ERWIN FONSECA
MAPUSA: In the lively and chaotic Mapusa market, surrounded by stalls selling everything from vegetables to electronics, there’s a corner dedicated to a trade that many consider disappearing—bicycle repair. This corner belongs to Rustam Ansari, a simple yet remarkable man who has spent over 30 years fixing bicycles with precision, dedication, and a smile that rarely leaves his face.
Rustam’s journey began far from the bustling market of Mapusa. Originally from a small, wild village in Bihar, Rustam grew up in extreme poverty. Like many in his village, Rustam had to begin working at a young age to help his family make ends meet. “We either worked to earn or starved—it was as simple as that,” he recalls of his childhood. Seeing the widespread use of bicycles in his area, he decided to apprentice as a bicycle mechanic.
His early years as an apprentice were fraught with challenges, including a devastating flood that swept through Bihar in the 1980’s. “I still remember rowing across the flooded waters in a canoe just to get to work. We couldn’t afford to miss a day. Staying home would mean no income, and no income meant no food,” he shares. Despite the hardships, Rustam remained resolute and honed his skills.
After gaining experience repairing bicycles in his village, Rustam longed for more opportunities. His ambition brought him to Goa, where he settled in Mapusa and began his journey as a one-man army in the bustling market. Over the years, Rustam’s customers grew to trust not just his technical expertise but also his warm personality and genuine kindness. “Many of my customers treat me like family because they know I put my heart into my work,” he says.
Today, Rustam spends his days repairing not only bicycles but also motorbike tyres, working tirelessly from early morning until late evening. Despite the physical strain and the modest income—often between Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 a day—he remains content. His wife, a tailor, helps contribute to the family’s finances, and together they support their two children. Rustam’s biggest dream is to educate his children and see them succeed in life, regardless of whether they follow in his footsteps.
“For my daughter, I’m especially concerned about her marriage expenses, but right now, my focus is on giving both my kids a solid education. What they choose to do later in life is up to them,” he explains.
Rustam also speaks about the changing times and how they’ve affected his trade. “There was a time when almost everyone owned a bicycle, but now they’ve become rare,” he laments. He attributes this shift to the growing preference for motorbikes and scooters, especially among Goan youth. “Many youngsters feel ashamed to ride bicycles. They don’t see the value of it—it’s eco-friendly, keeps you fit, and costs less. It’s sad to see bicycles being discarded.”
Despite the challenges, Rustam remains unwavering in his commitment to his work. A devout Muslim, he never misses his Friday prayers and believes his faith has kept him strong during tough times. He often reflects on the care and affection he has received from the local Goan community. “I’ve been treated so well here that I feel like a Goan myself,” he says with gratitude.
Rustam acknowledges that his trade is no longer as lucrative as it once was, but he remains undeterred. “Even if my income has declined, I’m happy with the life I’ve built here. I’ll continue to do this work with sincerity and dedication for as long as I’m capable.”