<p class="bodytext">Since 2021, Rajaram, the security guard of our housing society, has been hoisting the national flag on Independence Day and unfurling it on Republic Day in the society premises. This unprecedented departure from the customary practice of the chairman or secretary of the society performing this sacred duty was a gesture of appreciation for Rajaram’s selfless service during the pandemic. The society also recognised his efforts by nearly doubling his pay, a decision that met with widespread approval from residents, who viewed it as a wise and sagacious gesture. Of course, considering his zeal for work, it is nothing more than what he deserves. In fact, he is unaware of his standing and has been nonplussed at being so treated.</p>.<p class="bodytext">Pre-pandemic, there were two security guards – Rajaram and Gautam, who worked a 12-hour shift each. When the pandemic struck, persuasively pleading for leave, Gautam left for home. His family living in Nepal was worried about him and was insisting on his instant return. Stories of fear, a growing workload, and a shared desire to go back home made him and many others like him in the housing colony leave their jobs. So Rajaram found no one to share the duty with him for a long time, and the work weighed heavily on him. Unlike most white-collar workers, Rajaram had no option of working from home. And the pandemic-prompted lockdown rendered the jobs of the likes of Rajaram more tedious than they were already.</p>.<p class="bodytext">Rajaram chose to stay and shoulder the responsibilities alone. His commitment to duty was unwavering, despite having a family in Wardha, nearly 700 km from Mumbai, who were anxious about his safety. However, sincere to the core, Rajaram stood steadfastly with the society like a brave soldier who would never desert his post.</p>.<p class="bodytext">Rajaram’s role as a security guard involves monitoring the premises for suspicious activity and preventing unauthorised entry. His imposing physique and impressive demeanour—with his curled-up, thick moustache and dark green uniform—make him well-suited for the job. He is known for his affability, particularly towards the elderly, and is eager to help. He is always in a relaxed mood, with a pleasant countenance, even when he is overworked.</p>.<p class="bodytext">Covid failed to force inactivity on him, like it did on many of us. He is honest and has quick reflexes. This is what makes him unique and earns him the respect of all residents.</p>.<p class="bodytext">Good work is always appreciated and rewarded. German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche said, ‘Undeserved praise causes more pangs of conscience than undeserved blame.’ Rajaram’s humility is evident in his reaction to the praise, which he seems more troubled by than any undeserved criticism.</p>
<p class="bodytext">Since 2021, Rajaram, the security guard of our housing society, has been hoisting the national flag on Independence Day and unfurling it on Republic Day in the society premises. This unprecedented departure from the customary practice of the chairman or secretary of the society performing this sacred duty was a gesture of appreciation for Rajaram’s selfless service during the pandemic. The society also recognised his efforts by nearly doubling his pay, a decision that met with widespread approval from residents, who viewed it as a wise and sagacious gesture. Of course, considering his zeal for work, it is nothing more than what he deserves. In fact, he is unaware of his standing and has been nonplussed at being so treated.</p>.<p class="bodytext">Pre-pandemic, there were two security guards – Rajaram and Gautam, who worked a 12-hour shift each. When the pandemic struck, persuasively pleading for leave, Gautam left for home. His family living in Nepal was worried about him and was insisting on his instant return. Stories of fear, a growing workload, and a shared desire to go back home made him and many others like him in the housing colony leave their jobs. So Rajaram found no one to share the duty with him for a long time, and the work weighed heavily on him. Unlike most white-collar workers, Rajaram had no option of working from home. And the pandemic-prompted lockdown rendered the jobs of the likes of Rajaram more tedious than they were already.</p>.<p class="bodytext">Rajaram chose to stay and shoulder the responsibilities alone. His commitment to duty was unwavering, despite having a family in Wardha, nearly 700 km from Mumbai, who were anxious about his safety. However, sincere to the core, Rajaram stood steadfastly with the society like a brave soldier who would never desert his post.</p>.<p class="bodytext">Rajaram’s role as a security guard involves monitoring the premises for suspicious activity and preventing unauthorised entry. His imposing physique and impressive demeanour—with his curled-up, thick moustache and dark green uniform—make him well-suited for the job. He is known for his affability, particularly towards the elderly, and is eager to help. He is always in a relaxed mood, with a pleasant countenance, even when he is overworked.</p>.<p class="bodytext">Covid failed to force inactivity on him, like it did on many of us. He is honest and has quick reflexes. This is what makes him unique and earns him the respect of all residents.</p>.<p class="bodytext">Good work is always appreciated and rewarded. German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche said, ‘Undeserved praise causes more pangs of conscience than undeserved blame.’ Rajaram’s humility is evident in his reaction to the praise, which he seems more troubled by than any undeserved criticism.</p>
