This Asian Games Bronze Medallist Sells Tea For A Living

The struggle, dedication and passion of Indian athletes who won laurels at the 2018 Asian Games in Indonesia have been well documented.

For many, it has been a struggle. Having come from humble and not-so-wealthy backgrounds, they didn't get it easy. Their journey has taught all of us an important lesson in perseverance and keeping hope in times of crisis.

One such story is that of Harish Kumar, who won a bronze medal as part of the Indian Sepak Takraw team. Ahead of the Asian Games, he would practice every day at the stadium, but only after completing his duty as an auto-rickshaw driver in New Delhi.

After much struggle, Harish made it to the team, and even went on to win  a laurel for India at the international stage. But winning the bronze has not brought wonders in his life.

Harish continues to sell tea at his father's shop to earn a living and support his family.

"I have many family members and there is a very meagre source of income. I help my father at the tea shop to support my family. I dedicate four hours every day between 2 to 6 for my practice. For my future, I want to get a good job to support my family," Harish told ANI

Harish's mother, Indira Devi also spoke of the hard times under which she supported her son to pursue the sport. "I have brought up my kids with a lot of struggle. His father is an auto-driver and we have a small tea shop. My son also works at tea shop to assist his father. I am very thankful to the government for providing food and accommodation to my son. I am very thankful to his coach Hemraj who has supported my kid to achieve this accomplishment," she said