At 82, Rabindra Lal Mitra from Patiya, Chattogram, continues an extraordinary daily routine—walking 22 kilometers every day to deliver newspapers, a job he has passionately done for over 60 years.
Clad in simple clothes, carrying a worn-out bag of newspapers and his trademark black umbrella, Mitra is a familiar sight along the village roads. His dedication has withstood not only time but also the rise of digital media, which has significantly reduced newspaper sales. “People miss the joy of holding a newspaper in their hands,” he says, lamenting the shift to mobile screens.
A Lifetime Devoted to News
Born in South Samura village of Dhalghat Union in Patiya, Mitra lost his father at just eight years old. He studied until grade seven before taking up a job at a printing press in Chattogram for only five taka a month. In the 1960s, he found his true calling—distributing newspapers.
Since then, he has never looked back. Today, he travels from his daughter’s house in Chattogram city to Patiya early in the morning, collects the newspapers, and starts his long walk through villages like Goirla, Tekota, Mukutnait, and Kalishahar. Rain or shine, he walks about 22 kilometers every day.
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Income Falls, Dedication Doesn’t
Mitra’s earnings have dropped over the years. He once sold 250 newspapers a day, earning up to Tk 15,000 monthly. Now, he sells about 150 copies, making around Tk 8,000. On top of that, he receives a government old-age allowance of just Tk 600 per month—an amount he says barely covers basic expenses.
Still, he doesn’t complain. “As long as I can walk, I will earn my own living,” he says. “I don’t want to depend on anyone.” His daily walk is more than just a routine—it’s his identity, his mission, and his pride.
A Man Respected by Many
Rabindra Mitra is cherished by his community. “He’s been walking all his life—I’ve never seen him use any vehicle,” says Anil Kumar Biswas, a rural doctor who has known him for five decades.
Nurul Alam, General Secretary of the Hawkers’ Welfare Association, adds,
“His passion and discipline at this age are truly inspirational. The younger generation can learn from him. He is our pride.”
Mitra does have one small wish: a slight increase in his government allowance. “If I received at least Tk 1,000, maybe I wouldn’t have to walk so far every day,” he says softly, his eyes reflecting a mix of resilience and hope.
In an age of digital convenience and instant news, Rabindra Mitra’s story is a powerful reminder of commitment, integrity, and the enduring human spirit.
Source: Prothom Alo
