Says earning a livelihood is a shared responsibility of husband and wife
Suhail Khan
Srinagar, Nov 4 : A Nepali woman selling momos on the streets of Srinagar is supporting her husband in running the household and meeting the educational expenses of their three children, saying there is no shame in earning an honest livelihood.
Maya Sona, who moved to Kashmir from Nepal, said she decided to join her husband in earning a living to ensure a better future for their children.
Speaking to Kashmir Convener, Maya said she learnt to prepare momos from her husband after arriving in Kashmir and now earns around Rs 1,000 a day through the business.
She said her husband had initially discouraged her from working, but she chose to support him, believing that the financial responsibility of a family should be shared.
“If my husband works from one side, I should also look at the other side. I have to educate my children,” she said.
Rejecting the notion that earning a livelihood is solely a man’s responsibility, Maya said both partners should contribute to running a household.
“It should be done together. If my husband works, why should I not work? Both should support each other,” she said.
She said the business was doing well and that people in Srinagar had been welcoming towards her. She expressed satisfaction with the income and the response of customers.
Maya said she has three children. Her eldest child studies in Class 12, while her two daughters are enrolled in Classes 10 and 6.
Urging people not to hesitate in taking up small businesses or jobs due to social stigma, she said there was nothing embarrassing about working to support one’s family.
“Those who feel ashamed cannot do it. People should think ahead. There is nothing to be ashamed of,” she said.
