Bikash Store

Life in Ethelbari is pretty quiet most of the time. Bikash Store is right on the way to Birpara, so we get people stopping by who are heading into town. It is not a very big shop. We mostly have things that people in the village need quickly so they don't have to go all the way to the bigger markets. The air in Alipurduar is nice, though it rains a lot during the monsoon season. When it pours, the roof makes a lot of noise and we have to move some of the bags away from the door. I usually have the radio on in the background, mostly the news or some old songs. My nephew helps out sometimes when I have to go to the post office. We have been in this spot for years and the building is getting old. There are cracks in the floor but it doesn't bother anyone. People come in, say hello, and ask about my family. It is more about talking than just buying things. Sometimes I forget to order enough stock and have to tell people to come back on Tuesday. That is just how we run things here near Birpara. It is a simple life and we are okay with that. I usually keep some water for the stray dogs outside too. It is a small thing but they seem to appreciate it. The local bus passes by twice a day.