Market fish vendor, Jitendra Kumar, celebrated Father’s Day yesterday selling fish near the Volovi Junction, outside Labasa Town.

Despite the usual norm where father’s and father figures alike get pampered on the day, Mr Kumar chose to work.

“Every father has to work hard regardless of the day or occasion that is celebrated,” Mr Kumar said.

He said being employable and earning an income each day was the role and the greatest gift a father could give to his children and family.

“We all work hard to ensure our families are well fed, clothed and financially-equipped,” he said.

The father from Vunivau, Labasa, said he missed his two children, a son and daughter, who were working in Suva.

The Vunivau, Labasa, resident stays with his wife and believed engagement in his daily work routine kept him healthy and financially in a better position.

“I get an opportunity to meet new people (customers) and socialise with them, which keeps me active and full of energy,” he indicated.

The 53-year-old worked for 21 years at the then former Fiji Forest Industries in Malau, Labasa, after which he ventured into his own business.

He is a full-time market vendor at Labasa Market.

“I will go next week to meet my children and spend time with them to celebrate a mini Father’s Day.”

Mr Kumar felt proud to have nurtured responsible, respectful, hardworking and helpful children, who always lent help.

“Fathers are important role models for their children and family and every decision, we make impacts the way they perceive us as fathers which should be positive.”

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