A man from Rajasthan’s Chittorgarh has once again found himself in the spotlight, not for a new achievement but because of the extraordinary way he presents himself in daily life. Kanhaiyalal Khatik, widely known as “Goldman,” has a story that began with hardship and determination. Once a simple vegetable vendor pushing a handcart through local streets, he worked tirelessly to improve his circumstances. Over the years, he climbed slowly but steadily, building a business that changed his life completely. Today, he is recognised across the district for stepping out wearing more than 3.5 kilograms of gold every single day.
Who Is Kanhaiyalal Khatik?
Nearly 25 years ago, Kanhaiyalal earned his living by selling fruits and vegetables on the streets. Life was far from easy, but he carried a unique fascination an early love for gold. He often recalls how music composer Bappi Lahiri, famous for his heavy gold jewellery, became his inspiration. His first real experience with gold came when a friend lent him a 20-gram chain. The feeling stayed with him, planting the dream that one day he would own plenty of gold himself.
Rise in Business and Love for Gold
As time passed, Kanhaiyalal’s business grew. He began importing apples from Kashmir and selling them in Chittorgarh, a shift that significantly improved his financial position. With better income, he indulged freely in his passion for gold. Today, at 50, he wears around 3.5 kg of jewellery chains, rings, bracelets and watches. By current prices, he steps out each day wearing nearly Rs 4 crore worth of gold. Despite this, he does not use personal security. He also serves as the district president of the local Khatik community association.
Extortion Threat From Alleged Gang Members
Recently, Kanhaiyalal’s glittering public image attracted dangerous attention. He received phone calls from individuals claiming to be associated with the Rohit Godara gang. It started with a missed WhatsApp call. Soon after, he received another call and a voice message demanding Rs 5 crore. The caller warned: “Give me Rs 5 crore, otherwise you will not be able to wear the gold.” A second message carried an even more frightening threat, saying he would not be “left fit enough” to wear gold again if he refused.
Police Case and Investigation
Shaken by the threats, Kanhaiyalal approached the City Kotwali Police Station. A case of extortion and criminal intimidation has been registered, and police have begun an investigation into the callers and their possible gang connections. For now, the man who once sold vegetables to survive continues to wear his beloved gold but with far greater caution and awareness of the risks that come with his shining identity.
