I was a true-blue Delhiite at heart. With the convenience it provided, its friendly culture and its local markets, I was so satisfied with Delhi that I never even considered moving to another city. And Gurugram? I had quite a few preconceived notions about the place before moving here after marrying to a Gurugram-based man in 2011.
I am a relationship-oriented person and from an outsider’s lens, the city appeared busy. Everyone seemed to be too preoccupied here. I was wrestling with the idea of adjusting into a new family and a new city. But no sooner than I stepped out of my comfort zone did the city adopt and embrace me.
I started attending networking events in 2012 when Gurugram’s (then Gurgaon) networking communities were just about shaping up. In Gurugram, there is a networking group for almost every need — yoga, entrepreneurship, women business owners, eco-lovers or foodies, etc.
Another thing I love about Gurugram is that the people here are broad-minded, progressive and very professional. I found the support system for entrepreneurs really strong here. I met many owners of small businesses, start-ups and home businesses, which added to my zeal to pursue my passion. Here, every idea finds its worth, everyone is treated with respect and if you are serious about what you are doing, people don’t shy away in recommending you and business comes your way.
The city has proven to be a haven for women business owners such as myself. Women groups organise meet-ups and knowledge sessions to support and guide women entrepreneurs who had quit their jobs for personal reasons but are reinventing themselves and have set-up their own businesses. Women collaborate and set goals together and ultimately reach new heights. I don’t think I would have been able to become an entrepreneur in Delhi, the way I have in Gurugram.
I have found good markets here too, such as the Galleria Market and Ambience Mall, which host major retail brands that satiate my shopping needs. The DLF Cyber Hub and the One Horizon Centre are a paradise for foodies and if you like pub-hopping there is no dearth of good ones at Leisure Valley.
Yes, the air quality is a major concern in Gururam, but isn’t it in every big city? However, on the bright side, the city’s eco-conscious tribe is working to fight pollution. More and more people and housing societies are segregating waste and planting more trees. Many groups have started educating people on setting up kitchen gardens. I feel a great sense of community, like never before, in Gurugram,
Now, I feel like am married to Gurugram. It is a city where you can fulfil your dreams. Gurugram gave me wings to fly and now the sky is the limit.
Nidhi Jagtiani is a resident of DLF Phase 2.
First Published: May 01, 2019 05:51 IST
