#small village business ideas in india

[newbusinessideas]

Small Business Ideas in Village - Top 15 Shop Business Ideas

🌟 "Your future starts here! Dive into these Top 15 Small Shop Business Ideas for Village and Rural Areas and turn your vision into success. 🚀 Follow us for more!" #VillageBusinessIdeas #SmallShopOpportunities #RuralEntrepreneurship #BusinessStartupIdeas

Today 70% of India’s population lives in villages, and employment has always been a problem in rural India, but now things are changing due to government pressure and entrepreneurial spirit. Today, many small business ideas in village are being promoted to increase employment generation. So doing small business in villages can be a great opportunity. And, if you are from a rural or village area…

[johnbrand]

Screen Froze

Podcasting had become inescapable in recent years. Everyone seemed to have an opinion on...well everything. Politics, world sports, cooking, an obscure movie from 1978 only released in a now-extinct language. If it could be covered, it would be. And one could find this content anywhere across the internet. Youtube, social media, even streaming services promoted their podcasters. Everyone was watching everyone talking. 

Of course, with so many different podcasters flying about, it was difficult to actually spot out talent. And from a sociologically micro perspective, it was even harder for individuals to find podcasters discussing the content they actually wanted to hear about. The more unique the niche, the less people one could happen upon to be talking about it during their recorded stream of consciousness. It was a simple formula, but it forced individuals to browse for hours or even days to find what they were searching for.

Sometimes though, people could not hold such patience. They would not wait for their new hero, a disciple preaching their values and morals to audiences around the globe. They would skip past one livestream discussing the economics of green villages in Switzerland to the next debating the potential existence between a minor character in two separate fandom universes. They could even perhaps land into a podcast like Sean’s.

“Most people just don’t understand the Soviet Union’s impact on architecture,” the measly, pale nerd innocently commented. A little shy in front of the camera, he was only able to relax a bit when discussing his favorite topics. Sean dressed in theme too, wearing a brutalist-like business casual outfit, a trait his small but dedicated fanbase adored.

“There were a lot of architects that really shaped this movement from all around the world,” Sean continued. “But today, we are just going to focus on those from the USSR.”

So what happened when one’s patience dried up? Well, everything was brought to a halt.

DragonHeart49: anyone else’s screen freeze? superduperloverboy: mine too <3bitsandmore: sean, I think ur glitching out

With the screen frozen, our impatient soul could now get to work. If one could not find the podcast they were looking for, then why not just create their own? Obviously, this did not mean constructing a podcast themselves, but rather alter the fabric of reality and completely realign another’s being to their preferred state. That was much easier.

Physical modifications were made first. A much larger body was necessary, something that demanded confidence and respect from others. Juicy pecs, rippling abs, sturdy legs. There was always something unreasonably fun in bloating the podcaster’s feet up a few sizes. An imposing frame to be craved by others, even when hidden underneath clothes, was priority. And speaking of clothes, those were quickly stripped down to less formal articles. Expensive branded tee, athletic shorts so small that boxer-briefs were visible, classic white Nike socks, all of it much more respectable than a button-up and tie.

This was not the impatient soul’s first time altering a podcaster to their liking, nor would it be their last. Physically at least, each of the end products were a little different. All alpha males, but just enough variation to not warrant any unnecessary rumors. This particular podcaster had his pre-American heritage redirected from France to India, the features in the screenshot tanning accordingly as a dark stubble acquainted itself along the sharper jawline. Of course, the bulge was accurately enlarged for geographical standards too.

Mentally however, all the podcasters could be considered copies. They each spoke of the same rhetoric, theories, and ideologies that our impatient soul wanted to hear. No matter how “backwards” or “hateful” their discussions were deemed as, nearly anything could be said by hulking bodies with undeniable charisma.

“These homos have no idea what they’re talking about!” Sanjay raged as the podcast restarted, his deep voice cocky and assertive. "Sure bro, I was just thinkin’ about a girl’s rack I saw earlier today but there's more to a girl than big tits. There's a tight pussy too!”

The chat section lit off with encouragement, their fates too having been altered.

MassiveFART69: you tell them fags bro! LOL XD crassmassschlongnator: we want to BREED THEM TOO!!!! <3TITSGALORE: JUST TALKIN ABOUT IT ALREADY GOT SANJAY GRABBIN HIMSELF AGAIN

Sanjay vacantly looked down, finding himself already subconsciously scratching at the thick bush within his shorts. He let out a hot protein fart followed by a laugh, his scratching slowly extending into groping his fat 8 inch babymaker.

“God, that was WET bros!” Sanjay applauded himself, his free massive hand swallowing the mic. “Anyway, I’ll catch you on the flip side dudes, gotta go hit the gym. Bros for life!”

There was a reason the traditional masculine movement was becoming stronger. Maybe it was because men were slowly aspiring to become the alphas’ equals, or because fags were beginning to submit to their nature. Or possibly, it could have been because each time a screen froze, reality was altered one click closer to traditional, normal masculinity.

[rabbitcruiser]

Small Business Saturday 

Small businesses often are overlooked by customers who are enticed by larger companies, and this can adversely affect the local economy in more negative ways than might appear on the surface level.

The rise of shopping malls and large chain stores such as Walmart and other retailers has caused irreversible damage to Main Street in the last half-century or so, and it’s paramount to remember the importance of supporting local small businesses.

After all, why should we not celebrate the spirit of enterprise and entrepreneurship, as exemplified by small business owners who take the risk of following their dreams?

After all, it’s a common thing for politicians to talk about supporting Main Street over big business, and how small business owners often face greater hardships than larger companies. Since Small Business Saturday is held on the Saturday following Thanksgiving Day, it falls right during the peak shopping periods of the year.

History of Small Business Saturday

The 1960s saw the rise of the American shopping mall, and the decades since have seen large chain retailers further cementing their position in terms of taking over the retail sphere and displacing smaller, family-run businesses.

This model has spread further throughout the world, and chain retailers have been usurping small businesses’ market share worldwide in the last few decades. That being said, the difference is most stark in countries like the US, where small businesses have often been obliterated within a year or two of some large chain retailer coming to town and opening up shop – in India and much of Southeast Asia, shopping malls coexist with small shops largely because they serve different markets – as has been noted in the past, the corner shop is not going anywhere anytime soon in India because customers can purchase items on credit, and that’s just something that you’ll never be able to do in a Walmart or BigBazaar.

In the United States, the context is different, though. Different economic realities combined with different cultural ideas about how small businesses operate has ultimately been more harmful to those businesses in developed countries than in developing economies. And with all of the odds stacked against them, small businesses in the US need a day in their honor.

Small Business Saturday is a relatively recent phenomenon – the first one was in Roslindale Village, Massachusetts in 2010 as a counterpart to Black Friday (which features big-box retailers, and its anti-consumerist counterpart, Buy Nothing Day targets big business).

Small Business Saturday was originally sponsored by American Express and the non-profit National Trust for Historic Preservation. From the very start, the day has been promoted through advertising on both social media and more traditional means such as television and radio advertisement. Since 2013, Small Business Saturday has also existed in the UK following the success of its American counterpart.

How to celebrate Small Business Saturday

You may be wondering how to celebrate Small Business Saturday since it is possible that you might have been lead to believe that small businesses are a thing of the past. That, however, is not true, and you can dispel such ignorance by observing Small Business Saturday.

As a consumer, you can choose to spend your money at local small businesses on this day rather than going to the big-box retailers at the local mall. After all, the best way to support small businesses is to go and spend money at them rather than somewhere else.

You can also tell your friends to do the same, perhaps making a point of organizing a shopping day where you only visit small, local enterprises instead of chain stores. While you may or may not end up paying more, it’s important to remember that spending your money at a small business generally puts more money into the local economy than if you’re spending that money in a chain store.

Some small business owners find that Small Business Saturday is a great time to run marketing promotions, as they can further capitalize on the increased foot traffic (from the already busy holiday shopping season), and on their online traffic.

If you own a small business, you can run some promotion for the day, and otherwise, put up a post on your Facebook page. If your small business does not have a Facebook page nor any other online presence, you should seriously consider taking Small Business Saturday to go ahead and do that. So support your local economy, and go out and buy things from a small business today.

Source

[mad4india1]

4 Gipsies Started My Pahadi Dukan From Zero, Now Funded By OYO Founder Ritesh Agarwal Along With Many Others

The summit is what drives us, but the climb itself is what matters.”  – Conrad Anker.

The mountains possess an enchanting allure that beckons to our souls, murmuring captivating tales of adventure and unexplored possibilities. And this very pull leads some to places where they transform their lives and even impact thousands of others. For one remarkable individual hailing from an average and humble background, the magnetic pull of the Himalayas proved irresistible, leading him on an extraordinary journey and he named it “my Pahadi dukan”.

The story of Himanshu Dua, who happens to be the co-founder and CEO of “My Pahadi  Dukan,” which is a unique e-commerce store, is one of those real stories that have origins in the mountains and have impacted thousands of individuals living in the remotest areas of the Himalayas. It deserves to be told to the world.

 It is the story of Himanshu Dua and his three friends, who were wandering to find motivation, and they found their life goal in the mountains. Today, he and his three friends, Shubham Tandon, Mohammed Anas Zubair, and Rohan Sehgal, have created a platform called ” My Pahadi Dukan” where people from far away in the mountains are able to showcase their products not only to the people living in India but also to an international audience and make a better living.

 The Journey of Himanshu Dua from a Student to “My Pahadi Dukan “ Founder

Dua belongs to Bahadurgarh, which is a small town in Haryana. He graduated from the botany field and holds a master’s degree in forensic science from Delhi University. However, since his childhood, he has been exposed to travel. During his school days, he got the opportunity to visit Leh, Ladakh. 

The awe-inspiring landscapes of Leh and Ladakh seemingly whisper their enchantment to him, forever captivating his heart and igniting and seeding an unwavering passion for their tranquil beauty and the simple people living there. 

A Prodigy of our own, Phunsukh Wangdun( AKA “3 Idiots” famous character) institute

Apart from his degrees, he has also done 2 fellowships at the Himalayan Institute of Alternative Ladakh(HIAL), which is famous for its founder, Sonam Wangchuk, the person on whom the fictional character of Phunsukh Wangdun in the 2009 film ‘3 Idiots was conceptualized and played by Mr. Perfectionist Amiri Khan. It seems “Himanshu” took the lesson “Knowledge ke piche bhago, success jak marte huye piche aayegi” (Gain knowledge and success will come automatically) seriously and put his soul and sweat into finding something where he can make a difference in people’s lives.

How did the Idea of My Pahadi Dukan come into existence

So he came up with the idea of opening an e-commerce store dedicated to selling these hidden treasures from remote villages to domestic and international customers. This idea was original and had the power to transform people’s lives by allowing them to earn money simultaneously.

 Himanshu and his co-founders felt it was a great opportunity to create something sustainable and profitable. Naturally, their first motivation was to create something to help people living in these regions. And boy, have they delivered? Today, their startup has the backing of IIT Mandi Catalyst, Mr. Ritesh Agarwal from Oyo Rooms at IIM Kashipur, and they have secured financing from the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare.

What products do they sell, and where are they sourced from?

