ALDONA: In Olaulim-Pomburpa, 81-year-old Dulba Jagarnath Kanolkar carries on a trade that has sustained his family for generations. He collects, washes, and delivers clothes to people using just a bicycle, a tradition that has provided their livelihood for over two centuries.
“My family has been in this trade for over 200 years. My parents and even my grandparents were involved in the same profession, and I am proudly carrying on their legacy. I’ve been part of this trade for 75 years, of which I catered to a boarding school for 45 years,” says Dulba.
A bicycle has been Dulba’s sole mode of transport throughout. Having acquired it for Rs 250 decades ago, the same bicycle continues to serve him well after almost 60 years. “I still don’t have a bike, my trusty cycle is a lifeline and continues to serve me well,” he quips.
Dulba’s dedication to this work goes beyond tradition, as it offers him genuine satisfaction. “I enjoy every aspect of the process, from collecting to delivering clothes. Initially, my mother and wife assisted me, and today, family members lend a helping hand,” he explains.
“My daily routine involves meticulous steps. I collect clothes, mark them to avoid mix-ups, and then proceed to wash and deliver them. I wash the clothes on a washing stone, separating them carefully before I start. While I own a washing machine, I prefer the thoroughness of hand washing – it ensures cleanliness,” he says. He dries the clothes in the sun and employs his own tricks and tips for stain removal.
Apart from work, Dulba also enjoys sports and used to go to watch football matches happening everywhere. “I remember the great footballer Bruno Coutinho. I never missed any matches in the area and I played football for years, but don’t any longer as I’ve gotten quite old,”he shrugs, adding that he is also a bhajan singer.
As long as his health permits, he intends to persist his occupation, with the blessings of those around him. Despite his advanced age, Dulba handles a diverse range of washing, from clothing to bedsheets, towels, and suits. Dulba’s dedication is well-known amongst the people of his village, and their appreciation fuels his commitment.
He implores young Goans to stop chasing other jobs, and keep their ancestors’ traditional occupations alive. “Today, children want to show off with electronics and bikes but are not keen on hard work. They should be ready to do any work without feeling shy,” he says.
His approach to people is marked by warmth and a genuine smile, treating every household with humility and respect. “I have always treated every person as my brother and sister and greet them with a big smile, and the smile comes back to me,” he says, before riding off on his cycle.
