Puri: Stepping into his father’s shoes a graduate, Rajeeb Kumar Samal alias Pintu, became a newspaper vendor after his father’s death. Samal is no novice and was into the business since childhood.
Samal, who is staying in Baliapanda area of the city, is a native of Dhamnagar in Bhadark district. Narrating his story, he said Gaurang Samal, his father, was selling newspapers in the Holy city. He along with his mother, elder brother and sister were living with his father.
He stepped into the family business while he was studying in Class IV, and helped his brother and father by delivering newspapers in the area. He used to sell newspapers in his assigned areas from 4 am to 10 am and go to school after finishing his job.
However, he never missed a single class for which he was admired by teachers. Even though he reached the school late, his teachers used to mark him present, Samal said proudly.
“My father died when I was pursuing my graduation at Samanta Chandra Sekhar Autonomous College here. I was interested in further studies but could not start post graduation and joined my father’s business,” Samal added.
He has been selling newspapers on Loknath Road, Belabhumi Marg and Birla Square for the past 22 years, and is popularly known as Pintu in these areas. He is still receiving newspaper bundles in his father’s name from the dealer.
Samal wakes up at around 4 am to start the work early. He is always anxious to deliver newspapers to readers in time and feels relaxed after selling newspaper copies. However, he finds it tough in delivering newspapers during the rains.
“I come in contact with more people every day. Selling newspapers has become my profession and passion,” Samal said happily.