Date: 201

Photographer: Chinese photographer, Zhu Kangbing

Details: The background of this photograph dates back to a chance encounter by Chinese photographer Zhu Kangbing at a local market. He captured an inspiring scene of porter Ran Guangji, who, despite carrying heavy loads on his shoulders, was also guiding his young, innocent-looking son down a staircase. This poignant moment quickly gained widespread attention on social media, receiving significant reactions from people who described Ran Guangji as a true hero. Despite his exhaustion, his commitment to a better future for himself and his son resonated deeply with viewers.

People began to inquire about the identity and life of this dedicated father. It was revealed that Ran Guangji is one of the most active porters in the market. Due to the mountainous nature of the area, there is high demand for porters to transport goods up and down. Traders consider him the top porter in the region due to his tireless work throughout the year. Weather conditions like rain or wind are not obstacles for him, and he is available all day long upon request. His physical capabilities are remarkable; he once carried goods weighing over 200 kilograms in a single day and could handle up to a ton of cargo daily. While a typical porter in the area earns around 3,000 yuan, Ran Guangji’s exceptional efforts can earn him up to 10,000 yuan a month. His peers admire him for his dedication and sacrifice for his family, viewing him as a source of pride.

Following the photo’s widespread circulation, Ran Guangji gained local fame and began receiving more work opportunities. He is now recognized as a reliable porter in the community. Ran Guangji explains that having his son with him at work is common, as his wife works at a local restaurant. Thus, he takes on the responsibility of caring for their son even during his working hours. Years after the photograph was taken, his son, now a school student, expresses pride in his father. He is eager to write about his father’s occupation on any form, viewing him as his role model and the most admired person in his life. He aspires to achieve greatness like his father and once wrote an essay for school stating, “I have a great father who pays my school fees with his shoulders.”

Notably, after the photograph’s release, photographer Zhu Kangbing became friends with Ran Guangji and his family, frequently visiting their home and being regarded as a member of the family. Zhu Kangbing expresses happiness in documenting the life journey of his friend.