Sakthi Stores

The shop is located right on L B Road, just a little way from the main signal in Thiruvanmiyur. Being near the signal means we see a lot of cars and bikes stopping and starting all day long. Sakthi Stores is not a big place, but we try to fit everything people might ask for on these shelves. It gets very hot in Chennai, especially in the afternoons, so we spend time keeping the place tidy while it is quiet. Most of our customers are locals who live in the nearby flats. They come in for small things they forgot to buy elsewhere. We spend most of the morning checking the inventory and talking to the people who bring the supplies. Sometimes we run out of space because the shop is 78/1, which isn't huge. Dealing with change is always a bit of a headache, especially when everyone has big notes. You learn to recognize which neighbors like which brand of soap or tea. It is not some high-end place with air conditioning, just a regular corner shop. We have been here through many rainy seasons and summers. The sound of the traffic outside is just something we got used to over the years. It’s mostly just about being here when someone needs a packet of biscuits or some washing powder. We don’t do anything special, just keep the doors open and wait for the next customer. It is a simple way of life here on L B Road.