Lights. Camera. RCNM.

Passage 7 : An outsider's view  I hail from a very small town in Gujarat. One of my initial experiences in Mumbai involved a local train ride from Borivali to Churchgate station. I had never seen such a huge crowd before and was actually scared that I might die either of claustrophobia or a stampede on the station. I was alone, and definitely scared of being in such a place. I had also heard many instances of bag snatchers and women harassment, which added further to my fear. But surprisingly, when I interacted with people to ask them for help regarding the platform number, the correct train, etc. I was actually met by very polite and helpful strangers, who were even more civil in their manners than the people in my hometown. It was peak rush hour when I boarded the train, and women all around me pushed and pulled from all sides to get inside the compartment. Although I retained my initial fear of death by suffocation, I was pretty amazed to see how all these people stuffe...

Passage 6 : Little things that matter much "So I'm a part of NSS in my college and this was my first attempt at some sort of community service. Just last week we sold Rakhis made by specially abled children. Initially I considered it as fun way to get attendance for lectures. But trust me, it was a lot more than that. Even though the event was a success, there were many people who just swept pass us or curtly told us that they are not interested. Many of the buyers that we attracted had their own apprehensions regarding the quality of products like chocolates. It obviously took a lot more effort than I thought to sell these beautifully handcrafted items. But the mere reminder that this was to provide for all those who are not as privileged as we are, cannot afford to go to good schools, have access to better healthcare and living conditions, was enough to make us buckle up and try harder and harder with each passing minute so that our little effort could make them have a...

Passage 4 : Situational Remould  "I left home when I was 14. I am a hijra (eunuch) and my family disowned me. I left my village and came to Mumbai, having heard about the various hijra communities. Today, I am a part of one, they feed me, send me to school and even let me live at their place provided I do their household chores. Sometimes I want to go back to my mother, I miss her, but I know she will not accept me the way I am. I am happy but, I still haven't adapted to this change in lifestyle, but there's no alternative. In my spare time, I play with street kids. I like to see them happy."

Passage 1: Chana Chor Uncle. 👳🏾 "For the last 42 years, everyday I wake up at six, and prepare the chana chips which takes upto four hours. I prepare the spices as well . And then, I set off. At times I earn upto Rs. 400 per day. Those are good days. At times, there is not even a single customer. Bad days. But now, the times have changed ; students prefer sandwiches and frankies. They ignore me, push me aside . My body cannot bear the daylong stress of roaming around. I want to retire, sit peacefully in my village. But, I have a family to feed. A wife and three children. For their sake, I must go on.It hurts, but it's okay, I'm used to it. Everyday I come with a renewed hope; maybe today will be a good day. "