Dutta Variety Stores

You can find Dutta Variety Stores over on S N Road in Kolkata, specifically in the Parthapur area. We call it a variety store because we really do try to keep a little bit of everything. It’s one of those places where you might find a notebook next to a packet of biscuits or some washing powder near the light bulbs. The shop is on a street that gets quite a lot of foot traffic, especially during the festive seasons when everyone is out and about. We don’t have much space to spare, so every corner is filled with something. It can look a bit cluttered to someone who isn't used to it, but there is a system to it all. I’ve lived in Kolkata my whole life and this shop is just part of the local landscape now. Usually, it’s just a steady stream of neighbors coming in for one or two items they forgot to buy elsewhere. We don’t do any big advertising or anything like that. People just know we are here. The fan hums in the corner and we sit behind the register waiting for the next person to walk in. Sometimes the rain gets quite heavy and leaks a little near the front door, but we just put a bucket down and keep going. It’s just a normal way to earn a living and we are happy to be a part of the Parthapur community.