MARGAO: Age is no barrier when determination and perseverance drive one to pursue an honest livelihood. Malini Vitthal Naik exemplifies this spirit. At 76, she continues to operate the ‘Naik News Agency’ in the Navelim market area with unwavering enthusiasm. Fondly known as Malini Aai (Mother), she runs a tight ship with firmness and sincerity, serving as an inspiration to today’s youth.
During a conversation with her son Suraj Naik about Malini Aai’s business, he provided insights into her journey. His father, Vitthal Naik, was initially a tailor, sewing clothes in Margao. Afterward, he came to Navelim Market and started a cart in 1969, selling newspapers he purchased from Margao. Malini supported him since their marriage, eventually establishing the ‘Naik News Agency.’ Despite the early morning start required for newspaper sales, Malini Aai has persisted in her efforts, ensuring the smooth functioning of the agency with the support of her family, making certain that all newspapers are available everyday. By working tirelessly, the couple provided good education to their four children, two girls and two boys. After Vitthal Naik passed on, Malini did not shy away from work, or look towards a different vocation, but decided to run ‘Naik News Agency’ herself. Her routine was set, and just like she did in her 20’s, Malini gets to the market early in the morning, sits at the shop, sells newspapers, and helps disseminate information to people of Goa.
After the Covid-19 pandemic, her business suffered as the sale of newspapers dwindled. “Although the business has improved to some extent post-pandemic, newspapers are not selling as they used to. People got accustomed to reading online newspapers during and after the pandemic. Nevertheless, there is still demand for physical newspapers, particularly among people aged 50 years and above,” she says. “Youth nowadays prefer online reading. Still, selling newspapers is a good business, providing daily events, crucial information, and knowledge to people’s homes while also generating income,” says Suraj. He emphasises that today’s youth should read newspapers to enrich their knowledge and improve their language skills.
While the sight of Malini, frail but still flaunting her gritty work ethic at her newspaper stand is an inspiration for the people of Navelim, she was recently honoured by the local Mahila Mandal, making her children proud of her independence.
