Padmavati Metal

You can find Padmavati Metal right in the middle of Raghu Shree Market, shop number 10. Hauz Qazi is always a bit of a gamble with the traffic, but we’ve been here long enough that we’re used to it. We mostly sell metal fittings and hardware items. It’s a small space, so we have to stack things all the way to the ceiling. It can be a bit overwhelming for someone who isn't used to how these old markets work. We get all types of buyers, from contractors to guys just looking for a single hinge. I took over the place from my father, and he’s still here most days sitting on the stool by the entrance. He knows everyone in the market. We don't do much marketing or anything like that. If someone needs something, they just walk in. The lighting in the back is a bit dim, but we have a flashlight for when we need to find the smaller items in the bins. It’s a straightforward business. We buy, we sell, and we try to keep things moving so we don't get stuck with old stock. The market shuts down on Sundays, which is the only time it’s actually quiet around here. It’s a lot of lifting and talking all day. We enjoy the noise, though. It feels like things are moving along. My cousin helps with the heavy crates when things get really busy.