“There was a time when the Kushaiguda market used to be the centre for the fruit and vegetable trade. However, because of the establishments of many other supermarkets, it certainly lost its charm.

I come from a village called Madhapuram to sell these seasonal fruits. My day starts at 5 in the morning and ends at 6 in the evening. Many people passing through this route stop and buy raw as well as ripe custard apples. These fruits are available only till November month. The prices depend on the size of the fruits.

I am married with three children – two daughters and a son. I travel 70 km up and down every day, selling seasonal fruits and vegetables here. I am doing all this just to ensure my children get educated well. I don’t want them to face the same fate as mine. If I had ever been to school, I would have been in a much better position by now.

My husband works as an auto-rickshaw driver. He was the only one who supported me when I told him that I want to start something small of my own. I know I can’t earn much with my small business, but it will surely contribute to making our ends meet. My older daughter is pursuing her Intermediate and she aspires to become an Engineer in the future. My younger daughter is in class 9 and she’s pretty good with sports. My son aspires to start his own business in the future. My dream is to see my kids working in good positions in the future. That day all this hard work becomes more meaningful.”