Srinagar, Oct. 4 -- Many moons ago, on an autumn morning in 2017, I found myself wandering through the Sonwar area of Srinagar, nervously asking passersby for directions to a Government Higher Secondary School.

That was where my government job exam was scheduled. After following hurried instructions from strangers, I finally reached the center.

As I walked into the room, my eyes caught a familiar face. Before he could see me, I lowered my head and slipped into my seat.

It was one of my own teachers, sitting there like me, trying his luck to secure a place on the same selection list.

I didn't make it. I don't know if he did either. But his presence pulled me back into my schooldays, like a sudden gust of wind carrying memories.

I co...