Slice Of Life: ‘I miss my hometown, but opportunities are plenty here'

My native is Bihar and I came to Chennai around 12 years ago. When I came to the city, I was newly married and was in search of a job. Through a family friend, who was working in Chennai back then, I came across a few employment opportunities. When I came here for the job hunt, I brought my wife along. I started to work at a restaurant as a service staff. I stayed in a rented house in the city and used to send money to family members staying in Bihar. Now, I have a 6-year-old child and since I cannot afford his education in a city, I sent my wife and child back to my hometown. My child studies in a government school in Bihar, while my wife stays at home. I visit them occasionally on festivals or during family functions. I have plans to bring my child here for higher education. I currently work at a different eatery, which was started by a few friends. I earn Rs 8,000 per month. Even though I like the lifestyle I lead in Chennai, I miss my hometown. However, there are not many job opportunities back there. The people in Chennai are very welcoming and I really like the city.