The platform has a customer satisfaction rate of almost 98%, and they are able to dispatch their products all over the world, including India, because of their unique style of working, where they take preorders as well as deliver fruits and other products in good shape by using vacuum -free packing.

 What is” My Pahadi Dukan “  aiming for in the future?

He concedes that there are challenges, and maintaining a business is not a small task. However, he thinks his ideas are noble, his efforts are honest, and he will accomplish his targets in the future. And he has no reason not to think in this manner and aim for the sky. Because his passion is pure and his purpose is noble, and with the knowledge and support of partners and co-workers, “My Pahadi Dukan” will undoubtedly fly high.

[newagesurvivalist]

I am what I am

The world is a dangerous place. People undertake a variety of actions and make a great deal of plans. But, we don't know what anything really means; we are swept up in the ebb and flow of business and politics, and at no point are we ever solidly at rest - calm, and under control. Everything is insane; however, there will be moments in which we are tested, and in these moments dignity of character will be of the utmost importance. What I want to do is philosophize for while, to understand and expound upon the values that make our lives worth living; and furthermore to state the obvious, so as to make us aware of that unchanging and indomitable law of nature that dominates our doings. Finally, I wish to connect this to that great truth of life: that the goal of life is to make a living, a saying from Kierkegaard.

First of all, there is a value in life that has been quothed by the ancient Greeks over and over: that the greatest wisdom is to know oneself. This has been interpreted to mean: to know one's measure. However, I feel this is a kind of inappropriate interpretation of it. For since, we see that it is really a practical dictum. A man is then said to be able to do whatever he wants, if he knows himself to be in some way limited; but I see that a man needs to know many more things, such as where his talents lie and what he likes to do, and how strong he is under duress and what he aspires for: these are continuously suppressing notions, that make one reconsider his entire world-view. On the contrary, there is even a consideration from the Orient, where Master Tsu says that one must know himself in war. "Know oneself, know one's enemy." These are similarly weighty considerations, because in truth it seems it is all too easy to submit to the old rule that to measure something is to know it. We ought to keep rethinking the old systems of morality, and thereby begin to understand that it is, in fact, to know one's quality, what makes a man truly strong: for if he knows he is eminently gifted, he need not worry about challenges, but if he is handicapped, he must certainly know how to compensate for these faults. That is enough on the first value.

On the second point, I'd wish to think again on the problem of the One and the Many. Spiritual teachers have stressed, especially in India, that the One is actually the Godhead, and permeates the entire universe in a kind of caleidoscopic way; and everything that exists, exists actually only as God, and has no meaning outside of its divinity: the famous adage "That art thou." Now we see that this is fundamentally a social notion. We tend to see it as important that one man, one vision, is superior to confused and manifold ones. So it is in fact a certainty, that the righteousness of the enlightened despot's vision is found in all layers of social reform, and the best men all agree on who should rule, and by extension, what politic is best for society. This idea, even, of "one world", in which every little villager is just a small cog in the immense harmony of the world, is a potent notion, that influences many a reformer or prophet. But what is going on is that individuals can decide for themselves what to do and what to desire, and they believe in the end in the religion that most aligns with their feeling of home and hearth, and the superiority of this tribe over some other. Therefore, I will say that our search for a perfect quintessence that somehow allows us be united with God in some greater consciousness, is really just the dream of a technocratic state, in which no work is done, but all are under the control of some deranged genius. In this way, we should remember that the thou art that, or all is one paradigm is in fact an admonishment, not to search for the inner workings of all specimens, but nothing less or more than the hope for honest labour, in a just and fair, well-governed state. I leave it at that, and move on to the next point.

For the third subject of consideration, I will, finally, discuss the idea of authenticity, or self-possession. In a memoir I tried to write, I settled on this term as the principal criterium for my own success in terms of mental and ecological health. Self-possession, then, is really the playing of one's own part, rather than someone else's, on the theatre of life: the beholding of the essence, or perhaps we might say God again. Nota bene, that this Godhead is not the God of the Indians, that we can know and that knows us and that unites wisdom and desire in one ultimate moment of peace and equanimity. This, rather, is the God of Judeo-Christian heritage, that was uplifted by Jesus and then made the arbiter of good and evil, and shows us what is perfect in us and the only, spiritual goal in life that is honest compared too all debauched goals that the world offers us. In other words, a man is not truly himself, unless he has, as Christ says, denied himself, and become a servant of the immortal God. I will add that it is in fact one's function to be at the disposal of the machine of the Kingdom, but it is, of course, not a machine in the data-driven, computational sense of a robot or calculator, but rather, truly, a clock such as the universe itself is, presided by the Great King. In other words, a man is not so much expected to be a cog, again, in this great machine, but rather to be responsible, to be an agent of the working order of the universe that is presided by the Lord, in which constant faith in the wisdom of the Word is logical, lucrative and adequate for human satisfaction in this great system of trade and conflict that dominates over the wishes of his pagan heart. In summary, a man must be himself, and act as himself, that is to say revel in the glory of God as a function of God's immortal Will, that permeates everything; so, simply put, he must appreciate the gifts God has given him, and use them for the completion of his designs. That is the ground of self-action, or self-responsibility. With that, I end by disquisition.

Now what is clearly going on is that man is never in charge of his life, but always moving after the goals of mightier men. Tragic as that may seem, I daresay this gives some life to his otherwise static existence. It is lonely at the top. I am not saying a man should desire for having a boss, but it is certainly a dynamic that gives weight to his own meaning, for there is no greater rulership than to serve the state. When this state is actively embodied in some social fact, such as a king, that might be excellent for us. It is the most satisfactory thing in life to have things be as they are thought to be when there is hope, and in this sense, Empire is the true fulfillment of hope, and its most solemn expression. For all that, Empire continues to exploit and demean people in their struggle for recognition, but we cannot act as if it is all right that the rich get richer in laissez-faire systems of wealth-accretion. I don't know anything about economics, but I will say that there is no virtue in material wealth-hoarding and banking, and these seem to be the pillars of the American system; and it is opposed to the radical Empire that I fantasize about. There must be social change for emancipation to be realized in a fettered world. On the other hand, it would seem that the few people still capable of making the world worthy and dignified are, in fact, paralysed by systems of wealth-accretion. In fine, we must place power back in the hands of the aristocracy. Then there may be some relief from the confusion and empty money-mongering that we see on Earth today.

Now we may wish to keep things as they are. Our lives seem relatively free, and we can do whatever we want and there is no immediate oppression we have to cope with. We can choose whatever job we like and do it, and get a large degree of satisfaction from that - because, so it seems, we get to do something that contributes to the continued and increasing wellfare of all of mankind. But is that really true? It seems to me that in what we have discussed today it really is unfair for us to expect that we will ever get peace on Earth in this sallow, meaningless treadmill in which we are forcing ourselves. For us finite beings, with finite capacities, the only things we can hope for in life is to be part of some greater purpose under the heavens. Although there is no truly righteous man to be found in the cities of the West, we dream nevertheless of some more perfect or generous organization that truly works for the improvement of the human lot in life. I don't know what is truly necessary for a man to live life in peace and reward, but frankly the only thing that we see on the horizon is disaster. Yet there might be some resolution we can make, in our finitude, that will allow us to make the start for a more meaningful, more harmonious world.

I cannot answer that question. I am not a spiritual master. But I have said much today and I wish to conclude in a happy and optimistic fashion, so that we may look to the next day with a degree of tranquility. - It seems then that the current world is broken, but the values from the past still speak to us, and we may be able to unite them somehow in a virtuous system. I daresay that is the rallying cry for the new spirituality: to translate philosophies built around antiquated values, and then make them work in a modern, medically sound system of virtue, that people can work towards. Maybe there will be moments in which some appeal to the heavens will return in common parlance, and that is only natural. Nevertheless, I think that men should strive to comport themselves in this grand system of competing entrepeneurs that we call modern society, and do what they can to make the world make sense again. Because to me it seems that we have not managed to realize stoic values, and are now adrift, and we need new system of knowledge, but in the modern spirituality, knowledge can no longer be separated from politics, and we must somehow translate terrific notions from the past into everlasting, durable values that have some connection to the horror of statecraft. In the end, all that matters is that a man can look himself in the mirror and can sleep at night, and I think that only self-reflection can help in this regard. So long.

[legalman1]

Unlock New Business Opportunities with the PMEGP Scheme.

Introduction

Brief introduction to the PMEGP Scheme (Prime Minister's Employment Generation Programme).

Aim of the scheme: promote self-employment and small businesses in rural and urban areas.

Highlight the benefits of the scheme for entrepreneurs and the broader economy.

What is PMEGP?

Explain that PMEGP Scheme is a credit-linked subsidy program introduced by the Government of India.

Aim: Generate employment opportunities by supporting micro-enterprises and small-scale industries.

Administered by the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) and managed by the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) at the national level.

Key Benefits of the PMEGP Scheme

Financial Assistance

Subsidies ranging from 15% to 35% based on applicant’s category and location (higher subsidies for rural and special categories).

Employment Generation

Job creation in both urban and rural sectors.

Encouragement of Entrepreneurship

Support for individuals with innovative business ideas who lack capital.

Promotion of Sustainable Businesses

Focus on eco-friendly and traditional industries.

Who is Eligible for the PMEGP Scheme?

Eligibility Criteria

Individuals aged 18 or above.

Educational qualifications (minimum 8th grade) required for projects above ₹10 lakh in manufacturing or ₹5 lakh in the service sector.

Special categories: SC/ST/OBC/Minorities, Women, Ex-servicemen, Differently abled persons.

NGOs, Self-Help Groups (SHGs), and charitable trusts also qualify.

How Does PMEGP Work?

Loan Subsidy

Based on a combination of bank loans and subsidies; no collateral required for loans up to ₹10 lakh.

Subsidy and Loan Contribution

Breakdown of subsidy percentages and bank contributions.

Repayment Terms

Details of interest rates, tenure, and repayment flexibility.

Types of Projects Supported

Projects in sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, rural industries, and traditional crafts.

Examples of business activities eligible under the scheme:

Food processing, textiles, handicrafts, carpentry, service sector activities like tourism, etc.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for PMEGP

Prepare a Project Plan

Importance of a detailed project report.

Register Online

Step-by-step guide to applying on the PMEGP e-portal.

Submit the Application

Required documents, including ID proof, project report, and category certificates.

Approval Process

Role of KVIC and banks in the approval and disbursal process.

Receiving the Subsidy

Explanation of when and how the subsidy is credited.

Common Challenges and Tips for Success

Possible issues with documentation, project rejection, or delay in approval.

Tips to overcome challenges:

Craft a strong business plan.

Seek guidance from local KVIC offices or online resources.

Ensure compliance with PMEGP guidelines.

Why Choose Legalman for PMEGP Application Assistance?

Overview of Legalman’s support services for PMEGP Scheme applicants.

Benefits of professional assistance: faster application process, error-free documentation, and project planning guidance.

Conclusion

Recap of PMEGP Scheme as a stepping stone for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Encouragement to take the first step and explore Legalman’s PMEGP support services.

