Shivam Kirana Store

Our store is situated in Ward No 7 of Madhubani. We are lucky to be near the Ramjanki Mandir, so we can hear the bells and the prayers throughout the day. It makes the atmosphere feel very peaceful even when we are busy. We sell groceries and daily household items to the people living around here. Most mornings start with the smell of incense from the temple. We open early because that is when many people come to the temple and then stop by to pick up milk or sugar. The shop is a simple room with wooden shelves that my uncle built years ago. We don't use any fancy computer systems; we just know where everything is kept. Sometimes a stray cow will wander near the door, and we have to gently shoo it away. The kids from the neighborhood come by after school for sweets or small snacks. We try to keep the staples like flour and pulses fresh and well-stocked. It’s not a glamorous job, but it is honest. We spend a lot of time cleaning the glass jars and dusting the bags. When the monsoon hits, the street can get a bit muddy, but people still find their way to us. We’ve been here in Madhubani for a long time and we don't plan on going anywhere. It’s just about being there for the neighbors when they need something for their kitchen.