Ali Akbar: A Cherished Figure in Paris
PARIS — Known as the voice of Paris’ 6th arrondissement, Ali Akbar, a 73-year-old Pakistani-born newspaper vendor, has become a familiar presence in the cafés of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. With his signature catchphrase, “Ça y est!” which translates to “That’s it!”, Akbar has been a fixture in the city for over 50 years.
Each day, he rides his secondhand bicycle through the neighborhood, delivering fresh stacks of newspapers like Le Monde and Libération to both regulars and prominent figures, including the famous philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre and U.S. Presidents such as Bill Clinton.
Recently, Akbar was honored by French President Emmanuel Macron, who named him a knight in the National Order of Merit. “You are the accent of the 6th arrondissement,” Macron remarked during the ceremony at the Élysée Palace, expressing the unique role Akbar plays in the city’s cultural landscape.
Tragically, Akbar may be the last of the newspaper hawkers in Paris, a profession that has largely vanished in the wake of digital media. While most people now access news online, Akbar continues to deliver printed papers by hand, maintaining a timeless connection to the past.
A Journey of Dreams
At 73, Akbar remains dedicated to his work, operating seven days a week for ten hours daily, regardless of the weather. Born in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, as the eldest of ten, he dreamed of earning enough money to build a house for his mother. At 17, he left home, determined to create a better life.
Throughout the years, he picked up various jobs, including cleaning floors on a ship in Greece, which familiarized him with the local language. His journey eventually led him to Paris in 1973, where an Argentine friend introduced him to the world of newspaper sales, a profession he has cherished ever since.
Community Connection
As he navigates Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Akbar is a beloved figure, with strangers often stopping to congratulate him on his recent honor. His son, Shamshad, noted that the recognition has served as a healing touch for their family. Though he received residency papers years ago, Akbar hopes to obtain French citizenship, a promise made by President Macron.
Despite making only about 60 euros (approximately $70) daily, Akbar’s contribution to the community is invaluable. Longtime customers appreciate the personalized connection he provides, something increasingly rare in bustling cities. As he moves through the streets, the warmth of the community surrounds him, evidenced by the applause and cheers he receives as he enters cafés.
Akbar dreams of continuing his work for as long as possible. Recently, he was greeted by a chorus of his name in a brasserie, showcasing the deep affection the neighborhood feels for him. With a smile, he declared, “Ça y est! I have realized my dream!”
