Himi Sharma's Inspiring Journey: From Abandonment to Empowerment
Imagine loving someone with such intensity that you defy family taboos to build a life together, only to have them choose material wealth over you and your young child. This was the heartbreaking reality for Himi Sharma, but her story transcends tragedy, emerging as a powerful testament to human resilience and determination.
When Love's Promise Turns to Betrayal
As shared with Humans of Bombay, Himi met her husband during their MBA studies in 2005. Despite strong family opposition to their relationship, they dated for two years before marrying against all odds. "For three years, he was loving," she recalls. The couple welcomed a baby boy, but in November 2010, her world shattered.
Her husband's mother issued a devastating ultimatum: choose Himi or their family's INR 3 crore property. He chose the property, abandoning Himi with their two-year-old son and no family support network. "What started as love became survival," she says, describing how her life transformed overnight from marital bliss to single motherhood struggle.
The Struggle of Single Motherhood
Himi's life as a single mother presented overwhelming challenges. She initially earned just INR 5,000 monthly through teaching—insufficient even for basic rent. "Every day was struggle," she shares. When she secured a better-paying boarding school job at approximately INR 30,000 monthly, she anticipated relief but found further hardship.
Seeking parental support, she hoped to live with her parents, but they demanded INR 10,000 monthly rent due to her father's failed business and her brother's non-contribution. Labeled a "burden," her situation worsened when her son's school threatened exclusion over unpaid fees. Himi recalled pawning her jewelry with tears streaming as her toddler asked, "Kya main school jaa paunga?" (Will I be able to go to school?).
Beyond financial strain, she faced social exile—skipping weddings and enduring painful whispers. Yet, she persevered, working tirelessly to provide for herself and her son.
The Turning Point: Risking Everything for Canada
A decade ago, a flicker of hope emerged. With less than INR 2 lakh in savings, Himi decided to pursue the Canadian dream despite naysayers. Navigating visa challenges and overcoming doubts, she and her son landed in Canada in 2019—alone but determined.
Starting from scratch with no network, she secured a college professor position within a month. Step by step, she rented an apartment and enrolled her son in school. Today, she owns a INR 3 crore home—a poignant form of justice. "Same value he chose over us," she smiles wryly, reflecting on the property her husband selected over their family.
Lessons from a Warrior Mom
Himi's story defies conventional advice to "wait for son to support." Instead, she flipped the script, saving both herself and her child. From pawnshop tears to property ownership, her achievement showcases maternal grit and determination.
Himi harbors no bitterness, only empowerment. "I saved us both," she declares. Her narrative dismantles harmful myths: single mothers aren't burdens but builders, and societal judgment is mere noise. Financial struggles prove temporary, while emotional lows can fuel extraordinary dreams.
Her journey from abandonment in India to homeownership in Canada serves as powerful inspiration, demonstrating that resilience ultimately triumphs over material riches.
