.

The day when I landed at Baroda after 40 hours journey in evening my family had taken an order for Video shooting at MS University Hall. Same day of my landing I was back in my business from 6 p.m. to 11p.m. For three months my Video Shooting business was nil as I was the only one looking after the same. When I was in USA I had decided if Rakhee and Sagar are interesting for going to USA after graduation, I will definitely try my best and settle both of them in USA. whatever be the circumstances.

The only alternative now was to concentrate in my present business and try to expand as much as possible and invest money in new inventories and equipments. My way of advertising my business was quite different, I took up yellow pages directory, looked for some big companies within Vadodara and started writing them letters with quotations regarding my conference equipments. I started getting good response. There was no one doing same business like mine, in Ankleshwar, Bharuch, Surat, Nadiad, Anand, Rajkot and all nearby areas. I started getting orders from all above places. Business started expanding and now I had to keep nearly 5 Overhead Projectors, 3 Slide Projectors and so on.

After coming from USA my employee Jitu who had worked for me nearly more than 3 years, wanted to leave as he was getting double salary then what I was giving and he wanted to go as a Car Driver for some private party. I told well that’s very good, you may go for better prospects and I will look for someone to replace your duties. There was one Mr. Sony Thakur jobless seating here and there at Bombay Shopping Centre, so one Mr. Chetan Megani asked me if I could employee Sony in my Shop as he is interested in doing job at your place. Chetanbhai told me it will be ok if you give him Rs.1200/- salary per month. I checked, he had his family, wife and two small kids. My wife Hema told 1200/- is very less, I should give 1500/- and then rise after 3 months if he is ok with the job. I called Sony explained him all the duties and told him I will pay you Rs.1500/- per month for 3 months and if I find that you are ok with the job I will rise your salary to Rs.1,800/- per month. He was quite happy and so he started the job very next day. I was also happy as I had assistant immediately as soon as Jitu left.

In 1991 Sagar completed his 10th standard with good percentage, and now we were running around for his admission to classes for Physics/Chemistry, Maths, and so on, for 11th and 12th standard as he wanted to go for Science subjects. Luckily he got admission where he wanted. He was ok for another 2 years.

In 1991 I had been to Bombay. Dineshbhai told me that Adhir (his son) had a Yamaha motor bike, which he used while he was in Bombay, after he has migrated to USA, the bike remains unused. He asked me to take it to Baroda. I

had no problem so I bought the Bike to Baroda. I used it when I travelled single and used Morris Car when the whole family had to go out.

1991/1992 we were going on very well in business, I was doing both Hiring conference equipments and also Photography. 1992 onwards I gave up video shooting and photography, reason being my cameras were being outdated and new latest products had already arrived in market and it was difficult to carry on with competition in market with old outdated products. Secondly new were very expensive and I was not interested in investing for the same as I wanted to increase my Conference equipments business, and lastly it was a very tiring business. My age at that time was 52 years and it was not advisable to stay whole day out for photography facing all types of climate. Now my only business was conference equipments and I was interested in investing money in the latest equipments for conference purpose.

My wife had a dispensary at Gotri area. When I was in USA she had stopped going to dispensary for more than 3 months, and when I came back she told she is not interested in going to dispensary as it is not picking up very well. We thought of disposing it off and utilize the same money for my present business. We got a customer immediately and sold the same for Rs.72,000/-. Now I had enough money in hand this plus the money which I had received from Zambia before I went to USA.

Whole of 1992/1993 we were not doing anything extra as Sagar was very busy with his 12th standard exams. We all were interested that he should pass with good percentage so that he get admission in Electronics which was his most liking subject. We did not even take cable connection for TV programs since Sagar was in 12th standard. Sagar worked hard and he passed his 12th standard with good percentage nearly 82/83%.

When the exams were running, Sagar had very big problem during his 1st day, He was writing his paper and during last 10 minutes he asked for a supplementary paper, and he was refused by the examiner telling now the time is nearly over and there is no supplementary papers in stock. Due to this problem he had to leave a question of 15 marks in which he could score full marks. He was totally upset, had lot of arguments with the examiner (the shortage of supplementary papers in the hall was due to back door supply by examiner to students friend outside the hall, who used to fill up answers illegally.) After 6 p.m. we had lot of arguments with the Principal also but all in vain.

Thereafter at night we went to News paper press and gave whole article in the paper to appear in next day paper. Early morning we also went to School Principal and City Collector and explained everything to them, they also told it is unfair but we can’t do anything now, but will see that it will not happen for other papers. They kept Police squad all round the school from very next day and very strict with anybody going in or out of the school. No one except the students allowed to enter the school. All the parents who had paid illegal money for their students to copy in exam had to suffer a lot.

From very next day there was no shortage of any supplementary papers and all the students had no problem what so ever.

After the exams we all four went on a holiday for 17 days to Bombay, Pune, Mahableshwar. Panchgini and so on and also did lot of shopping from Fashion street in Bombay.

Sagar was absolutely keen to go for Electronics subjects and our friends used to tell me as well as to Sagar not to go for Electronics, either go for Electrical or Mechanical Engineering. But Sagar was firm for Electronics and he told me if Electronics had no value when he passes he will look after Family Business but he will go for Electronics only. We went for his admission at Ahmedabad and when his turn was nearby, there were 5 students left on waiting list and only 2 seats remaining for Electronics. We were worried whether he will get admission or not. Luckily Sagar got admission in Electronics as other four students took admission in other courses as per their requirements.

We paid the fees immediately and he started his college at Vadodara MS University. He was doing very well, he had very nice group of friends all with very high percentage and all staying very near to our house.

In 1992/1993 there was a new item in the market for conference purpose known as Video Projector, 3 gun projector. The item was very huge and also very heavy in weight, nearly 40 kg. I went to Bombay for demonstration as well as for further enquiry. I was interested, but the cost was nearly Rs.2,25,000/- very high for my budget and also we require nearly 3 to 4 people to carry to take it to the site. I just gave up the idea for the same as it was beyond my limit. I thought I will go for something light and single gun projector when it is introduced in the market.

Fortunately in mid 1993 I saw an ad in TV showing very compact single gun Video Projector manufactured by Sharp Company, introduced for the first time in world market. It was hardly 3 to 4 kg in weight and only 12"L,9"B,7"H. I made enquiry and again went to Bombay for the same, I got a quotation for Rs.1,43,000/- planning to obtain loan from Bank for the same. I submitted papers to the Bank and was waiting for the reply.

In December 1993, I had a friend who had come from USA Dr. Pradeep Mistry and his wife. We were moving around at National Plaza for shopping purpose, it was one the best shopping place in Baroda during those days. Luckily I saw the same single gun video projector in one of the shops, Sharp 310, on 29th December 1993. I entered inside and asked for the price, I was told it is Rs.82,000/-. I was totally surprised with the difference in price between Baroda and Bombay. I immediately booked the same and told the shop owner not to sell it to any one, I will come and pick up the same within few days. I had enough money so I need not go for loan now and luckily one of Sagar’s friend staying next to us was a relative of the said shop owner. We went with him with the Cheque book on 3rd January 1994, and bought it at Rs.78,000/- after negotiation.

I was the first one to introduce the said projector in whole of Baroda for hiring purpose. I started advertising and also started giving live demonstration to customers and Hotel management. I had fixed Rs.2,000/- rent for the same for one shift. I started receiving order and now the business was picking up fast giving me enough money what I used to get for photography. Everyone was quite happy with the said product.

In the year 1993 I was also interested for buying one Kodak Carousal Slide Projector as it was in high demand for conference purpose. The cost for the same was Rs.90,000/- approximately in India, which was again too high for my budget, and we could fetch Rs.750/- maximum as rent for one shift. Luckily my brother Mahesh was coming from USA with his family, during November 1993. I asked him if he could bring one Kodak Slide Projector from USA with

him and I will pay him in full for the same as I knew it is very cheap down there. He did bring one, but it was 110 V , but no problems as I could get a transformer done step down from 240V to 110 V, and the cost of the said projector was only Rs.17,500/-. All my customers were very happy with the product. My inventories for equipments started increasing and so my income also started increasing day by day as well as my business.

In January 1994, Mahesh had arranged one 8 days Grand Puja at Chanasma village near Ahmedabad, very well know place for our family, (my father when he was very young had a dream for the said place, and he had been there for Puja and since that day till his death he had no problems for money. Fathers name is in local book of that Derasar in Chanasma). Whole of our family as well as relatives attended this puja for eight days. Sagar and Hema were there for all eight days. Rakhee and I used to go and come, I went for three times for the said puja , as I was too busy in business down here. Well this puja helped our family extremely, business in that month i.e. January 1994 was highest since 1984, and my total income in January alone was nearly Rs.44,000/- for one month which was very good during those days, and since 1994 till today I have not faced any problems for money in my life. Today also I visit Chanasma (Bhatewa Parswanath) God in that temple as and when time permits, and our whole family does the same nearly every year.

1993/1994 Rakhee was in her Final 5th year of Architect. She had to work very hard sometimes 2 to 3 full day and night for making models and drawings for her project. We had one house totally empty No 44 just opposite our house and there she was working full time with her 3 to 4 friends. She was working hard to obtain a Gold medal in her final year. Unluckily she stood 2nd and lost the chance for the Gold Medal. We all had been to her college at the time of submission of her project, and it was very nice experience as we had not seen such a gathering before.

In forth year when Rakhee had to go for 6 months internship, Hema was just going around our office building and next building she saw one Architects firm, she went there and asked if they were interested in a assistant for 6 months internship, and that’s how Rakhee got a job for 6 months down there for her internship, just very next door.

After Rakhee finished her graduation in India, she was planning for further studies and trying to get admission at a USA University. She started applying to nearly 6 University, and for the same she had to make folders with her complete work and photographs. Each folder cost was nearly Rs. 5,000/- and total cost was nearly Rs.30,000/- plus other nominal expenses. Luckily she got the admission and during those days we had to show nearly USA $ 8,000 in our Bank Balance or get Sponsor letter for the same. Well showing balance in our bank was next to impossible, and we tried for sponsor letter from several people, but in vain. We needed a sponsor letter only to enter the USA country, thereafter I could manage everything, but that too was not available. I told Rakhee let’s forget, at present I can’t help you, but will see what we can do in future for you. Thereafter Rakhee took up job in Baroda and she was doing very well in her job. She learned a lot in her job and had very good practical knowledge.

Business was running very good, day by day picking up and having new customers from all over Gujarat. Regarding my conference equipments specially, Overhead Projectors, Slide Projectors, T.V. , V.C.R., old projectors and so on, I used to sell it every 2 years and buy latest with new technology so

that all my customers were very happy with new products. Now there was a demand for Hi Lumen Overhead Projector, i.e. 5000 Lumens (brightness), and the cost for the same was Rs. 32,000/-. To fulfill my customers demand I had to buy one and bought the same on 12th March 1996. The hiring charges for the same were Rs. 500/- per shift.

In the year 1996, after completing 25 years of marriage, we gave a small party to our friends (nearly 50) at Sayaji Hotel to celebrate our 25th Anniversary (Silver Jubilee). Had a very nice time and also very good remembrances.

In 1996 again new product came in market known as LCD Panel, which could be connected to Computer or Laptop via VGA Cable, and this Panel had to be placed on Hi Lumen Overhead Projector for image to be reflected on screen size 6' x 4'. This was new technology where computer image could be reflected on screen and at the same time, 100 to 200 participations could watch the program. This panel could also connect to a VCR or CD player. The cost was Rs.1,80,000/-, I had to buy the same, and again I was the first to introduce this product for customers in Baroda. My customers were very happy and I did very good business with this LCD Panel. The charges in beginning were Rs.3,500/- per shift, and the customers used to pay happily that too in advance to book the same.

I made very good profit out of this Panel. My employee Sony and myself used to look after this product personally and not allow anyone else to handle the same, and we used to seat on site for the whole day till the meeting lasted. I used to get very good time on site for reading magazines or story books, for passing time.

At the same time we used to enjoy Hotel 5 Star Lunch offered to us by our customers.