[appencesoftwaresolution]

The Story of Aryan: From Dreamer to Digital Entrepreneur with Appence Software Solutions

In a small town nestled in the heart of India, lived a young man named Aryan. Like many other youngsters, Aryan had big dreams but limited opportunities. He was passionate about technology and always believed in the power of the internet. He spent hours on his phone, scrolling through success stories, watching how people turned their ideas into businesses and built their futures online.

However, Aryan didn’t have a clear idea of how to start. The idea of launching something on his own seemed overwhelming. He didn’t have a product, a business plan, or even the necessary technical skills to bring his dreams to life. He watched others succeed but didn’t know where to begin.

The Turning Point: A Visit to Appence Software Solutions

One afternoon, Aryan attended a local tech seminar hosted by Appence Software Solutionsin Bareilly. The event was filled with stories of how small businesses had transformed through digital solutions. One story in particular caught Aryan’s attention—an artisan from a nearby village who had built an online store for his handcrafted products and achieved great success. This artisan had partnered with Appence Software Solutions to develop his platform, market his brand online, and connect with a global audience.

This was Aryan's lightbulb moment. He realized that his passion for technology could be the foundation of his own entrepreneurial journey. That day, Aryan approached the team at Appence Software Solutions and shared his desire to build a digital business, although he still lacked a concrete idea.

The Journey Begins: Building a Platform

The team at Appence Software Solutions listened to Aryan’s dreams and offered to guide him step by step. They introduced him to various digital business models—e-commerce, mobile apps, digital marketing, and more. With their help, Aryan decided to launch an e-commerce platform for youth-driven fashion and accessories, catering to the trendy and creative tastes of his peers.

Appence Software Solutions provided Aryan with everything he needed: they designed a sleek, user-friendly website, optimized it for search engines (SEO), and helped him establish an effective social media presence. Aryan’s platform started small, but with the help of Appence’s digital marketing strategies, it quickly gained traction.

From Struggles to Success: Overcoming Challenges

The journey wasn’t easy. Aryan faced setbacks—low sales in the beginning, stiff competition from larger brands, and the ever-changing algorithms of social media platforms. But every time he faced a challenge, Appence Software Solutionsstood by him. They helped him adapt his marketing strategies, run targeted ads, and even improve the mobile version of his platform for a better user experience.

With persistence and the right support, Aryan's business began to grow. His unique offerings and strong digital presence made his brand stand out among the crowd. Soon, he was reaching customers not just in his town, but across the country.

The Breakthrough: Becoming a Digital Entrepreneur

In just a couple of years, Aryan’s platform exploded in popularity. His products became a favorite among young fashion enthusiasts. What had started as a dream became a thriving e-commerce business, generating revenue that Aryan could have never imagined. He was no longer the boy with vague dreams—he was now a digital entrepreneur.

Aryan’s success did not just bring financial rewards; it transformed his entire outlook on life. He became a role model for other youngsters in his town, inspiring them to explore opportunities in the digital world. Aryan began to mentor others, sharing his journey and encouraging them to pursue their dreams with determination.

The Power of Digital Transformation

Today, Aryan credits his success to the power of digital transformation and the unwavering support of Appence Software Solutions. What started as a visit to a tech seminar changed his life forever. Aryan is now a millionaire, running multiple online businesses, and all because he took that first step and partnered with the right people.

He continues to remind others, "The future belongs to those who dare to dream—and take action."

Moral of the Story:

This is not just a story of Aryan's success—it's a story of how digital transformation can turn anyone’s dreams into reality. With the right tools, guidance, and persistence, even the most impossible dreams can come true. All it takes is the courage to start, the determination to keep going, and a trusted partner like Appence Software Solutions to help you along the way.

[southgatetravels]

Discover the Freedom of Self-Drive Cars in Trivandrum

Trivandrum, the capital of Kerala, offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty, from stunning beaches like Kovalam to historical landmarks like Padmanabhaswamy Temple. To truly experience everything this dynamic city has to offer, self-drive car rentals are an ideal choice. Offering convenience, privacy, and flexibility, renting a Self Drive Cars in Trivandrum is an excellent way to explore the city at your own pace.

Why Choose Self-Drive Cars in Trivandrum?

Complete Freedom and Flexibility: One of the biggest advantages of renting a self-drive car is the freedom it offers. You can create your own schedule, explore offbeat locations, and travel to places that may not be easily accessible via public transportation. Whether you're visiting tourist spots or traveling to nearby destinations like Ponmudi, Varkala, or Neyyar Dam, a self-drive car gives you the flexibility to take spontaneous detours.

Cost-Effective Travel: Compared to hiring taxis or using ride-hailing services multiple times a day, renting a self-drive car can often be more affordable, especially for long journeys or multi-day trips. Many rental services offer competitive pricing and flexible plans, allowing you to choose a vehicle that suits your budget and needs.

Privacy and Comfort: When you rent a self-drive car, you enjoy the privacy of your own vehicle. This is particularly beneficial for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers who want the comfort of a personal space without having to share rides with others. You can listen to your own music, make stops whenever you like, and travel without interruptions.

Explore Beyond the City Limits: Trivandrum is surrounded by scenic getaways like Ponmudi Hill Station, Varkala Beach, and the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, all of which are best explored by car. A self-drive rental allows you to plan day trips to these destinations without the hassle of arranging public transport or waiting for taxis.

Wide Range of Vehicles: Self-drive car rental services in Trivandrum offer a diverse selection of vehicles, from compact cars for city exploration to spacious SUVs for family trips. You can choose a vehicle that best fits your requirements, whether it’s a small car for easy parking in the city or a larger one for comfort on longer drives.

Top Places to Explore with a Self-Drive Car in Trivandrum

Kovalam Beach: Just a short drive from the city center, Kovalam Beach is a must-visit for anyone in Trivandrum. Known for its golden sands, iconic lighthouse, and relaxing vibe, Kovalam is perfect for a day trip. With a self-drive car, you can visit at your convenience and spend as much time as you like without worrying about return transport.

Ponmudi Hill Station: Located about 60 kilometers from Trivandrum, Ponmudi offers a refreshing escape from the city’s tropical climate. The scenic drive through winding roads and lush green landscapes is an experience in itself. With a self-drive car, you can take breaks along the way and enjoy panoramic views.

Padmanabhaswamy Temple: One of the most famous temples in India, the Padmanabhaswamy Temple is a popular destination for both tourists and devotees. A self-drive car allows you to visit the temple at a time that’s convenient for you, avoiding the busy hours.

Veli Tourist Village: Veli Tourist Village is an excellent spot for families, offering boating, picnics, and children’s play areas. It’s located close to the city, and with a rental car, you can enjoy a relaxed outing without the hassle of coordinating public transport.

Agasthyakoodam Biosphere: Nature lovers will enjoy the biodiversity at Agasthyakoodam, one of the highest peaks in the Western Ghats. A self-drive car makes it easy to explore the area, whether you’re planning a trek or simply want to admire the surrounding greenery.

Tips for Renting Self-Drive Cars in Trivandrum

Compare Rental Prices: It’s always a good idea to compare prices from various rental services before booking. Look for discounts, special deals for longer rentals, and any hidden charges such as fuel costs or security deposits.

Choose the Right Vehicle: Depending on your travel plans, you may need different types of vehicles. If you're planning short city trips, a compact car is more convenient. However, for longer trips with family or for off-road drives, you might prefer an SUV.

Check for Add-Ons: Some car rental services offer additional features such as GPS navigation, child seats, or comprehensive insurance. If you need any of these, confirm with the rental provider beforehand to ensure a smooth experience.

Know the Traffic Rules: Be aware of the local traffic rules and road conditions in Trivandrum. Always carry a valid driver’s license, car rental documents, and follow speed limits and traffic signs.

Fuel and Maintenance: When renting a self-drive car, check if the vehicle comes with a full tank of fuel and whether you need to refill it before returning. Ensure the car is in good condition before driving and report any issues to the rental provider immediately.

Why Choose Southgate Travels for Self-Drive Car Rentals?

When it comes to renting a self-drive car in Trivandrum, Southgate Travels is a trusted and reliable service provider. Offering a variety of well-maintained vehicles at competitive prices, Southgate Travels ensures a smooth and hassle-free experience. Their online booking system is user-friendly, allowing you to reserve your car in advance and choose from flexible pick-up and drop-off locations, including at the Trivandrum International Airport.

With their 24/7 customer support and transparent pricing, Southgate Travels provides peace of mind for both tourists and locals looking for convenient transportation options. Whether you're looking for a compact car for city driving or a spacious SUV for a road trip, Southgate Travels has the perfect vehicle to meet your needs.

Conclusion

Renting a self-drive car in Trivandrum is the ultimate way to explore the city and its surroundings with ease, comfort, and freedom. Whether you’re a tourist wanting to see all the sights or a local in need of temporary transportation, self-drive car rentals offer flexibility and cost-efficiency. With providers like Southgate Travels, you can be assured of a reliable service that makes your travel experience in Trivandrum both enjoyable and memorable.

Would you like to include details about specific vehicles or promotional offers in this blog?

[chaitanya]

How to Get Subsidies with Udyam Registration

Do you know that our Indian economy is nothing without the support of MSMEs? Fortunately, the Government of India too recognized their value and implemented a range of schemes for their growth.

However, Udyam Registration is one of the key initiatives that was successful in formalising the existence of MSMEs. So, we are here to aid you in getting subsidies from Udyam registration.

Eligibility Criteria for Udyam Registration

You can enjoy subsidies with Udyam Registration, but make sure you're eligible for it. Go and check whether your business falls under MSME as per the criteria mentioned below:

Micro Enterprise: As a microenterprise, your investment should be up to ₹1 crore and turnover more than ₹5 crores.

Small Enterprise: As a small enterprise, your investment should be up to ₹10 crores and turnover more than ₹50 crores.

Medium Enterprise: As a medium enterprise, your investment should be up to ₹50 crores and turnover more than ₹250 crores.

Steps to Obtain Udyam Registration

Are you done with the eligibility criteria? If yes, then it's time to get registered for your business under Udyam. We've mentioned steps to aid in registering:

Step 1: Visit the Udyam Registration Portal

To begin with your registration process, there is a need to look for the official registration portal of Udyam.

Step 2: Enter Your Aadhaar Number

For HUF and partnership firms, the Aadhaar number of the managing partner is required. When it comes to a proprietorship firm, the proprietor's Aadhaar number is a must-have. Lastly, the Aadhaar number of the authorised signatory is needed in the case of a company or LLP.

Step 3: Verify Aadhaar with OTP

Whatever registered mobile number is linked with your Aadhaar card will receive an OTP. You've got to enter the OTP for your Aadhaar details verification.

Step 4: Fill in Business Details

Now, provide your information related to business, like type of organisation, name of the enterprise, bank account details, PAN number, and address.

Step 5: Classify Your Enterprise

It's time to classify your enterprise as a medium, small, or micro enterprise. For this, you can take the help of the above-mentioned eligibility criteria.

Step 6: Submit the application

After filling in the required details, you can submit your application. With successful submission, you will have an e-certificate and URN.

How to Get Subsidies with Udyam Registration?

When you obtain your Udyam Registration, you can start your journey to explore various government provided subsidies and schemes. Here are some of the key subsidies available to registered MSMEs:

1) Market Development Assistance (MDA) Scheme

The MDA Scheme comes with financial assistance for MSMEs to let them participate in international and domestic trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, and exhibitions. It can aid your business to market the services and products; as a result, there will be a boost in your market reach.

