Singh (2016)

Singh is a man many will recognize if they've lived on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. He is somewhat of a landmark figure, an 'institution' people call him. Singh has been selling newspapers on the corner of W 86th Street and CPW for over 30 years, seldom missing a day. In fact, he's missed less than three weeks over all those years, and that's when he went to India to visit his mother. Singh is a reticent man, shy to share many personal details, but he has a story that will surprise you. His story is both that of the struggling immigrant -- working ungodly hours, in less than ideal conditions, sending whatever meager money he makes back home to his family. It's also a story of resilience, many hours, out in the cold braving the elements, performing remedial tasks, despite his prestigious educational accomplishments. Spirituality has kept him going, as well as a sheer will to live, despite the difficulties.