The path to survival often takes unexpected turns, where a journey to a temporary destination can unexpectedly lead you home. This is the story of Kitab Singh who left Agra 15 years ago in search for a better life. His search ended in Andhra Pradesh, the Telugu heartland that gave him opportunities and a new name. Kitab Singh became Deva Naik who adapted to the stark socio-cultural differences between Agra and Andhra, learnt Telugu, and even went on to marry a Telugu girl. What compelled Kitab Singh to become Deva Naik? Did the North-South conundrum pose challenges to his marriage?
Why did Kitab Singh become Deva Naik..!
Kitab Singh Rajput Chauhan hailed from a poor family and moved to Andhra Pradesh in 2009 to find work. He started a clothing business and traveled across districts in Andhra Pradesh as a merchant. He explained that his community, the Rajput Chauhans of the Agra region, were known as Banjaras and Sugalis in Andhra Pradesh. It is a common practice for men of the community to add ‘Naik’ to their names, therefore he changed his name to Deva Naik.
He added that in the last 13 years he has visited Agra 5 times. Now he he visits Agra once every year and a half to see his 75-year-old mother. He is currently making ends meet through construction work as his clothing business has taken a hit in the last few years.
My marriage is a decision made by God: Deva Naik
While Deva Naik was trying to find a footing as a cloth merchant in the initial days, his relative who had also migrated to Andhra Pradesh twenty five years ago advised him to marry a local girl and settle down here. A few days later, he was invited to Sugalimetta, the hometown of his bride to be. Deva Naik and Ratni Bhai had liked each other in the first meeting and went on to tie the knot in 2013 in the presence of their families. Today they are blessed with two children.
Deva Naik noted that although there are significant differences between the North and South of India in terms of language, food, culture, and traditions, none of these factors have affected his married life. He says the credit for this goes to the common values and shared aspirations between him and his wife.
When Deva Naik took his wife to Agra in the early years of their marriage, Ratni Bhai bonded with his family with ease despite not knowing Hindi. He recalls his wedding with a touch of disbelief as it was quite uncommon for its time. He calls it destiny, written by God.
Troubles are plenty but so is love
Deva Naik underwent an unsuccessful appendix surgery a few years ago. Doctors had informed him that his chances of survival were minimal. Today, he thanks the grace of God and the support of his family for helping him recover. He recalls that even though the illness affected his livelihood for six months and pushed him in debt, the support of his family gave him the courage to overcome the difficulties. Deva Naik proudly says that their home and life may be modest, but none can surpass his family when it comes to spreading love.
