Former millionaire in China rebuilds life through grueling lotus root work to repay US$700,000 debt
A Chinese businesswoman who once lived in luxury is now harvesting lotus roots in icy mud to repay millions in debt, turning her struggles into a successful livestreaming business.
- A former millionaire businesswoman now harvests lotus roots in freezing mud to repay 5 million yuan (approximately US$700,000) in debt.
- She livestreams the process, selling up to 4,500kg of lotus roots on good days.
- The couple has already repaid 1 million yuan (approximately US$140,000) and continues rebuilding their life through hard work.
CHINA: Businesswoman Hu Qin and her husband once enjoyed a life many could only dream of — a luxury villa, housekeepers, a personal driver, and a thriving fruit empire with over 30 outlets across China.
At their peak, Hu’s assets were valued at more than 10 million yuan (approximately US$1.4 million).
But in 2019, poor management triggered a cash flow collapse, forcing their business into bankruptcy. The couple lost everything and were left with a debt of 5 million yuan (approximately US$700,000).
Starting From Zero With Nowhere to Live
After their downfall, they sold their home and lived out of suitcases while selling farm goods just to survive.
Their turning point came when a friend introduced them to Wuhan’s famous lotus root soup, inspiring them to restart their lives in Hubei province.
Rebuilding Their Lives Through Hard Labour and Livestreaming
Hu and her husband began livestreaming the harvesting of lotus roots and selling fresh produce directly to viewers.
Initially, her husband handled the digging, but the intense physical work caused severe back pain.
Hu, now 44, took on the heavy labour herself while her husband handled household tasks.
Daily Grind in Harsh Conditions
Harvesting lotus roots typically happens in autumn and winter, when the water is icy cold.
Hu wakes up at 5am, puts on full makeup, straps on protective gear, and steps into the mud with a 10kg high-pressure water gun to loosen the roots.
Despite the gruelling conditions, her livestreams have gone viral, attracting thousands of viewers and allowing her to sell up to 4,500kg of lotus roots on good days.
Slowly Climbing Out of Debt
Thanks to their hard work, the couple has already repaid more than 1 million yuan (approximately US$140,000) of their debt.
Hu admits the transition from a glamorous life to manual labour was tough, but she remains determined and hopeful.
“Changing yourself can change your future. Don’t complain about hardship. Just work a little harder,” she said.
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