Slice Of Life: ‘I have to run the family and educate brothers’

My native is Cuddalore. Now, I am living in a rented house in Maduravoyal with my wife and two sons. As there was no job opportunity in Cuddalore, I came to Chennai with my wife six or seven years ago. I attended college in Cuddalore but discontinued in the second year as I got married. Since the time I came to Chennai, I have been working as a cylinder delivery person in Choolaimedu and Kodambakkam areas. Initially, I used to carry cylinders on a tricycle. 

A few years after, I bought a second-hand load auto. Now, I deliver at least 40 cylinders every day. The count may go up to 60 if the agency receives more stock. I have two brothers in Cuddalore and they are attending college. While meeting my expenses in Chennai, I also send money to them to pay college fees. I get less than Rs 9,000 as monthly salary and customers tip me when I deliver the cylinders. Adding that, I would make around Rs 15,000 every month. I must fuel my auto and pay house rent with the amount apart from running the family. But it is enough for us. As I am delivering cylinders in the same locality for many years, the customers treat me well.