United Optical Co.

Down in the narrow lanes of Ballimaran, you’ll find us at number 5974. We are on the first floor. If you’ve ever been to Chandni Chowk, you know how crowded and loud it gets. It’s a world of its own. United Optical Co. has been part of this neighborhood for a long time. The stairs up to our place are a bit steep and narrow, so you have to watch your step. Once you’re inside, the noise of the street fades a little, but you can still hear the rickshaws honking. We have shelves full of frames and lenses. Some are old styles, and some are newer. It’s a bit dusty because of all the construction nearby, but we try to keep the glasses clean. We spend a lot of time helping people pick out what fits their face. It’s not a high-end boutique with carpets and soft music. It’s just a shop where people come to get their eyes sorted. Sometimes we sit and talk with the neighbors while having a glass of tea. The electricity can be a bit temperamental in this part of Old Delhi, but we have our ways of coping. It’s a historical area, and we like being part of that history. We don’t do big ads or anything. People know we are here, and that has always been enough for us. It’s a busy, cramped, and lively place to spend the day. We wouldn't want to be anywhere else.