Mangaluru — Manickam, who lost a leg during childhood, has transformed his life through sheer grit and hard work. Once a street beggar, he now supports himself by selling bondas and repairing slippers and umbrellas near the bustling State Bank area of Mangaluru.
Originally from Salem, Tamil Nadu, Manickam has called Mangaluru home for the past 35 years. After initially relying on alms, his turning point came during a brief stay in a government shelter, enforced under the anti-begging law. Inspired by the support he received there, he resolved to earn a living with dignity.
“I was taken to a shelter when the anti-begging law was implemented. That’s when I decided I wouldn’t beg anymore—I wanted to work,” he shares.
Despite his disability, Manickam never received any government benefits due to the absence of Karnataka-based identification. “My documents are all linked to Salem, so I couldn’t qualify for schemes here,” he explains.
Yet, he didn’t let bureaucracy break his spirit. Through savings from his modest business, he bought a scooter, which now helps him commute from Hoige Bazar to his vending spot daily. Working from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., he repairs goods and sells snacks and seasonal fruits like ice apples.
Summer months offer better sales, but he faces challenges during the rains. Still, he’s undeterred.
“Mangaluru people are kind and generous. They treat me with respect,” he says with a smile. “This city gave me a second chance.”