Shantabai was married off at the age of 12. In 1984, when Shantabai's elder daughter was 8 years old, her husband succumbed to a heart attack. Shantabai resorted to working in others' fields, earning a mere Rs 50 for 8 hours of labour. To sustain a living, she took up her husband’s occupation, and became the country's first female barber.
Mumbai: In India, women hold significant roles across various fields, adeptly managing households while actively participating in business and professional endeavours. However, it's noteworthy that 48 years ago, a woman named Shantabai challenged the male-dominated business landscape by becoming the country's first female barber, driven by the need to support her family.
Who is Shantabai?
At the age of 12, Shantabai got married to Shripati, who also worked as a barber. Shripati and his brothers engaged in farming on 3 acres of land but earning a livelihood through farming proved challenging. The property was eventually divided, reducing their share of land and making life even more difficult for Shripati. Consequently, he sought work as a barber in a nearby village, but despite his efforts, he struggled to earn a sufficient income and eventually fell into debt.
Facing challenges
Following her marriage, Shantabai bore six daughters, two of whom passed away during childhood. In 1984, when Shantabai's elder daughter was 8 years old, her husband succumbed to a heart attack. Shantabai resorted to working in others' fields, earning a mere Rs 50 for 8 hours of labour. This meagre income made it challenging to sustain her household and provide for her four daughters alone.
The family's situation deteriorated, prompting thoughts of suicide among Shantabai and her daughters. However, upon the village chairman's advice, she decided to assume her husband's profession as there was no other barber nearby. Shantabai bravely picked up her husband's razor and began shaving in neighbouring villages to make ends meet.
Regular customers
Now, at 78 years old, Shantabai is unable to travel around for shaving. However, customers have been coming to her for many years. She charges ₹50 for a beard trim and ₹100 for cutting animal hair. This allows her to earn around ₹1000 per month.
Read Exclusive COVID-19 Coronavirus News updates, at MyNation.