Visual Story: Verghese Kurien-I Too Had A Dream | English Poorvi Class 8 - New NCERT PDF Download

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Verghese Kurien-I Too Had A Dream
In 2005, Dr . Verghese Kurien wrote this heartfelt letter to his grandson Siddharth, not just as a 
personal note, but as guidance that he could value more in the future.
The Power of Letters
He begins by saying that letters are more special than 
phone calls because they remain with us. A letter can be 
read again years later and helps us understand people's 
thoughts and choices better.
A Message for the Future
Kurien hopes that when Siddharth grows older, he will 
read this letter again and understand why his grandfather 
chose a life of service to farmers.
Dreams of a New Nation
He recalls that when he was young, India had just become independent and people were filled with the dream of 
building a strong and prosperous nation.
The Choice
Kurien too wanted to contribute to this dream. Although 
he had opportunities to join the army, work in metallurgy, 
or go abroad for a good career, he chose to work in Anand, 
Gujarat, with dairy farmers.
Life's Mission
He admits this was not his original plan, but it became his 
life's mission and gave him deep satisfaction.
The Support of Family
He also shares how his wife, Siddharth's grandmother, supported him 
through the hardships of living in a small town. Her encouragement gave 
him strength to continue his work despite difficulties. Kurien reminds 
Siddharth that success is never individual; it is possible only with the 
support and sacrifice of loved ones and the trust of others.
Values and Integrity
He emphasises the importance of values - especially 
honesty and integrity. He says being truthful to yourself 
makes it easier to be truthful to others.
Never Waste Life
He advises Siddharth to never waste life, but instead take 
responsibility, use his talents wisely, and always look for 
ways to serve others.
Understanding True Success and Failure
Kurien explains that real failure is not the absence of success, but when a person does not try their best or does 
nothing meaningful for others.
Daily Acts of Kindness
He urges his grandson to do 
small acts of kindness daily 
helping a friend, a teacher, or the 
community because little 
contributions add up to great 
impact.
Life's Challenges
He teaches that life is not always 
perfect; difficulties and problems 
come to everyone. Even people 
who seem happy have hidden 
struggles.
Contentment Over 
Comparison
Therefore, Siddharth should not 
compare himself with others but 
instead be thankful for what he 
has and find happiness in 
contentment.
A Special Memory
Kurien recalls a personal memory when young Siddharth wore his Padma Vibhushan medal at the award 
ceremony and wanted to keep it. Kurien told him it also belonged to him, but he should earn his own recognition 
through service and hard work.
He reminds him that medals and awards are symbols, but true achievement comes from 
using one's life to serve others and the nation.
A Blessing for the Future
Finally , Kurien ends the letter with a blessing and hope for Siddharth and his generation to be wise, brave, kind, 
and generous, and to dedicate their lives not just to personal success but to the progress of India and humanity .
T h e m e / M e s s a g e
Service to the Nation
A meaningful life is one lived in 
service to others, especially for the 
good of the country and its people.
Importance of Values
Integrity, responsibility, and honesty 
are the foundation of a good and 
successful life .
Making the Right Choices
Choosing a path of service and hard 
work may not be glamorous, but it is 
deeply rewarding.
True Success
Awards and medals are not the real 
success4contributing to the 
common good and trying your best 
is what really matters.
Contentment and 
Perspective
Real happiness comes from within, 
not from comparing ourselves with 
others.
Inspiration for the Next 
Generation
The youth must carry forward the 
ideals of hard work, courage, and 
kindness for a better world.