In 1996/1997 I did good business and now I was ok with funds. Sagar was also in his final year during 96/97, ready to complete his final year Examination for BE Electronics. I was planning to renovate my shop, in case Sagar after his studies want to start something on his own. Our shop had 16 Ft. height, I decided to have one extra floor. Rakhee did the planning and we had estimated nearly Rs. 80.000/- for renovation along with my separate Cabin on ground floor. Planning was 9 Ft basement and 7 Ft upstairs, and few racks on ground floor for placing equipments. We started renovating in 1997, while going through we also planned to change complete wiring as they were very old, and had new conceal wiring. Then Rakhee suggested we will have to change complete furniture as old will look very bad in new office, now everything changed and the cost came to Rs.1,50,000/- when work was complete.

After completing we performed one Puja at our office and invited many Jain friends, relatives and all from Bombay shopping shops. Everyone appreciated the work well done by Rakhee, it was really amazing and very neat and clean place with very attractive steps for going upstairs. It was planned in such a way that if Sagar wants to start anything in this office in future he can seat in ground floor office, and nearly 8 to 10 staff upstairs, Plus reception and so on.

The shop was also designed in such a way that it could be converted into three different parts, because it had 3 different doors on three sides for entry. Two doors in front for two shops of 125 sq ft each on ground floor, and side

door could be used to go upstairs for upper entry, without disturbing ground floor office.

In 1st week of march 1997, one of my friend brought a Maruti Suzuki 800 Car, secondhand for sale, he showed it to me and told me it is in very good condition, driven by one lady in Baroda only and has never gone out of Baroda. It was original Suzuki from Japan in 1986. It was 11 years old but perfect in condition, and only 57,000 kilometers on clock. The price she was asking was Rs.90,000/-. I was interested in the same as I wanted one for going out of Baroda, as well as for Rakhee and Sagar to move around, because Morris was not good enough for going out of Baroda. Plus this was an A.C. car. I drove it to our residence and gave a surprise to my family telling them I have bought this car. Then I told well I am joking, I wanted to know if you all like this car I am interested in buying the same for our family. Everyone liked it and we negotiated the price and got it for Rs.82,000/-. I bought the Suzuki Car on 10th March, 1997. I had enough money on hand during those days as business was very good. Now we had two cars, two motorbikes and one moped. Now I started living luxuriously as I used to live in Zambia. Lifestyle was changing day after day.

Rakhee was already doing job and earning normal salary. Sagar also was looking for a job and he was interested in one company known as Matrix, dealing in telecommunication. The salary in Baroda was nearly 7 to 8 thousand per month and in Bangalore his friends used to get nearly 15 to 16 thousand per month. I told him well if you want to go to Bangalore I don’t mind, but seat and do the calculations, if you go there you will have to rent a house, plus transport, plus food expenses all that will be nearly 7 to 8 thousand and you will be remaining with what you will get here per month. So it’s better you stay here, you will save your full salary as I don’t want a single penny for domestic expenses and secondly you will also enjoy with family and good family food. He understood and he also told I am not interested in staying away from family and specially mother.

Sagar wanted to work for Matrix company and no other company, so I told him you go for a interview and tell the owner there that you are interested in working for them. Also tell them if you have no vacancy, I will just come on my own and will not accept any salary for the same, as I want to learn something new at your company and have practical knowledge.

The owner told if you don’t take salary how are you going to survive, Sagar replied, well my father is in business and I am not worried about money, I am just interested in knowledge. Thereafter he was offered the job and they also offered him salary of Rs. 7,000/- per month. He started the job immediately and he as well as his bosses seemed to be very happy with each other. Most of his college friends had gone to USA for further studies and when we used to tell him why are you not trying for yourself. He used to say I am not interested in leaving this family and go to settle down in USA. I am quite happy down here and don’t want to leave my mother.

In 1997 I employed another employee and is name was Rajiv, this is because business was expanding, Sony alone could not handle moving around when the orders were many. Rajiv was new to Baroda, he came from a village and did not know anything, slowly I trained him, showed him all the places in Baroda and he started getting used to business and well as conference equipments.

Sagar worked for nearly one and half year with Matrix company, and he was not very satisfied with the terms and conditions. Salary was not moving up at all, and working hours were abnormal. Morning he had to go at 10 a.m. but no fix time for coming back, sometimes even late night, may be 12 midnight or 1 a.m.

His friends from USA started forcing him to leave the job in India and come to USA on students Visa, one of his friend also dispatched application form for admission as a student at University of Southern California. The fees were nearly Rs.15 to Rs.17 lacs for two years course. He asked me what to do, I told well if you are interested you may fill up application form and we will manage for the funds, you need not worry. He filled up the form and also got admission for the said university. Now we had to prepare a file with all the documents for obtaining Visa, and show that much amount in our Bank Balance, We got house and shop Valuation certificate, plus all Tax papers, plus Bank Balances and so on for obtaining Visa. We had to take loan from Sagars friend plus my friends to show enough balance as we ourselves did not have that much money. Sagar got appointment for Visa call, Sagar and I went to Bombay for Visa purpose, Sagar handed over the file to embassy, unfortunately while going through the file, the Lady officer dropped main paper of income on floor, and as she could not trace the same in file she refused the Visa.

Sagar was very upset, we came back to Baroda and Sagar was telling I am not interested for another 6 months, I told nothing doing we are going again next week for the same and if you are refused again we will see what to do. Meanwhile to pass one week I told Hema, Rakhee and Sagar to go on Jatra at Sankeshwar and so on and after one week we will go again to Bombay. Next time Haman and Sagar went for Visa, luckily he was offered Visa without any problems. I did not tell any of my relatives or friends that I am trying to send Sagar to USA for studies.

I was not interested in disclosing as I knew I am not going to get any help from anywhere. Once he got Visa in hand, first we phoned our elder brother Dineshbhai at Borivali and told that I am sending Sagar to USA for further studies. Well everyone in my family got very surprised, how did I manage for the money as well as the Visa for U S A .

Sagar had another problem now from his employers, they were not ready to release him. On the other hand they told they will cancel his Visa and stop him from going to USA. We had to contact a Lawyer, and the Lawyer said he cannot do anything and even if he does something, USA government is not going to listen anything from him. The lawyer told us you make all the arrangements, and quietly leave the country. And luckily there was no problem and Sagar could go very safely in time. I had send him bit earlier during Christmas time before the college opens, as he could get used to local atmosphere and also enjoy Christmas.

In the beginning I gave him USA $ 9,700 for his fees as well as six months general expenses. After 6 months I had send him another installment for fees and for domestic expenses there. After 6 months he could manage on his own as he got a job at the university where he was studying. For last month fees, he took a local loan of USA $ 6000 which he paid immediately after completing his studies. He got a job at the college interview with Ericson Company, dealing with hardware and software in telecommunication, where he was very much interested.

From the 1st installment of his salary he paid off USA $ 6000/- loan which he had taken. Company paid him nearly USA $ 20,000 as shifting amount for going to San Diego and start job down there. Two years while he was in college, he had three local friends of Baroda with him, staying with him all the time and they all four enjoyed very well regarding studies as well as, food and moving around. For two years while Sagar was studying in USA we three in Baroda had to live very economically, no unnecessary expenses as we have to save as much as possible and send it to Sagar for his fees and other expenses in case he needs anything.

As the business was expanding and lot of demand for Video Projector, I had one already, but I had to buy another Sharp Video Projector Model 348 a better quality in 1998. Some times in Doctors meeting we had to put two at a time one showing pictures and other details in writing for the said picture. My income also started increasing slowly with new products.

January 1999, Sony came to me and told me he is interested in leaving the job from 31st January 1999. I told well that was ok. As per my nature in my business I never have removed anyone from employment, nor have I asked them why they want to leave the job. I just accepted their resignation without any question. Sony was under the impression that he might get better job elsewhere, but unfortunately after trying with two to three companies dealing in same business as mine they refused him a job. They said we cannot pay you what Mr. Shah used to pay, and secondly you are too old for this type of job as there is lot of running around. Well he had to suffer a lot thereafter and literally he did not have money to run his domestic expenses. Everyone used to tell him he made a big mistake, and it was too late now, as I had already employed a new gentleman in his capacity.

The new employee was Hemant, and he was introduced by Ashwin our next door employee at Swiss Watch Company. Slowly he got used to my business and all the equipments and now he as well as Rajiv used to look after the order very well. If there were more orders, I had to run around, otherwise they two were enough for the job.

There was a new product in market known as LCD Multimedia Projector, this was replacing LCD Panel with much better quality. This new Projector was similar to Video Projector, single lens, and easy to carry, and could accept Computer, DVD, VCR, Camera, TV and so on, all in one. Hiring charges for the same were Rs.4 to Rs.5 thousand per shift. Cost was nearly 3 to 4 lacs per piece, which was beyond my capacity.

In the beginning when I used to get order, I used to hire the same from Ahmedabad, as there was no one in Baroda having that projector. I used to get commission of nearly Rs.500/- to Rs.1000/- depending what I have charged the local customer. So I worked out how many times I get order in a month, and what are the possibilities for buying one for business. Thereafter in 1998 I bought one Sharp Model 3795 LCD Multimedia Projector from Videoman Ahmedabad and I paid Rs. 2,75,000/- for the same, I paid in three installments. I was all alone having this type of projector in Baroda, so I could charge nearly Rs.4000/- to Rs.6,000/- per shift depending on the customer. I was doing very well in business as I had nearly all new and latest types of conference equipments.

In 1997 when Sagar finished his final exams for BE Electronics, he gave surprise to me and Hema. Sagar through his Scott Sir who was also engaged in Travel Business, he booked tickets as well as accommodation for Hema and I for

Sasan Gir and Verawal for nearly 6 to 8 days, and came home and told well now I am free, I will look after the business for a few days, you both go on holiday and enjoy yourself. Rakhee and I will stay here alone and look after home as well as business. So we went on holiday for few days and enjoyed as it was our first time going on this route.

Sagar when he started his job at Matrix in Baroda, out of his first salary, he went for shopping and bought one sari for mummy, one tie and belt for me and a dress for Rakhee. I told well thanks very much, since this is your first salary I am not saying anything, but in future you have to deposit your full salary in your bank account and accumulate so that it may be helpful to you in future for one or the other reason. There is enough money out of our business every month, for all four of us to enjoy in all respect. You as well as Rakhee have to save as much as possible.

Business was picking up excellent, I had enough equipments, eg. 2 x Video Projectors, 1 LCD Panel, 1 LCD Multimedia Projector, and all other normal Equipments such as T.V., V.C.R., P.A. System and so on.

In the year 1998 and 1999, I made good profit and out of which I was sending to Sagar at USA as well as saving as much as possible. In May 2000, Sagar and Shrenik son of Adhir came to India for a holiday as Sagar completed his studies. Sagar had told me in advance that when he comes in May, he would like to go out for holiday, instead of staying in Baroda at home. I had booked all the tickets in advance for our holiday trip to north. As soon as both of them came, we went to Delhi, Manali, Dalhousie, Dharamshala, Kulu and from there back to Delhi and Agra. We all five of us had very nice holiday for nearly 17 to 20 days in all. Sagar was also fresh after his two years of hard work for studying in USA.

After Sagar left for USA again to join his Job at Ericson, we were back to normal with our duties. In August 2000, there was a meeting and launch for new Car at Asian Motors and I was called by the owner for the same with my LCD Multimedia Projector, to place in showroom and show to public new model of Matiz Passenger Car, 800 cc, imported Korean manufactured. I personally was very much impressed with the model. I immediately phoned my wife Hema and Rakhee and told them to come to the show room. They came, they also saw the car, we took test drive, and I told Hema and Rakhee, as our Maruti is too old now, why not to go for this new car.

The Cost was Rs. 3,65,000/- all inclusive, Taxes plus RTO and Insurance. I had that much money in UTI Bank as Fixed deposit and was getting interest at 13% per annum. Luckily the owner told me that if you are interest to buy this car, you will have to pay Rs. 55,000/- down payment and we can arrange Rs.3,10,000/- loan from bank for 3 years installments. We agreed on the spot and I also tried for Loan from my Bank ABN Amro and they were also prepared to give me for 3 years and the interest worked out nearly Rs. 58,000/- for 3 years, I immediately took the loan and got the delivery of the said car on 31st August 2000. Installment being Rs. 12,800/- per month for 3 years.

