Story 12: Beginning | Houses of India

This is the house of Harkaman Subba, in Pedong basti, in Kalimpong. A modest home, it w as the start of a new phase in Harakaman’s life.

Around two decades ago, Harakaman wed his wife Manmaya. It was an arranged marriage, as is the custom amongst the local people here. After a year of living in Harakaman’s family home, the couple decided to build a house of their own, and start a new life together.

Life was not all that easy when Harakaman and his wife first decided to move out into a house of their own. They built their new home from scratch, and had the help of friends and family to make the transition a little easier.

Harkaman is a school teacher in the village’s primary school, and his wife Manmaya is a homemaker. They have three children – a daughter, who is married and lives in a neighbouring town, and two sons, both of whom study in Kalimpong.

They look forward to the weekend, when the house sees the entire family reuniting, including their one year old grandson.

The home that signified the start of a new life for Harkaman and his wife, now stands testimony to their hard work and love, spanning generations.

‘Houses of India’ is our weekly photo-story project, where we discover one home, and its story. Follow us on Instagram @housingindia, and join us on this beautiful journey across the country.