Against the Odds: A Journey of Unwavering Determination
Maya’s early years were shaped by loss and perseverance. Losing her father at the tender age of four, she faced numerous struggles, but her resolve to succeed never wavered. One of her fondest memories from childhood is receiving an HMT watch named “Asha” as a reward for academic excellence. “I still have that watch. It reminded me that hard work pays off,” she recalls fondly.
Although she aspired to become a doctor, societal norms and a lack of opportunities for girls in science education at the time forced her to take a different path. Instead, she pursued Political Science and later earned a B.Ed. Despite these obstacles, her determination kept her moving forward. She proved that with persistence, no challenge is insurmountable.
Beyond the Studio: From VIP Interviews to the Front Lines
Maya dedicated 38 years to All India Radio (AIR), retiring as an Assistant Director and a senior broadcaster. Her role was far more than just a job it was a journey of storytelling and impact. She interviewed countless VIPs and VVIPs, often traveling to their homes and offices for exclusive recordings. One of her proudest moments was visiting the President’s House multiple times, a testament to the credibility and respect she had earned over the years.
However, her most defining professional moment came in 1999 when she voluntarily covered the Kargil War. Defying initial restrictions, she took the bold step to report from the war zone, witnessing firsthand the sacrifices of soldiers. “Going to a war zone and coming back alive it changes you,” she reflects. The experience left her with a profound appreciation for the bravery of soldiers and a reinforced belief that journalism is about service, not just storytelling.
Working at AIR instilled in her a strong sense of discipline and punctuality. “There was no room for delays every broadcast had to start on time. It was a lesson in responsibility,” she explains.
Financial Independence and Owning Your Decisions
Maya firmly believes that financial independence is key, especially for women. She was raised with the belief that a person should never depend on others for their livelihood. “If you don’t have money, no one will ask you anything,” she states. Determined to secure a stable future, she worked relentlessly to secure a government job, ensuring her financial security.
Reflecting on her past, she regrets not having control over her marriage decision, reinforcing her belief that everyone should have the freedom to make their own choices. “If you make a mistake, it should be your own. If you make the right choice, it should be yours too,” she explains. She urges young women to build their own financial security and never compromise their ambitions.
Maya dedicated 38 years to All India Radio (AIR), retiring as an Assistant Director and a senior broadcaster. Her role was far more than just a job it was a journey of storytelling and impact. She interviewed countless VIPs and VVIPs, often traveling to their homes and offices for exclusive recordings. One of her proudest moments was visiting the President’s House multiple times, a testament to the credibility and respect she had earned over the years.
However, her most defining professional moment came in 1999 when she voluntarily covered the Kargil War. Defying initial restrictions, she took the bold step to report from the war zone, witnessing firsthand the sacrifices of soldiers. “Going to a war zone and coming back alive it changes you,” she reflects. The experience left her with a profound appreciation for the bravery of soldiers and a reinforced belief that journalism is about service, not just storytelling.
Working at AIR instilled in her a strong sense of discipline and punctuality. “There was no room for delays every broadcast had to start on time. It was a lesson in responsibility,” she explains.
Financial Independence and Owning Your Decisions
Maya firmly believes that financial independence is key, especially for women. She was raised with the belief that a person should never depend on others for their livelihood. “If you don’t have money, no one will ask you anything,” she states. Determined to secure a stable future, she worked relentlessly to secure a government job, ensuring her financial security.
Reflecting on her past, she regrets not having control over her marriage decision, reinforcing her belief that everyone should have the freedom to make their own choices. “If you make a mistake, it should be your own. If you make the right choice, it should be yours too,” she explains. She urges young women to build their own financial security and never compromise their ambitions.
.jpg "Hand-knitted floral embroidered sweater and gloves with embroidery tools.")
Rediscovering Joy: Hobbies, Family, and the Art of Growing Together
While many feel lost in retirement, Maya sees it as a new beginning. After 38 years of work, including two years in the Home Ministry, she now spends time rediscovering hobbies she had once set aside. She finds joy in gardening, knitting, canvas painting, embroidery, and crochet. Currently, she is knitting a sweater for her son and cultivating vegetables in her terrace garden, which has become her sanctuary.
