Every day in the Sonaichhari area of Cox’s Bazar, a familiar figure appears—a man with a bunch of colorful balloons in his hands.
Elephants, horses, Doraemons, flowers, butterflies, and fish-shaped balloons dangle from his sticks as he moves from one corner to another, surrounded by laughing children.
He is Mohammad Hossain, now in his sixties. With age-lined hands and a gentle smile, he earns his living by selling balloons—not for family support or leisure, but for survival.
Each balloon sells for Tk 20 to Tk 50, enough to bring a fleeting smile to a child—and a modest meal to his home at day’s end.
“When children laugh holding my balloons, I feel joyful too,” says Hossain. “Their smiles are my peace.”
Locals say Hossain’s quiet perseverance is a reminder of human dignity and kindness in everyday life.
To the people of Sonaichhari, he’s more than just a balloon seller—he’s the man who colors their children’s world with joy.
By Mohammad Morshed
Photo: Hussain Shetu
