In the face of adversity, Shilpi Shikha Bhatta embarked on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. With the support of her sisters, she rekindled her passion for life, pursuing her long-forgotten dreams. As a Flipkart Kirana Partner today, she defies all labels, delivering packages with pride and balancing her roles as a mother, a student and a businesswoman. Shilpi’s story is a testament to overcoming adversities and embracing second chances in life. Read.
I got married to my partner right after finishing school. We were deeply in love. But I lost him 8 years ago. We have an 11-year-old son together.
After my husband’s passing, I suffered from depression and stayed mostly in my room. I hardly went outside. I lived with my in-laws for 2 years and then decided to move back to my mom’s house.
I have two sisters, older and younger. They are the ones who encouraged me and helped me conquer the difficult feelings I had. They provided me with the support to be strong for my son and for my own future. I haven’t looked back since.
Before becoming a Flipkart Kirana Partner, I had a tailoring shop for two years. During that time, I also learned to bake cakes and started selling them for special occasions, getting customers from the tailoring shop.
I’ve always loved learning new things. I have a passion for fashion. Even as a child, I was interested in clothing, but I couldn’t pursue it after getting married. These days, I’m exploring fabric painting, and when I had the shop, I experimented with different designs based on my customers’ preferences. I even design my own clothes!
Also, to make up for the years I took off after school, I’m pursuing a BA Degree in fast track mode, currently in my final year.
As a Flipkart Kirana Partner, I deliver around 45 packages a day. It’s only been a month, but I’ve been warmly welcomed by my colleagues at Flipkart’s Mangaldoi Hub in Assam. My colleagues are extremely supportive. What I love most about this hub and the work here is that everyone gets equal opportunities, no matter where they come from. It’s a place where everyone is treated the same, and that’s something I truly appreciate.
Yet another thing that I really appreciate about my job is the flexibility it offers. Even though there are days when my deliveries take longer, I have the freedom to balance it with voluntary leaves. These breaks allow me to prioritize caring for myself and spending quality time with my son.
When I’m out for deliveries, some customers have praised and even been surprised to see a woman delivering their packages. But I always tell them, “A person’s job has nothing to do with their gender. Man or woman, it doesn’t matter. Just drop the labels! What matters is that we are capable human beings who aren’t afraid to push our limits and take care of ourselves financially. That’s what I’m doing.”
I’ve heard a lot about the busy Big Billion Days (BBD) season. It can get hectic and challenging with a surge in deliveries, but I’m up for it! I find satisfaction in tackling seemingly impossible challenges. As we’re in the season, the atmosphere has become more festive, and everyone is gearing up for the 10th BBD. So am I!
My son and I live in a rented house near my family’s place, and I’ve made sure we’re not financially dependent on anyone. The self-confidence I’ve built is truly something, and I carry that confidence into all aspects of my life.
My son wants to be a doctor, and he works hard in school. He’s also into sports. Currently, he has an orange belt in Karate and has just given the exam for blue belt! He’s also joined the basketball team in school. I’m committed to helping him succeed and become a great person.
From my life experiences, I’ve learnt that even when you lose someone, life doesn’t stop. It’s tough, and there’s sadness, but it’s a chance to grow. Every day, we find courage and move forward with faith, showing that we can overcome our limits and achieve more.
Also read: In Nagpur, a father-son duo is putting Indian artisans at the heart of its business