This period has also given her the opportunity to strengthen her bond with family. “Retirement should not create a gap between generations. We should adjust and grow together,” she says. She also values the importance of staying updated in today’s digital world and is actively learning how to navigate online platforms, ensuring she remains engaged and independent.
Open to New Experiences: The Value of Unexpected Adventures
Life often surprises us with unexpected opportunities, and Maya experienced one such moment in 1982 during the 10th Asian Games. As a college student, she was selected for traffic management training under the renowned Kiran Bedi. She fondly remembers standing at the outskirts of Rajghat, managing traffic, and even sharing tea breaks with Kiran Bedi herself. “It was an unexpected adventure, and I loved every moment of it,” she smiles.
These small yet significant experiences reinforced her belief that life is full of learning opportunities, and one should always be open to new experiences.
Lifelong Learning and Staying Curious
Maya’s thirst for knowledge has never diminished. Since childhood, she has had a habit of reading newspapers, General Knowledge (GK) books, and asking questions to elders. She recalls how she would often sit with her uncle, discussing government jobs and education, a habit that helped shape her intellect. Even today, she enjoys exploring new ideas, proving that learning has no age limit.
She also emphasizes the importance of staying disciplined and punctual. “Throughout my life, I have never been late anywhere. Punctuality is a mark of respect—for yourself and others,” she asserts.
Sukoon Unlimited: Finding Purpose in Community
In retirement, Maya has found fulfillment in Sukoon Unlimited, a community that connects, supports, and empowers senior citizens. Through Sukoon, she has built friendships, learned new skills, and found a renewed sense of purpose. “Retirement is not an end—it’s a transition into a new, exciting chapter,” she says. https://sukoonunlimited.com/ reminds seniors like Maya that there is always more to explore, more to learn, and more ways to contribute to society.
Maya’s journey is a story of strength, passion, and lifelong learning. She is a shining example that no matter where life takes you, with courage and determination, you can continue to grow, inspire, and make a difference.
While many feel lost in retirement, Maya sees it as a new beginning. After 38 years of work, including two years in the Home Ministry, she now spends time rediscovering hobbies she had once set aside. She finds joy in gardening, knitting, canvas painting, embroidery, and crochet. Currently, she is knitting a sweater for her son and cultivating vegetables in her terrace garden, which has become her sanctuary.
This period has also given her the opportunity to strengthen her bond with family. “Retirement should not create a gap between generations. We should adjust and grow together,” she says. She also values the importance of staying updated in today’s digital world and is actively learning how to navigate online platforms, ensuring she remains engaged and independent.
Open to New Experiences: The Value of Unexpected Adventures
Life often surprises us with unexpected opportunities, and Maya experienced one such moment in 1982 during the 10th Asian Games. As a college student, she was selected for traffic management training under the renowned Kiran Bedi. She fondly remembers standing at the outskirts of Rajghat, managing traffic, and even sharing tea breaks with Kiran Bedi herself. “It was an unexpected adventure, and I loved every moment of it,” she smiles.
These small yet significant experiences reinforced her belief that life is full of learning opportunities, and one should always be open to new experiences.
Lifelong Learning and Staying Curious
Maya’s thirst for knowledge has never diminished. Since childhood, she has had a habit of reading newspapers, General Knowledge (GK) books, and asking questions to elders. She recalls how she would often sit with her uncle, discussing government jobs and education, a habit that helped shape her intellect. Even today, she enjoys exploring new ideas, proving that learning has no age limit.
She also emphasizes the importance of staying disciplined and punctual. “Throughout my life, I have never been late anywhere. Punctuality is a mark of respect—for yourself and others,” she asserts.
Sukoon Unlimited: Finding Purpose in Community
In retirement, Maya has found fulfillment in Sukoon Unlimited, a community that connects, supports, and empowers senior citizens. Through Sukoon, she has built friendships, learned new skills, and found a renewed sense of purpose. “Retirement is not an end—it’s a transition into a new, exciting chapter,” she says. https://sukoonunlimited.com/ reminds seniors like Maya that there is always more to explore, more to learn, and more ways to contribute to society.
Maya’s journey is a story of strength, passion, and lifelong learning. She is a shining example that no matter where life takes you, with courage and determination, you can continue to grow, inspire, and make a difference.
0 Comments