Kolkata, March 25 -- These days, 38-year-old Swapan Shaow is busy dealing with the aftermath of a tragedy-a massive fire at a godown in Anandpur, Kolkata, late in January killed his relatives and their friends. On some days, as he takes calls from the police with updates about the case, his mind wanders to the years he himself spent in that same warehouse.

Hailing from West Bengal's Srirampur village in East Midnapore district, Shaow began working in the decor business after finishing school. Gradually, the wages improved, and he focused on floral decoration of wedding gates. Working long hours helped him earn Rs.950 a day during the peak season. He even helped his relatives and their friends-five people in all-enter the business, gettin...