Balaji Times

We’ve been here at Maruthi Plaza in Chickpet for quite a while now. If you know this part of Bangalore, you know how crowded it gets, especially near B-Block. Our shop, Balaji Times, is just a small spot where we mostly deal with watches and clocks. It’s a bit noisy outside with all the people walking by and the rickshaws, but inside it’s just us working. Sometimes people come in just to ask for directions because Chickpet is like a maze. We spend most of the day looking at small parts or helping someone pick out a gift. The counter is usually covered in tools and some old watch straps. It isn't a fancy place with bright lights or anything. We just open up in the morning, sweep the floor, and wait for the first customer. Some days are really busy and we barely have time for lunch, while other days we just sit and talk to the neighbors. We’ve seen the buildings around us change, but No.596/2 stays pretty much the same. It’s a lot of work keeping up with everything, but that's just how it is. People know where to find us if their watch stops or they need a new battery. We don't really do much advertising. Most folks just walk in because they were already in the plaza for something else. It feels good to be part of this busy market area for so many years.