Karishma’s life has been a testament to resilience and determination, shaped significantly by her early losses. After losing her father when she was just a baby, she turned to her mother, who raised Karishma alongside her four siblings with unwavering love. However, tragedy struck again when her mother passed away, leaving Karishma to navigate her future without the guiding light of the woman who inspired her dreams of becoming a chef.
“Misfortune shattered my dream,” Karishma reflected, recognizing the deep impact of her losses. Yet, amidst the grief, she found a spark of hope. Inspired by her mother’s teachings to ignore negativity and work hard, Karishma resolved to rise again. “I had to stand on my own two feet,” she said, affirming her decision to build a life that would honor her mother’s memory.
Today, Karishma resides in Naria, near Rakiraki Town, where she supports her family by selling eggs, potatoes, onions, garlic, and spices at the local market. Despite the challenges of her day-to-day life, with early mornings that start at 3 a.m. to prepare meals for her family and the demands of market life, she maintains an optimistic spirit. “Times are hard. There are good days and bad days,” she admits, yet her hope remains undeterred. “I don’t see myself selling eggs forever. I want my own place. I want to be independent — just the way my mum would have wanted.”
Karishma’s journey has not been solitary; she credits her elder sister as her mentor and guiding force. With gratitude, she recounts how her sister offers advice and support, encouraging her to focus on her aspirations. Even in the face of obstacles, Karishma prioritizes her household responsibilities while nurturing her passion for cooking, particularly enjoying dishes like lamb curry.
Her personal diary, filled with hopes and dreams, serves as a sanctuary for her emotions and aspirations, capturing her belief that a future filled with possibilities awaits her. Every time she lays out her produce at the market, she is reminded of her culinary dreams and the life she envisions beyond her current circumstances.
Karishma Devi’s story stands as a compelling narrative of empowerment. Even after enduring significant loss, her unwavering spirit shines brightly, illustrating that through hard work and perseverance, one can overcome adversity and hold on to dreams. Like many young women featured in similar stories, she reflects a broader theme of resilience found among vendors and those supporting their families in challenging economic conditions. These tales of strength underscore the vital role of community and determination in transforming challenges into opportunities for growth and success.