How to Apply:

Firstly, register for any trade fair or exhibition you want to participate in.

Now, you've got to submit your relevant documents, such as the Udyam registration certificate and application form, to the respective authority who is organising the event.

After the event, you can avail reimbursement by submitting a claim form along with your proof of participation.

2) Prime Minister Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP)

PMEGP is more like a credit-linked subsidy scheme that focuses on generating self-employment opportunities. It can be possible with microenterprise establishment in urban and rural areas. As per your category and location, you'll get a subsidy of 15% to 35% of the project cost.

How to Apply:

Make sure to prepare a detailed project report for the business idea.

You can apply online with the aid of the official PMEGP portal or approach the District Industries Centres (DICs), Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC), or banks.

Now, submit your necessary documents, like the project report and Udyam registration certificate.

Once you get approval, you're all set for your enterprise and the operations.

You can avail of subsidy, but you've got to submit a claim form along with your expenses proof.

3) Credit Linked Capital Subsidy Scheme (CLCSS)

The chief aim of CLCSS is to facilitate technology upgrade in MSMEs. It can be done with a subsidy of up to 15% on the investment made in machinery and plants. Such a subsidy is accessible to industries engaged in services and manufacturing sectors.

How to Apply:

At first, you've got to look for the machinery or equipment that is needed to get upgraded.

However, you can approach the nodal agencies or banks that should be authorized for implementing the CLCSS.

Submit all your necessary documents, such as quotations for the machinery, bank details, project report, and Udyam Registration Certificate.

4) Technology and Quality Upgradation

Support to MSMEsYou can expect financial support from this scheme to adopt energy-efficient technologies. Also, you can obtain product quality certifications like HACCP, BIS, and ISO. Generally, it covers a part of the expenses incurred to implement such improvements.

How to Apply:

There is a need to identify the technology or quality certification that are needed for your business.

As a next step, approach the designated consultants or agencies for the implementation.

You've got to submit your cost estimates, project proposal, and Udyam registration certificate to the respective authority.

Just after the implementation, you've got relevant documents like proof of expenses for claiming the subsidy.

Conclusion

It can be concluded that Udyam Registration is one of the powerful tools to access a range of subsidies and benefits. As an MSME, your top priority should be leveraging such subsidies and taking your enterprise to new heights.

[nel-world]

you are overqualified why do u want to go?

his mom would have conversations abour rice? does ur mom cook rice ?

what does she use ? it is brown?

there is small /little rice

u are from bombai .. you know ..

onions are looking so big

potatos so big..

i took public transport .we just stand the bus driver would stop and open the door. can you open the door?can u open the gate? u have ring the bell

hello , my name is azghi

i like basebell

im practising my introduction

i leave my home in india

i fly fly fly and land in america

im very excited

my entire village has turned up

i have passport

u know im first person to fly

i have a letter

dear azghni , its wonderful place

im going to help u

u can live with us and see america

he owned a restaurant

400 east 6 th st

the world , galaxy

hey ma , dont cry

when i go america , i will write every day

i will from top from empire state , bottom from grand canyon, hollywood

i will write from cleveland

i will be rich and i will invite u

what is this

a stone

u are giving a stone

story of riverstone

i dont r

im keeping it

i threw it away

i keep it

it is in my pocket

i have to go

u made it

this is new york is a crazy place

this is my job

im manager here

im the owner

im the waiter

its such a good job

u know mr hakim were waiting at airport

they two children

samir is 10 year

he is playing with gameboy

how am i doing

sakina is older

dont u worry , soon u will catch on

i have no idea

if u smile , nod u head , people love u

mr hakim is my best friend .. let me tell u something profound

any one can be rich

i just smile

u are absoultely

one day u are millionaire

america can u give u nothing

my dream is classical indian dancer

show me i used to dance

i used to dance

she closed her eyes

her arms and hips

i think u should

then she told me she is going to teach me dance

i try

i put my wrists and turn my hand

im very good this

i can be dancer myself

i can do much than cook food

u bught present for me

hello bob , business is good , dinner for 5

very proud of him

i understand

time is money

what is this dress

u think are too smart

u can marry black guy,white guy

why did i can to restaurant

so that i can proud of u

why did i came here , it is for u

they teach u about

i know

its all fun and games

and then what

everything will be gone

dont speak to me in english

look what u have become

dancing is iportant but im not

help ur mother in kitchen

sakina is getting married

its a party , there are lot of people

there is a dj playing songs

how could u leave ur stuff, u need to clean up

i give the gameboy.. give me postcard

u know what what

my sister sent picture of ninja turtles

we were supposed to go

but my grandmother died

u know what happened happened

u know what

i had a fight

im doing that

no way

u know what happeend

then i called upstairs

to see pics

do u remmeber

u can hold my gameboy for 5 mins

i kicked him

its my five minutes

im not even sorry

he stole my gameboy

im not coming here

why do u hit me

everyone is stupid

we were supposed not to

im sorry

button up his pants. Thank you Angel, I mean Kar—…I mean

Angel.

///

AZGI:ABDUL! I need two puri’s on table five! I need two lassi’s on

table six, and this lamb curry is COLD COLD, COLD! Food, Abdul,

is supposed to be HOT, HOT! Not COLD! How come you don’t

seem to understand that????? (Azgi runs to speak to one of his

tables. To first table.) I am very sorry. In all the time that I have

worked in this restaurant, food is NEVER cold, NEVER! He is heating it up right now. I will bring it out in two minutes and you just

keep enjoying your…water. (He moves to the second table.)

Hello, how are you? My name is Azgi, I will be your waiter. How

can I help you? Oh yeah, it is kind of spicy, but we have a scale.

You see, you can order how spicy you would like one, two, three,

four, five. You decide, he’ll make it.—What?—You want number

five? (Azgi is a little concerned.) Sir don’t take number five, take

number two—No, no, number two is better for you, it’s very

good, you’ll like it very much.—Please sir, don’t take number five.

Sir I am trying to save your life OK. (Getting angry.) look, look in

my eyes OK, number two is better for you. OK you think about it

I will come back OK. (He runs upstage again.) ABDUL!—Where is

my lamb curry ????

(The lamb curry seems to have appeared on the line.)

AZGI:A-ha! (He runs over to the first table with the imaginary

lamb curry. It is very hot and burns his hands.) There you go. OK?

piping hot—What happened? Why you look so sad? Not

lamb?—CHICKEN.—Oh my God!—No, no, please sit down.

95

Where you going? please don’t leave, sit down, I am very sorry,

this is a terrible mistake, I will bring out chicken in just two minutes, please don’t leave, whatever you do don’t leave. (He runs

over to second table.) OK, OK, look I tell you what, number three,

number three is plenty hot, plenty hot. You don’t need number

five. LISTEN MAN!! I AM FROM INDIA!!! and even in India

nobody asks for number five! It’s not a real thing that you can

eat, it’s just for show. I am not screaming, you are screaming!

Look, look, now your wife is crying! I didn’t make her cry, you

made her cry! OK, OK. Fine, Fine, you want five, fifteen, one hundred five!! I give you OK!

ABDUL!—- Listen on dup forty-one, I put number five, but

you don’t make it number five, you make it number two, OK?

And this lamb curry is supposed to be chicken curry—Because I

am telling you, that’s why. Because I am the boss right now OK,

Listen you give me any trouble no, I will have Mr. Hakim fire

you!!!—Oh, yeah? Oh, yeah? Come on, Come on Abdul (He puts

up his fists.) I will take you right now! I will kick your butt so hard

that you will be making lamb curry for the tigers in India! Oh,

yeah? Come on, Big Guy, come on, Big Guy, come on, Big Guy,

come on—

(Suddenly Azgi is faced with Abdul who grabs him by the collar.)

AZGI:—BIG GUY! I am joking, man. I am just kidding around, why

you take me so seriously?—please don’t kill me. (Turning.) Every

night I have the same dream. I am a giant tandoori chicken wearing an Armani suit. I am sitting behind the wheel of a speeding

Cadillac. I have no eyes to see, no mouth to speak and I don’t

know where I am going. Mr. Hakim, he come up to me, he say,

“Azgi, Azgi, Azgi, you have to calm down, man, he say to me, he

say “Success, Azgi, is like a mountain. From far away it is inspiring, but when you get close, you realize that it is simply made of

earth and dirt and rocks, piled one on top of the other until it

touches the sky.” Mr. Hakim, he is a smart man, but I wonder to

myself when God was building the mountain and piling the rock,

one on top of the other, was he working or playing? (He begins

96

to ponder this thought, and then suddenly he smiles and goes

over to the first table.) Hello, my name is Azgi…I am working…and playing. (He goes over to the second table.) Hello my

name is Azgi, I am working and playing…how are you ? (He goes

over and looks in the direction of Abdul, and blows him a big

kiss.) ABDUL…I love you man!!!!

(Phone rings, Azgi turns and looks at the audience.)

AZGI:Phone! (He picks up the phone.) Hello, Sakina’s Restaurant

Azgi speaking, how may I—Oh Oh Mr. Hakim? No No He is right

here, I will get him—

97

Sakina’s Restaur

//

We decided to watch a called no way home because we kept seeing its ads on youtube. We knew the trailer so well that we could say it word for word. Mark's favorite line was when the lead actor talks about his girlfriend in the movie. Mark would repeat it all the time,

So, we went to the movie theater, hoping to see that scene . But to our disappointment, the lead actor didn't say that line at all. In fact, the whole scene we were waiting for wasn't even in the movie! We left feeling upset

As we left,. We realized we could just go watch another movie without paying again. We felt a little bad, but we had spent a lot on snacks, so we didn't feel too guilty. Plus, we felt like we deserved to watch another movie since no way home let us down.

We ended up watching a movie instead. It was good, and since we hadn't seen any ads for it, we weren't disappointed.

//

i needed a car , i could rely on public transport

and all i had was 2000$ so i bought a ford car

so after few rides , it started giving problems

the transmission broke..the power steering didnt work

i couldnt find parking on campus..

Is your minivan all fixed?" Larry inquired.

"Yeah, but it cost us a pretty penny," Mark sighed.

"How much did they charge you?" Larry's eyes widened.

"$2500," Mark responded.

"$2500? You've gotta be kidding me! $2500 for a new transmission?" Larry exclaimed.

"A new what?" Mark looked puzzled, glancing at me in the backseat.

"A transmission. An automatic one. That's what you had replaced, right?" Larry clarified.

"Oh, right, yeah, a new transmission," I confirmed.

"Well, it sounds like they're pulling a fast one on you," Larry said as he dialed a number on his phone.

He called someone named Rocko, then his buddy Kurt, both of whom echoed his sentiment that we were getting ripped off. Mark nervously suggested haggling, but I pointed out that we already agreed to the price.

As we pulled into the garage, Larry insisted we stand our ground. "You tell 'em you ain't gonna be taken for a ride," he advised.

larry gets out of the car an goes in and talks to car dealer.

After a few minutes, Larry returned with a grin. "Saved you a few bucks, boys," he announced proudly.

 When we settled up, the bill had mysteriously been reduced by $500.

