89-Year-Old Mumbai Dadi Sells Bracelets on Crowded Train for Living Expenses

At 89, most people would be taking it easy, but Kamalaben Mehta chooses a different path. Every afternoon, she climbs into crowded Mumbai local trains, not to seek help but to earn a living. Her daily routine, calm demeanor, and steady voice tell a story of resilience and determination that leaves a lasting impression on anyone who meets her.
Hero Image


Recently, a passenger captured her story on Instagram, bringing attention to her extraordinary journey. The video shows Kamalaben selling beaded bracelets inside a busy local train. When asked her name, she calmly replies, “Kamalaben Mehta.” And when asked her age, she simply says, “89.”

The conversation continues as she explains the reason behind her work: she gives money to her family to stay with them, maintaining her independence despite her age. She later mentions that she lives in Nalasopara.


Sharing the clip, the passenger wrote:

“Both heartening and strengthening? Met an eighty-nine-year-old lady climbing into the Mumbai local train in the afternoon, selling bracelets. I wished to buy all but couldn’t due to limited cash. She stated that she had to pay her family for her stay but didn’t give her address so the family wouldn’t face shame. Women empowerment indeed.”

A Lifetime of Hard Work and Resilience

Kamalaben is no stranger to the daily grind of Mumbai commuters. For nearly six decades, she has been travelling between Vile Parle and Nalasopara, boarding local trains every afternoon to sell her handmade bracelets . Even today, she chooses work over rest, showing an incredible level of stamina and independence.


Her life story is filled with challenges. According to reports, Kamalaben lost her husband, a priest, within a month of their marriage. Rather than letting tragedy define her, she pushed forward, working tirelessly day after day, train after train, to support herself and maintain her dignity. Her story is a testament to the human spirit and the determination to live independently, no matter the circumstances.

Watch The Video Here:



Touching Hearts Across Social Media


Her resilience has captivated netizens. One comment read,

“Travelling from Nalasopara is not an easy task, not even for youngsters… Hats off, great task. Majburi kya kuch kara deti hai… felt very sad for dadi.”


Another user shared,
“I saw her selling products and then giving some money to another beggar woman in the train who was healthier than her.”

And yet another admirer said,
“Yes, I bought the bracelet from her just because she was working at this age. I never took it off as a sign of luck. She sells one just for Rs 40. Do buy from elderly people, guys.”

A Lesson in Strength and Independence

Kamalaben Mehta’s story is more than a tale of survival it’s a powerful reminder of resilience, dignity, and the value of honest work. Even at 89, she continues to inspire commuters, social media users, and anyone who learns about her journey. Her determination to work, give back, and maintain her independence is a shining example of courage, proving that age is just a number when it comes to perseverance.