In the dimly lit workshop, Ashok-da is busy with his carving, chipping and polishing the wooden legs he is making for the patient's beds.

In the dimly lit workshop, he is busy with his carving, chipping and polishing the wooden legs he is making for the patient's beds.

Ashok-da has been working with Netaji Eye Hospital since 1975, more than 48 years now!

He learnt the craft from his maternal uncle, and passed it down to his son and his one apprentice at the workshop.

He has not missed a single day of work, in fact, he says he gets bored at home on Sundays when it’s a holiday for him.  

No season, or weather can undermine his regularity, whether it is 5*C or 45*C, he grabs his bicycle to the train station and there on a 40-minute journey to the hospital.

Possibly it is his craftsmanship of the doors and windows at the hospital that has made them endure so many years of harsh weather, water and lightning too!

Maan gaye, maamu!
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