I still don't know what Larry said or did in that office, but his advice and charm saved us some serious cash. Now, we just hoped the new transmission would hold up.

///

There are few things that bring my father as much joy as clearance sales.

It's not so much the food that my dad loves at Denny's—he only knows three flavors anyway: salt, butter, and A-1 Steak Sauce. No, what he adores is the simplicity, the straightforwardness of the entire Denny's experience, especially the menu.

“You don’t even have to read anything,” he’d say. “You look at the pictures of the food, you pick what you want, and you point.” And that’s precisely what he does. We'd settle at a table in Denny's, he'd crack open the menu to a Moons Over My Hammy or whatever caught his fancy, and he'd point. “I want that.” Not a word more, not a word less. It's the perfect restaurant routine.

we bought couch

So, off we went, driving at a snail's pace—twenty miles per hour in a forty-five-mile-per-hour zone. The officer followed my dad quietly for a few miles before my father suddenly pulled over, even though the officer hadn't signaled with lights or sirens. I followed suit.

After the officer wrote us both tickets for having unsafe loads, he warned us not to drive with the furniture again or risk getting more tickets. Stuck on the side of the road, my dad asked if I knew anyone with a truck. That was like asking if I knew anyone at all.

///

You ever have those gym ,PE classes that make you question why you even bother showing up? . Coach McAndrew, bless her heart, she had all the enthusiasm of a cheerleader at a spelling bee.

 Coach blowing her whistle like it's her only source of oxygen. "Forward rolls, backward somersaults, cartwheels, repeat!" she says, as if we're all Olympic gymnasts in the making.

 How am I supposed to learn by watching them? It’s like telling someone to learn how to swim by watching a fish.

I muster up the courage to approach Coach. "Excuse me, I don’t know how to do any of those things. Can I please go to the library?" I ask, hoping she'd see reason. But nope, she hits me with the classic "No pain, no gain" line, like she's trying to motivate a sack of potatoes.

So, there I am, at the back of the line, watching these kids effortlessly roll, somersault, and cartwheel like it's second nature.

Finally, it's my turn. I kneel down, put the top of my head on the mat, and just pray for a miracle. But all I manage to do is roll sideways off the mat—splat—onto the wooden gym floor.

 All pain, no gain, and a side of humiliation. Can't wait for next week's adventure in awkwardness.

This is America? I’m fucking in! Big Pimpin’ was the epitome of the American dream and I needed to be part of it. I wanted to be like these larger-than-life American superheroes they called rappers. I wanted to be a pimp like Jay-Z and a gangster like 50 Cent. I made it my life’s goal to live the Big Pimpin’ lifestyle. Whenever I watched BET, I forgot I was a small foreign Chinese boy and I felt like a badass gangsta. I started imitating how the rappers walked and how they talked. I would go up to my classmates and say, “Yo what up, dog. Our geometry teacher is a bitch, homie.” I felt like my identity was being judged based on the other Asians around me instead of my own personality, my inside voice screamed, I listen to Jay-Z, motherfuckers! In high school,

thong thong thong thong thong!” This was one of the first songs I heard on American radio. It was catchy as hell, but I had no idea what a thong was. Then when I saw the music video, everything made sense.

I couldn’t rap for shit, but I wanted so badly to be part of the glamorous rap game that I’d seen on Rap City. Chris downloaded a bootleg copy of Sony’s ACID Music Studio, a beat-making software, and he started cranking out some sick beats. Then Jeremy, Phil and I would go to Chris’s mom’s apartment and record our raps on his five-dollar computer microphone. Next thing you know, we’d formed a rap group just like N.W.A. Chris’s mom’s apartment and his Dell desktop became our recording studio. We felt like the real deal and we called ourselves Syndakit. The first time I recorded at Chris’s house, he played me a beat he had just made. It sounded like a real track I’d heard on Rap City. I pulled out my notebook and I was ready to write my first rhymes, but I

I never got a record deal, but I experienced creative freedom for the first time

//

offer to buy one and get the other for half price , my father was first in line.

his ability to consume knew no bounds.his favorite was chocolate pean with extra sprinkles

when i orderd plan old chocolate icecream , he took it as an insult

they have thirty two flavors andu order chocaloate

u can get chocolate anywhere , why did we come to america

we didnt sacrifice everything come to here so u could be satisfied with plain old chocolate ice cream

i just want medium soda

get the large

u get extra large for thirty nine cents more

America was Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory and he was a ten-year-old who had won a golden ticket.

Let me tell you what is really embarrassing,” he continued. “Having only one pair of shoes, that’s embarrassing. Having to study for your exams under a street lamp because you don’t have your own room, that’s embarrassing. Hanging off the side of a train on your way to work because it’s so crowded and you can’t afford a seat, that’s embarrassing.”

Yellow highlight | Page: 57

“When will you become an American?” he continued. “Okay, pour the extra thirty-nine cents-worth into a cup and I will drink it later.”

///

I saw a job posting in the college newspaper for telemarketer and decided to interview for it. The college building was squeezed between a sandwich place and a bookstore. The guy interviewing me looked a bit like Paul Giamatti from "Billions," but there were definitely no billions to be made here.

During the interview, he asked simple questions like who had used a computer before and who knew how to use a phone, how to type basic english. I got hired and was given a script to follow.

I got hired and was given a script to follow. My job was to keep people/alumni on the line and chat about how great the university was still doing.

I was supposed to ask alumni like Milli for a hundred bucks to support the college.

but milli response was "Oh, I'm sorry, hun. I'm barely scraping by on a fixed income. I'd love to help, really, but a hundred dollars? not happening."

So, I lowered the amount to fifty dollars, but still got a no. Then I tried twenty dollars, and she agreed to make the donation.

After working for an hour, a bell rang for a break. The boss, stood on a chair and called out how much money everyone had brought in. He gave cookies to the top three earners.

Overall, it was an interesting experience, but I only worked there for a few weeks before my semester started, and I quit the telemarketing job.

//

“BE CAREFUL!” my roommate WILLIAM TOLD ME . “I am being careful!” I said, grabbing the dvd from him and totally not being careful.It wasn't contraband or illicit substances..it was dance dvd.. I was staring at it in awe, my heart pounding like crazy.

cuoristy got the better of me and I put the dvd in my vcr. And What unfolded on the screen was unlike anything I’d ever saw.

and what captivated me even more was drummer in the corner setting the rhythm and this guy was dancing to the beat in rhythm…it was beautiful…

soon i was playing drums…

//

 coach andrew, transmission,affleck movie,

, clearance sales-denny's,

//

I needed a job. Scanning through the student paper, I found an opening in the computer lab. It seemed perfect, except for the minor detail that I knew next to nothing about computers. All I knew was that if something goes wrong, you should reboot the computer. Sure, I could switch a computer on, but i knew nothing about coding, programming, troubleshooting.

I interviewed with this quiet guy who wore glasses, named Dominick. He wore a buttoned-up shirt, light brown khakis, and Nike running sneakers. "Hi, Kunal, nice to meet you,” he said, in a soft, high-pitched voice. “I am looking for some people to be computer lab managers. What are your skills?”

“Troubleshooting, programming, Excel, PowerPoint,” I said.

“Can you give me more details?”

"Sure, I've read courses online, fixed bugs on my computer, and developed applications."

"I like you. I’m going to hire you,” he said as we shook hands. Bingo! “Given your advanced skill set, I’m going to give you a very special project.”

He turned to the computer and opened up a software program I had never seen. “The school is trying to integrate this new voice recognition software. I want you to figure it out, dissect it, and write an entire instruction manual based on what you’ve learned.”

So three days a week, four hours each shift, my job was to sit at the computer and try to figure out voice recognition software. The first day I took the job very seriously. I spoke into the microphone and compared what I said to the words that appeared on the screen: “The cat drank the cow’s milk,” I said. On-screen: "You drank the milk." I said it slowly again… "You drank the milk" again… I basically gave up on the project after a few days, and each shift I would spend fifteen minutes on voice recognition, and then would spend the rest of my time chatting.

The week passed, the instruction manual was due and it was time to face the music. I decided to write something… click the L button… etc.

“I just got an email from the university. I have some troubling news.” Shit. My scholarships. Dominick took off his glasses. “The school has decided to put a stop to the software. The license has expired.”

I said, “Whatever’s best for the university."

“Because of your hard work and commitment to this project, I’m going to promote you to lab manager of the engineering building.” He gave me a raise, bumping me up to nine dollars an hour, which was damn good money at the time. I was a good lab manager.

/////

After finishing college, I got a job as a waiter in a restaurant. But I also had to wash dishes.

Sadly, I wasn't very good at it. I was slow.

The restaurant needed clean dishes to keep running. So, even though I was slow, I had to keep going.

The owner would tell me to just keep washing.

He often came over to me at the sink, shaking his head and yelling.

He'd say, "Wash the pots first! Why are you washing the plates? We have lots of plates!"

When he got really frustrated, he'd grab the spray nozzle from me and

quickly clean a bunch of pots in just a few minutes.

I got a job as used car salesman.

Apparently, you need zero qualifications to become a used-car salesman."

The car lot manager, Larry, was a sixty-year-old car salesman and a alcoholic. I wouldnt see him for days and then he would come and sell ten Dodge Neons in a week.

I looked up to him as a top-notch car pusher.

I learnt car sales from Larry and soon i became good that i could afford HomeTown Buffet once a week.

and i know one day, if i worked hard and I'd be able to afford Red Lobster.

//

It's been three days since I lost the pool key, and now my mom is mad at me. It feels like she has a superpower that keeps her angry without a break whenever I mess up, which is why I try my best to never do anything wrong.

It's like there's a flashing neon sign on my forehead: "HORRIBLE, TERRIBLE, GOOD-FOR-NOTHING KID WHO LOST THE POOL KEY. $50 DOWN THE DRAIN!"

I try to explain to her that Cindy and I put up twenty flyers all over, and I understand that fifty dollars is equivalent to three hundred and fifty tomans in Iran, which is a lot of money to flush down the toilet. That's what it'll feel like if we have to pay the landlady.

"Why don't you check the clothes dryer and all your pockets?" my dad suggests, im filled with hope. I search through all my clothes, inspecting the washer and dryer, even go through the vacuum cleaner bag. I c heck between the sofa cushions and manage to find twelve cents.

But still, no pool key. The following day, my dad suggests praying to Saint Anthony, claiming it always works. "Saint Anthony, you mean?" I ask.

My mom , suggests we ask Saint Anthony to come over and look for the key instead. "He's a saint, so he's been dead for a long time," I tell her. "If you think a dead man is going to help you find the key, good luck," she retorts.

but I decide to pray, and, my prayers are answered when a neighbor finds the key gives it to the apartment office.

//

communication is the key. That's the key to a relationship. That's how you build intimacy, through communication. It's very important to talk and listen to your partner so you can both grow as a unit.

but It's just talking and talking and talking. And I was listening to every word 'cause I thought, you know, there was a point. But there's no point. I should've hired an AI for her to talk to. 'Cause there were so many things I just didn't care about. "Should I move this couch or get a new one? I don't know what to do with this room. What do you think?"

It was a psychotic, babbling conveyor belt of nonsense. "I went to get my nails done, but they didn't have the polish I want.

