Ali Akbar, at 72, brings unparalleled persistence to his work as the last newspaper hawker in France, a role that has seen a decline since its peak in the 1960s. Established in the St.-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood, he entertains passersby with not only the news but also whimsical made-up stories, embodying the spirit of Parisian culture. His unique presence and lively banter have made him a beloved figure among the city's cafes and streets, marking a significant link to a bygone era.
The Last Newspaper Hawker of Paris: A Living Legend
The Last Newspaper Hawker of Paris: A Living Legend
Ali Akbar, a dedicated newspaper hawker, has been selling papers in Paris since 1974, captivating locals and tourists alike with his charm and catchphrase: “Ça y est!”
Ali Akbar, 72, has been hawking newspapers in the streets of Paris for more than a half-century. Among the literary cafes and boutiques of the St.-Germain-des-Prés quartier, he wanders with an infectious smile, his trademark cry of “Ça y est!” echoing against cobblestones. Hailing from Rawalpindi, Pakistan, Akbar is often known for lacing his sales pitches with humor. “Ça y est! The war is over, Putin asks forgiveness!” he quipped recently, exemplifying his flair for engaging his audience.
From Café de Flore to Brasserie Lipp, two of Paris's cultural landmarks, Mr. Akbar continues to navigate a dwindling trade in an increasingly digital landscape. He has garnered a reputation as the last of his kind in a profession that once flourished, peaking in the 1960s, when cinema captured that vibrant marketplace. The profession's decline is starkly illustrated by the iconic imagery of Jean Seberg in “Breathless,” representing a past era where newspaper hawkers played an integral role in the city’s life.
In a time where print media faces overwhelming competition from digital formats, Akbar remains steadfast, keeping alive a piece of Parisian history. As Parisians rush past, Akbar's passion for his craft shines brightly through his playful interactions and deep community ties, ensuring that he is a cherished icon amidst the changing tides of modern media.
From Café de Flore to Brasserie Lipp, two of Paris's cultural landmarks, Mr. Akbar continues to navigate a dwindling trade in an increasingly digital landscape. He has garnered a reputation as the last of his kind in a profession that once flourished, peaking in the 1960s, when cinema captured that vibrant marketplace. The profession's decline is starkly illustrated by the iconic imagery of Jean Seberg in “Breathless,” representing a past era where newspaper hawkers played an integral role in the city’s life.
In a time where print media faces overwhelming competition from digital formats, Akbar remains steadfast, keeping alive a piece of Parisian history. As Parisians rush past, Akbar's passion for his craft shines brightly through his playful interactions and deep community ties, ensuring that he is a cherished icon amidst the changing tides of modern media.
