From debt-ridden to earning Rs 3 lakh a month

We'd asked you, dear readers, to tell us what your first salary was and what it meant to you at the time.
Rediff reader B Venkatadri, 55 from Orissa, Bhubaneshwar shares his inspiring story:

• REDIFF READERS' SPECIAL: My first salary

I completed my graduation in mechanical engineering in 1988.

Soon I got my first job as a 'graduate engineer trainee' in Hyderabad Allwyn Limited, a public sector company.

I came from a lower middle class family and had a lot of debts to clear.

When I received my first salary of Rs 1,650 as stipend, I was over the moon.

I bought new clothes for my parents and two sisters.

My first job helped me support my family financially.

In the next two years, I could clear all our debts.

During this time, I also offered financial support to one of my close friends (who was unable to find a job) for a year.

Today I work in another public service firm and earn more than Rs 3,00,000 a month.

I feel content and contribute a part of my earnings towards serving society.

READER INVITE

Dear readers, do you remember what your first salary was?

When did you receive it? Which year was it?

Do you have a photograph of it?

What did it mean to you at the time? Tell us all about it.

What was your first job and salary? And how did you spend it?

Did you buy a sari for your mum or a gift for your girl/boyfriend?

Write in to us at getahead@rediff.co.in (Subject line 'My First Salary') along with your NAME, AGE, LOCATION and photograph, if possible. We will publish the best responses right here on Rediff.com!