One of the differences was, I learned this from her, raised to ask questions. You have to ask questions like, "Why? How come? How much? That much? Why should I spend that much?" And, , we don't want to ask questions 'cause we don't want any information. "Look, I didn't see nothin', I don't know nothin'.

" So the questions started driving me crazy. It was like falling asleep with a Spanish radio station on.

Why do you think we possess some mysterious knowledge we're keeping from you? We go to see a movie, she's like, "Now, who's that guy?" "Did I write this thing? I came in with you. How the hell do I know who that guy is? What do you want me to do, show up early?

So she leaves, right? It's all over.

I'm sitting in my room for two weeks straight. my roommate says

They don't want you to talk to them. They don't want you to listen to them. They want you to agree with them. And if you don't agree with them, they just keep talking and talking and talking until you do. and then they will say I'm glad we talked about it.'"

//

When I was a kid, I had this bright yellow Yamaha YZ80 dirt bike. It was super fast, and I loved riding it around. But my mom hated it.

"Josep, you ride that thing, and I swear to God you’re going to die!" she'd yell at me. And I'd be like, "Mom, it's fine. I'm totally safe." But she wasn't having it.

"What, do you want to die? Is that it? Ha?" she'd say. And I'd respond, "No, Mom, I don't want to die." But then she'd hit me with, "Or maybe you want to kill me from worrying. Yes, that’s it—you want to kill me." And I'd just stand there like, "No, Mom, I don’t want to kill you."

But she wasn't done. "No, no, maybe it’s better if I die anyway. I go to heaven, at least I don’t have to worry anymore. Go ahead, keep riding the motorcycle." And I'd be like, "Fine. Fine! I won’t ride the motorcycle anymore!" But let's be real, I kept riding that motorcycle.

One time, a cop caught me riding the bike without headlights. He was really mad and told me to leave the bike and get in his car. I thought I was in big trouble, preparing myself for the worst—prison, electric chair, death by firing squad—whatever it was. I'm practically begging to go to jail at this point, but no dice.he took me home.

When we got to my house, my mom was freaking out because she thought I was missing. She was yelling at my sisters, too. The cop could hear everything, but he didn't seem to care. He walked me up to the door, and my mom answered, acting all polite.

But as soon as she saw me, she flipped out. She dragged me inside and slammed the door in the cop's face. That was the only time my mom ever hit me, but it wasn't physical. It was all the yelling and arguing that really hurt.

clearance sales-denny's

coach andrew

Most people who are obsessed by America are fascinated by the physical–the cars, the music, the movies, the clothes, the gadgets, the sport, the cities, the landscape and the landmarks. I am interested in all of those, of course I am, but I (perhaps because of my father’s decision) am interested in something more. I have always wanted to get right under the skin of American life. To know what it really is to be American, to have grown up and been schooled as an American; to work and play as an American; to romance, labour, succeed, fail, feud, fight, vote, shop,

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, I will offer this: the overwhelming majority of Americans I met on my journey were kind, courteous, honourable and hospitable beyond expectation. Such striking levels of warmth, politeness and consideration were encountered not just in those I was meeting for on-camera interview, they were to be found in the ordinary Americans I met in the filling-stations, restaurants, hotels and shops too. If I were to run out of petrol in the middle of the night I would feel more confident about knocking on the door of an American home than one in any other country I know–including my own. The friendly welcome, the generosity, the helpfulness of Americans

 I don’t know where he learns how to hail strangers, but whenever my father needs directions—which is frequently—he flags down men and women alike with the same greeting: “Hey, bud!” I grow up thinking of all Americans as Bud—and even though my father’s name is Ghassan Saleh Abu-Jaber, he becomes the original Bud. I learn early: We are Arab at home and American in the streets. The streets are where Bud speaks English in a loud voice, swaggers, wears hard-soled shoes.

Bud is a great talker in our family of mostly listeners. He soliloquizes on the history of the Arab-Israeli conflict, beginning with the Bible; delivers a dissertation on free will versus destiny; and offers several exhortations addressing the nature of animals, the difference between men and women, and the meaning of the universe. He tells endless jokes and instructional stories starring his favorite classic Arab character—Jeha the joker.

This time, Bud tells us, it’s different. The place he plans to buy is perfect, perfect, perfect (excellent location, good foot traffic, high visibility, loyal clientele). A can’t-miss. The owner is selling his treasured restaurant at a clearance price because he and his wife—the head chef—are getting a divorce. Bud is ecstatic as he describes his family utopia: “I will be in back, creating! You and your sisters will be out front, taking the orders and making the customers happy and laughing.” He sits back and studies the ceiling. “It’s going to be running together like this—”

According to Bud, this golden place, no mere restaurant, will be a Shangri-la that finally heals the old wound between East and West. All languages will be spoken here, all religions honored. And the food will be pure and true as the first food, the kind that weighed down golden boughs and shone in the wind. A business of one’s own—at last! “You see this bamia?” he says to us, holding up a chunk of okra stewed in tomato on his fork. “Americans are nervous with bamia because they fear the slime. You know how to take away the slime?” My sisters and I shake our heads. “You have to boil it good first and then you fry it! And sometimes you reverse it. How many people you think know about that?” We marvel. Not many. Hardly anybody. “When we get our restaurant,” he says, and eats his bite of okra, “it will be full of secrets like this.”

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There are weeks and then months of debates, schemes, and outlines. The phone rings at all hours. You never know when you’ll lift the receiver to the hiss of the overseas connection. Incredibly, Bud’s relatives seem to be convinced by his business plan this time. Several have even promised to buy shares in the place. Who could fail to be moved by Bud’s exultant rhapsodizing? His voice bounces; he seems to give off a hum. After much negotiation with lawyers, real estate agents, and the gloomy owner, whose disconcerting gaze lingers on Bud long after conversation has ceased, they work out the last details and agree on a signing date. To celebrate on the night before he is due to go in and sign the lease, Bud prepares a grand dinner starring a golden chicken msukhan. This is the traditional Palestinian dish, which owes its ravishing succulence to a few simple ingredients—chicken, onions, and so much olive oil that the chicken is nearly poached in it, turning its flesh soft and amber as a silk purse. “Do you see this chicken, girls?” he asks as we break off tender bites with our forks. “Do you know what it’s saying to us?” No, what, Dad? “It’s saying, ‘I am more delicious than anything. People will come from everywhere to taste me. I am the queen of all!’ ” He sighs and gazes fondly at the queen. //

Let nothing but nothing stop you,” my grandmother said. After retirement, she trekked around the world on her own, took a prop plane to the high end of Alaska; crisscrossed Eastern Europe; sailed the Panama Canal. //

Rental car counters were one of the few places where his name still had meaning. Inside of them he felt special. He never had to wait in line. “As you know, Mr. Schafer, your membership tier allows you for a free upgrade.” “I’ll pass.” “Are you sure? With your rewards points, we could put you in a Mustang at no additional charge.” “I’ll take whatever does best on gas.” “Of course, sir. My pleasure.” He had no palate for cars. A tool to be used, a conveyance; their design was of no interest to him. He never understood the appeal.

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For a period after they arrived in this country, Laura García tried to invent something. Her ideas always came after the sightseeing visits she took with her daughters to department stores to see the wonders of this new country.

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she would talk it over with her husband. On the drive home, try as they might, her daughters could not engage their mother in conversation, for inspired by what she had just seen, Laura had begun inventing. She never put anything actual on paper until she had settled her house down at night.

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I wanted them back. I wanted them back. Mamita intervened, and the sticks were put back into the hollow of the drum, and another promise extracted from me that I would not play the drum inside the house but only out in the yard. My grandmother pulled me towards her. She had once been, so Mami said, the most beautiful woman in the country. We called her Mamita, “little

WHEN I WAS TEN, we emigrated to New York. How astonishing, a country where everyone spoke English! These people must be smarter, I thought. Maids, waiters, taxi drivers, doormen, bums on the street, garbagemen, all spoke this difficult language. It took some time before I understood that Americans were not necessarily a smarter, superior race. It was as natural for them to learn their mother tongue as it was for a little Dominican baby to learn Spanish. It came with mother’s milk, my mother explained, and for a while I thought a mother tongue was a mother tongue because you got it from your mother’s breast, along with nutrients and vitamins. //

Things were making me extremely agitated, and that can be very bad for a performer. I decided to go outside and go through my preshow ritual. Since I started stand-up, I have used the following pre-show ritual as a way of controlling my nerves and centering myself. First I close my eyes and take a deep breath. Then I create a picture in my mind. It is always the same picture. I am lying in a glade near a brook while a gentle breeze licks my face and makes me smile. Birds fill the sky with song as I lounge beside the brook with my golden Lab and watch the fish as they jump out of the water and back in again. I walk leisurely to the water and take a long, deep drink of it, and it is always clean and cold and slakes my thirst. Then I lie down again on the grass and let my golden Lab lick my face, and then I wrestle with him and laugh. Then I open my eyes. This part of the ritual takes about fifteen minutes. It never fails to clear my mind, as an eraser clears a busy chalkboard.

//

It’s going to be a better day,” I mutter as I pour my coffee into my to-go cup, leaving just enough room for creamer. Hattie believes if you add the creamer first, you don’t have to stir the coffee because it stirs itself. She’s a liar. I know this because I tried it once and nearly grew hair on my chest from the gulp of black coffee I drank. Never again. I pour creamer into the cup and then give it a good stirYellow highlight | Location: 253

Like most immigrants, my father had left his native country with high expectations of what life in El Otro Lado would be like. Once reality set in, and he realized that dollars weren’t as easy to make as the stories people told made it seem, he had been faced with two choices:Yellow highlight | Location: 2,906

In those days newspapers did straightforward reporting, i.e. a football match was reported on

///

had high hopes. I was ready for the theater director to tell me that I was the most talented child actor she’d ever seen and that I’d be replacing the Cuban girl as the lead in every single production or working alongside her. After the auditions, she walked up to me and told me the good news: that I could be in the theater program! “…as a lighting tech,” she added. Oh. I was disappointed, but I figured just being in the program I could find a way to showcase my skills. I had plenty of time for my big moment to happen, so I went home and told my mom the good news. “Mommy, I got into the theater program.” “Good job! Are you going to be in the next play?” “No, ma’am. I’m doing the lights.” “What do you mean you’re doing the lights? That is not acting.” “I’m gonna learn about the lights and the sound.”

