Bangalore :I am 36-years-old, born and brought up in Bangalore. I completed my class 10 but, due to financial constraints I could not continue my education. So I started to train to be a driver. After my training, I got a license. But, they asked for an express license, which I had to get. Then I saw an ad that said there was a vacancy for an electrician.

While waiting for my new license I applied for this job. I underwent training there and started working as an electrician. It brought in the money. Earlier I worked with companies but now I work independently. It has been 20 years now since I came into this profession.

I got married and have two daughters studying in class 5 and 3. Financially sometimes it is a strain as I live in a rented house and also am a single earning member. But somehow we are chugging along. My wife was a domestic help. But I stopped her from working so she can focus on our children.

About my own schedule it is stressful as sometimes I have to do overtime. My day starts at 6 a.m. and goes on till late into the night. The tough part of my job is when the wall work has to be done, where we have to use heavy cutting machines. They weigh around eight to nine kilos. So on days when I have to lift it and work, I get exhausted.

Then comes the next stage of wiring, and working with the main power lines. It is dangerous and we have to always remember to switch off the mains. I have had quite a few electric shocks but have been lucky that none of them were serious. We have to take care of our own safety all the time.

But it is a job alright and brings in the money and food. Not many people are open to taking up this job as your life is always in danger as we work with electricity. My aim in life is to nurture my family and educate my daughters as long as they want to study.