At an age when most people struggle to climb a few steps, this 89-year-old woman climbs into a crowded Mumbai local train every afternoon, not to ask for help but to earn her living.
Her daily routine, strong mind and steady voice tell a story of resilience that instantly stays with anyone who meets her. That's exactly what happened when a passenger encountered the elderly woman on the train. Clearly moved, the passenger even recorded her interaction with her and posted it on Instagram.
The clip opens with the elderly woman selling beaded bracelets inside a local train. As the passenger records the moment, she gently asks her name. "Kamalaben Mehta," the elderly woman replies. When asked her age, she calmly says, "89." The conversation continues as the elderly woman explains that she gives money to her family to stay with them. She later mentions that she lives in Nalasopara.
Sharing the clip, the passenger wrote, "Both heartening and strengthening? Met an eighty-nine-year-old lady climbing into the Mumbai local train in the afternoon, selling bracelets. I wished to buy all but couldn't due to limited cash. She stated that she had to pay her family for her stay but didn't give her address so the family wouldn't face shame. Women empowerment indeed."
The Story Of Resilience
For many daily commuters, the woman is not a stranger. She has been travelling between Vile Parle and Nalasopara for nearly six decades, boarding local trains in the afternoon to sell handmade bracelets. Even today, she chooses work over rest. What makes her story even more poignant is her past. According to The Indian Express, she lost her husband, a priest, within a month of their marriage. Life did not slow down for her after that. Instead, she started working, working harder day after day, train after train.
Appreciation Fill-In Comments
The woman's resilience and dedication have touched hearts online. One comment read, "Travelling from Nalasopara is not an easy task, not even for youngsters… Hats off, great task. Majburi kya kuch kara deti hai… felt very sad for dadi." Another user shared, "I saw her selling products and then giving some money to another beggar woman in the train who was healthier than her."
Someone else added, "Yes, I bought the bracelet from her just because she was working at this age. I never took it off as a sign of luck. She sells one just for Rs 40. Do buy from elderly people, guys."
The elderly woman's story reminds us to pause and to respect the power of honest work.