She is the youngest and the cutest of the shopkeeper I have ever encountered in my life – Radhika was quick on her heels when we approached her and asked like a professional as expected from a shopkeeper “Yes, what you want?” – As she stood just in front of me – not even half of me in height, she was confident enough to face anyone.
As her mother has a small flower shop next to a temple nearby, she has lot of paraphernalia to be sold – as her mother was not around, her question was in line with what she asked – As I reverted that “I want a flower garland “ , she was quick to respond and picked up one and quoted the price – Rs 30” - her answer was short and crisp - to the point.
I was flabbergasted at her training
, how on earth a toddler be so upright and a good Smartian, must be her training
– I could not see either or father of mother around – this small kid was
handling things of her own.
Now the best part – as I gave
a Rs 100 currency note, she went running to a vendor next door and quick to ask
‘ Uncle Change De do” –[ Uncle please give me change] – All this was interestingly
observed by me – she had something in her – a upcoming early entrepreneur but
the next thought was – at what cost ? – Why her parents are making her work? –
What about her studies and her childhood.
These were perplexing
questions to my mind – the kids of her age and enjoying with their pals , here
is a toddler burdened with life in early age…though she is enjoying her journey
– the freedom and learning things early.
She truly is the next-Gen toddler - with a smart phone she was well versed and adept in looking for reels and videos - benchmark trait of the Gen Z! -
As her mother turned up – I asked her the only question in my mind – “Didi, does she not got to school? it’s her age to study and you are making her work!”
These words pacified my to
some extend – I could not see a life getting spoiled early as for me this is
the right age to exemplify your abilities to learn and educate and certainly
not be on the streets – said that, on the contrary I see million such Radhika’s
plying on streets, begging, doing street dance, selling petty goods and making
ends meet for their parents – unknown to the fact that life would be tough for
them in future!
As I said a lovingly goodbye –
she reciprocated with a big smile and a “Bye- bye” – it made my day not before
promising myself to be a regular visitor and enquire about my little friend –
but at the same time pondering about other such souls on Delhi’s streets and
also with a silent prayer for their upliftment in life to come!!!
