What religion and caste do you belong to?
I am a Hindu. My caste is Arakh, Arrvanshi.
Is it from the Dalit section or the Vaishyas, or Rajputs?
“Backward.”
Where are you originally from and for how long have you been living in Delhi?
I’m originally from Hardoi, U.P and it’s been just 2-3 months since I moved here.
Where do you live in Delhi and with whom do you live?
I live in Civil Lines. And I live with madam here. She’s my boss.
And why did you come to Delhi?
I had come to Delhi to get some work, sir. To provide for my household needs.
Okay. Did you have any friends or family members already living in Delhi before you moved here?
Yes.
Who?
He’s my friend. He used to work here. Once I had come to appear for my papers. I had an exam to apply for the Railways. I had come to give my exams. Then I came to meet my friend. He asked me whether I’d do this work. I said “Okay, I’ll do it.” I didn’t have much to do in the village.
Okay, that’s great. What do you do exactly?
I cook.
The money you make, is it enough?
It’s not enough as such, but I’m putting up with it. For now, I don’t have any other work. I’m not getting any other job. I’m looking for a decent job.
Do you manage to send some money back home?
Yes, I can. I haven’t sent anything yet. But I will send soon.
What work did you do before this?
Before this, I used to live in my village. I used to study. My father is a farmer. I used to help him out on the farm sometimes.
Okay. And could you tell me something about your work?
There are people in the office. At least 10 people, I guess. I cook for them. Make them tea, snacks, etc.
And while you work, while you make food, what is it that you think about?
What thoughts come to my mind? I do want to study further. I think about that. This is my final year in B.A. So, I just keep thinking about my life.
Okay. In your opinion, what would be an interesting job that you’d like to take up?
I think it would be great if I could land a government job by any chance. Of course, according to my qualifications and skill level.
Which government job would you like the most?
I’d actually love to be in the police force.
The police force. What comes next?
After that, there’s no preference. Any government job would do.
If you ever get a chance to go back to your village, would you go?
Of course, I’d like to go.
I mean, if you get a decent job there.
Yes, if I get a good job in the village or in the neighboring areas, then I’d love to be there.