Pune: Pratiksha Tondwalker’s success story is one of remarkable courage and determination. It serves as an inspiration for people of all ages. She worked in a bank for several years as a sanitation worker and eventually became an officer in the same bank. Born in Pune in 1964, Pratiksha got married at the age of 17 in 1981 to Sadashiv Kadu. He used to work as a book binder in SBI. 

A tragic accident

In the year 1984, a tragedy took place, when Pratiksha and her son Vinayak survived a road accident that claimed the life of her husband. The responsibility of raising a two-year-old child thrust upon her, and Pratiksha faced immense challenges during the journey.

After the tragic loss of her husband, Pratiksha found herself shouldering the responsibility of running the household. She could not secure a stable job due to her limited education. With the support of SBI, where her husband was employed, Pratiksha began working as a sweeper in 1985. She could only earn Rs 65 in a month from her job. Despite the hardships, she harboured dreams of improving her situation by obtaining a degree.

Pursuing studies

Pratiksha received support from her friends and bank employees. She passed her high school exam with 60 percent marks and subsequently completed class 12. Then she went on to pursue a bachelor's degree in psychology from a night college in 1995. She remained committed to her studies and earned a degree in naturopathy in 2021. She was determined to inspire her son to strive for a better life. 

Becoming an assistant manager

In 1993, Pratiksha remarried to Pramod Tondwalker, who worked as a bank postman. He motivated Pratiksha to pursue banking exams. During her preparation, Pramod took care of rhe household responsibilities, allowing Pratiksha to focus on her studies. After the completion of her studies, SBI promoted her to the position of a bank clerk. In 2004, she became a trainee officer, and after 37 years of dedicated service, Pratiksha achieved the position of Assistant Manager in the same bank. Her journey exemplifies resilience and determination in the face of adversity.