In the heart of Paris, Ali Akbar is more than just a newspaper hawker; he’s a beloved fixture of the 6th arrondissement. For over 50 years, this 73-year-old Pakistani immigrant has navigated the streets on his trusty bicycle, selling papers like Le Monde and Libération. His signature shout, “Ça y est!“—meaning “That’s it!”—is a familiar call to the locals.
Akbar’s journey began in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, where he grew up in a large family. Dreaming of a better life, he left home just before turning 18. After working various jobs across Greece, the Netherlands, and northern France, he finally settled in Paris in 1973. An Argentinian friend introduced him to selling newspapers in the Latin Quarter. He remembers being shocked by the freedom of expression in the satirical publications he sold, a stark contrast to what he knew back home.
In January 2026, French President Emmanuel Macron honored Akbar with a knighthood in the National Order of Merit, calling him the voice of the French press. “You are the most French of the French,” Macron said, recognizing Akbar’s deep connection with the community.
Despite changes in media consumption, with digital news dominating, Akbar remains steadfast. He’s believed to be the last newspaper hawker in Paris, a role that used to be common but is now a rarity. His dedication to this craft has not only earned him a living, but it has also made him a local legend.
With his daily grind, Akbar works ten hours a day, seven days a week, come rain or shine. He proudly states, “Really, those days were paradise for me.” His success has been bittersweet; while he achieved his dream of building a house for his mother, he faced homelessness in the past, often sleeping on the streets to send money back home.
Even with the hard times, Akbar chooses to focus on the positive. In his memoir, I Make the World Laugh, but the World Makes Me Cry, he candidly reflects on both his joys and struggles. His resilience is inspiring, and he encourages others to see the good amidst the challenges.
Today, walking through the streets, he is often greeted with cheers and congratulations. Customers, like Michel Mimran, appreciate the human connection he fosters, which feels rare in today’s fast-paced world. “He’s interested in you, and then you’re interested in him,” says Mimran, highlighting the warmth Akbar brings to the community.
Though he currently earns around 60 euros a day, Akbar’s spirit and perseverance shine brightly. His customers chant his name in brasseries, and he knows that when he finally steps away from his post, the tradition of newspaper hawking in Paris may fade along with him. But for now, Akbar, the voice of 6th arrondissement, continues to live out his dream.
