Age – 12 years

Grade – 3

Family Situation – Lost his Dad. Mom and his youngest sister in Central Jail. Two elder brothers , one younger brother and two younger sisters are scattered in different parts of South India.

Dharmarajan gives me a quick recap of his life. He fondly remembers his family and hopes to reunite with them one day. His family is scattered around ever since his mom and elder brother were arrested by the police. His mom and brother, both of them rag pickers, were allegedly sent to central jail for stealing. He narrates to me that fateful day in his life. He had to take care of his one month old infant sister who was left in his care by his mom. He couldn't stop her from crying. He tried feeding her from the plastic milk packet, but to no avail. He distinctly remembers the that smile on his sister's face when she was finally fed by his mother. Dharmarajan philosophizes that life has both ugly and fond memories and the ugly memories can scar you for life. So when ever he is feeling down, he remembers his sister's smile and that acts like an instant mood-lifter.

Dharmarajan proudly says that he is quite famous around Rafeeq's shop in Perumbavoor. “Every body knows me there. I used to supply tea at the nearby offices.” He has also worked in a studio there and hopes to become a professional photographer and start his own studio. This eloquent boy was confident that he will learn the skills very soon and be able to make big bucks. Big bucks in his words meant around Rupees four thousand. While leaving me, he told me that he has a lot more to say and his story can take up many books. As a parting note he tells me to share his stories with others so that others can find inspiration. I promise him to do the same and leave him to play with his friends.