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“You are not doing no lights! You are a performer. You go back and tell that woman no. This is some racist bullshit.” “But, Mommy…” “My daughter is not doing no lights.” At school the next day I told the theater teacher I would NOT be doing the lights. “Why not?” she asked. “My mom said so.” “Why?” “She said, ‘My daughter’s not doing no lights.’” So instead of hitting light switches, I switched lanes and that’s when I joined the chorus. My mom taught me an important lesson that day: Don’t let racist magnet school theater directors crush your dreams. Go sing instead. I also learned how to play some instruments, so if you need someone to play “Hot Cross Buns” or “When the Saints Go Marching In” on the recorder, I’m your girl. I am sure casting directors all over the country have been searching for a

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My mom supported me when I was in Starmites, she cheered me when I lost my voice and got it back again, and she never, ever suggested I stop messing around with theater and focus on something more practical. There were a few times she didn’t back my dreams, though. Back in freshman year of high school I’d asked her if I could be in the color guard, spinning flags and doing dance routines out on the field. I figured it would be fun. I figured she’d support me. “Mommy, I want to do color guard.” “The what? No.” “Why not?” “You’re an actor, you don’t have time to be twirling flags.” So that was the end of the discussion. Jump to 2013. Me and my mom are in the front of her house. My brother is raking the yard and my mom and I are sitting in her car, and for some reason, I got curious about her banning me from the color guard back in high school. “Mommy, how come you didn’t let me do color guard? Was it because of the football players?” She looked over at me and narrowed her eyes. “Football players? Girl. I was supposed to spend my gas money driving you around so you could twirl a flag? There’s no future in that! You can’t get a job twirling a flag!” “What?” “What kind of job were you gonna get from twirling a damn flag? Huh? Were you gonna go from office building to office building raising their flag every morning? That’s not a salary position.”

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She went on a fifteen-minute rant about the color guard, I swear to God. It may have even been twenty minutes. She was still livid. “What I look like wasting my gas for you to twirl a damn flag?” She did hate wasting gas. Color guard wasn’t my life dream, and I wasn’t devastated that she wouldn’t let me do it, but still. Some parents might say the same things about acting: there’s no future in it and it’s a waste of gas money. Not my mom. She saw a future in acting for me! Or I thought so. A few years after college, when I was working odd jobs and doing some local theater, my mom decided to lay this one on me, out of nowhere: “Dulcé, maybe you should have double-majored in business….”

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Eventually I went through that rite of passage that every young actor goes through: getting scammed by an “agent.” I had to pay one hundred dollars to sign with this guy who told me he could get me big roles and make all my dreams come true, or whatever bullshit he fed me that I believed. I was new at this, and I couldn’t yet see that the man was a con artist. As soon as I swiped my credit card, though, I was like…wait a minute! What is happening here?! It was too late by then. He had my money, and I had a thief for an agent. It was some bullshit. I got conned! Once my mind cleared, I called and had the charges reversed.

At the body shop there was a Vietnamese mechanic named Tu who escaped during the war. He had a thick accent, but I never had a problem understanding him, maybe because I always grew up around immigrants and because he was speaking English. Tu would always say there was more damage to a car because when he started taking the car apart, there would usually be additional damage that couldn’t be seen by the insurance agent when they wrote the estimate. Catherine would tell him to work off the original

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estimate from the insurance company, but Tu would have to explain why he needed the supplemental estimate, and I would end up translating his English to a forty-year-old white woman, and then I’d have to translate her English back to him. “Bumper no good. Need to be replace,” Tu would say. “What did he say?” Catherine would ask. “Seriously, Catherine? He said the car needs a new bumper.” It would go back and forth like that until their discussion ended. I was back at the shop later that day to check in parts, and Tu looked upset. “Why she act like my English not good? You understand me. Why she not listen?” he said. “Your English is good. She doesn’t want to listen to you, Tu. That’s the problem.”

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Now before we go hating Catherine, remember when I said I had to translate her English to him? Well, the next day Tu comes back into the office. “Estimate no good. Too much damage. Tell him come back. Need more time.” Catherine looks at me, confused. “He said the insurance agent needs to come back and do a supplemental estimate. There is too much additional damage on the car. And he needs more time to fix it.” Tu nods his head. “Well, Tu, the insurance companies really want us to work off the initial estimate. To try to keep the cost of the repair down.” Tu furrows his brow and looks at me. “…

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“The headlight assembly, grille, and front quarter panel are all damaged and need to be replaced. He needs more time,” I sigh. “Hmm. Let me see the estimate.” Tu hands her the paperwork and she looks through it. “Okay, we will reach out to the insurance company about writing the supplement and let you know when he is on the way. Tell him.” She hands the estimate back. Again they both look at me. “We call insurance company. Tell them you need more time. I tell you when he coming back.” In unison they say, “Okay. Thank you,” and Tu goes back into the shop. Catherine turns to me and says, “Thank you so much. I can never understand what he’s saying.” “What do you mean?!” I exclaim. “He is speaking English!” “Well, as long as you can understand him.” Every time this happened I would sit there, wondering what the fuck just happened. I got up and went back into the shop because I thought my brain was going to explode, and I was truly worried I was being racist, when Tu walked up to me and said, “Thank you. I never understand what she say. Her English too complicated. I always understand what you say. You always help me.” “I’m glad to help and, yes, her English is too complicated.” “She say all those words for no reason, dah, dah,…

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People talk crazy at all kinds of jobs—corporate jobs, retail jobs, auto body jobs, white collar jobs. And yes, even glamorous comedy TV jobs. This list will run down some of my all-time favorites. • “I didn’t sit in traffic for this shit.” One of my favorites. I just love hearing people say this. You have to be ornery as hell. • “Let’s put a pin in it!” I mean what does this even mean? • “Let’s table this for another time.” What table? This is an office, not an Applebee’s. • “Why don’t Yellow highlight | Location: 1,026

even once. Bitch, what? And yes, yes I am. • “We need to increase productivity.” Then y’all need to pay more. I am giving ten-dollars-an-hour worth of effort and giving a fuck. • “I want to download the situation with you.” I am not a laptop! Do not download anything on me, with me, or anywhere near me. • “

It was 2012, and I had one of my first headlining shows. It was at a bar in Augusta, Georgia, and I was doing thirty minutes, which, to be only three years in, meant it was not going to be the strongest thirty-minute set in the history of comedy, since I had very little experience. I got a ride to the show from some baby comics who were also performing, and they picked me up in a late 1990s Jeep Wrangler that had seen much better days. Why I let these two stoned white boys drive me two hours across the state is beyond me, but I had a show to get to.. Anyway, as I drove and they tumbled around in the back, I looked at the gas gauge and saw that we were almost on empty. “Hey.” They didn’t hear me because they were too busy singing Justin Bieber songs. I turned the radio down, but they kept on singing. “HEY!” “Huh?” “We’re almost out of gas.” “Oh, no, the gas gauge is messed up. You’re fine.” Okay, cool. I asked because I saw a gas station at the next exit and was going to stop and get gas.

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I should have listened to my instincts, my gut, my first mind—whatever you want to call it—because as soon as I drove past the off-ramp and under the overpass, the car started sputtering and ran out of gas. I pulled over on the side of the freeway. One of the idiots in the back asked, “Whoa, what happened?” “We ran out of gas,” I said, trying to keep my composure. “Oh, that’s weird. I drive around all the time on E and usually it’s fine.” “Well, not today. Do you have a gas can in the back?” “Huh?” I took that as a no. I had to pee, but I was not going to do it in front of these fools, so I walked up the on-ramp, to the gas station I should have stopped at, peed, bought a gas can, and bought gas, in that order. I walked back with that can, cursing my passengers, and berating myself in my head. Why did they think it was okay to pick me up high and drunk and then drive two hours through country-ass Georgia? Why didn’t I trust my instincts and go to the gas station? I got back to the car and I popped open the tank to fill it up so we wouldn’t miss the show. Did I mention that they were both under twenty-one? There was a door-like flap on the gas tank that wouldn’t open with the nozzle on the gas can. So I found a pen in the car and used it to push the flap back, but I couldn’t fit the pen and the nozzle through the flap at the same time. I needed a funnel. As if I needed any more trouble, a Georgia Highway Patrol car rolls up and parks behind us. ///

/

Neighbors, we have found, take on an importance in the country that they don’t begin to have in cities. You can live for years in an apartment in London or New York and barely speak to the people who live six inches away from you on the other side of a wall. In the country, separated from the next house though you may be by hundreds of yards, your neighbors are part of your life, and you are part of theirs. If you happen to be foreign and therefore slightly exotic, you are inspected with more than usual interest. And if, in addition, you inherit a long-standing and delicate agricultural arrangement, you are quickly made aware that your attitudes and decisions have a direct effect on another family’s well-being. We had been introduced to our new neighbors by the couple from whom we bought the house, over a five-hour dinner marked by a tremendous goodwill on all sides and an almost total lack of comprehension on our part. The language spoken was French, but it was not the French we had studied in textbooks and heard on cassettes; it was a rich, soupy patois, emanating from somewhere at the back of the throat and passing through a scrambling process in the nasal passages before coming out as speech.

[ipuuniversity]

Ditm's Mba College Journey of Student

The Journey to Excellence

In the heart of India, nestled among sprawling green fields, stood the prestigious DITM College, renowned for its exceptional MBA College Journey program. The institution had earned a reputation as a beacon of knowledge and excellence, drawing students from all corners of the country.

Aarav, a young and ambitious student from a small village, dreamed of making a mark in the business world. Despite financial hardships, he managed to secure admission to DITM College, believing it was his gateway to a brighter future. With determination in his heart and a modest scholarship in hand, Aarav embarked on his journey.

DITM College was more than just an educational institution; it was a melting pot of cultures, ideas, and aspirations. The faculty, comprised of industry experts and seasoned academicians, were dedicated to nurturing future leaders. The rigorous curriculum, combined with real-world projects and internships, provided students with invaluable experiences.

Aarav quickly found himself immersed in a world of case studies, group discussions, and late-night study sessions. The challenges were immense, but he thrived on the intellectual stimulation and camaraderie of his peers. Among his friends were Riya, an astute strategist with a flair for marketing, and Sameer, a financial wizard with a knack for numbers. Together, they formed a formidable team, often collaborating on projects and presentations.

As the semesters passed, Aarav's confidence grew. He participated in national-level business competitions, securing accolades for DITM College. His innovative solutions and eloquent presentations caught the attention of visiting industry leaders, earning him internship offers from top corporations.

One of the highlights of his MBA journey was the mentorship program. Aarav was paired with Mr. Verma, a successful entrepreneur and DITM alumnus. Under Mr. Verma's guidance, Aarav learned the nuances of the business world, from strategic planning to effective leadership. The mentorship not only enriched his knowledge but also instilled in him a sense of purpose and direction.

In the final year, Aarav and his friends embarked on a capstone project, addressing a real-world business challenge faced by a leading FMCG company. Their innovative approach and data-driven solutions impressed the company executives, leading to a job offer for Aarav even before graduation.

On the day of the convocation, Aarav stood tall in his graduation robe, reflecting on his transformative journey. DITM College had not only equipped him with the skills and knowledge to excel in the business world but also fostered lifelong friendships and invaluable mentorships.

As Aarav stepped onto the stage to receive his degree, he felt a profound sense of gratitude and accomplishment. The journey to excellence was arduous, but the rewards were beyond measure. With his MBA degree from DITM College, Aarav was ready to take on the world, armed with the wisdom and confidence to turn his dreams into reality.

