If I Had Resources, I Would Provide Destitute with Nutritious Meals

In front of the Sakhipur Dak Bungalow in Tangail stands a tiny shelter. Braving the sun and rain, Mahesh Rabidas has spent years sitting in this small space. In his hands are a needle, thread, and a polishing brush. Laid out in front of him are broken or worn-out shoes. For the past 30 to 32 years, this cobbler has been making a living by repairing and polishing shoes. According to Mahesh's own estimate, during this long three-decade journey, he has restored and shined the footwear of nearly one hundred thousand people in the sub-district. The memories of the major portion of his life are intertwined with this profession.

Mahesh Rabidas's ancestral home is in Sanbanda village under the Sakhipur municipal area. Due to a poverty-stricken household, he became involved in shoe-repair work from a young age. Currently, his family consists of his wife, two sons, and a daughter. After enduring backbreaking labor every day, he manages to take home only 12,000 to 13,000 Taka at the end of the month. In today’s high-priced market, it goes without saying how difficult it is to run a household on this meager income. Yet, Mahesh has no complaints; keeping his desires restricted within this limited income, he continues to put food on the table for his family.

During a break from his work, Mahesh Rabidas shared snippets of his life story. Reflecting on his journey, he said, "I have been involved in this cobbler profession for 30-32 long years. This work is my life. As long as I live, I will survive by loving this profession."

In the course of the conversation, he was asked what dream he would like to fulfill if he ever got the opportunity. Hearing the question, a remarkably humane glow lit up Mahesh's face. With a gentle smile, he replied, "If I ever had the means and opportunities, I would feed the hungry good food."

Even while struggling to make ends meet in his own household, his desire to put food in the mouths of others is truly unique.