My father was not only my father but also my best friend. He passed away when I was trying to get into Cambridge University but was short of money. He died of a heart attack in such a way that I did not get a chance to understand anything.
Since my childhood, my father used to explain that it is easy to become a father but it is not easy to discharge the responsibilities of a father. He used to take me along to the vegetable market. Whenever a programme of literature and music was organised, I would also accompany him on his bicycle. During such rides, he would sing songs to me. I was introduced to the world only through my father.
He always said that it is important to move forward in life, but it is more important to be a good person. He always encouraged me to do something for society. This is the reason why I was able to go on missions like Super 30. He worked at a post office where he sorted letters. He did not have resources, yet he was always ready to help people.
Once a boy went to work in a factory in Varanasi but his family lost all contact with him after that. When my father came to know about it, he went all the way to Varanasi to trace him. On reaching Varanasi, he found out that the boy's hand had been amputated in an accident while working at a factory. My father requested the factory owner and got the boy compensated. He brought him back to his village. This is how my father used to put salve on others' sufferings.
I noticed one thing that despite having nothing, my father had innate satisfaction. He used to help people without any selfish reason. He believed that good behavior with hard work always ensures success. My father gave me freedom. There was never any pressure on me of any kind.
He always said that whatever work you do, try to be on the top. He would encourage me to work with full devotion and dedication. My father always wanted me to listen to my heart and decide my future. He would often say that you are going to become a very big person. Whenever I remember it, tears come to my eyes.
Whatever I have achieved in life, all the credit goes to my father, and to the lessons he taught, and the path shown by him.
Due to his inspiration, I also try to be a good father and do good to people. It is the only way that I can pay true tribute to my father.
