No Regrets
Work is Worship
- I admire people who are good at sports. I was never very good at it. After some volleyball in the village and cricket while at Allahabad University, I could never do more. My physical activities are limited to walking, stretching and yoga, which I learnt from a good trainer. Life, however, has had many ways of imparting sportsmanship.
- I used to write and compose poetry and ghazals and directed and acted in dramas, skits and plays. But could not continue after joining service in IAS.
- I have been envious of officers who use “Dr.” before their names. After MA, I did enroll as a research scholar of D. Phil under UGC fellowship. I did some work; got some UGC money also. Post selection in the IAS, except public service, there was no time for any other pursuit. That was perhaps a mistake.
- In 32 years of service in the IAS, I have barely travelled anywhere with my family. This is despite the Leave Travel Concession (LTC). I could not avail this benefit even marginally. I was fortunate to travel far and wide on official purposes, but I wonder how I will ever make it up to my family.
- Working late hours and on weekends is routine for many. My daughter, who is a lawyer, once argued: “Papa, I will file a Human Right Case against the Government. How can they keep you working on holidays like Holi, Dussehra and Diwali?”
- Lack of work life balance is an issue for everyone today. In my case, it was little more. My wife complains sometimes saying I am incapable of refusing work. This, I take as a compliment, not a complaint. In this regard, I can only make apologies. No compensation is possible.
I will, however, provide grounds for this. The truth is that, I enjoy and receive the most contentment while working for people and society. Working for others makes me feel like I am working for my own family.
I have served in each of my roles with the same passion and sincerity.
Jigar Muradabadi said it better: