Testing Times

Youth of yesteryears knew how to play Volleyball, and which incidentally involved much more than a click of the mouse. The exercise involved the muscles, emotions, sweat and above all .. passion.

Once upon a time man had time for himself without having a Swanky Swatch on his hands

In an increasingly competitive world where the worth of an individual is evaluated by the number of degrees (inclusive of degree of tolerance, patience and the ability to withstand frustration) he has, time constraints has made major realignment of one's schedule.

In schools sports happens to be an imperative part of the course curriculum. But, once you are out of this institution, you are left juggling with the limited number of hours available. The life starts revolving around college, tuitions, exams, coaching center, computer courses, and part-time jobs. This list is not exhaustive.

The young brigade is not only bothered about a stable future but believes in financing his future plans himself. Hence, the part-time jobs.

These jobs not only provide a decent pocket money but also help in building contacts, which in turn lead to better job prospects.

Most of the young brigade if financing the college himself and post getting a decent paying job, I am saving for my further studies.

This attitude has led sports and any form of outdoor activity to the altar. The schedule of this self-propelled, idealist youth would put any of the elder generation to shame.

'My day starts at 5:30 in the morning. After my tuitions I rush home, change and then reach office by 10. My office hour lasts till 8 in the night. After my office I have another set of tuitions till 10 in the night. I have to go through this rigorous routine till I finish my course.' says Yogendra pursuing his further course in computers along with the job.

One of the reasons behind this spurt of heightened consciousness is the burgeoning course fee, be it of any stream. ..and if you want to make it big then you simply cannot afford to forgo these courses. In the present cutthroat competitive scenario, if you can't get rid of the evil then you have to find means to be able to finance the same.

These kids have got the real taste of life. They have started early. Even before finishing college. Due to the lax attendance requirements in almost all the colleges, many students just land up for their exams. But, this does not mean that they are taking it easy.

Amrita working as a receptionist in a reputed firm is a second year college student. Amidst juggling with numbers throughout the day she has her college course material on her table.

'It's not all that difficult. After reaching home I have a few hours left for myself, in which I generally go through whatever I had covered in the day but with a little more concentration..' says Amrita.

A salute to your spirit, your commitment and your ability to mold yourself in face of adversity, young brigade.

After the entire trauma and the travails you definitely deserve a bright future.