A social media post is making waves on the internet, touching hearts and sparking much-needed conversations about inclusivity and empathy in the workplace. The post, written by a LinkedIn user name, Ravi, recounts his unexpected and deeply moving encounter with a job applicant, who was a 9-months-pregnant woman named Karishma.
What started as any normal interview turned into a unexpected moment. Ravi was speechless when a 9 months pregnant woman walked in for an interview. “Just like any ordinary person, I asked her, “You’re pregnant… shouldn’t you be resting at home?” She replied, “Sir, please take my interview. I’ve gone everywhere, but no one hires me just because I’m pregnant. I truly need this job. Please consider my skills, not my situation. I’m even ready to work 12 hours a day if needed,”” he wrote in his LInkedIn post.
Karishma had never worked before. She explained she was married young, denied the opportunity to pursue a career by her husband, and was now seeking employment in the midst of a financial crisis. Her husband’s job loss and the couple’s estrangement from their families following a love marriage had left them in desperate need.
Despite her lack of experience, Ravi got impressed by her honesty. “Her honesty and determination touched me, and I decided to take a chance. My boss said, “Ravi, it’s your call,”” he wrote.
The following day, he called Karishma into his office and told her that she would not need to report to the office. Instead, the company would provide her with a laptop and offer a work-from-home arrangement. More significantly, they would cover all her delivery expenses and continue paying her full salary throughout her recovery period.
“Tears rolled down her face. She said, “Sir, I’ll never forget what you’ve done. But I’m requesting you to please deduct the delivery expenses from my salary. You’ve already done too much for me.” I said, “No. I didn’t do anything special. Someone once gave me a chance, too. I’m simply passing it on. And you… You’re not just a woman, you’re a warrior. If Rani Lakshmi Bai could go into battle with a child tied to her back, then surely you can fight your own battle for a better future.” This wasn’t just my effort. it was my team’s. They stood by me, shared Karishma’s workload, and ensured she wasn’t overwhelmed during her pregnancy,” Ravi wrote.
“A few days later, I received a WhatsApp message from her husband with a picture of a cute baby boy. That moment felt truly special. It’s easy to do the right thing when everyone stands together. But sadly, I’ve often seen companies do the opposite, firing or rejecting pregnant women, just to avoid maternity benefits. The same companies that organize Devi poojas during Navratri forget to support a real life Devi when she needs them the most” he added.