A Young Woman's Journey to Kathmandu ^{CEFR B1}

Kalpana's journey to Kathmandu started with hopes for a better future. Moving from her hometown, she took a job at a beauty parlour, inspired by friends who said it would be easy to find work. In her first weeks, she felt a sense of camaraderie with other women, enjoying meals together and sharing stories.

However, as time passed, Kalpana faced unexpected challenges. The bus rides became jarring experiences filled with discomfort, and she struggled to navigate the busy city life. Her employer changed the parlour’s services in response to declining business, pushing Kalpana into a new role as a masseuse, which made her feel uneasy again.

Despite her concerns about her secret work and the fear of her husband's reaction, Kalpana hoped her circumstances would improve. She thought about escaping the pressures of city life, dreaming of a day she could simply leave work behind and find peace in routine.