A deeply emotional story of an 80-year-old man selling sweets on local trains in Chennai has touched millions of hearts online. At an age when most people hope for rest, care, and dignity, this elderly man is still working hard every day just to survive. His story has once again raised serious questions about how society treats its senior citizens.
From Parenthood to Loneliness in Old Age
Most parents spend their entire lives making sacrifices for their children. They dream that their children will stand by them in their old age. Sadly, for many elderly people in India, reality is very different. Instead of care and respect, they face loneliness, neglect, and abandonment. This story reflects the harsh truth that old age can be the most difficult phase of life.
Polis, Sweets & Tears behind every bite ❤️ 😭 “Today, my heart broke when I saw an 80-year-old got pushed into hardship. Abandoned by his own daughter who now lives in London, he has taken up selling sweets and polis on the busy trains of Chennai, to support himself and his… pic.twitter.com/6wpuOzpwwk
— Dr Mouth Matters (@GanKanchi) September 9, 2025
Story Shared on Social Media Platform X
The incident came into public attention after a user on X (formerly Twitter), Dr. Mouth Matters, shared the elderly man’s story. According to the post, the man was abandoned by his daughter, who is now living in London. With no support left, he started selling sweets and polis on Chennai’s crowded trains to earn a living.
Husband and Wife Working Together with Dignity
The elderly man is not alone in his struggle. His wife, who is also in her late 70s, prepares the sweets and polis at home with care and love. Every day, the man steps out to sell what his wife makes. Despite their age and pain, the couple has chosen self-respect over begging, showing great courage and dignity.
Food Made with Hard Work and Emotion
People who tasted the sweets said they were not just delicious but filled with emotion and effort. The story reminded many that food sold by elderly people often carries untold stories of pain, survival, and strength. Buying from them is not just a purchase but an act of humanity.
Strong Reaction from Netizens
The post went viral very quickly, crossing over one million views and receiving thousands of likes and comments. Many users expressed anger towards the daughter for abandoning her parents. Others praised the elderly couple for their determination and self-respect. Several people offered help, financial support, and promised to spread the word so the couple could get more customers.
Society Steps In Where Family Failed
This incident showed a contrast between neglect by family and kindness from strangers. While children failed in their duty, common people came forward to help. Volunteers offered to locate the elderly man, place bulk orders, and provide assistance. It proved that humanity still exists, even when family bonds break.
No Latest Update Yet
As of now, there is no confirmed update about the current situation of the elderly couple. The person who shared the story mentioned that efforts are ongoing to find more details. Many people are waiting and hoping for good news.
Conclusion
This heartbreaking story is a reminder that old age should never be a time of suffering and loneliness. Parents who spend their lives raising children deserve love, care, and respect in return. While this elderly couple’s strength is inspiring, their situation is also a painful question mark on our values as a society. It is time to reflect, act responsibly, and ensure that our elders never feel abandoned in their final years.