Hard work pays off Chand toils through hardship

ATOUGH life witnessed at a very young age has molded Lakhmi Chand’s character. It has also enabled him to appreciate and respect the opportunities that came his way and he worked hard for it.

The septuagenarian said he faced a lot of challenges growing up and nothing ever came easy to him.

“In my younger days, I survived on bread and water and worked for long hours in the field. That has made me the person I am today.”

The soft-spoken 74-year-old Nadi farmer said he was born and raised in Togomasi in the interior of Nadi.

“Till today, in my spare time, I like to tend to my fruit trees, flower gardens and making sure things are in order,” he said.

“I also take an active part in religious functions.”

Mr Chand said he toiled for many years in landscape and the construction industry. He has also been a strong advocate for sugarcane farming communities in the Western Division

“My sugarcane turnout per year on average is around 1200 tonnes and I hope to grow my plantation in the coming years.”

He said football captivated him during his youth and he used to actively participate in local tourneys.

Mr Chand who now owns and manages Chand’s Earthmoving, said the foundation of his successful business venture was laid at a young age through the principles instilled in him by his parents.

“They taught me never to steal from anyone and that hardwork is the only way to success.

“I only studied up to Class 6 and it was not smooth sailing. I had to do odd jobs on farms to support my education, but that was how far I could go.”

He said he took up cane farming at 13 as a way to earn a living. He never looked back.

“You can say I am a veteran in cane farming as I have been a sardar for the past 36 years.

“In life, do not stop working till your body gives up because the moment you stop, your life will come to a standstill.”

His advice to the younger generation is to stay away from alcohol, cigarette and other harmful substances.

He believes in staying happy, healthy and caring for the needy.

“I hope to build a bread shop that could serve a cup of tea and two pieces of bread for free to our senior citizens who come by.”

Mr Chand lives with his family in Qeleloa, Nadi.