For more than half a century, Ali Akbar has walked the busy streets of Paris's Left Bank, balancing newspapers under his arm and sharing news with locals. Soon, he will be honored with the Order of Merit, courtesy of President Emmanuel Macron, who fondly remembers buying newspapers from him during his university days.
Reflecting on his career, Akbar noted how, when he first started in 1973, there were as many as 40 other hawkers alongside him, but now he stands alone. "Everything is digital now. People just want to consult their telephones," he laments. These days, he manages to sell no more than 30 copies of Le Monde during his outings, a stark contrast to the 80 copies he used to sell within an hour back in the day.
Despite the decline in sales, Akbar insists that he finds joy in his work, cherishing the independence it grants him. "I am a joyous person. And I am free. With this job, I am completely independent," he states proudly.
Known for his vibrant personality and jovial demeanor, Akbar is a staple in the Saint-Germain neighborhood. Locals speak fondly of him, noting how he has been part of their lives for decades. Friends describe him as "like a brother" and "such fun," showcasing the deep bonds he has formed over the years.
Born in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, Akbar ventured to Europe in the late 1960s, initially finding work on a cruise liner before settling in Paris by the early 1970s. Over the years, he has mingled with various celebrities and influential figures, including a memorable tea with Elton John.
However, Akbar observes that the vibrant atmosphere of Saint-Germain has faded with time. "The atmosphere isn't the same," he reflects. "The place had soul. But now it is just tourist-town." Despite this nostalgia, he carries on, delighting in the simple pleasure of his craft even in the digital age.
