Hussain Sheikh

Hussein Sheikh, a 56-year-old migrant worker from Koraput, Odisha, found himself stranded when the nationwide lockdown was imposed during the pandemic. With no means of transport and no savings to survive in the city, he began his long journey home to Jharkhand—traveling mostly on foot and partly by hitchhiking.

Covering hundreds of kilometers over several weeks, he slept at roadside shelters, depended on charity for food, and battled severe fatigue. As an older man, the journey was particularly grueling—blisters on his feet, joint pain, and dehydration made every step an ordeal. Yet, with no alternative, he kept walking, resting only when exhaustion forced him to.

Hussein's story reflects the unique struggles faced by elderly migrant workers, many of whom were left without support or resources, forced to rely on sheer willpower to reach home. His journey is a stark reminder of the systemic neglect and resilience of India’s migrant workforce during the COVID-19 crisis.