[newbusinessideas]

10 Small Business Ideas for Rural Areas in India

Hey there, future rural entrepreneurs! 🌾📈 Ready to transform your small-town dreams into big-time successes? These 10 Small Business Ideas for Rural Areas are all about YOU. 🌟💰💪 Follow us for more inspiring ideas #ruralbusiness #villagebusiness #biz

India, with its vast rural landscape, is a diverse country. While most business ideas focus on the urban population, the potential of rural areas and small towns is often overlooked. However, these regions offer great opportunities for entrepreneurial ventures. With more than 70% of Indians living in rural areas, there is a thriving market for small businesses catering to these communities. The…

[beparr]

From Struggles to Success: The Inspirational Journey of Akash Dubey In the heartland of India, nestled in the rural district of Pratapgarh, Uttar Pradesh, a young boy named Akash Dubey grew up facing challenges that many can scarcely imagine. From a very young age, Akash experienced the harsh realities of poverty. His family, struggling to make ends meet, could hardly afford the basic necessities, let alone the luxury of a quality education. Yet, despite these overwhelming odds, Akash’s story is one of remarkable resilience, relentless determination, and inspiring success.

A Childhood of Hardship Akash Dubey's early years were marked by a series of struggles that would have deterred most people. Growing up in a financially disadvantaged family, even the smallest things were battles to be won. Access to education was a significant hurdle. While many of his peers had the resources to attend well-equipped schools, Akash often had to study under the dim light of a kerosene lamp. His parents, despite their own hardships, instilled in him the importance of education and hard work. Akash often recounts how he would walk several kilometers to school every day, with a hunger for knowledge driving him forward.

The Turning Point Despite the adversities, Akash excelled in his studies. His perseverance paid off when he managed to secure a scholarship for higher education. Moving to the city for college was a turning point in his life. It exposed him to a world of opportunities and the burgeoning field of technology and entrepreneurship. However, the road was far from easy. Akash juggled multiple part-time jobs to support his education, often burning the midnight oil to keep up with his academic and financial responsibilities.

The Birth of Beparr After completing his education, Akash ventured into the corporate world. However, his entrepreneurial spirit was ignited by the struggles he witnessed among small and medium-sized businesses in India. He realized that these businesses, often the backbone of the economy, were struggling due to a lack of resources and connectivity. This realization led to the birth of Beparr, a B2B platform designed to empower small and medium businesses by providing them with the tools and resources needed to thrive in a competitive market.

Building Beparr from Scratch Based in Surat, Gujarat, Akash poured his heart and soul into Beparr, starting with zero capital. The initial days were grueling. He faced numerous rejections from potential investors who were skeptical of his vision. However, Akash's unwavering belief in his idea kept him going. His efforts were soon bolstered by the addition of Neha Shukla, a brilliant technologist and strategic thinker who joined as the Co-Founder and CTO. Neha brought with her a wealth of experience and a shared passion for empowering small businesses.

Together, Akash and Neha worked tirelessly to build Beparr. Slowly but surely, Beparr began to gain traction. Today, Beparr serves over 400,000 retailers, helping them streamline operations, connect with suppliers, and expand their market reach. What began as a modest startup has now grown into a company valued at over $4 million.

A Beacon of Hope Akash Dubey’s journey from a small village in Pratapgarh to the helm of a successful startup in Surat is nothing short of inspirational. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance, hard work, and an unyielding belief in one’s dreams. Akash continues to be deeply connected to his roots, often visiting his hometown to inspire and support young aspiring entrepreneurs.

Beparr, under the dynamic leadership of Akash and Neha, is not just a business; it is a beacon of hope for countless small and medium businesses across India. Their combined vision and dedication have created a platform that drives economic growth and fosters a community of innovation and support.

Akash Dubey’s life story is a powerful reminder that no matter where you come from or what challenges you face, with determination and resilience, you can achieve greatness. His journey, along with Neha Shukla's invaluable contributions, inspires us to dream big, work hard, and never give up, no matter the odds.

In highlighting Akash Dubey's incredible journey and the pivotal role of Neha Shukla, we celebrate not only their personal achievements but also the spirit of entrepreneurship that fuels progress and change. Their story is a compelling narrative of overcoming adversity and making a lasting impact on society. As Akash and Neha continue to lead Beparr towards new heights, their journey will undoubtedly inspire generations to come.

[rabbitcruiser]

Small Business Saturday 

Small businesses often are overlooked by customers who are enticed by larger companies, and this can adversely affect the local economy in more negative ways than might appear on the surface level.

The rise of shopping malls and large chain stores such as Walmart and other retailers has caused irreversible damage to Main Street in the last half-century or so, and it’s paramount to remember the importance of supporting local small businesses.

After all, why should we not celebrate the spirit of enterprise and entrepreneurship, as exemplified by small business owners who take the risk of following their dreams?

After all, it’s a common thing for politicians to talk about supporting Main Street over big business, and how small business owners often face greater hardships than larger companies. Since Small Business Saturday is held on the Saturday following Thanksgiving Day, it falls right during the peak shopping periods of the year.

History of Small Business Saturday

The 1960s saw the rise of the American shopping mall, and the decades since have seen large chain retailers further cementing their position in terms of taking over the retail sphere and displacing smaller, family-run businesses.

This model has spread further throughout the world, and chain retailers have been usurping small businesses’ market share worldwide in the last few decades. That being said, the difference is most stark in countries like the US, where small businesses have often been obliterated within a year or two of some large chain retailer coming to town and opening up shop – in India and much of Southeast Asia, shopping malls coexist with small shops largely because they serve different markets – as has been noted in the past, the corner shop is not going anywhere anytime soon in India because customers can purchase items on credit, and that’s just something that you’ll never be able to do in a Walmart or BigBazaar.

In the United States, the context is different, though. Different economic realities combined with different cultural ideas about how small businesses operate has ultimately been more harmful to those businesses in developed countries than in developing economies. And with all of the odds stacked against them, small businesses in the US need a day in their honor.

Small Business Saturday is a relatively recent phenomenon – the first one was in Roslindale Village, Massachusetts in 2010 as a counterpart to Black Friday (which features big-box retailers, and its anti-consumerist counterpart, Buy Nothing Day targets big business).

Small Business Saturday was originally sponsored by American Express and the non-profit National Trust for Historic Preservation. From the very start, the day has been promoted through advertising on both social media and more traditional means such as television and radio advertisement. Since 2013, Small Business Saturday has also existed in the UK following the success of its American counterpart.

How to celebrate Small Business Saturday

You may be wondering how to celebrate Small Business Saturday since it is possible that you might have been lead to believe that small businesses are a thing of the past. That, however, is not true, and you can dispel such ignorance by observing Small Business Saturday.

As a consumer, you can choose to spend your money at local small businesses on this day rather than going to the big-box retailers at the local mall. After all, the best way to support small businesses is to go and spend money at them rather than somewhere else.

You can also tell your friends to do the same, perhaps making a point of organizing a shopping day where you only visit small, local enterprises instead of chain stores. While you may or may not end up paying more, it’s important to remember that spending your money at a small business generally puts more money into the local economy than if you’re spending that money in a chain store.

Some small business owners find that Small Business Saturday is a great time to run marketing promotions, as they can further capitalize on the increased foot traffic (from the already busy holiday shopping season), and on their online traffic.

If you own a small business, you can run some promotion for the day, and otherwise, put up a post on your Facebook page. If your small business does not have a Facebook page nor any other online presence, you should seriously consider taking Small Business Saturday to go ahead and do that. So support your local economy, and go out and buy things from a small business today.

Source

[chaitanya-microfinance]

The Microfinance Revolution: Transforming Lives in India

The Microfinance Revolution: Transforming Lives in India

In India, a big change is happening that's helping a lot of people improve their lives. It's called microfinance, and it's like a helping hand for those who don't have much money. This blog post will tell you all about how microfinance is making a difference in India.

What is Microfinance?

Microfinance in India is all about small loans. Imagine you want to start a small shop but don't have the money. A bank might not lend you the money because you can't show them you'll pay it back. That's where microfinance comes in. It gives you that small amount of money you need to start your shop. And the best part? It's designed for people who can't go to regular banks.

Changing Lives in India

In India, many people live in villages where there aren't many ways to earn money. Microfinance has become a game-changer for them. Here's how:

Starting Small Businesses: People are using these small loans to start their own businesses. From a tiny tea stall to a small tailoring shop, these little businesses are helping families earn more money.

Empowering Women: A lot of women in India are taking advantage of microfinance to become independent. They're starting their businesses, earning their own money, and making important decisions for their families.

Improving Farming: Farmers are using these loans to buy better seeds, equipment, and other things they need. This means they can grow more crops and make more money.

Simple Steps to Big Changes

The idea behind microfinance is simple: give people a little push so they can improve their lives. And it's working! Here are some reasons why:

Easy to Get: These loans are easier to get than regular bank loans. You don't need a lot of paperwork or a big bank account.

Just the Right Size: The loans are small, just the right size for what people need. This makes it easier for them to pay back.

Support and Advice: Along with money, many microfinance groups also give advice and support. They help people understand how to use their loans wisely.

Looking Ahead

The microfinance revolution in India is just getting started. It's already helped millions of people but has the potential to help millions more. The future looks bright, with more support, better technology, and new ideas making microfinance even more accessible and helpful.

In Simple Words

Microfinance is like a small key that can unlock big doors for people in India. It's not just about money; it's about giving people the chance to change their lives for the better. And as more and more people get this chance, the whole country starts to change. That's the power of the microfinance revolution in India.

Microfinance shows us that even a little bit of help can go a long way. It's about giving people the tools they need to build a better future for themselves and their families. And that's a pretty amazing thing.

[internationalnewz]

Faris Aboobacker: Education, Accomplishments, Impact

India, the world’s largest democracy and an economic powerhouse, has witnessed remarkable growth in recent decades. With the second-largest native population globally, India’s success stories include the rise of numerous affluent business owners. Despite pervasive income disparity and persistent poverty, the country boasts a rich history of entrepreneurship, and among those who have navigated the challenges to achieve success is Faris Aboobacker.

Hailing from the picturesque state of Kerala, Faris Aboobacker has emerged as one of the most successful businessmen in the region. Unlike some who inherit wealth, Faris carved his path through hard work and determination. Formerly the owner of Deepika Newspaper, based in Chennai, his success story serves as a testament to tenacity, business acumen, and an unyielding work ethic.

Born in the humble village of Nandi near Calicut, Faris Aboobacker faced early challenges, attending modest government schools. Despite his modest upbringing, his alluring personality made him a favorite among peers from a young age. His journey started with difficulties, but Faris’s sharp mind and creative ideas propelled him to overcome obstacles and establish himself as one of the country’s wealthiest and most dynamic entrepreneurs.

The path to success for Faris Aboobacker began with the creation of a professionally run corporate structure. Starting small, he steadily expanded and diversified his business ventures, delving into industries such as real estate holdings. Maintaining his reputation as a shrewd entrepreneur, Faris exemplifies the potential for growth and success through hard work and innovative thinking.

What sets Faris Aboobacker apart is not just his financial achievements but also his commitment to a humble lifestyle. Despite immense wealth, he emphasizes the importance of discipline and integrity. Faris’s story echoes the principles of renowned investor Warren Buffett, highlighting how applying lessons from successful individuals can empower others to achieve financial success and make positive impacts in their lives.

Faris Aboobacker’s journey stands as an inspiration, showcasing that with perseverance, a strategic approach to business, and a commitment to integrity, individuals can overcome challenges and build a path to success. His story resonates as a beacon of hope, encouraging aspiring entrepreneurs to dream big, work hard, and contribute positively to their communities and the nation at large.