A Pakistan-born reader tells why reading the Guardian is like supporting a football team
I was born to a Hindu family in a remote village in erstwhile Muslim-ruled east Pakistan, and, aged five, started schooling in a madrasa. By the time I turned 15 my family had sought refuge in India, as Hindus had become an easy target for extortion and oppression where I was born. It was when I was struggling for survival, and to provide for my family in the refugee camps, that I first heard of the Manchester Guardian.
I migrated to London in 1973 to study accountancy. Life was tough and I had to learn English from primary-school standard. I didn't have enough money to buy newspapers in those days, so I used the university and local libraries to read the Guardian. I was slightly confused by it at first, but it eventually became a revelation after reading the Sun's gossip columns and the biased reporting of the Telegraph.
Since the late 70s I've enjoyed a successful career in the third sector and have subsequently ended up as a senior civil servant. I'm proud of my contribution to society, and am married with children.
My favourite columnist has to be Polly Toynbee – she writes my thoughts. But others include Simon Hoggart's sketch writing and Hugh Muir's concise diary writing.
I now get the Guardian every day. I liken reading the Guardian to supporting a football club – you just love to support it.