Lovely Masale

The shop is located in Beldari Tola, which is a place that feels like everyone knows everyone. Lovely Masale is what we call ourselves. We are right near Matri Chhya Bhawan, which is a good landmark for people who get lost in these lanes. The streets here are not wide, so you have to be careful when you are walking. Most of the day is spent grinding and packing. The machines make a lot of noise, so we have to shout a bit to hear each other. It is dusty work, but we are used to it. The smell of the spices is very strong, especially when the wind blows through the open door. We have a small desk in the back where the ledger stays. It is a bit messy with papers and pens all over the place. My cousin helps out on the weekends when things get a bit more hectic than usual. We do not have a big fancy sign, just a simple one that says the name clearly enough. Sometimes the power goes out and we just sit outside on the steps until it comes back on. It gives us a chance to talk to the neighbors. This part of town has its own rhythm, and we are just a small part of it. We like it here because it is where we started. There is always a stray cat hanging around the door.