Meet the world’s richest beggar with a net worth of whopping ₹7.5 crore – Times of India

In the heart of Mumbai’s bustling streets, amidst the chaos of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus and Azad Maidan, a man stands out—not for his pleas for money, but for the fortune he has quietly amassed. Bharat Jain, often regarded as the world’s richest beggar, has turned this lifestyle into an extraordinary financial success, owning properties and earning more than many conventional jobs provide.
Bharat Jain wasn’t born with a silver spoon, his family used to struggle financially. They barely had enough money to put food on their plates and manage a roof above their head. As a result of which Bharat never went to receive actual education. However, Bharat changed his fate and today he has a, as per reports, net worth of rupees 7.5 crore which includes multiple properties and income that, just, might be more than an average office-going employee.

Jain’s primary source of income for 40 years now, has been begging. As per reports, the average earnings of the day can range from ₹2,000 to ₹2,500, subject to the location and the kindness of the passersby. Jain follows a routine of working 10 to 12 hours a day without breaks, earning a monthly income ranging from ₹60,000 to ₹75,000.
Apart from begging Bharat has made many good financial decisions which further boosted his financial status. Jain owns two flats in Mumbai valued at ₹1.4 crore, where he lives with his wife, two sons, father, and brother. He also owns two shops in Thane, which provide a rental income of ₹30,000 per month. These investments have enabled him to support his family and even ensure future security for his children.

Jain’s two sons, who studied at a renowned convent school, have finished their education and now assist with the family business. The Jain family operates a stationery store, which further supplements their income. Despite his financial stability, Jain’s family does not always approve of his decision to continue begging. However, he stands by his choice, stating, “I enjoy begging, and I don’t want to give it up.”
In an interview with the Economic Times, Bharat Jain said, “I’m not greedy. I’m generous”. He also told them that he often goes to temples and donates money. Jain’s story is not unique. India’s begging industry is immense, with an estimated value of ₹1.5 lakh crore. Many other beggars, like Sambhaji Kale, with a net worth of ₹1.5 crore, and Laxmi Das, with a net worth of ₹1 crore, have also amassed considerable wealth through begging.