On Departmental Store

This is our little spot in Gautam Nagar, Shop No-122A/16. We are very close to the Bada Gurudwara, so on certain days, you can hear the prayers from there quite clearly. Delhi is always fast-moving and loud, but inside the shop, it feels a bit slower. We have all sorts of household items stuffed into the aisles. It can be a bit of a squeeze when more than three people are inside at once. We spend our afternoons sitting on the wooden benches, waiting for the evening rush to start. Usually, school kids come in for candies or cold drinks once their classes are over. We know which ones are the troublemakers and which ones are quiet. The shelves are mostly full of lentils, spices, and cleaning supplies. Sometimes we run out of something and have to apologize to the aunties who live in the building. They know us well. We’ve been here for a while now. The walls could probably use a fresh coat of paint, and the door squeaks every time someone opens it. It is a lot of work just keeping track of all the small packets. We don't do any big advertising. People just know we are here near the corner. The light inside isn't very bright, but it's enough to see the labels. We just keep the doors open and see who comes in. It’s a simple life in a very crowded city.