An 80-year-old violinist, Bhagwan Mallick, draws attention after a viral social media video highlights his decades of street performances in Kolkata. Reports say Mallick has long relied on music for income, playing in areas such as New Town, including near a bus stand, subway, and art street, typically in the evenings. The video and follow-up posts describe hardships including an advanced age, declining eyesight, and a damaged violin. It also says he earns modest amounts on many days and lives in a rented home with his wife, who often accompanies him.
Industrialist Anand Mahindra says he was moved after watching the viral clip and shares that he wants to help. In a post on X, he asks to contribute alongside others and notes that the original video did not provide clear information about how people could contact or support Mallick. Social media users then share details that help connect Mallick with potential supporters.
A content creator, Aradhana Chatterjee, is credited with bringing Mallick’s story to wider attention and later updates that supporters raised about Rs 1 lakh and provided him with a new violin, replacing the instrument he had been using.
