Shambhu Shankar

It’s usually pretty quiet when I first get to Jahangirabad in the morning. I’ve been coming to this same spot in Bhopal for a long time now. Shambhu Shankar is just where we spend most of our daylight hours. The address is 462008 if you’re looking on a map, but most locals just know the way. Sometimes the traffic is a mess and sometimes it’s not too bad. We usually start by cleaning up a bit and getting things ready for whoever might stop by. It isn't a fancy place with big signs or anything. Just a regular room where work happens. We drink a lot of tea while we sit here. Sometimes neighbors come in just to talk for a few minutes before going about their day. It’s funny how the time goes by so fast when you’re busy with small tasks. People come in with questions and we try to give them straight answers without making it complicated. The walls could probably use a new coat of paint, but we haven't gotten around to it yet. It feels like home to us because we’re here more than we are at our own houses. Bhopal has changed a lot over the years, but this little corner of Jahangirabad stays mostly the same. We don’t have a big team or a lot of equipment, just enough to do what needs doing. It’s a simple life and we like it that way.