Dineshbhai my elder brother was very happy to see my progress and told everyone in Bombay that Kirish has brought Zambia to India, meaning that he is now enjoying all the luxuries that he used to enjoy in Zambia. After 15 years from 1984 to 2000, now I think I was very well settled down in India. Now I was owner of 3 cars in India, Morris, Maruti, and Matiz. I was interested in selling the Maurti and was offered Rs.50,000/- nearly for the same, but my wife Hema told me you are not selling that car, you give it to Rakhee as she has to move all

around Baroda for her work and it’s too hard to move on Moped. So we kept that car and Rakhee was using the same and Moped was used by office employees.

Matiz was a excellent car and also had a very good road grip and nice to move outside Baroda also. Some of the relatives were under the impression that Sagar must have send money for the car, as he started his job in USA.. Sagar also brought a brand new car for himself Toyota Corolla and got rid of his old car.

My present LCD Multimedia Sharp 3795 was getting old now and new models were coming in market with better Lumens and Resolutions. Customers were also interested with new products. I was also planning to change and buy a new product.

Beginning of 2001 I saw one advertisement for Sharp PG-C20X, very compact model only 3 kg weight and 1000 Lumens and Resolution 1024 x 786. I was interested with the model, and I contacted the dealer L & T Ltd. They told me this has been just launched in India for the first time by Sharp Manufacturers. I told I am interested and the Price was Rs. 2,75,000/-, I placed the order by seeing only the advertisement and got the delivery on 30th March 2001. You know what, I was very lucky for the said model, and I was told by the company that I am the first owner in whole of India to have this product. Sharp Business Systems (India) Ltd, also gave me in writing a letter on 7th May, 2001, congratulating me for being first owner in India. Because of this they also gave me one Sharp Fax machine costing nearly Rs. 18 to 20 thousand free as a Gift. I was very proud for the same, and at the same time there was an article in India Express Newspaper on 8th May, 2001, regarding this projector and my company profile as to how I started this business and how I expanded the same. Both the letter from Sharp as well as the article in Indian Express I am printing herewith for reference purpose. All my customers were very happy with this new product and I used to charge nearly Rs. 3,500/- to Rs. 4,000/- per shift and for the other sharp model 3795 I reduced hiring charges as it was now old model.

In the month of August 2001 ICICI Bank contacted me and asked me to furnish them with the names and address of my customers. I asked why what is the reason, they told me they have just launched new kind of loan known as Business loan, and would like to give loan to those customers who are interested in buying LCD Multimedia Projectors. I told him well you have customer right in front of you, I am myself interested for the same, and if you could please come and see me personally.

Next day he came to my office with all the details, and I told him there is new product of Sharp LCD Multimedia projector just launched in India, Model No PG-C30X, with 1700 lumens, two VGA inputs, and resolution 1280 x 800. (This type of projector was asked by one of my customer at ORG for their meetings) The gentle man of ICICI Bank told me well if you want the same please get one quotation and your 3 years of Tax returns, your identity, plus residence proof and so on. Very next day I got everything ready and called the gentlemen of ICICI Bank, he took the papers and within three days got my loan approved through their head office.

The price for the projector was Rs,3,46,800/- plus interest which came to Rs.4,20,000/-, I had to pay 6 installments in advance, of Rs.16,800/- and remaining 18 installments of Rs.16,800/- in 18 months. I calculated if this projector goes for 5 times in a month I will be ok with the installment. I bought

it and got delivery on 31st August 2001, again I was the only one (first) in Baroda to have this model in my possession.

I had to work very hard for next two years as I had to pay the installments for the car of Rs.12,800/- and another of Rs.16,800/- for the projector. Nearly Rs.30,000/- per month as installments plus all other office and domestic expenses.

I had taken a big risk, but I was sure and had enough confidence that I will make it and two of my employees Rajiv and Hemant worked hard to make sure we cover up all the expenses.

In 2000/2001 Dineshbhai had seen my horoscope and he could notice that there is some major health problem in near future, but could not make out what it should be, so he contacted our family Pandit (Astrologer) Mr. Mohanbhai for the same. Mohanbhai also said there is definitely a major health problem in the year 2001, and he should undergo puja for the same. We performed puja as per his advice, but by May/June 2001 I started having some skin problem all over body. It was itching so much that I could not remain without scratching, and sometimes I used to scratch with a comb.

First we contacted Dr. M.O. Shah skin specialist, on 30th Sept., 2000, and he told its Psoriasis, and gave cortisone ointment medicine and some oral tablets, but instead of improving it was getting worse. Then we contacted Dr. Shyam Verma another skin specialist, on 19th January 2001, he started his treatment but he was not sure what it is, but initially he started same cortisone ointment and oral tablets. Meantime we went to Bombay on 23rd January 2001, and one of my friend suggested to contact his friend Dr. Harvinder Singh Marwah who was also Skin specialist, he said it is Eczema, and medicine he prescribed was same as Dr. S. Verma. Dr. Shyam Verma also could not cure and Hema was worried it may be Skin Cancer. Dr S. Verma suggested we should have skin biopsy, we did the same and it was found that I have Papular Mucinosis. After all this reports, Dr Verma also could not cure me and as I had planned to go to USA in the month of May 2002. I asked Dr. Verma if it is possible for me to show to some skin specialist down there. He gave me names of two Doctors one in San Diego where Sagar used to stay Dr. Steven Emmet and another Dr.Kenneth Greer at Virginia.

As I was in San Diego first I contacted Dr Steven Emmet on 13th June 2002, he saw me and then he saw reports of India. He told me all this reports from India are totally bogus, there is nothing as they have mentioned. This skin problem has increased only because of scratching all over through nail. If I cut your hand and leave it as it is, within 15 days everything will subside. He told me see I am going to apply very old theory, ancient theory, and let’s see the result within one week. He also asked me to apply very little of Tenovat ointment on effected parts when I go to sleep, and rap plastic paper on the said ointment, leave it for whole night, remove it next morning and repeat with fresh plastic paper following day for one whole week and see me again on 18th June 2002. I did as he had instructed and went to see him on 18th. He was very surprised to see very good improvement, he told well its nearly 40% to 50% improvement, continue for some time and all will be clear.

Luckily on 21st June, 2002 I was in Virginia, I also contacted Dr Kenneth Greer, he saw me and he also told me exactly what Dr. Steven Emmet told me and he also prescribed the same medicine. By 2nd July 2002 I was totally normal and all clear, except black spots all over the skin. Dr. Steven Emmet,

told me well now you are ok, and leave the skin as it is, and within 6 months all this black spots will disappear by itself. You need not apply anything at present.

I did as I was advised by Dr. Steven and I was very happy as every spot got cleared and skin was normal as before. In January 2003 Dr. Steven came to Bombay for international conference, I went to see him specially to thank him as well as to give him gift and show him my skin. He was extremely happy to see me down there and also very happy to see that my skin is now normal and clear with all black spots.

In 2002 I also visited my friend Nayan at Cleveland to attend the marriage ceremony of his two kids. My other friend Virendra also came from Bombay for the same reason, and thereafter they came at Sagars place and we moved together for sightseeing. My 2002 trip to USA was very successful. I was staying with Sagar and his 3 friends. His friends also used to take me for sightseeing at times when Sagar was quite busy.

Evening I used to cook food for everyone as they used to come home after 7 p.m. June 17th was Sagar’s Birthday and he had invited nearly 15 to 20 friends for dinner. After lunch in afternoon, when nobody was at home , I started preparing Samosas because Sagar liked it very much, I had prepared nearly 36 big samosas, and kept it in the warmer, nobody knew that I have made samosas, When everyone sat for dinner, slowly I took out the plate and gave a surprise to everyone. All were so shocked and at the same time very happy to see so many samosas made by me all alone without any help.

I used to enjoy cooking down there and used to make different varieties every day. Sagars friend used to enjoy my company and we used to play Badminton, Cards, Chess and also Kite flying when we used to go for picnic. No one could bit me in Chess and Badminton. I came back to India on August 2002.

After I came back from USA, Hema left for USA after Diwali. While she was in USA, I bought one shop at Pusti complex very near to our house, just 5 minutes walking distance. Our neighbour at Bombay shopping centre wanted to sell the same. I had bought it for investment purpose, as I had to pay in installments. When Hema came back from USA in the beginning of 2003, she saw this shop and got interested in opening a dispensary for herself, so she could practice for couple of hours and pass time outside residence, as she was getting bored whole day in house. She told Rakhee to develop the place and make it look like a dispensary. Rakhee did the complete interior and it was fantastic, whosoever saw the place were very much impressed with the interior, as well as the furniture. We told Hema, well your dispensary is ready now, but you don’t have to worry if you don’t get any patients. This is just for you to pass your time, and you must use it as a sophisticated library, and keep reading all type of books and magazines. We have not developed it for making money, but just for you to stay out of house for couple of hours.

In 2003 at the time of pajusana, I performed fast on 1st day, and second day also I thought of performing another fast, I told Hema and Rakhee not to prepare any food for me, until I tell them. Two days passed very nicely so I wanted to continue and see if I can perform 8 fast, i.e. Aathai, and luckily without any problem I could perform Aathai very easily.

I was busy with my all regular duties, going to office regularly and also going and coming to Derasar in morning and evening. I was so fit that no one in my society also knew that I am performing Aathai. On 7th day we declared in society and to all relatives that I have performed Aathai and going to celebrate

on 9th day for Parana. I did not invite any one from outside Baroda as it was difficult for them to come at short notice, but invited everyone from society, nearest friends and all from Bombay shopping centre.

Nearly 75 friends came and specially Dineshbhai and Bhabhi as soon as they heard that I am performing Aathai, they rushed from Bombay and came to Baroda, to look after me, on 5th day onwards, so that nothing goes wrong after Aathai is complete. We have to take utmost care after 8 days and take only liquid for nearly 3 days, i.e. Hot mug water, Ker Water, and Gur water, that’s all, and no food at all. Next year in 2004 also I wanted to try if I can continue for Aathai , I tried and succeeded without any problem. So from 2003 to 2009 I kept on trying as usual for Aathai , and I could do it very easily without any problems. I used to perform all my domestic work, office work and also driving the car wherever I used to go. In all I completed 7 Aathai’s in seven consecutive years. In 2009, when I performed Aathai I was all alone, no one with me, as Hema also passed away in November 2008. Everyone were surprised to hear that I have performed Aathai in 2009 being all alone in house.

Rakhee was doing very well with her practice and she was very famous among Doctors as well as Jewellery shops. She had completed nearly 40 to 50 projects in Baroda. As she was due for a candidate we were looking for one since she completed her studies. She left her job and started her own practice at my office. As she was doing very well in her practice, she had employed 3 assistants to help her. She also built one building for Rubamin Factory at Dhabasa, Padra. On 13th march 2004, I asked Hema and Rakhee to go to Bombay as there were four candidates to see and choose one of them if possible, On 13th when they went they got an appointment with one at Versova who had come from USA, and Sagar had got his address from Shadi.Com., and had a meeting for nearly 2 hours. About 50% was yes from both the sides, so they arranged meeting on 14th again for further talk. This time our Elder Bhabhi had accompanied as well as Sudhir’s wife, Hema’s brother. They were now 100% interested from both the sides, but Prafulbhai’s (Candidate) father was little bit worried, and said we do not know anyone in Baroda with whom we can make some enquiries. At the same time he told we know only one gentleman by the name of Animaesh C. Dhaftery, so Hema told one who stays at Sama road, they told yes.

Then luckily at the same time Animesh phoned and asked Hasmukhbhai what’s the progress for Prafulbhai. Hasmukhbhai told at present there is one party from Baroda and they know you very well so we will talk later. Thereafter Animesh who was knowing my sister Smita, he told to my sister that if your brothers daughter Rakhee is interested for Prafulbhai, I would give guarantee to go for it, there is no problem at all and the family is very well known to me as well as they are my relatives. And at the same time Animesh told to Hasmukhbhai that if you are interested for Rakhee, you may go for it, I know Rakhee very well since she was in 8th standard studying in Baroda. Both the parties were very happy with Animaesh suggestion.

This was Sunday afternoon at 4 p.m., they were interested for doing marriage on Monday 15th, but Hema told it is not possible as Rakhees father is in Baroda and all her ornaments as well as passport is in Bank locker and it can be taken on Monday and Kirish can come on Monday evening, so marriage can take place on Tuesday. I told Hema to go to Goregoan marriage hall and book the same for Tuesday, and on Sunday evening after 6 p.m. they started shopping for Rakhee as well as Hema for Marriage purpose, and made arrangements for Beauty Parlour as well as Photographer and so on. I phoned

Sagar at 4 p.m. on Sunday and told him that if everything goes well Rakhees marriage will be held on 16th, so if possible book your ticket and I will tell you when to leave.

