Maa Laxmi Kirana

The shop sits right here in New Jaganpura, not too far from D V C Chowk. Most mornings start around six when the shutters go up and the dust from the Patna streets hasn't quite settled yet. It is a small place, honestly. We have racks lining both walls and a heavy wooden counter that has seen better days. You can find the usual things people need for their kitchens like lentils, oils, and the big sacks of rice sitting near the entrance. Sometimes the power goes out in the afternoon, so we just sit on the stool near the door where there is a bit of a breeze. People from the neighborhood stop by, mostly regulars who live in the nearby lanes. They don't always buy a lot, just a packet of milk or some matches. The fan hums quite loudly when it is on, and the floor needs sweeping a few times a day because of all the feet coming in and out. There is no fancy sign or anything, just the name painted above. We spend a lot of time checking the expiry dates on biscuit packets and making sure the soap cakes are stacked neatly so they don't fall over. It is a quiet life in this part of Patna. We know which neighbor prefers which brand of tea without them even asking. The day usually ends late when the street lights are the only thing glowing outside. It's just a regular shop.