The Truth of Two Decades: Slums, the System, and My Research

Pictures speak... if only one has the eye to listen. Today, while browsing through old files on my computer, this photograph suddenly appeared, and a caravan of memories began to unfold. This photo is from 2016, during a trip to Jaipur with 16 of my NGO colleagues. We had stopped at a farmhouse, where I met this woman. To me, it wasn't just a picture; it was a glimpse into the self-respect of rural life—knowing how to smile even amidst scarcity. However, as a researcher, my true destination was the slums of Jaipur. My connection with Valmiki Nagar began in 2001 when I first applied for my PhD at Rajasthan University under Dr. M. Kapur. The journey was far from easy. I faced a long administrative battle over the 'equivalence' of my B.Sc. degree. After three years of persistent effort, my admission was finally confirmed in 2004, and I officially immersed myself in fieldwork in 2005. During that 2005-06 fieldwork, I was deeply impressed by a woman in Valmiki Nagar who had completed 12th grade. Despite a lack of resources, her education had led her to live a very organized life. Seeing her discipline, I truly believed that education would transform the fate of these slums.

"A single photograph can hold a lifetime of stories. For me, this image is more than a memory—it is a window into a 25-year-old quest that began with a struggle for a PhD admission in 2001 and evolved into a deep study of Jaipur’s slums. From Nehru's vision of 'Eradication' in 1952 to the stagnant reality of 2026, here is a glimpse into the two decades of my research journey." But when I returned in 2016-17 for a 'Decadal Change' study, the reality disappointed me. That same woman had become an 'Anganwadi worker' in the same slum. While the administration might view this as progress, I saw it as a stagnant shift. This brings to mind Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru's visit to the slums of Kanpur in 1952. Distressed by the subhuman conditions, he remarked: "These slums should be burnt to the ground and replaced with decent houses for human beings." His vision was 'Eradication'—to lift people out of squalor and settle them in planned townships. Unfortunately, we shifted from 'eradication' to making these slums 'permanent.' By 2016, the system focused on providing minor facilities like Anganwadis, effectively institutionalizing their stay there. Now, in April-May 2026, I am preparing for my third visit. I want to observe this full cycle from 2005 to 2026 to see if we have truly progressed, or if we have simply given 'disorder' a new, permanent name.This journey from 2005 to 2026 is now taking the shape of a book and research papers XOXO

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Blog da Fá - De tudo um pouco: Algumas fotos da festa de 1 ano da minha filhota Blog da Fá - De tudo um pouco: Algumas fotos da festa de 1 ano da minha filhota: Oi meninas como vão? Na foto acima, fiz as lembrancinhas com caixas de leite, acho que fiz em torno de 30 lembrancinhas, peguei a caixa ... xxx

Through the Lens of Memories: An Engagement, Boundless Love, and That Precious Blessing

Date: March 2, 2026 This morning, while cleaning for Holi, I happened to pick up an old photo album. Time and dampness had left their mark on it, and a few loose photographs slipped out. Among them was this picture from my son’s engagement, dated April 2, 2012. In the photo, my son, daughter-in-law, daughter,my niece and me all are seated together, sharing a smile. While it looks like a simple family portrait, it holds within it a profound story of service and respect that touches my heart even today.

A Memorable Afternoon and the Warmth of Relationships My mother was a part of our joy that day. Since she could not walk without support, my son and his friend manually assisted her to the hotel room in Delhi, which had been booked by my son’s in-laws. The room was arranged with tea and refreshments for us. Soon, it was time for lunch in the hotel hall. Since my mother had a very light appetite and the struggle of moving with support remained, we decided to let her rest in the room, thinking we would return quickly for the engagement rituals after our meal. However, when we returned, what we heard from her—and the sheer joy and satisfaction we saw on her face—won our hearts completely. An Exemplary Display of Values and Service My mother was exceptionally happy. She told us that in our absence, my daughter-in-law’s brother took immense care of her. He visited the room repeatedly, serving her juice, snacks, and lunch. Beyond that, he had even stationed a lady attendant there specifically to assist her with the washroom or any other needs. It was a beautiful beginning to a new relationship, where the focus was not just on the rituals, but on the comfort and dignity of the elders. A Priceless Legacy and Farewell On January 9, 2013, my mother left us forever. I remember those days vividly; I used to work on my computer with her sitting right next to me in another chair. I would feed her small bites with a spoon every few minutes. That day, while sitting there, she couldn't quite swallow a morsel, and she simply closed her eyes. My son, who had come home from his showroom for lunch, immediately moved her to the floor and tried to give her artificial respiration, but she looked as if she had drifted into a peaceful, blissful sleep. Her breath did not return. The doctor arrived within ten minutes, but she had already passed away. During those final nine months of her life, I stayed by her side like a 24-hour nurse. At night, my niece, who was then studying Computer Engineering, performed her duties beautifully by assisting her with the washroom and other needs. My daughter was living in Delhi at the time of her passing. Today, this picture is not just a reminder of an event; it is a testament to the love, service, and respect that binds our family together.

"That priceless blessing, which stays with us through every joy and sorrow." Closing Note: As I look back today, I realize that relationships are built not just on rituals, but on the profound respect and care we show for one another—especially in times of need. My mother is no longer with us, but her values and that satisfied smile remain the greatest legacy of our family. Do you also have a cherished memory of your elders that has touched your heart? I would love to hear your stories in the comments below.