Thereafter I went to buy few shirts for myself and Sagar, also bought Kurta and pyjama, and Trousers for Sagar as well as Suit for me. I went to Topex tailor and asked him to stitch 3 to 4 trousers for Sagar has he had his measurements, and one suit for me, and asked him to deliver the same to me by 4 p.m. On next day Monday so that I can take with me when I catch my flight for Bombay at 6 p.m. They told me we are closed on Monday, and if you want deliver you will have to pick it up from our house, I told no problem I will do so, and I got everything organized. I also collected Rakhees ornaments as well as her passport from the Bank locker. And I told Sagar to leave USA as soon as possible to reach India before 16th morning. I did not inform anyone that Sagar is coming for the marriage, I kept it as a surprise for everyone. I just informed my friend Virendra and my brother in law Vasantbhai to go to Airport on Monday night to pick up Sagar.

On Monday night when we were discussing regarding marriage, Hema and Rakhee were very sad as Sagar was not in the position to attend the marriage, I did not utter any word, I was just watching their mood, and at 3 a.m. Monday night, Sagar knocked at the door, Bhabhi was afraid and told everyone not to open the door. I got up and opened the door, they were wild on me and said why you want to open the door without knowing who it is, I knew who was coming so I was not afraid. When I opened and they saw that Sagar had arrived, everyone were surprise and tears came down from Hema and Rakhee’s eyes to see Sagar coming with such a short notice. They all started scolding me for not informing them that Sagar has already left USA. Well it was a very nice surprise. Everyone in house were very happy to see Sagar and welcomed him with such a short notice.

Rakhees marriage took place on 16th, morning court marriage and evening we had arranged marriage come reception at Goregaon hall, and invited nearly 125 people from Bombay, and very few from outside Bombay as time was very sort. There wear four to five common friends which I or Hasmukhbhai did not know, and it was nice as they also told Hasmukh that the family is very good. Everyone enjoyed Marriage, Food and also reception in the hall. Sagar was to stay only for one week, and we had a few girls waiting for him also for an interview, immediately after Rakhees marriage, we started having meetings for Sagar with few girls, but unfortunately none of them were suitable, so he left back to USA after one week.

He was suppose to come back in May 2004 for one month holiday as well as to see if he likes someone, so we could arrange for his marriage also at the same time. He stayed for one month, we saw many candidates for him, but unfortunately again no luck and he had to go back all alone without marriage to USA. After going back to USA, Sagar was interested in buying his personal house, so he started looking around for a good house. I suggested to him to buy one small house as he was alone and then after few years he should go for a bigger house. But he had different ideas he wanted to buy a bigger house from the very beginning so he was looking for a two or three bed room house. I also told him as soon as he likes one he should call Rakhee and also take her suggestion before finalizing the deal. When he was ready and wanted to make a deal he called Rakhee, to see if it is ok.

Both of them liked the house and at the time of Navratri they decided to have puja on the day of Desera. They informed us on 2nd day of Navratri that they have finalized the deal for the house, and will be performing pooja on day of Desera. Hema and I decided that we should any how go to USA before Desera, so we started packing for the same as well as buy few things for Sagar and Rakhee as per their requirements. Within five days we were ready to go to USA, and reached there three days before Desera. We started preparing everything for pooja, inviting all friends and relatives within USA. We saw the house and were very impressed with the same. There were three bedrooms, Hall, Kitchen, Dining room, Back yard with very good garden, and Garage to park two vehicles as well as two vehicles outside house in open, just in front of the house.

I was given one centre copper table by my company staff, Duly Motors, when I left Zambia for good in 1984, as a gift. This was left packed as it is in Baroda house since 1984, as we had another centre copper table which we were using in Zambia. I decided to take the said copper table to USA for Sagars new house. I disassembled the said table, packed it in my bag and took it to USA, there we bought one glass for the same and wooden plank for bottom frame, and we again assembled the table in USA and at present Sagar is using the same as centre table. We also took some copper items and frames for his new house, for decoration purpose. At the same time we gave a few items to Rakhee also for her house.

Pooja was very well performed starting from nearly 9 am to 12 noon by a group of religious people who came from L.A. for the same. There wear lot of friends and relatives who took part in this pooja. After pooja everyone had lunch and there after few left and few remained just for cleaning up everything in house. We moved into new house on the same day, and started making list for buying new items for the house. We bought a new fridge, washing machine, Sofa set, and so on as per requirements.

In the year 2004, when my wife and I had gone to USA for Sagar’s house warming, we also visited our daughter Rakhee for nearly 8 to 10 days at Sanfrancisco, Califonia.

We visited this part of the world for the first time in our life, and were luck to visit the same as our daughter had settled down there. Rakhee lives in a rented flat on the 7th floor. It is a beautiful flat situated in a high locality area. Every morning between 11 to 12, after getting ready, Rakhee, my wife and I used to go out for sightseeing and sometimes for shopping.

We enjoyed Sanfransisco very much, specially the Golden Bridge, Dock (where we saw the statue of Mahatma Gandhi), etc. This city has a very good government transport to move around the whole city. There are three types of transport train-bus-tram and once we buy a ticket, it could be used for any mode of transport. The tram is antique and very beautiful, going uphill on a steep hill and coming down on the other side. We also enjoyed going to Crucade Street which is one of the best streets in the whole world. Overall it was a very nice and enjoyable trip to Sanfrancisco.

I stayed there for nearly 6 weeks, thereafter I came back alone leaving Hema down there with Sagar for another few weeks. While Hema was there, they looked for few candidates for Sagar, but it did not materialize, as the demands from girls wear not matching with Sagars nature. Thereafter Hema also came back within another 6 weeks time. As I was all alone in Baroda, my next door friends Mr. Nayanbhai his wife Nitaben and their parents did not

allow me to cook anything in my house for lunch as well as dinner until Hema came back from USA. I was forced to eat with them for nearly 6 weeks time. Hema and I are very lucky to have so good friends just next door, which is very rear in India.

I had left my entire business in the hands of my two employees Rajiv and Hemant when I was away on my trip to USA. Rajiv was nearly 7 years with me and Hemant also for three to four years. I had full trust on them, but unfortunately it turned out just opposite to my thinking.

They did not perform duties efficiently, and they were not in good terms with Hotel Management staff and they were spoiling relationship with Hotel Management staff, I was not very happy with their attitude. One day nearly on 19th March 2005 , I called them to my office both of them, and told them if you can’t keep good relationship with Hotel Management staff, and wants to spoil business down here, I don’t need your services. If you want you can leave this job right now at this moment. Both of them had planned in advance that this day might came, so at that very moment they left the office, telling me we are leaving the job as from today onwards. And since then they did not come back to see me for the job. They on the other hand after couple of months started same business what I am doing and they were trying to pull my customers, but unfortunately they did not succeed.

For few days I looked after the business all alone, as I did not want to employ anyone during holastac period. One day my friend Jayprakash having his own photography business, came to visit me at my office. He saw my situation, and he told me, he has three employees, and due to less business, he wants to reduce his staff by two employees. He told me they are very hard working and very honest and efficient. He asked me if I could absorb both of them in my business. I said well I will take a interview and thereafter will try them for three months, and if I find them good enough for my business, I will continue their job in my business.

Within a few days both of them started job with me, they were very good and picked up my duties quite efficiently. Both were doing fine, one was Suraj Rathod and other Prasant. After one year Prasant started behaving very odd, he started mixing with my two old employees who were fired by me. And indirectly he was caught red handed passing on my order to them. I told Suraj to keep an eye on him and also told him to explain him not to do such act in future. But unfortunately he did not listen to Suraj advice, and ultimately he also had to leave the job.

Now I was left with Suraj and one part time employee Natu Vasadia, who is with me since last 22 years, he is a very honest, hard working and very efficient. But Natu being part time, I wanted another one employee for full time due to work load. Luckily one Mr. Sony Thakor, approached me as soon as he heard that Prasant had left job. Sony was with me in the past for nearly three and half years, he was doing very well, but one day he told me he wants to leave the job for better prospects, so I let him go on his own. He tried his best for a better job, but unfortunately no one offered as much as I was giving him, he also tried to go for Riksha business but failed in that too, he went here and there for nearly 5 years, and after getting absolutely tired, he came back to me for the job. I employed him with new terms and conditions, and today also he his very happily working with me in my office.

As business was expanding, there was one boy very young working for my wife in her dispensary part time from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., I told him as soon as

you are 18, I will employee you in my business, so as soon as he was eighteen, I employed him from morning 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and from 6 onwards at my wife dispensary. His name is Mahesh Chauhan. Today I have all the four employees in my office all doing well and performing their duties efficiently. At present I am very happy with the staff which I have working with me for full time.

Since the year 2000 I had three Cars in my possession, one Morris old model 1952, other Maruti 800, and third one I bought in 2000 i.e. Matiz. When I bought Matiz, I gave Maruti to Rakhee for her personal use as per necessity and advice from my wife Hema. I was doing very well in business since 1994 onwards, after we had Pooja at Chanasma Derasar. Rakhee got married in the year 2004, and thereafter as I was all alone and having three cars, I thought of getting rid of the Maruti car. I sold the Maruti in the year 2004/2005, to my next door friend Mr. Nayanbhai. He was quite happy with the car and he also used it for nearly 5 years and then sold it in open market. Now Morris was also giving me bit of problems for parts and repairs and maintenance, so I thought for selling the same, and sold Morris in the year 2007/2008. I had bought it in 1986 and I kept it with me for nearly 21 years, the gentleman who bought it from me at Rs.21,000/-, he spend some money nearly more than one lakh for getting it up to date. He sold it thereafter the same for nearly 4 lakhs. It was an Antic car as it was a 1952 model. Now I was left with only Matiz car, which I liked it very much, the performance was very good.

I was suffering from Asthma since 1971, but never very severely ill. Nearly 35 years I had only 3 attacks, and got ok with one injection and so on. Luckily I got hold of Dr. Sonia, one Chest Specialist in the year 2002, she was school mate with my daughter Rakhee. She treated me for Asthma, and since then I have never had any problems with Asthma, I am absolutely fine, healthy, and having very good stamina. I walk everyday for nearly 5 kilometers in the evening.

The year 2006 was just going on smoothly and when I used to drive late in the evening or at night, I had problems driving my car. Whenever any car used to come from opposite direction, I could not see properly. I went for my Eye check up, and I was told I am developing Cataract, so I will have to undergo a operation for the same, specially right eye, and left eye was bit ok. Hema and I decided that we should undergo operation in the winter, as summer is not very good for operations, and I could wait until that period. I got operated in the month of November 2006. The surgery was nearly 8 kilometers from our residence, in city area. We went there at 10 a.m. Every 10 minutes they used to put some eye drops in my right eye. They did this for nearly 6 to 7 times. They took me to the Operation theatre, gave me a injection near the eye, and at about 11-30 am started operating. Operation was over within ten minutes. They applied bandage on my eye, and told well the operation is over. I asked what to do now, the Doctor said you may go home and come back tomorrow for removing the bandage. I, Hema and my office boy came home, and I myself drove the car with one eye from surgery to our residence. When everyone in society saw bandage on my right eye, they asked what wrong, so we told I have Cataract operation. Everyone got wild, they told can’t you inform us beforehand that you are going for operation, and they told we would have taken you and brought you back. They told next day you don’t have to go all alone.

Sometime during the year 2006 or 2007, I am not very sure, My wife and I wear sitting outside in corridor on Sunday evening, and just chatting. Hema was seating in chair and I was seating on corridor wall. Few society very young girls, nearly 10 to 12 years old, were playing with one plastic bottle, filled up

fully with dry mud. They were throwing from one end to another end nearly 30 to 40 feet distance. I gave them a warning twice, that they might break the car glass by mistake, if it lands wrongly. But they did not listen to my advice.

