Character Sketch - Anil - A Thief's Story - Class 10 (Footprints Without Feet)

Anil was a mature and thoughtful man. He was a man of patience. When Hari asked him for work by trying to flatter him, we see that he gives him work not because he was flattered by his antics, but because he saw Hari was a boy whose life he could improve in some way. 

He wrote for a magazine and earned by "fits and starts". He was extravagant too as he spent his money lavishly when he earned it. His earnings were not regular. Though he did not pay Hari initially, he always knew he was giving him enough for buying daily supplies, and Hari, the clever teen was saving a part of it for himself (a rupee).

He wanted to improve Hari's quality of life because what he gave him was more than meagre salary. He taught him basic arithmetic and how to write sentences. Though initially Hari did not realise what he was getting from him, but in the end of the story we definitely see Hari was grateful to him.

When Hari ran away with Anil's earning of 600 rupees, it is evident that Anil had an idea of what had happened. Still he does not oust him rather decides to pay him regularly. He probably understood Hari wanted money to be loyal to him. However Anil's thoughtfulness brings a great change in Hari. His patience and purity win Hari's heart. 

Indeed, goodness goes a long way. Its ripples touch many people.