Nemdhari Ram, a 50-year-old shoeshine worker at the Vikhroli railway station, shares his journey and aspirations for the coming year. Having polished countless shoes over the past 35 years, mostly at Central Railway suburban stations, Ram works long hours to earn his livelihood. Despite the challenges brought on by the Covid pandemic, 2023 was a rewarding year for him as he managed to rebuild his savings. Now, he looks forward to a smooth 2024, free from lockdowns and uncertainties. Ram’s dedication to his profession is unwavering, and he hopes to take a break from work to spend more time with his family in the near future.