Due to my bad luck, unfortunately the bottle landed straight on top of my nose in between two eyes. I screamed very loudly and everyone in the society wear socked to hear my scream. Nose started bleeding very heavily, and in few minutes whole corridor was full of blood. It was pouring like water coming from tap. All the members of society got together, and started giving advice to move me to hospital. They all were worried, but I was not worried, I was sure, bleeding will stop very soon, I held my nose very tight, as One of the Doctor ENT specialist had told me in Zambia, that if nose is bleeding you should hold it tight and the bleeding will stop, and I did the same. At the same time I asked my wife to pour as much water on my head as possible. After some time bleeding stopped. But Society members were not satisfied, and were insisting that my wife take me to hospital for further check up. I told my wife, well call Dr. Ashokbhai Bhatt, tell him the situation and to come here and check up. He is a Orthopedic Surgeon and relative of my wife, i.e. her cousins sisters Son in law. Within 15 minutes Dr. Ashokbhai came, checked me, and told there is a fracture on top part of the nose, he gave some medicine, and told me to go for an X-ray very next day morning, and visit him to show him the result. I did the same, and he told you are very lucky, you will not have to undergo any operation for the same, but you will have to wear one nose plaster, which will keep your nose straight so that when it is ok it will not bend on one side. I had to put that plaster for nearly 3 to 4 weeks, and it was removable when needed. Within 4 weeks it was ok, but Doctor told me for next 3 to 4 months I should see that I don’t get same problem at same place in any way, otherwise it will be worse. Very luckily, and due to my good fortune, The bottle did not land on left or right eye, otherwise I would have been blind on the spot, and also it did not land in the middle of my head, otherwise there would have been chances for hemorrhage. God saved me very luckily. Thereafter I am totally fine and no problems at all.

My wife was very fond of watching T.V., Sports and that too Tennis. She never used to miss any tennis Tournaments held throughout world. One day in month of May/June, 2007, I noticed that on 21" T.V. she could not read the name and score very well, due to her eye problems. I decided to buy one Bigger 32" L.C.D. T.V. so it will be very clear to watch as well as to read everything on the screen. Immediately, on 18th June, 2007, I went and bought one Phillips L.C.D., T.V., it was delivered at our residence in the evening on the same day. My wife Hema was very happy to see it. Thereafter she had no problems at all for watching any programs on T.V. She was quite happy with the same.

In the year 2006/2007 one of the Institutes at Sayajigunj contacted me and asked me if I could give one lecture to their students regarding Conference Equipments. They had one subject for the same and wanted to have full knowledge for the same as well as practical demonstration for such equipments. I was lucky to have such a good chance and they knew I am in this business since last 20 years, and I have all the equipments. I agreed and one good afternoon was fully booked for the same.

I took all the equipments with me for the lecture, i.e. Overhead Projector, Slide Projector, P.A. System, L.C.D. Projector, Laptop and so on. One by one I explained which came in market first in use for conference purpose and followed by other products. I also gave live demonstration with such products, as to their use, handling, safety and so on. First came in was

Overhead Projector, Slide projector, Followed by T.V. Scope, then Video Projectors, and lastly L.C.D. Multimedia Projectors. After the lecture was over, there wear some questions and answer session, which I answered very well except one or two questions, which I told them I will let them know within one or two days.

Thereafter again in November 2007, I had to undergo a operation for my left eye for cataract purpose. Operation was very successful, and since then my both eye are absolutely clear and ok. Since both the operation took place one after the other very well, luckily I don’t have to wear my glasses any more either for distance or near number. Now I can read anything without glasses and also can see distance images very well without glasses. Thanks to God for the same, and also to Dr. Nikhilbhai who did my surgery very well and efficiently with confidence.

May 2007 was a big and very important year for my son Sagar. Luckily Sagar got married on 6th May, 2007, with a lady with same religion, reputable family, and leaving in Baroda very near to our house, only 10 minutes distance. It was an arrange marriage, both of them liked each other, and since then they are leaving quite happy in USA. The event was a three day function, one day Rass Garba, second day marriage and third day Reception. We had a lot of relatives from outside Baroda, from Bombay. We had arranged nearly 16 Flats at Bhailee Jain Derasar, nearly 8 kilometers from our house, and given one flat to each family. I had also booked three Maruti Vans to pick up and drop all the members from Bhailee to our residence and back to Bhaile. Rakhee and her family who came from Bombay were given one house belonging to one of my friend at Pawandham, Baroda, nearly 2 kilometers from our residence. Everyone enjoyed their stay as well as all the functions.

Now comes 2008, when February was the month for Keyur’s Marriage, my sister Smita’s son. We went to Bombay for the same and stayed there for nearly one week. I was asked by my sister Smita to take all the photos for all the functions within four days. I took nearly 970 photos and out of that selected nearly 350 to 400 and made a CD for the same and delivered it to Smita. I also did a very nice Rangoli and placed it in the entrance on the ground floor near the steps, everyone liked it very much. We all enjoyed each and every function for four days. It was a very good family get-together after a long time.

After coming from Bombay, Hema was ill, she had cold and cough, so she took medicine on her own for some time. Thereafter we showed to an specialist, as it was getting worse. We got the X-ray for the same and blood test. It was found that she has (Pneumonia). This was in the month of April 2008. She took medicine for one week, but no improvement. Again we had blood test and X-ray. As per blood report there was nothing very serious, but as per X-ray Doctor suspected T.B., which was a wrong diagnosis. Unfortunately we did not take second opinion, and Hema was also not sure what to do, so she started T.B. Medicine without further examination, as per Doctors advice. Within one month the chest was absolutely clear, and she was totally ok, i.e. in the month of May, 2008. Now we were in doubt whether its T.B. or (pneumonia), because if its T.B. it can’t be cured in one month. But as per Doctors advice, he said that since we have started T.B. medicine, we cannot stop in-between, we have to complete the six months course. I was not very happy the way things were going on. But I could not say anything as Hema was a doctor herself. Well at least we were very happy that is was cured and she again had good stamina, and move around everywhere very easily. We used to leave life as usual, without any fear or tension. Hema once told me before taking this medicine, that she knows if there

is any reaction of this medicine it will directly affect kidney or liver, and I was afraid at back of my mind, as Nareshbhai, her cousin brother who stays in Surat, told once that she may have abdominal problems within next two years, so we should take utmost care for the same.

We were living life normally and moving out as usual, and in the month of June, 2008, we decided to buy a new car that is Spark Chevrolet Model. It was a new model for Matiz which I was driving since last 8 years, and I was very happy with the same. Matiz was 800 cc and Spark was 1000 cc. There was one good advantage i.e. three years full warranty for all parts except glass and battery. And the price was comparatively very cheap as per other makes in same range. Total cost was only Rs.3,23,000/- including everything on the road. I bought it on cash basis in the month of June, 2008. Immediately we sold the Matiz as I was not interested in keeping two vehicles. We were enjoying this new Spark car and used to go out of Baroda at times.

We performed our Pajusana also very well in 2008, and I did my 6 Aathai, very successfully. Hema looked after me at the time of Pajusana due to my Aathai. Immediately after Pajusana Hema had to go to Bombay, as her Bhabhi had performed some fast and she was invited for her parana at Ghatkopar.

Hema went to Bombay just for one day for the sake of her bhabhi and she wanted to come back immediately as she had to take my care for 3 to 4 days after Aathai. She went to her brothers house Sudhir at Kandiwali, From Kandiwali they all went to Ghatkopar by car, but unfortunately when they reached Ghatkopar, it was raining very heavily and water level on the road was up to the knee. They all were wet and completely soaked with rain water. After the function was over, all went back by car to Kandivali, and as they were completely wet, they had to stay in that position as they had no other clothes for changing, and it took them nearly 2 hours to reach home at Kandivali. Due to such condition, Hema was again sick, and had another attack of (pneumonia), when she came back to Baroda. She had to take heavy dose of medicine again for the same, and this time the medicine reacted. Her liver started getting damaged, which she could not know, as no reports were taken out for the same. She started feeling week, and could not eat very well her normal food.

On 17th October we went to the Doctor to complain for the same, and when he checked, he told stop all the medicines, as they have reacted and now you have Jaundice, so we will have to treat you for the same, but unfortunately Hema could not digest Live 52 medicine for liver. Neither the Doctor or Hema take care to check how much the liver has been damaged. Day by day it was getting worse.

Diwali was approaching very near and she wanted to get fit before that, so she suggested she get admitted to a hospital on Asoo Wad agiaras, for a few bottles of Glucose Saline water. She stayed in hospital for two days on aagiyaras and baaras, and had four bottles of water. She was feeling well now, and she thought she had good stamina now to move around, so she told Doctor on the evening of Baaras that she would like to go home, as she wants to perform Dhan pooja on next day.

She came home, next day was very good for her, she did pooja very well and also very next day was also quite good. But on the day of Diwali she was again down with weakness, and she was not prepared to come to the shop for Chopada Poojan on the day of Diwali, for the first time in her life. I tried to force her a lot, but she said she cannot make it, and I should go alone and

finish the job. I had to invite my next door friends to accompany me for the same, as all alone was not possible. We completed and came back.

Hema was taking complete rest. Next day morning at 8 a.m. on New year day, she told me she will have to get admitted to hospital immediately, as water was feeling up in her stomach, which was very bad sign. We went to consult another physician to take another opinion, and he went through all the reports, and advice us to go for X-ray as well as blood taste, and could not admit her to hospital as all hospitals wear closed due to Diwali, so he told she should take complete rest at home, not to sleep straight, or its better to sit in a relaxing chair. The report was absolutely bad, liver functions had been damaged nearly by 50%, and hopes for recovery very limited. Sagar luckily decided on his own to come immediately to India, as Hema was sick since last few months. We admitted Hema immediately after 3 days of Diwali into hospital and very next day Sagar and Khyati landed in India. Hema was very happy to see and meet them. Same day at night, Hema had effects of Coma. Doctor called me and told me did I inform Rakhee to come down to India, I said no. She told me well ask her to come immediately, as the case is now turning to coma, we can’t say what’s the future. I phoned Rakhee also and asked her to come down immediately. So she with Prafulbhai came the very next day, and at that time Rakhee was pregnant completing 6 months. Liver specialist was not available in Baroda as he had gone for holiday and was suppose to come back on Pachaam. My brother Dineshbhai and Bhabhi who had been to USA for 3 months holiday, when they heard about Hema, they also flew back immediately and came down to Baroda.

Liver specialist Doctor asked us to move the patient to Bhailal Amin Hospital due to better facilities down there. We went there, but as soon as the Doctors examined they were not interested to admit her as the case was out of hands. But due to some influence, we got the admission. There she was being treated very well and after two days she started coming back to normal from Coma, but still she could not recognize me, on third day she could recognize me and told my name, there after she was moved to semi ICU recovery department.

Now she was looking fresh and ok and could take a little bit of food also, and she was very happy to see Bhabhi and Dineshbhai who came back from USA. I had confidence that she will be ok now within a few weeks. Doctor advised us to take her to either Bombay or Delhi for further treatment. Prafulbhai and Rakhee got in touch with some doctor in USA and the same Doctor from USA got in touch with one Doctor at Lilawati hospital in Bombay, and then suggested us to shift Hema to Bombay for further treatment. We took Hema the very next day to Bombay, on 9th November, by ICU Van with one Doctor, an assistant and nurse, and Sagar and Bhabhi in same vehicle. I, my brother and other relatives in another car, left Baroda at 6 a.m.

The roads were very bad indeed, and that’s why the vehicle used to jump a lot and due to that position, all the water which had been in Heman’s stomach, started jumping and moving up towards lungs and brain. Situation started getting worse, compared to what it was at Bhailal Amin Hospital.

When we brought her to Bombay doctors examined her and called us for further talk. He told us well, the situation is very critical, there are only 5% for survival, should we go ahead or leave it as it is, because the chances are very less. I said, well we have placed it into your hand, you may go on as you wish, try your utmost best, and see what you can do, we have left it in your hands. They tried for the whole day from 3 p.m. onwards the time when we reached

and whole night, but unfortunately next day morning on 10th November 2008 she passed away at nearly 9 a.m.

The shock was unbearable, but I kept full courage, took it as it came, and started counting Navakar for nearly 3 to 4 hours, until all procedure was completed. I did not cry at all as I did not want to give any pain to her soul, nor did I have a single drop of water from my eyes. And up to today I have not cried for her, no doubt it is very painful, but cannot accept it and it is part of nature. After this pain, I always think it is better if God takes both husband and wife together for good.

