I started this business of shoe-making in 1955, I was twenty years old then. My father was a farmer. I finished my matric in ‘54, it amounted to a lot in those days. I was offered a job of land revenue officer. But I didn’t take it because I saw an officer being beaten to death in a nearby village due to his corrupt dealings.

The only motive of my life is to keep myself busy at all times. If I sit idle I get tired. If I keep doing something, I’m good. I lost strength in my knees fourteen years ago due to an accident. I don’t do much now because I can’t sit on the ground. So, to keep my hands at work I make twines by twisting the cloth and cane strips and distribute it among the needy.

I also prepare free Ayurvedic medicine. Years ago, a group of yogis were travelling to Naina Devi Temple and stopped by my shop in the evening. I asked them to stay at my place as it was getting dark. They stayed up all night reciting their mantras and, in the morning, I didn’t even see a hint of sleep in their eyes. When they left one of them gave me a book comprising the formulas to make Ayurveda medicines.

I live with my daughter now. I had three sons and two daughters. You’ll be fortunate if your kids are good to you when they grow up. My eldest son doesn’t talk to me at all, the middle one is almost like him as well. The youngest one who was the closest, passed away a year ago. He even learned this work of shoe-making from me. Later he became a contractor and built a big house in Delhi.

Now all I do is get up at two and pray, and come to shop after breakfast. I sit here all day making this twine, sell a pair sometimes or a passing friend visits and we talk about the good old times.

Be good and keep yourself busy, that’s all I can pass.

Story by: Gurdeep Dhaliwal