“Would you like to buy some fresh Kothmir (Coriander leaves)? I have two varieties – local and forest grown. I even have fresh Palakura (lettuce), karvepaku (curry leaves), gongura (sorrel leaves), and bacchalakura (Chinese spinach). Most of my customers seem to prefer the locally grown ones.

I have been selling seasonal leafy greens for the past 30 years at the Gollapudi- Barrage road. It is summer season now. I source these leafy greens from the local farmers. As the mercury level is rising, there is a demand for these leafy vegetables as it certainly helps people to beat the heat.

I am originally from the Guntur district and am currently residing with my wife and son here at Vijayawada. I studied till class five and had to drop out due to a lack of funds. After dropping out, I started selling tender coconuts along with my father. I later worked as a daily wager in a factory before starting this business.

I am 43 years old. Because of my nature of work, I have frequent boils on my feet which makes it hard for me to travel longer distances. But I have no other option rather to walk on the streets with my pushcart.

My day starts at 6:30 a.m. and I wind up by 7 p.m. If there are any leftovers, I offer them to cows and buffaloes. Once home, I relax by watching tv and spending time with my children.

My wife works as a helper at a nearby shop so we are able to make our ends meet even during the current pandemic situation. My daughter is currently pursuing her intermediate and my son is studying in class 8.

Being a roadside vendor, I don’t usually get much support and value from my customers. Some bargain ludicrously, something which they wouldn’t do in a supermarket. Also, some tend to shout at me when I don’t give them the vegetables for the price they want. Amidst all these challenges, I also need to make sure the leafy greens are fresh.

When I was growing up I dreamt to become an engineer. Now, each day as I get up and head to work, my sole aim is to see my children become one. That is one job that deserves respect.”