Published on: 9/22/2015IST

Anuj Tiwari Last updated on: 9/22/2015, Permalink

---

---

Recently, the story of Kishen Kumar, a 65-year-old street typist, who works outside the General Post Office in Lucknow went viral. A cop smashed his typewriter to bits. That vintage machine was his only source of income. Though, the cop didn’t shy away from being insensitive, the country sympathised with him and as a result, the man now has a new typewriter.

But, before this incident occurred, when was the last time you spotted a street typist? We all know that typing is a dying profession in India, and typewriters are becoming antiques pieces for display. We only have ourselves to blame for this. Globalisation and technology has changed things a lot and modern India has no space for these traditional professions.

We bring you 7 more professions that are slowly disappearing. 

1. Potter 

In present day India, there are very few potters who mould clay pots. After the coming of stainless steel and plastic containers, the demand for clay vessels has dipped significantly. 

2. Calligrapher

Some calligraphers are still in business because computers don’t have an Urdu script. Some of the Urdu calligraphers receive orders for writing business cards and shop hoardings. Nevertheless, they are slowly vanishing from the market.

3. Ear wax cleaner 

What do we say about these guys? We haven’t spotted them in ages. There might be a few guys still doing this, but most of them are lost in the chaos of urban India.

4. Broom maker 

Today, even the brooms are factory made and the traditional broom makers are nowhere to be seen. They not only made brooms but also sold them on the streets and residential areas. But we haven't seen them for a while now. 

5. Barbers 

We all want to get our hair straightened, get layers done or have a hairstyle like Salman Khan. As a result, enter hairstylists and exit barbers.  

6. Knife sharpeners 

Even knife grinder used to visit our colony once in a while, but I can't recall the last time I saw him.  

7. Honey collectors 

Honey collecting as a profession has gone commercial. We prefer to buy packed honey than purchasing the local produce. How will you find a honey collector then?