Mitali Bhardwaj
Ganga (name changed), from Parsa district of Nepal, says that her life took an unforeseen turn upon marrying Rajan (name changed), a man grappling with job uncertainties. Their once-promising future dimmed as the weight of financial responsibilities grew, exacerbated by Ganga’s pregnancy, which brought forth health complications due to stress.
Things got tougher when she became pregnant. Taking care of her elderly in-laws and a new baby made life even harder. “Rajan tried tirelessly to secure a job, but the uncertainty loomed over us like a dark cloud. Rajan couldn’t find a steady job,” Ganga remembers. “I worried a lot about our future.”
Rajan’s unwavering determination led him through a series of jobs, each offering temporary respite from their financial woes. Yet, the specter of instability remained, casting doubt on their ability to provide for their growing family. “Rajan jumped from job to job, but nothing lasted. So, they took a big risk – Rajan decided to try his luck abroad for a better life.”
“It wasn’t an easy decision, but we knew we had to take a chance for our son’s future,” Ganga recalls, her voice tinged with both apprehension and hope. The prospect of Rajan’s departure weighed heavily on Ganga, thrusting her into the daunting role of managing the household alone. Venturing outside solo for the first time to handle banking tasks, Ganga confronted her fears head-on, navigating unfamiliar territories with determination and resolve.
“I was nervous beyond words, but I knew I had to do it for the sake of our family,” Ganga recounts. “But with each step, I felt a newfound sense of strength and independence.”
As months passed, Ganga found herself shouldering the responsibilities of parenthood with unwavering dedication. From tending to her son’s needs to managing household chores and attending to her in-laws, Ganga had to do everything herself without Rajan around. She managed the house, got her son admitted to school, and ensured everyone had what they needed.
“Rajan’s money kept us going,” Ganga admits. “But I had to learn to manage everything on my own.” She attended her son’s school events alone, feeling a bit left out among other parents. But her son’s belief in her kept her going. “I felt left out sometimes,” Ganga shares. “Seeing other parents interact effortlessly made me feel out of place at times, but my son’s encouragement became my guiding light, reminding me of the strength within.”
Amidst the solitude of her husband’s absence, Ganga navigated the intricacies of parenthood alone, ensuring her son’s education and emotional well-being remained a priority. Attending school functions solo, Ganga experienced a whirlwind of emotions, grappling with feelings of inadequacy yet finding solace in her son’s unwavering belief in her.
Despite the emotional toll of separation, Ganga acknowledges the transformative power of adversity, recognizing the unforeseen opportunities for growth and independence that emerged from their journey. “Gone are the days when I confined myself to the four walls of our home,” Ganga reflects. “Rajan’s decision to seek opportunities abroad opened doors I never knew existed, empowering me to embrace life’s challenges with courage and resilience.”
Rajan’s sacrifice paved the way for our family’s future,” she acknowledges, her voice filled with reverence. “But it was my journey through adversity that truly transformed me into the woman I am today.”
Ganga’s story stands as a testament to the unwavering spirit of perseverance and empowerment of the left-behind wives of so many migrant workers, showcasing the transformative power of facing challenges head-on and finding strength in newfound independence. As she continues her journey, Ganga remains a beacon of hope and resilience, inspiring others to embrace life’s uncertainties with unwavering resolve.