Less than a week ago, we published a rather painful story of former Pakistani Olympian-turned-rickshaw driver, Muhammed Ashiq. It went viral on the social media platforms in no time. Subsequently, a Pakistan-based company, NetSol Technologies Limited has hired 81-year old.
Social media has irrefutable powers in the digital world. As soon as his story went viral on the internet, companies started to reach out to him. NetSol took the bold step of hiring him as National Sports Ambassador. The company officially announced this news on their Facebook page. The status read:
“Muhammed Ashiq, a former cyclist, who represented Pakistan at both 1960 and 1964 Olympics; winning Silver and Bronze medal at 1958 and 1962 Asian games respectively, is now a member of the NetSol family. His current designation is National Sports Ambassador. This is a proud moment for NetSol and an inspiration for our nation”
While speaking to The Express Tribune, human resource officer at NetSol’s Karachi office Farhan Malik confirmed the news. He stated that Muhammed Ashiq is officially a part of NetSol now. He has been posted in the company’s Lahore office as the National Sports Ambassador.
A brief tale of Muhammed Ashiq
81-year old Muhammed Ashiq is a former Olympian who started his sporting career as a boxer. His wife complained about his injuries later and as a result he switched to cycling in the 1950s. Although he did not win any medal for Pakistan, he was still hailed as a national hero. He also represented Pakistan in Rome and Tokyo in 1960 and 1964 respectively.
Muhammed Ashiq now drives a rickshaw in Lahore for his living. He was a PR assistant for some time before leaving the job due to health reasons some forty years ago.
For a brief period, he also drove taxi and a van. However, for the last six years he is compelled to drive rickshaw in the busy and choked streets of Lahore. He earns Rs. 400/- per day which makes about Rs. 12,000/- a month.
He doesn’t hang his medals in the rickshaw anymore. However, he used to in the past. There is a canopy instead that is engraved on the famous quote by former US President Calvin Coolidge.
“Nations and states who forget their heroes can never be prosperous”
The power of social media finally rewarded Muhammed Ashiq with much needed attention. He can now spend rest of his life peacefully without working hard to earn few bucks for his living. What are your thoughts about this great decision from NetSol?
Image Source: NetSol’s Facebook
