‘I did not get to attend school, now I work so that my kids can study'

M Ghouse Basha (40), street vendor

My father was a tailor and since we were poor, I did not get to attend school. So, I do not know how to read and write.

I was born and brought up in Korukkupet area. At 10, I started selling clothes by cycling across the city. Later, I began to travel to other states and districts to sell clothes. After getting married, however, I could not travel a lot. So, I started selling clothes on pavement around 15 years ago. I buy them from wholesalers in Washermenpet. Earlier, I would earn at least Rs 100 by selling one shirt, but now it has become difficult to make a profit of even Rs 30. I blame the GST for it. I have two sons and a daughter. My daughter is in school and sons are in college. I know the value of education. As I know nothing about the courses, I let my children choose their careers. I always advise them to get good marks and be the best in whatever subject they choose. During Cyclone Vardah, a metal sheet fell on my legs and I was severely injured and was bedridden for three years. My wife supported me and continued to sell clothes by herself. We needed money so that our children could continue their education. Even now, I fight through a lot of pain only to pay school and college fees of my children.