Ranjana Singhal, 44
Occupation restaurateur
1. What is your most prized possession
My family, hard work
2. If you were granted a wish what would it be
I would like to study, travel the globe to understand the various culture.
3. Your biggest fear?
My biggest fear is ... Material consumption is increasing by the day, if we don't self regulate ourselves and work towards building a progressive mind set, society at large will be affected, and we as human beings need a happy environment to survive otherwise monsters all around
4. What does happiness mean to you
Happiness has a very deep meaning, accepting each other, non judge mentle, living a meaningful life is true long term happiness and masti with friends and family is the antidote to depression
5. If you could what would you undo
I should have taken my education more seriously.
V. Jeevananthan, 57
Occupation: Artist
My Prized Possession
The National Award I won for my book Thiraiseelai. It won a special mention certificate award at the 58th National Awards, a recognition that came to a Tamil book after 29 years.
If you were granted a wish what would it be
To own a studio where I paint to my heart’s content without bothering about making an income out of it.
Your biggest fear
The present political scenario and the uncertainty it presents
What does happiness mean to you
Watching a film that is well made or a painting that leaves you in awe
If you could what would you undo
Our education system and make it friendly towards art. I would want to give more prominence to art and culture, something which is neglected now
A. Murugan, 38
Dhobhi
What is your most prized possession?
My trusted iron box. It has fed my family for 20 years now.
If you were granted a wish what would it be?
That my business flourishes so that I can provide well for my family.
Your biggest fear?
That I must not ever singe a cloth or hurt my customers. They trust me with their garments. I must not let them down.
What does happiness mean to you?
Spending some extra time at home with my family, every day.
If you could what would you undo?
I wish I had continued studying; I stopped after Class X.
My life would have been different.
Lavanya Shankar, 35
Dancer
What is your most prized possession?
My smile. Everyone says I have a good smile.
If you were granted a wish what would it be?
To become a world-renowned dancer.
Your biggest fear?
Getting lost in a place where there is no human around, but lots of lizards
What does happiness mean to you?
Happiness is the way in which you lead your life. If you are happy, you make others happy.
If you could what would you undo?
Not learning Hindi and swimming.
When I travel, I am handicapped because I can’t speak Hindi very well. When I see my son swim gracefully, I’m very envious.
Mathirajan, 21
Engineering student
What is your most prized possession?
My parents. I treasure my relationship with them. For, they understand me well.
If you were granted a wish what would it be?
Get a job abroad.
Your biggest fear?
Being misunderstood. People often feel I am rude. But my intention is not to hurt them. Many, however, take it in the wrong sense, and I end up losing dear friends.
What does happiness mean to you?
Meeting new people, making new friends.
If you could what would you undo?
I wish I had taken up graduation in marine engineering.
It provides better job opportunities. Plus, you get to travel.
