Ashok is a learned personality who has spent years gaining knowledge in different subjects. He continues to study even today, along with carrying out his business of catering for the Railways.Ashok is a learned personality who has spent years gaining knowledge in different subjects. He continues to study even today, along with carrying out his business of catering for the Railways.

Ashok Kumar Bhati is a Railways caterer at Luni Junction, Jodhpur.

Talking about his educational qualifications, Ashok says he did his schooling at Luni School, followed by a BCom from Jodhpur University. He is also an MCom and an LLB with a keen interest in studies. Ashok has also pursued his Diploma in Labour Law, and he continues to appear for exams at Kota Open University even at the age of 67. He recently completed his MA in History and has 28 diplomas under his belt.

Inspired by the Rajasthani poetess Laxmi Kumari Chundawat, who earned her PhD degree at the age of 97, Ashok was motivated to continue studying and seeking knowledge.

Recalling his childhood, Ashok says that he remembers playing games as a kid that are now long forgotten. He used to walk to school, which was quite far from his village.

Sharing a glimpse of his challenges, Ashok says that his village had no electricity during his education days, so he would sit at the railway station and study under its light. Years later, when Ashok lost his parents, he had to take over the responsibility of his siblings and cater to their education.

Talking about his professional experience, Ashok shares that he was selected as a lower division clerk at the State Bank of India, where he worked for a few days. Thereafter, he joined his family's business of food and beverage. However, he continues to motivate other railway caterers to study and share his knowledge with them from time to time.

Describing his achievements, Ashok says that he is a gold medalist in BCA and MCA and has been felicitated by the Rajasthan Governor for the same. His name is also registered in the Limca Book of Records and the India Book of Records as the most educated vendor. Ashok was also interviewed for India Today magazine and appeared on the show ‘Ajab hai par Gazab hai.’

Drawing a comparison between education and experience, Ashok says that education is of primary importance and that with more education comes more experience.

When asked about his mistakes, Ashok feels that he would have been better off in a job as compared to business. He thinks that a job would have given him more opportunities and exposure.

Advising the youth, Ashok says that there is no end to learning, and hence youngsters should keep studying and gaining knowledge. He feels that education is not valued much in India, which is the main reason why youth venture overseas for education and job opportunities, which in turn also results in brain drain.

When free, Ashok contributes to household chores and also gives his time to gardening and farming. He also enjoys listening to music and spends hours studying.