In the busy streets of Mumbai, Bharat Jain, known as the world’s richest beggar, is often seen at bustling spots like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and Azad Maidan. At 54, he has transformed begging into a surprisingly profitable venture, challenging the notion that financial success is tied to one’s profession.
From Struggles to Success: Bharat Jain’s Unconventional Journey
Bharat Jain’s remarkable journey began in a childhood marked by severe financial hardships that prevented him from pursuing an education. Undeterred, he worked tirelessly to rise above his circumstances, eventually amassing a surprising fortune. Today, Jain owns a Rs 7.5 crore empire, including multiple properties, earning more than many salaried professionals in India.
Earning Rs 60,000 to Rs 75,000 a Month Through Begging
For over 40 years, Jain has relied on begging as his primary livelihood. His daily earnings range from Rs 2,000 to Rs 2,500, depending on the location and the generosity of passers-by. Working 10-12 hours a day without breaks, he earns a monthly income of Rs 60,000 to Rs 75,000. Jain’s perseverance and strategy have enabled him to lead a life far more comfortable than most in his profession.
Investing Wisely: Properties Worth 1.4 Crore Jain’s fortune is not solely derived from begging; his financial success is also a result of smart investments. He owns two flats in Mumbai, worth 1.4 crore, where he resides with his wife, two sons, father, and brother. Additionally, Jain has two shops in Thane that generate 30,000 per month in rental income. These investments have helped him build a stable financial foundation for his family and ensure their future security. Family Life: Education and Success Beyond Begging While Jain continues with his profession, his family has benefited from his financial stability. His two sons, who attended a prestigious convent school, have completed their education and now contribute to the family’s business. The Jain family runs a stationery store, further adding to their income. Despite his financial success, Jain’s family is not always supportive of his choice to continue begging. However, he remains firm in his decision, explaining, “I enjoy begging, and I don’t want to give it up.”
According to media report, a Profession by Choice, Not Necessity Jain’s approach to begging is unique, as he insists that he does not beg out of necessity but out of choice. “I’m not greedy. I’m generous,” Jain said, “I donate money to temples and charities.” His philanthropic actions highlight the contrast between his outwardly humble profession and his actual wealth. Despite the riches he has accumulated, Jain continues to beg, viewing it as part of his lifestyle rather than an act of desperation.
The Bigger Picture: The Begging Industry in India Jain’s story is not an isolated case. India’s begging industry is vast, with an estimated worth of 1.5 lakh crore. Other beggars, such as Sambhaji Kale, with a net worth of 1.5 crore, and Laxmi Das, with a net worth of 1 crore, have also built significant fortunes through begging. These examples reflect a thriving underground economy in India, where begging can become a profitable business for those who know how to navigate it. While begging is illegal in India, it remains a widespread practice, and the government has implemented various measures to curb it.
These include fines, arrests, and efforts to rehabilitate beggars. However, these measures have largely been ineffective, as many beggars, like Jain, prefer to continue begging due to the financial rewards. Some even operate in organised begging rackets, exploiting other beggars for personal gain. Bharat Jain’s story is a reminder that success can come from the most unexpected places. His journey from financial hardship to becoming the world’s richest beggar illustrates that with determination, hard work, and smart financial decisions, anyone can achieve success, no matter their chosen profession. His life also challenges the common notion that begging is always an act of poverty, showing instead that with the right mindset, even begging can become a path to prosperity
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