Barber’s skills fund family’s education in Nepal

Ramprabodh Thakur of Janakpurdham, Nepal, supports his family by cutting hair and beards, a skill he learned from his father and now shares with his son, Binay.

For 25 years, Ramprabodh worked in other salons before opening ‘Pragati Jents Parlor’ five years ago. He used his earnings to educate his son Binay to the graduate level and is currently funding his daughter’s education.

Although modern electric clippers are impacting the traditional barber trade and reducing income by 30 to 40 percent, Ramprabodh prioritizes customer satisfaction and maintains a loyal clientele. Binay now assists his father at the salon while also working in a financial institution and continuing his studies. He learned to cut hair by watching his father and now provides modern styles alongside traditional cuts.

Ramprabodh earns 60,000 to 70,000 rupees each month after expenses, which he uses for his family’s needs, education costs, and saving for his daughter’s wedding. He believes dedication and strong customer relationships can sustain the profession despite growing challenges, and is proud to continue a family tradition spanning generations.