Thamarai Selvi General Store

Being near Chakkadi Bazaar in Melur means there is always a lot of foot traffic. My shop on Mill Road is just a simple place. I spend most of my day standing or sitting on a plastic stool near the entrance. The air in Madurai is dry and the sun hits the front of the store around noon. I keep the bags of rice and grains near the back so they stay cool. People come in for their daily groceries. Sometimes they stay to talk for twenty minutes about their families or the local temple festivals. I listen more than I talk. The shelves are a bit mismatched because we added them at different times over the years. I use a pencil to mark the prices on the packets. It’s easier that way. Sometimes the supply truck gets stuck in the narrow lane and I have to go out and help them navigate. My hands are usually a bit rough from handling the gunny bags. We don't have any fancy displays or bright lights here. Just basic things that people need. When the evening breeze picks up, the dust from the road blows in. I have to sweep again before closing. It’s just a regular cycle. I close the heavy wooden doors and walk home through the bazaar when the stars are out. It’s been this way since I can remember and I don't really mind the work.