Pink City says 'Happy Birthday' to Habib Miya on 137th birthday

Jaipur, May 20 (UNI) India's eldest living man Habib Miya could not have asked for more on his 137th birthday today. A birthday cake, new clothes, loads of birthday wishes and gifts galore.

As hordes of his grandchildren, great grandchidren and neighbourhood kids sang 'Happy Birthday to you', his eyes glistened and face glowed despite the wrinkles and weakening eyesight.

A garlanded Habib Miya seemed pleased as punch with all the hullabaloo over his birthday celebrations. A smiling Habib Miya said ''I have been able to reach this age with all your blessings. And I only pray for the well being of the country and the state.'' Habib Miya's big family, his relatives, his neighbours and some eminent citizens were present at the celebrations organised by the Civilian Rights and Amity Watch, an NGO.

Later in the evening Jaipur Mayor Ashok Parnami will honour the city's oldest man with a Rajasthani safa and shawl.

Habib Miya, born on May 20, 1870 was a member of Raja Man Singh's ADC band group and retired on June 1, 1938. He started receiving a pension of Rs 1.86. Later Rajmata Gayatri Devi started giving him Rs 350 and now the state government gives him Rs 2,246 every month.

The eldest pension earner in the country, Habib Miya has always controlled his eating habits. With no addictions whatsoever, he has always had his meals cooked in desi ghee.

One of his wishes to perform a Haj was fulfilled in 2003-04 when a London based businessman sponsored his Haj trip.

Now Habib Miya has only wish remaining to be fulfilled - that of meeting President A P J Abdul Kalam, Prime Minster and Chief Minister.

UNI RRT LS HS1800