Chadra Shekhar Manihari Store

Here at Chadra Shekhar Manihari Store, we focus on the small things. Manihari shops are important for the women in Raika Bag who want bangles or some bindis for a wedding. We are tucked away in Phalodi, Jodhpur, and it's a bit of a tight space inside with all the boxes. I try to keep the latest colors because the trends change fast. One day everyone wants red bangles, the next day it's something else. My hands are usually busy sorting through small beads or ribbons. It’s a lot of work to keep everything in order. The shop is in a good spot where people walk past on their way to the main market. I've lived in Phalodi all my life, so I know most of the people who walk through that door. Sometimes a group of ladies will spend an hour looking at everything before they pick one small item. That’s just how it goes. I don't mind. The tea stall nearby sends over a cup whenever I look tired. Jodhpur is a big place, but Raika Bag feels like a village sometimes. We don't have any big signs or bright lights. Just the name Chadra Shekhar Manihari Store on the front and some displays in the window. It keeps me busy from morning until late at night. The work is steady and it keeps me connected to my town. Even when the power goes out, we keep the doors open and use a small flashlight to find what people need.