Manickam, a one-legged vendor from Tamil Nadu, now earns a living selling bondas and repairing footwear in Mangaluru — a powerful story of resilience and dignity
Manickam’s Journey: From Street Beggar to Self-Reliant Vendor in Mangaluru
Mangaluru | June 24, 2025 — In a corner near the busy State Bank area of Mangaluru, a one-legged vendor named Manickam quietly sells bondas, ice apples, and repairs slippers and umbrellas — a life far removed from the days when he survived by begging on the city’s streets.
Now in his 60s, Manickam is a symbol of resilience and self-reliance, inspiring many with his story of turning hardship into humble success.
A Childhood Accident, a Lifetime of Struggle
Originally from Salem, Tamil Nadu, Manickam lost his leg in childhood. He arrived in Mangaluru 35 years ago, with no family or resources. At first, he survived by begging — until a government-run shelter changed his path.
“I used to beg when I came to Mangaluru. But after the government implemented anti-begging laws, I was taken to a shelter. That’s when I decided I no longer wanted to live on handouts,” Manickam recalls.
No Documents, No Benefits — But No Defeat
Despite being disabled, Manickam has never received any government aid, disability pension, or housing benefits. The reason? His official documents are still tied to Salem, making him ineligible for most Karnataka-based schemes.
“I tried to apply in Tamil Nadu, but nothing happened. Without Karnataka documents, I’m not eligible here either. So I decided to rely on myself.”
A Scooter and a Small Business
Using savings from his street vending business, Manickam purchased a scooter to travel between his home in Hoige Bazar and his work spot near State Bank.
He began with repairing footwear and umbrellas. Over time, he added bondas and ice apples to his offerings. His 12-hour workdays — from 8 am to 8 pm — reflect not only his dedication but his determination to live with dignity.
“Summer is good for business because people buy more ice apples. But monsoon slows things down,” he shares.
“Mangaluru People Are Kind-Hearted”
Despite the challenges, Manickam feels he has found a home in Mangaluru.
“The people here are generous. No one ever troubled me for my disability or work. I feel more at home here than in my native place.”
He proudly refers to himself as a “self-reliant trader”, a title he carries with quiet pride.
Why Manickam’s Story Matters
- Highlights the gap in social welfare: Without localized documentation, many like Manickam fall through the cracks of state and central schemes.
- Celebrates resilience over reliance: Manickam’s story defies the stereotype of disabled individuals being dependent.
- Shows the human impact of urban kindness: Mangaluru’s welcoming spirit played a crucial role in his transformation.
- Demonstrates the value of shelter and rehabilitation programs: A single intervention helped shift his entire life trajectory.
Call for Recognition and Support
While Manickam does not ask for handouts, his story underscores the need for flexible government policies that allow for inter-state portability of welfare benefits — especially for those with disabilities and limited resources.
His quiet dignity, strong work ethic, and love for the city that embraced him make him a local hero — and a symbol of how resilience and kindness can change lives.
