A Dying Profession, The Last Man Standing, And His Hopes and Dreams | People First | Mohammad Rafiq

In the sweltering heat of Delhi, Mohammad Rafiq, a Bhishti, or ‘Mashak wala’, provides water to people and keeps the surroundings cool by sprinkling water. They do so by carrying a mashak which is a bag made of goat-skin, which helps keep the water cold. Rafiq was ‘almost’ born into this profession, as his ancestors were all ‘mashak walas’. His father was too poor to provide him with an education, but he would earn enough to make ends meet. It is a dying profession and he is certain that it’s the last generation involved in this profession. He hopes one of his children joins the army, later on in life.