Journalism of Courage
Due to coronavirus-induced lockdown, many people have lost their jobs. As the country is unlocking, there are many who have not yet started working like Kolkata's Prabir Kumar Sajjan and Gautam Adhikari. (Express photo: Shashi Ghosh)
Prabir and Gautam dress up as clowns or Mickey Mouse at birthday parties and other events. This is their job. (Express photo: Shashi Ghosh)
Prabir Kumar Sajjan and Gautam Adhikari have been in this profession for the last thirty years. (Express photo: Shashi Ghosh)
Without any earnings for the last 4-5 months, their families are managing somehow. It is not possible for them to leave this work and start afresh. (Express photo: Shashi Ghosh)
Prabir and Gautam both live in Kolkata's Barasat area. According to Gautam, there is joy in this profession. It's fun to make people happy by pretending to be different cartoon characters. (Express photo: Shashi Ghosh)
Young children, in particular, are more than happy to see us, said Gautam. Kids love to spend time with Mickey Mouse more than their parents at an event. It's nice when people come and take pictures with us, added Prabir. (Express photo: Shashi Ghosh)
Prabir says they do magic shows as well. Santa Claus at Christmas, Charlie Chaplin at New Year and Joker and Mickey Mouse are in demand all year round. (Express photo: Shashi Ghosh)
Their income from a birthday party is about Rs 800 for 3 hours of work. Income in orphanages or blood donation camps is a little less. However, they are not upset. Orphanages are happy to have them, so the thought of money no longer comes to their mind. (Express photo: Shashi Ghosh)
There is still no work since the lockdown. All the costumes are in the bag. Sometimes, the two friends take out all the costumes and practice at home. (Express photo: Shashi Ghosh)
