At the ground floor of a mall in Kochi, Ramshid K.K., a native of Nilambur, stands amidst the rows that showcase antique objects from his collection. The show has stamps, currencies, agricultural utensils, gadgets and documents that will pique a history enthusiast’s interest. Ramshid, who is in his early twenties, says the show — Kazhchayiloode Kaithangu – is organised to collect money for his kidney treatment.
He realised about his condition while studying in Class VIII. He has problems with both the kidneys. One has been transplanted. However, Ramshid, who has been undergoing dialysis for the past three years, needs a good amount to meet the monthly medical expense. “Every month, I need at least Rs 14,000 for treatment,” says Ramshid. So far, his mother, with help from a committee in his native place, used to accumulate the required amount. “Now, my mother is unwell and cannot work hard as before. So, I thought I would help her by finding money for my treatment through the exhibition,” says the youngster.
His informative exhibition, started three years ago, is mostly held in schools and colleges. “In Kochi alone I have done it in 10 schools,” says Ramshid. One can find the world’s largest currency, stamps from 210 countries, currency note of crores, letters by the East India Company in 1917, cameras, kitchen utensils, measuring tools, printing blocks, radio, typewriter, jewellery boxes and many other period pieces there. “I started collecting curios when I was in Class V. I was intrigued by the different pictures and letters on those stamps and coins. My friends’ parents and relatives living abroad were my resources. To start this exhibition, Malappuram Numismatic Society contributed a few of their exhibits.”
Ask him about travelling to different places carrying them, he says this could not have been possible without his friends’ help. “They help me with transportation.” Ramshid hopes good minds will generously help him. “I don’t want people to give me money for free. They can come here, watch my collection and donate whatever within their capacity in the box put over there,” says Ramshid, pointing at the donation box in the venue.
The show is open till Sunday at Oberon Mall from 10 am onwards.
