Proyojoni

Proyojoni is located on Deshbandhu Road in Kolkata. I am at Aa 1/4, which is quite close to the 24 No Ward Municipality Office. Being near a government building means there are always people moving around, even if they aren't coming into the shop. Kolkata can be very loud and the traffic on Deshbandhu Road never really stops during the day. I open up early and start by sweeping the front step. The name of the shop basically means things you need, and that is what I try to have on the shelves. It is mostly household items and small things that people forget to buy at the big market. The walls are a bit faded and the ceiling fan hums loudly, but it keeps the air moving. During the monsoon, the rain really lashes against the door, and I have to move the sacks of sugar and salt further inside so they do not get damp. I spend a lot of time talking to the delivery boys who bring the stock. They are always in a hurry. Running a business like this in Kolkata takes a lot of patience because of the humidity and the crowds. It isn't a polished showroom or anything like that. It is just a regular shop where you can find what you need for your kitchen or your house. I have been here long enough that I do not really notice the noise of the buses anymore.