In our life, we come across endless possibilities, an epitome of hope, and it’s rare to find that hope embodied in human form. But in 2021, I did. I saw YOU, a woman in her 70s, radiating jolly vibes and a happy face, mentoring a young forester like me. As soon as you recited your poem on women’s empowerment, I was awestruck. I felt the depth of the poem and saw you from a different angle, an empathetic feminist. That’s how your initial image became imprinted on me.

Later, life had another twist for me, I was lucky enough to have you as my professional mentor in 2022. I was on cloud nine. Why wouldn’t I be? I had the opportunity to learn from decades of your wisdom. Honestly, you raised my standards for what a true leader should be. From picking me up and dropping me off at the office to taking me to your favorite restaurant, and even inviting me over for dinner, your homemade dahi bada is something I carry in my heart, not just in my stomach. Professionally, you were my home away from home kinda person. One of the thing I admire most about you is the trust you had in me more than anyone else in the room. Whether it was leading restoration work, overseeing endline and baseline surveys, or documenting conferences, you believed in me. I stumbled many times during my professional journey, yet never once did you belittle me. Instead, you made me understand that To err is human, and so is the grace to forgive and grow.

There were times when, despite having a clear vision for life, I was confused and scared about what my future would look like. Having you around taught me about meeting the right people at the wrong time is also blessing and that saved me from burnout. You always provided me with platforms wherever you went, and you were the one who vouched for me for an event photography gig that paid me financially. I still remember the day I took that envelope, gave the money to my mom, and said, “See, Mom, I earned this from photography.” You taught me that when you invest effort and skill, you also deserve financial recognition.

In 2023-2024, I was going through a lot of crises and decided to take a career break, but I still remember your words: “Tapai jasto manchhe le kaam garna chhodna hudaina.” I interpret this sentence from many perspectives maybe you saw that I had more to contribute to the gender and forestry sector, maybe you saw a girl in her 20s struggling in crisis and believed that work would be her savior, or maybe you were worried that taking a break might lead to regret over  my wasted potential.

Being a woman in the early stages of my career, what inspires me is the dignity and values you carry with you, how you worship your work, and how you’ve made it a lifestyle. It’s rare to see people do that. The bravery you show in climbing those uphills in Sindhupalchowk and Bhujel Gaun, Nawalpur, to support women entrepreneurs, despite facing health challenges, is something I deeply admire. I hope to embody that same work ethic and commitment to impactful values when I mature as a woman someday.

I’ve seen the rural women around you happy and brave and I know your aura is infectious. Who wouldn’t be happy around someone like you?

Your recommendation to top-level organizations saved my enthusiasm when I got to work on the research aspects of gender-based violence warriors. It shifted the way I view my dream of becoming a social entrepreneur someday. When I think of you, I think of possibilities, and how one person’s guidance can truly change the direction of your life perspective and career. The accessibility you’ve provided me in both my personal and professional life is something I will carry forward, embracing those values.

I wish you a long life, and may many people have the privilege of being mentored by you. I hope they experience your warmth, especially those going through their quarter-life crisis like me. A small act of kindness can truly plant a big seed of hope and possibilities for the future.

I will carry your values, empathy, and honor with me throughout my life, all the way to my grave.

Thank you for giving me my first Saree,

Thank you for giving me my first career break

Thank you for being a big part of my first professional career,

I love you with all my respect and admiration.

Also, I love your infectious zest for life. 🙂

If home is a person, you are that home for a wandering bird like me.

Dear Kanchan ma’am,

Wishing you a many many happy returns of the day!!!