Ali Akbar, at 72 years old, has been a street newspaper vendor in Paris for over fifty years, capturing the essence of a bygone era.
The Last Bastion of Ink: Ali Akbar's Newspaper Peddling Legacy
The Last Bastion of Ink: Ali Akbar's Newspaper Peddling Legacy
In the heart of Paris, one man persists in a vanishing trade, charming locals and tourists alike.
Ali Akbar, hailing from Rawalpindi, Pakistan, continues his vibrant stall on the cobblestoned streets of St.-Germain-des-Prés, where his calls of “Ça y est!” ring out like a nostalgic echo from the past. A distinguished figure at age 72, Mr. Akbar embodies the spirit of an antiquated profession, offering the latest news with a side of humor and imaginative storytelling.
His antics, such as declaring “Ça y est! The war is over, Putin asks forgiveness!” showcase a zest for performance that keeps even the grimmest of news lively. Regulars at the iconic Café de Flore and Brasserie Lipp can count on him not only for the news but also for a moment of levity amidst their busy lives.
Once a bustling profession, newspaper hawking in France has dwindled to the point where Akbar is regarded as the final bastion of this rapidly disappearing trade. The culture and craft once immortalized in films like Jean-Luc Godard’s “Breathless” now face extinction, marking the end of an era for both readers and the streets he so tirelessly traverses.
For Ali Akbar, the job is more than selling papers; it’s a cherished connection to a Paris that exists in the memories of many, serving as a reminder that amidst the digital age, the charm of a paper and a smile can still weave a unique narrative in the city of lights.