Heman’s father could not see Rakhee after her birth and before he died as we were in Zambia, and same history repeated in her family. Hema could not see Rakhee’s son as she was pregnant (6 months). Only three months remaining and she passed away on 10th November, 2008, both in the month of November (father and daughter).

In the month of September 2008 when she was absolutely fine, we had planned that immediately after Uttaran, i.e. 14th January 2009, Hema should go to USA for Rakhees delivery purpose and stay there for 3 to 4 months and I would join her after my year ending in my business after March 2009. Everything was flop as she passed away in November 2008. I had also told Hema that Rakhee will deliver nearly 3 to 4 weeks earlier than the date given by the Doctor, as Rakhee and Sagar both had arrived 3 to 4 weeks ahead of time.

Few statistics I have worked out regarding Hema after her death.

As per India Calendar she was born on Badarwa Vad Baraas, i.e. Retaia Baaras. And she passed away on Kartak sud Baraas, both days Baaras. Her mother was also born on chhat and passed away on chhat.

When Hema died she was 67 years complete. i.e. Total No 13

Date of Death was 10-11-2008. Total No 13

Year as per Gujarati calendar 2065. Total No.13

Bed Number at Lilawati Hospital 616. Total No.13

Funeral Day as per Indian date Teras. Total No.13

I am not sure whether No 13 was lucky or bad for her, bad in the sense she left all of us at an very early age and good for her because she did not suffer at all up to the last minute and passed away very peacefully without any major disabilities or major pain.

Hema was an unique Lady. She was totally dedicated to her Domestic and Professional work. She never used to move around here and there and waste time unnecessarily. She was absolutely satisfied with everything. She was totally honest and did not permit or like any one speaking lies in front of her. She had no demands for Ornaments, Clothes, Cosmetics and so on. She never used any type of cosmetics on her face or body, her skin was just natural. My kids and I had to think about what to buy for her, and whatever we bought she would happily accept the same. When she used to come for shopping with us, she would select her items within 10 to 15 minutes without wasting any time, whether it could be Gold/Diamond Ornaments, Clothes for Party and so on.

Hema was never after money or for luxuries. Her life was very simple and a happy go lucky woman. She would give up everything for the sake of the family. After the birth of Rakhee and Sagar, she totally sacrificed her life for domestic purpose.

She gave up her medical practice for the future of both the kids. She had left her practice from July, 1972 to October, 1986. When Rakhee and Sagar were grown up that’s the time Hema decided to start her own practice, not for making money, but to utilize her knowledge and help sick people. She even gave medicines free to patients who could not afford to pay. There was no fix time for her own practice. She used to work round the clock & never say a word to patients i.e. is this the time to come.

Whenever we used to go for tours and trips, she used to do the foot work, for moving out to visit for sightseeing. She was good as an organizer.

She was not interest in playing cards except Bridge or Rummy, but whenever I wanted to play, she has never refused me to go out for playing cards. Since 25 years, I would go to Bombay to play cards, but she has never refused me for going to Bombay.

She could manage happily good relations with both the family members, my family as well as her family.

When Hema passed away she left a very good name after her. Today also everyone remembers her very much be it all friends, patients or family members.

I came in touch with my in-laws when I had gone to see Hemagini first. That’s the time, I came to know through my mother and elder brother, that Hemagini’s family is very well known to us since many years, especially when my father was alive (say from 1950’s). My father-in-laws name was Amarchand C. Jhaveri, but everyone fondly called him babubhai. My mother-in-laws name is Kusumben. She wanted everyone to call her by her name “Kusumben”. All the children, grand children, relatives, in fact everyone used to call her by her name. She did not like anyone calling her mummy, Baa, Masi, Kaki, Aunty and so on.

They stayed in proper Bombay at Zaveri Bazar. It was very near to our house, nearly walking distance, hardly 20 minutes walk. Our shop was only 3 minutes walk from their house.

Hemagini’s father was employed in the same market where we had our shop for cloth business owned by one of their relatives. Amarchandbhai was very good at business for his employer. He had very good business contacts with the banks and general public. He was very helpful to his employer because of his contacts.

He himself was not lucky for doing business on his own, nor did he have sufficient finance for going into business. Unfortunately he had to stay as an employee throughout his life.

He was educated and had done his graduation in the year 1935, obtained a Bachelors degree in Arts. His command over English was very good and powerful. Education was very tough during those days, i.e. at the time of British rule in India. To pass the Matric in1930 i.e. SSC as per present date was absolutely tough.

His salary was very low, but he could manage the family of seven very well. It included himself, his wife and five children. He ensured the best education to all the 5 children and they became graduates. He wanted Hema to be a doctor, as she was good at science subjects and Hema fulfilled her father’s wish.

Kusumben was from a rich family from Surat. They had a very big house at Surat and also owned two Drama Theatres. Her father had Gujarati Business Drama business. She was very interested in drama and movies and she liked action movies very much.

When my father-in-law heard that Hema is pregnant he was very happy and finally when Rakhee was born we sent a few photographs of Rakhee. These photographs he would always carry in his pocket and show it to all his friends and relatives.

Rashmibhai (elder brother of Hema) after his education, settled down at Surat and took up a job with a bank. He was looking after grandmother who used to stay all alone. Rashibhai wife Kalpana bhabhi was also from Surat. When Rashmibhai got an increment his father wrote a letter to us at Zambia, that Rashmi is now getting a four figure salary. everyone was very proud about it. In those days to obtain a four figure salary was a credit as well as a good achievement.

Deepak and Sudhir (Heman’s brothers) when they completed their education they joined a very reputable company i.e. Mafatlal Group in Bombay. Deepak was in administration and Sudhir with computer section (IBM Computers). Deepak got married to Javnika bhabhi Sudhir got married to Anju bhabhi both from Surat.

After 1972/73, Deepak decided to separate with his family. This was because the Zaveri Bazar house was very compact and he thought he will be in a position to manage his family with his salary. He bought a flat at Kandiwali. This was his 1st step towards his progress. Thereafter he shifted to Ghatkopar as his office was at Kalyan and it was nearer to his office.

Sudhir stayed at Zaveri Bazar but after a few years he sold the house at Zaveri Bazar and shifted to Goregaon. From Goregaon he again shifted to Kandiwali to a bigger ownership flat. He was doing very well at his job at Mafatlal, but due to some problems with the management and senior staff he left the job on his own. Thereafter he worked on his own and did job work and also employment. Finally he retired and at present he is enjoying his life with his children and grandchildren.

Neela (Heman’s sister) after her education, started with LIC of India as an Insurance Agent and at the same she used to practice as a Homeopathic doctor. She got married to Manoharlal on 13.5.1971. Unfortunately we could not attend the marriage, even when we were in India, because Hema and I after marriage had to leave for Zambia on 15.5.1971. Just a day before the wedding. It was very sad as missed it only for one day, this was because my vacation was overdue and secondly due to air flight booking. Manharlal after marriage joined his wife Neela in the Insurance business. They bought a ownership flat at Borivali.

In 1973, Heman’s father thought of doing business and he started Supari business like Milan Supari which was very famous during those days. Unfortunately due to bad luck he did not succeed and had to undergo heavy

loss. It was beyond his capacity and to pay back his loss was impossible. In the month of July/August, 1973 he wrote a letter to Hema, regarding his loss and one to help him for repayment of such heavy loss. Through his letter we could easily understand about his worries and his state of mind.

I, told Hema in September, 1973 to go to India along with Rakhee, so that everyone could see Rakhee and at the same time console her father and give him some moral support. Ask him, if he needs some financial support, which we can give out of our savings. Hema told me, well not now, but I will think of going sometime after January, 1974 after your transfer to Livingstone.

Unfortunately on 14th/15th November, 1973, all of a sudden, Heman’s father had some health problems. He started vomiting, he was admitted to hospital and he went into Coma. The huge loss was a big shock to him. All of a sudden he passed away on 17th November, 1973 at the age of 58.

We got a telegram on Saturday afternoon that Heman’s father had passed away. It was a terrible shock, unbearable for Hema, because after marriage she had not seen her father. Immediately by evening we decided to go to India. We started packing and on Sunday morning I went to see my General Manager. he sanctioned me two weeks leave to go to India. (Actually I was to take transfer to Livingstone on 1st December, 1973 but it was thereafter postponed to 1st January, 1974.

We ran around the whole of Sunday for preparation and on Monday morning we finally caught a flight for India.

Deepak was doing fine with his job, he was indeed very healthy and had no complaints at all regarding his health.

One morning on 2-4-1998 when he was going to office at Kalyan with his co-workers in the car, he started feeling very uneasy. As soon as they reached their office and signed their attendance muster, one of his friends suggested to get Deepak checked up at the local first aid department in their office premises. After the checkup, he was told, he has had a severe heart attack. It’s better to take him to the nearest hospital in their ambulance. As soon as he was placed on a stretcher he passed away at a very young age. It was very shocking news, when we got a call from Bombay and could not believe it. We rechecked and later took a flight for the funeral ceremony.

Deepak and his father passed away all of a sudden and Hema passed away after a short illness of 7 days. Kusumben also passed away on 18-5-2002 at the age of 80. She suffered a lot for almost 2 years due to cancer. Manoharlal, Neela’s husband, was sick every now and then. He had to be admitted to a hospital 2 to 3 times. He too passed away after a short illness at the age of only 58 on 30-4-1994

At the time of Marriage my elder Brother and Mother did not give a single piece of ornament, not even one gram of gold, while by rule as per our family everyone got 10 tolas of gold, but even then she did not grumble at all, and never uttered a word for the same. If I had to help my mother or my family with money from Zambia, she had never asked me as to why I am helping my family with money, nor did she argue, on the contrary if by chance I would forget for any single month, she would remind me to send the money. I was very lucky and happy to have a wife like Hema, which is truly difficult to find one. She had won hearts of everyone in my family.

Rakhee was born in 1972, and Sagar in the year 1976. When they were born and growing up, Hema and I had decided that if I say something or scold to kids she should not come and interfere in-between, and if she says something to kids, I should not interfere. If we support them, kids will be spoiled and will find some secure place to hide. Luckily both Rakhee and Sagar were so well behaved, that they did not get even one slap either from me or Hema throughout their life, up to today. All three Hema, Rakhee and Sagar were very helpful to me in all respects. All three had no demands for anything at all. They were satisfied with whatever was given or offered to them. There was nothing like fixed pocket expense and at the same time they did not spend any single penny unnecessarily. Rakhee and Sagar were totally obedient children and 80% of their upbringing was handled by my wife Hema.

I couldn’t look after them very well as I was in office from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Hema was totally a house wife and that’s why she could devote her valuable time with children. Rakhee and Sagar had earned a very good name among friends and their family in Zambia as well as in school, and after coming from Zambia, they had the same respect in our society in Baroda. Both of them never gave us a chance whereby we had to scold them for anything. Today also when they have settled down in USA they have earned their name for good, and I would say definitely that I am very lucky to have such a nice small family, with no regrets at all for anything, and I am sure I have enjoyed my life fully in all respects. Both in laws for Rakhee and Sagar are very happy to have them as one of their family member. They both are well educated and nearly Jack of all. Rakhee is very lucky to have one child and his name is Aadi, who is nearly one and half year old as per today. Aadi is also very cute, healthy, smart and well behaved.

When I left Zambia, I had three main aims in my life for settling down in India. First perfect and good Education for both Rakhee and Sagar. Second to have my own small apartment or house. Third to have one small Business by which I can run my family daily expenses very effectively. Luckily and through God grace I succeeded in all three Aims very well, and very happily settled down. Rakhee got her Architecture degree and she also passed her exams in USA and got practicing License to practice in USA. Sagar got his BE Electronics degree from MSU Baroda, and thereafter he went for further studies to USA and obtained Masters Degree in Electronics. I had a good chance to buy my own house in 1984 a Row house in one of the best society centrally located within Baroda.

And lastly I got one very good shop on ownership basis in 1984, where I tried nearly 5 business and since 1988, very well settled in my present business which is going on fine since 1988 till today, regarding Hiring of Conference Equipments.

Every day I thank God for listening to me very peacefully and helping me very well in all respects.

In 2008 after Heman’s death, my elder brother Dineshbhai and Bhabhi stayed with me in Baroda at my residence for nearly one and a half month, but unfortunately Dineshbhai had health problems, something to do with Kidney, so we admitted him to Nadiad Hospital, there he stayed for 3 days, after getting better, my other brother Rameshbhai took him straight from Nadiad to Ahmedabad with him for further check up with specialist doctors in Ahmedabad.

