She Was Once A Sweeper At SBI. Today, She Is The Assistant General Manager – News18

Last Updated:May 08, 2025, 17:21 IST

With no formal education, Pratiksha took a job as a sweeper at SBI, earning just Rs 60–65 a month, while single-handedly raising her son and managing household duties

In a remarkable story of resilience and determination, Pratiksha Tondwalkar’s journey from working as a sweeper to becoming an Assistant General Manager (AGM) at the State Bank of India (SBI) proves that courage, hard work, and self-belief can overcome even the toughest odds.

Pratiksha’s life began with challenges. Married off at 17 due to financial hardship, she was forced to abandon her Class 10 studies. Her husband, Sadashiv Kadu, was employed as a bookbinder at SBI’s Mumbai office. Tragedy struck when, at just 20, Pratiksha lost her husband in an accident. Widowed and with a young son to raise, she was left to fend for herself and find a path forward.

Lacking a complete education, Pratiksha struggled to find a good job, ultimately becoming a sweeper at SBI where she earned Rs 60-65 per month for cleaning toilets and furniture. Despite these challenges, she managed her household responsibilities and cared for her son single-handedly.

Not one to give up, Pratiksha resumed her education by enrolling in Night College, Vikhroli, Mumbai, and completed her 12th examination. She went on to earn a graduate degree in Psychology, determined to transform her life and career.

Her dedication paid off when she was promoted to the position of bank clerk. In 1993, she married Pramod Tondwalkar, who supported her aspirations and encouraged her to prepare for banking exams. With relentless hard work, Pratiksha soon became a trainee officer, eventually rising through the ranks to become an AGM.

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