Raj Hair Saloon

Balaji Nagar is a nice part of Aurangabad and our saloon is situated right near the Balaji Mangal Karyalaya. Because we are so close to the wedding hall, we see a lot of people coming in to look sharp before a big function. The shop is a straightforward place with big mirrors and the usual rotating chairs. I have spent many years in Garkheda and I know the way the wind blows dust into the doorway. I keep a broom handy near the back. The walls are painted a light shade but they could probably use a fresh coat soon. We have a small radio that plays local stations while we work. The smell of aftershave is usually lingering in the air. I make sure the razors are always fresh and the water is warm enough. It is a man’s world mostly in here, with lots of talk about cricket or the local politics. We don't have a big waiting area, just a bench along the wall. Sometimes the kids from the neighborhood come in and they can be a bit noisy. I like the rhythm of the work here. It is about the sound of the clippers and the snip of the scissors. We don’t do anything too complicated, just the standard stuff that people need. When it is raining, the shop feels very small and cozy. It is a good place to be on a Tuesday morning.