Now as I was alone, my next door friends, Nayanbhai and Nitaben, did not allow me to open up my kitchen on my own, and told me you have not to

cook anymore. You have to take lunch as well as dinner at our place, I tried to convenience them but they did not listen to a single word from me. My cousin brother Jitu also told me the same, but his house was nearly 4 kilometer away from my house so it was not feasible to go there every day. I continued as per my next door neighbours request and started taking lunch as well as dinner at Nayanbhais place. They look after me very well, and as I am not eating Onion and Garlic, they used to cook food separately for me. It’s really very difficult to have such a nice neighbour in present days.

14th January 2009, for the first time I decided not to fly kites, so my brother Mahesh from Ahmedabad called me and told me lets go to Palithana for Jatara for 14th 15th & 16th, we all will enjoy and your time will pass very well with some religious ceremonies. I accepted and we went on 14th January 2009 at Palithana.

After coming back, I decided to go to USA as Rakhee was expecting in the month of February 2009, and she had no one with her, she was given a date of 22nd February by her Doctor, and they requested if I could join them at the time of delivery. I left India on 30th January 2009, reaching USA on 30th same day on Friday. Saturday and Sunday being weekend Rakhee and Prafulbhai were at home, so we moved out for both the days watching site seeing, and San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge. Rakhee walked a lot on 1st February 2009 being Sunday. And after coming home we took dinner, set for a while and went to sleep. All of a sudden, at midnight Rakhee woke up and told she will have to go to hospital as she has pain in her stomach.

Same way Hema worked up to last minute on 21st June 1972 and early morning at 8 a.m. next day on 22nd June 1972, she told me she will have to go to hospital, and she delivered Rakhee at 5.45 p.m. on 22nd June 1972. Here Rakhee also delivered Baby boy whose name is Aadi on 2nd February 2009, nearly 21 days early as per local doctors date. As per my knowledge, I was right in saying that Rakhee will also deliver earlier then the date given by local Doctor.

I as well as Rakhee were very lucky, as I was there right in time, so they were little bit satisfied, as I reached in time. Both Rakhee and Aadi were quite healthy and had no problems with delivery, everything went on smoothly and normal. I stayed with them for nearly 3 weeks, and when everything was normal, Prafulbhais mother came from India. I left San Francisco to stay with Sagar in San Diego for nearly one month.

When I was with Rakhee in San Francisco, Prafulbhais sister Meetaben had come from New Jersey to visit them and to see Aadi. Meetaben nature was very soft and mixing with everyone. One day we were just sitting and talking casually, and I mentioned that, I was interested in writing a book on my own life, so she told me well it is very good idea, and she said, I think every grand parents should write so that their grand children will know how difficult a life you have spend during old days, in India.

I got inspiration and so I took one blank book from Rakhee and started writing whatever came in my mind starting from my child hood. I started writing few points age wise and also started expanding in the form of a book. I started writing on 17th February 2009, when I was in USA. Today when I am writing this book, the date is 18th July 2010, I am nearly on the completion and I think I will complete within one or two days. I have written and narrated whatever I remembered from the age of 4 up till date. I intend to give for publishing as soon as possible to one of my friend Ashit Pathak who was kind

enough to go through the first draft and gave lot of suggestions. My plan is to either cut ribbon for this book on 18th September 2010, Heman’s Birthday if it is ready, or on 10th November 2010, the date when she passed away.

Mita ben I am 100% sure you will definitely get one copy for your personal possession. I am also sure you will read this book with interest, and at the same time be proud that you gave me inspiration and advice to me to write this book. All the credit goes to you for such inspiration. I thank you very much for giving me right advice at right time, because as per this project I could pass and make use of my valuable time for last one and a half year with success. I think I have achieved something in my life, and who so ever reads may enjoy knowing my life. Once again thanks very much.

Originally I had booked my tickets from 30th January 2009 to 17th April 2009, but unfortunately I was not very comfortable being all alone in USA, I requested Sagar to alter my booking and get fresh booking for 3rd April 2009, and I said instead I will try to pass a few days in Bombay with all relatives and then go back to Baroda for good.

So I flew back on 3rd April 2009 and stayed in Bombay for one week and back to Baroda in time. Again I was forced to take my Lunch and Dinner next door, but within one week I organized everything in my house, bought all the groceries, and requested Nitaben, please excuse me, I will start my own Kitchen, and I don’t want to forget what ever cooking I know. So from that day up to today I am cooking my own food for both the times, except for some occasion I go to eat next door, or at Jitu’s house or Subhasbhais house, Sagars in Law.

During Pajusana in the year 2009 I was all alone, and I wanted to perform Aathai, fasting for 8 days, and that would be my continuous 7th Aathai. I tried my best and luckily with grace of Sasandevi and God I succeeded without any problems as usual like the last six Aathais. All my relatives as well as friend were very surprised as I performed Aathai without help from anyone. That’s because of my strong will power and grace of God.

We had one dispensary for Hema, and now as it was lying idle, I thought of disposing off immediately after Diwali or at the time of Diwali. I was expecting 6 lakhs for the same. Luckily at the time of Pajusana I got a dream of Hema, telling me to use the said money Rs.6 lakhs in the form of some donation, and to help needy people. I also thought the idea is not at all bad. Immediately after Pajusana my Employee Natu who is working with me since last 22 years, came to see me with his family to say me Michamidookadam. I asked him what standard her daughter is studying now, so he told she is in 8th standard and son in 3rd standard. I was surprised how they are managing to stay only in one room and both the children studying very well, and within 2 years his daughter will be in 10th standard board exams. I thought this is the right time to make use of Heman’s dispensary money which will come in near future.

One Sunday morning before Navratri, I went to Natu’s house with one contractor, without informing him, and started taking measurements for his plot as well as his present house. He had enough space to build one room in front, and rebuild Kitchen in old room at back of seating room, and on top, build one more room 20 ft x 12 ft, with bath and toilet, as well as gallery in front. Natu and his family were surprised as to what I am doing. We sat and calculated how much it will cost to rebuild whole house, with one kitchen, bath toilet and

sitting room at ground floor and on larger room on 1st floor and terrace with Water Tank. It was estimated at Rs.1.5 lakhs.

I told well start immediately on first or 2nd day of Navratri and try to finish before Diwali. I was prepared to give all the cost for the same. Work started as per schedule, but could be completed after Diwali. Now the house is absolutely new with nice tiles all over, repainted and very large room on first floor. Now the whole family is staying very peacefully, children have good space for studying, and all are very happy. All his relatives, friends and neighbours were surprised to see such a drastic change in his house. Everyone liked the plan very much, and all the neighbours are also thinking of changing their house in similar way. Now Natu is living with peace of mind and he has not to see any expansion or new house for his whole life.

Now my next employee was Suraj, who has been working with me since last 5 years. He was staying in rented house one room and kitchen, and paying rent Rs. 1,700/- per month, which was very high, as per his salary. I asked him if he could search around for a house with one room and kitchen within Rs.3 lakhs, so that we can buy and he can stay there for good. He started looking, and fortunately within his area, nearly 2 kilometers away from shop in gotri area, a brand new flat was available, one room and kitchen. The builder was asking Rs.4.20 lakhs for the same. I went there just before Navratri, during shradha, I offered him Rs.3.5 lakhs for the same but he refused. I told him no one is going to come to you for nearly 15 days due to shradha, if you are interested last I can offer is Rs.3.7 lakhs, if so I can give you right now Rs.11,000/- as a token and rest at the time of 3rd Navratri in full payment.

He was bit hesitant, but ultimately he agreed, so I gave him Rs.11,000/- and booked the flat and asked him to get all the papers ready for Dastavage before Navratri. Suraj started staying in that house from Desara onwards, and at the time of pooja, at his new residence, after the pooja was over, I told him I will transfer this flat in your name, if you sincerely work for another 5 years for me continuously. He agreed and now let see, nearly one year is coming to be complete this year, and at present he is very sincere in his job. His whole family, father, brothers and all are quite happy with his new residence.

This is how I made use of money which I got from the sale of dispensary which belonged to my wife Hema. My all staff members, are very happy and specially Natu, Suraj and Mahesh have hanged big Photo of Hema in their house as a remembrance. They all liked Heman’s nature very much.

From the year 2009 I am all alone in house and handling all my domestic work myself, except washing clothes, vessels and so on. But since child hood I wash my clothes which I wear for office use and for going out in parties. Remaining domestic clothes are washed by domestic servant. I also do ironing to all my clothing myself, I have never given any clothes for ironing outside in laundry or elsewhere.

My daily duties from 7 a.m. to 12 midnight are as follows, and I try to keep myself fully occupied and busy as much as possible.

When I wake up at 7 a.m. first thing I pray , and then make my bed, thereafter I strain boiled water in mattla, collect milk from the milk man, strain ordinary water for cooking purpose, prepare breakfast and coffee. My breakfast is usually 4 to 5 khakara with coffee. After breakfast, I soak clothes for washing, fill up top tank with the help of electric motor, and also fill up corporation water for drinking and for cooking purpose which comes at 8-30

a.m. From 7-30 a.m. to 8-30 a.m. I prepare cooker in which I place Rice and Tuwer Dal after washing, cut vegetable, and place all three in cooker for cooking purpose, if vegetable is to be prepare outside cooker, I do it that way. Then I take wheat aatta and build it up for roti, and leave it until I come back from office. Around 9 a.m. I take bath, and sit for pooja, which takes nearly 1 hour. Between 10-30 a.m. to 11 am, I get ready for office and before I go to office I have a mug of Coffee with some biscuits or dry fruits. Come back at home around 1 p.m., I make Dal on one stove and vegetable on the other stove. And start making Roti on the third stove. Within 20 minutes everything is ready, and then seat for lunch at about 1-30 to 2 p.m. Watch news, etc on T.V. for nearly one hour and then take rest for 2 hours between 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Wake up between 5 p.m. to 5.15 p.m., get ready for going to office, come down and prepare Coffee, drink the same and by 6 p.m. I am out for office. While coffee is getting ready, I place all the vessels which are washed in the afternoon by the house servant, on the rack at right place for use when I need next time. Between 6.30 to 7.30 I walk nearly 5 kilometers outside my office premises, so that I can attend phones call if any or customers who come to my office. Between 7.30 and 8 pm. I go to mandir and then to derasar, I come back home, have bath before dinner or late at night before going to bed. After 8 p.m. I start preparing something only one item for my dinner, may be, uppama, Puda, Sekala, Paua, Dhebra, Dhokla, any one item per day. Take dinner between 9.30 to 10 p.m., with coffee. Thereafter I sit on Computer, watch all my e-mails, sometimes chatt with Rakhee or Sagar, and also see Aadi live on yahoo through web camera. From 10 p.m. to 11p.m. I daily talk with both Rakhee and Sagar. I watch local and world news on Yahoo, Msn and google and so on. By 12 midnight I am ready for my last Mug of coffee before I go to sleep. This is how I am busy from 7 a.m. to 12 midnight. In-between whenever I used to get time I was busy writing this book to see that I complete it as early as possible. I also used to take it to office if I had free time in office.

At the age of 69 I thought of learning music on Harmonium, One teacher used to come by 7-30 to 8-30 in morning twice a week on Wednesday and Sundays, and he used to teach me classically, he thought me basic 16 soors, I was playing very well one after the other as and when he used to teach me, thereafter he thought me 8 to 10 old filmy songs also. Now all I need is to practice as and when I get time, but since last 2 months I did not get time at all to touch Harmonium as I was very busy writing my office Accounts Books to be submitted before 31st July 2010. I just completed my accounts books on last Friday, i.e. 16th July 2010, and now will submit the same to Income tax office in a day or two. I was very much interested for learning music when I was young in college, but unfortunately could not afford the fees for the same. And now all of a sudden as I was all alone, and could afford, I took the opportunity to learn and pass my time.

Knowingly or unknowingly, I must have done something wrong in my past life, for which I am suffering in my present life. God is there and he will not spare anyone. As per my knowledge, I think everyone who is doing good or bad deeds has to face the fruits for the same in their present life. You personally may not know whether you are doing something is good or bad. That God will decide and you will get the fruits for the same in your present life. Whether it is good or bad for you, I suggest you should face both with full courage and accept the consequences. If you don’t accept life heartily and thinking very seriously on that subject, you may be inviting some serious illness such as B.P., Diabetes, Heart Attack and so on. You have to try and keep yourself busy all the time, learning new things if time permits, and not to seat

idle and gossiping here and there. To learn something new there is a saying, “ ITS NEVER TOO LATE”.

