In Ludhiana, a 72-year-old man named Karun Jha continues a decades-long struggle, selling pens on busy city streets to ensure his grandchildren receive an education. While Father’s Day is typically a time for celebration and pampering, for Jha, it signifies his enduring commitment to his family’s future.
A Father’s Unwavering Dedication
A familiar sight to many in Ludhiana, Karun Jha can be observed near Park Plaza Chowk, navigating the city’s traffic and scorching sun to sell pens. His journey began nearly 25 years ago when he moved from Bihar to Ludhiana in search of employment. He secured a job as a checker at a hosiery unit in Dhandari, where he worked for years, supporting his family and raising his three children—two daughters and a son, all of whom now reside in Bihar.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that Jha was compelled to leave his employment due to advancing age and deteriorating eyesight. This led him to his current livelihood of selling pens on the city’s bustling roads as a means of survival.
Sacrifice for a Brighter Future
When questioned about his continued labor at an age when most would seek rest, Jha’s eyes reveal a depth of emotion. He explained that his son, living in their native village, does not earn enough to cover the educational expenses of his three children. Jha’s primary motivation is to provide his grandchildren with the opportunity to study, build a better future, and avoid the hardships he has faced throughout his life. He diligently sends up to Rs 7,000 every month to support their education.
Living alone in Ludhiana, Jha’s nights are spent at a parking area near Bhai Bala Chowk. While compassionate strangers sometimes offer assistance, Jha maintains his dignity, preferring to earn his livelihood through honest work rather than resorting to begging. He emphasizes that people buy his pens recognizing his hard work and perceived need, understanding his situation without him having to explicitly ask for charity. Jha manages to visit his family in Bihar twice a year for brief periods.
As Father’s Day approaches, many fathers will be surrounded by their loved ones. However, Karun Jha will continue his routine, a testament to his quiet sacrifice and unwavering determination to ensure his grandchildren have access to education and the possibility of a more prosperous life.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
