Pradip Saloon

My name is Pradip and I run this small place in Dakshin Dari. People usually just call it Pradip Saloon because it’s easy. I've lived in this part of Kolkata for a long time. The shop isn't fancy at all. We have a few chairs and mirrors that have seen better days, but they do the job. It gets quite busy on Sunday mornings when everyone wants to get cleaned up for the week. Usually, there’s a bit of a wait, but we keep the fan going. I started this because I needed work and I knew how to cut hair. My hands are always a bit tired by evening. We see the same faces every month. Some guys bring their kids for their first haircuts, and those kids eventually grow up and bring their own kids here. That is just how it goes in Dakshin Dari. It’s a simple routine. We talk about the local news or whatever is happening in the neighborhood. The address is 700048, near the main road. If you are looking for a place with music and air conditioning, this isn't it. We just use scissors and razors. Sometimes the power goes out, but we keep going if there is enough light from the door. It’s just a regular shop for regular people. Nothing more than that. I think I’ll keep doing this as long as I can stand. It's what I know. We don't have any big signs or posters, just the name on the glass.