Today all the children and grand children of both our families, brothers, sisters, brother-in-law, sister-in-law, they all call me either kaka, mama, masa, fuwa and so on as per actual relationship, but in actual life we live like friends rather than relatives. We all spend time together and talk on any subject. We are very intimate with each other, as we move around together and we also play different types of games such as Cricket, Badminton, Carom, Chess, Cards and so on. There is no difference in our age or relationship.

The very young ones between the age 2 to 5 years, come running towards me as if I am his/her friend. They are not afraid of me. I definitely enjoy the company of all the children and grand children. They too love my company. As I am the youngest in our family, they are very close to me.

Young ones would like to talk with me on phone. I will give only one example. Nehal, my brother-in-laws son and his daughter Mehak (4 years) visited me once at Baroda. Within a few minutes she became very friendly with me. She came here for the first time and when she went back to Surat, she used to say, I want to talk with that white hair uncle of Baroda on phone. At present she also talks with me from USA. She has not forgotten me. This is only one example, but it is the same with all my grand children.

Though my wife has is no more, all the family members from my in-laws family continue to maintain very good relations with me. They give me full respect and keep in touch with me by means of phone every now and then. Members of my family keep in touch with me and are very worried about me, as I am staying all alone. They keep on worrying though I know how to manage everything on my own. I am very lucky with both the families, as they look after me and care for me. I thank all the members for their affection and love.

Since November 2008, my life has become very lonely. This is first time I am experiencing such miserable life. I will have to face it for the rest of my life and get used to it as time passes. As soon as I enter the house coming from outside, it is worse than a jail, all alone no one to say hi or hello, how was the day and so on. No one to greet, no one to share happiness or sorrow, no one with whom I cam share my days duties, activities or ideas. No one to offer a glass of water, and just have to stair 4 walls and start performing daily duties all alone. Whether you like it or not, there is no one to say may I help you, one has to do everything all by himself. When I am outside house at office at least I have few friends in shopping centre and office staff with whom I can talk for a while and share my views.

Well that’s it, I don’t know how long I will have to continue this type of life, all depends what’s written in faith and how much more I have to suffer.

Concluding entry: 13 th September, 2010. This year three of us – Sagar, his wife Khyati and I observed Paryushan. For me, it was the 8 th Athai, for Sagar it was 2nd and for Khyati it was the first ever Athai. We all expect good blessing on this holy occasion.

SUMMARY

Never give up hopes, try, try till you succeed. My father was very brave man; He did not give up very easily, did many types of jobs and changed many businesses, such as cloth merchant, made one movie Bhaver, sewing needle business, parachute business, Topi (Caps) business so and so forth. Similarly I also did the same from my child hood, if you have read this book carefully, you must have notice how many jobs I have changed and how many business I have tried till finally I succeeded in my present business, just to survive I had to undergo all such troubles.

My suggestion is no one should give up at any stage, work hard and honestly; one day you will definitely earn the fruits of your labour. This is my personal experience, and I try to share my same views with all general public, friends and relatives. My family and I have enjoyed our life fully in all respects, I have no regrets at all, I don’t think anything is left out for enjoyment in my life, I have also learned a lot through my life, Now if god needs me I am ready at any time, because there is nothing left for enjoyment, or duties in my life, I have fulfilled everything.

Following are the vehicles which I have used, liked, owned and enjoyed with complete satisfaction. I think I am very lucky with vehicles, and since 1970 onwards up to today I have owned 29 (twenty nine) Cars 4 wheels, and 9 (nine) bikes, mopeds or scooters two wheels, Totally 38 vehicles in last 40 years, List as follows.

01) Honda Scooter Red 1970

02) Mazda 1200 White 1972

03) Mazda 1600 Mustard 1973

04) Mazda 1300 Green 1973

05) Triumph GT 6 Red/Bla. 1973

06) V.W.1300 Red 1974

07) Fiat 128 Green 1974

08) Mazda 1600 White 1974

09) Mazda Pickup White 1974

10) V.W.1300 White 1974

11) Cortina 1600 Red 1975

12) Cortina 1600 Purple 1975

13) Cortina 1600 Grey 1975

14) Fiat 128SW Beige 1976

15) Fiat 127 Green 1976

16) Fiat 132 GLS Maroon 1977 AJA 2263

17) Fiat 132 GLS Mustard 1977 AJA 2463

18) Fiat 132 GLS White 1979 AJA 2863 1

9) Fiat 132 GLS Blue 1979 AJA 2963

20) Fiat 132 GLS Blue 1980 AJA 3063

21) Datsun 1200 White 1978 EJ 629

22) Cortina 1600 Yellow 1978 AJA 1952

23) Mazda 818 Red 1980 AAA 83

24) Fiat 127 White 1981 AJA 4041

This car total 9 was my lucky number, I was 41 and Hema 40 yrs old, I was born in 1940, Hema born in 1941.

25) Mazda 626 S/Grey 1982 AJA 3763

26) Suzuki Bike Red 1983 AJA 4107

27) Mercedes Benz Cream 1984 BE 3 - MAS 102

28) Morris Minor 1952 Black 1985 MRH 1265

29) Bajaj Scooter Grey 1985 GUT 6893

30) TVS Moped 50 Black 1985 GAS 4519

31) Luna Moped Red 1989 GUK 6132

32) Lune Moped Green 1990 GUV 2155

33) Yamaha Bike Red 1992 BLM 3949

34) Luna Moped Black 1995 GJ6 2816

35) Yamaha Bike Black 1996 GJ6 4362

36) Maruti 800 A/c. Green 1997 GBW 9050

37) Matiz SD T/Beige 2000 GJ6 AB 2280

38) Spark Chevrolet Platinum 2008 GJ6 CM 5627

Now I will be writing regarding my hobby for traveling, and how many places I have seen throughout the world.

I have visited 17 Countries throughout the world, and nearly 150 places within these countries. My wife lately was very keen in visiting Australia and New Zealand, we tried once or twice, but since it was very expensive we postponed for sometime in future, but unfortunately, Hema passed away and she could not fulfill her wish for the same. I have travelled in nearly all different types of Plane with different Airlines, and used flying in plane for nearly more than 150 times from 1969 up to today.

Following are the countries I have visited so far, while reading the book you must have noticed as to when I visited all these places. 1) India my mother land to be first. 2) Kenya 3) Tanzania 4) Rhodesia/Zimbabwe 5) Malawi 6) Italy 7) France 8) U.K. 9) Singapore 10) Hongkong 11) Thailand, Bangkok 12) Switzerland 13) U.S.A. 14) Canada 15) Mauritius 16) Zambia 17) Botswana

Well that’s all for the countries.

Lastly I will write down details of my Family TREE starting from my Parents to all grand children.

1) Lt. Father - Mr. Amthalal Chunilal Shah 2) Lt. Mother - Mrs. Lilavati Amthalal Shah

Total Nine children, 6 Boys and 3 Girls as follows.

a) Lt. Saryabala Amthalal Shah b) Dinesh Amthalal Shah c) Ramesh Amthalal Shah d) Mahesh Amthalal Shah e) Suresh Amthalal Shah f) Kirish Amthalal Shah g) Lt. Satish Amthalal Shah h) Smita Amthalal Shah i) Chhaya Amthalal Shah

3) Lt. Saryubala Praful Rana 4) Praful C. Rana

Children

a) Akshay Praful Rana b) Shilpa Praful Rana c) Lt. Chetan Praful Rana

5) Akshay Praful Rana 6) Rekha Akshay Rana

Children

a) Rohan Akshay Rana b) Nishan Akshay Rana

7) Shilpa Shalil Kinthawala 8) Shalil Kinthawala

Children

a) Shital Shalil Kinthawala b) Ankur c) Karisma Shalil Kinthawala

9) Lt. Chetan Praful Rana

10) Dinesh Amthalal Shah 11) Ranjan Dinesh Shah

Children

a) Heena Dinesh Shah b) Adhir Dinesh Shah

12) Heena Nailesh Shah 13) Nailesh Bhogilal Shah

Children

a) Urvi Nailesh Shah b) Alapi Nailesh Shah c) Anuj Nailesh Shah

14) Urvi Nayan Shah 15) Nayan Shah 16) Alapi Vinay Shah 17) Vinay Shah

18) Adhir Dinesh Shah19) Bharti Adhir Shah

Children

a) Shrnik A. Shah

20) Ramesh Amthalal Shah 20) Rita Ramesh Shah

Children

a) Naju Ramesh Shah b) Roma Ramesh Shah

22) Naju Raju Mehta 23) Raju G. Mehta

Children

a) Aastha Raju Mehta

24) Roma Nirav Shah 25) Nirav Shah

26) Mahesh Amthalal Shah 27) Hansa Mahesh Shah

Children

a) Hemang Mahesh Shah

28) Hemang Mahesh Shah 29) Deepika Hemag Shah

Children

a) Alisha Hemang Shah b) Nishani Hemang Shah c) Jaya Hemang Shah d) Soniyoo Hemang Shah

30) Suresh Amthalal Shah 31) Anila Suresh Shah

Children

a) Anal Suresh Shahb) Anuja Suresh Shah

32) Anal Suresh Shah 33) Sheetal Anal Shah

Children

a) Shoham Anal Shah

34) Anuja Suresh Shah 35) Joe

36) Kirish Amthalal Shah 37) Lt. Hemagini Kirish Shah

Children

a) Rakhee Kirish Shah b) Sagar Kirish Shah

38) Rakhee Praful Shah 39) Praful Hasmukh Desai

Children

a) Aadi Praful Desai

40) Sagar Kirish Shah 41) Khyati Sagar Shah

42) Lt. Satish Amthalal Shah 43) Praguna Satish Shah (left)

44) Smita Vasant Chotalia 45) Vasant Shamji Chotalia

Children

a) Keyur Vasant Chotalia

46) Keyur Vasant Chotalia 47) Megha Keyur Chotalia

48) Chhaya Nikhil Shah 49) Nikhil Jayanti Shah

Children

a) Nikita N. Shah

Ending with a small note:-

Everyone has a tendency of saying there is no time. No one should complain that he has no time, and because of lack of time, I cannot do this or that. There is enough time with everyone, if he knows how to utilize and when and where to utilize. If you have strong will power and firm determination, you can manage time from anywhere. Everyone should make use of time in right direction, Life is very short, and time flies very fast. Once the time is lost it is never gained again. If you need you can see my example, I am very busy from morning 7 a.m. to 12 at midnight, as I have written in detail my whole days job. But I was determined, to publish this book, with strong will power, I managed somehow to successfully complete this book within one and half year. Time is

there for everyone, if you take full advantage and make proper use at the right time. Where there is a will there is a way.

Thanks to all who have taken pains to read this book.

Lastly I will write down details of my wife’s family TREE starting from her parents to all grand children.

1) Amarchand C. Jhaveri2) Kusumben A. Jhaveri

3) Rashmi A. Jhaveri4) Kalpana R. Jhaveri

5) Dhaval R. Jhaveri6) Harini D. Jhaveri

Kids : Ronak & Helina

7) Nisha R. Jhaveri (Kapadia)8) Dhananjay Kapadia

Kid : Mahek

9) Hemangini A. Jhaveri (Shah)10) Kirish A. Shah

Kids : Rakhee married to Praful Desaiand Sagar K. Shah married to Khyati Shah

11) Deepak A. Jhaveri12) Javneeka D. Jhaveri

Kids : Anish D. Jhaveri married to Pina Kids : Aagamand Khyati Jhaveri (Shah) married to Hitesh Shah Kids : Darshil

13) Neela A. Jhaveri (Kapadia)14) Manharlal B. Kapadia

Kids : Viral M. Kapadia married to Neelam Kids : Kosa & Vipasaand Kezal M. Kapadia married to Mansi Kids : 1 daughter

15) Sudhir A. JhaveriAnju S. JhaveriKids : Falguni S. Jhaveri (Panchal) married to Paresh PanchalKids : Harshit and Sanikaand Rohan S. Jhaveri married to Suma (Shetty) Kids : Mehika

& Shaurya