Bashir Ahmad Dar

My name is on the shop, Bashir Ahmad Dar, and we are located in Noushara, near Soura in Srinagar. It’s a quiet enough place compared to the city center. I’ve lived in this part of Srinagar for a long time. The shop is where I spend most of my waking hours. We sell general items that families need for their homes. I keep things like sugar, salt, and different types of tea. People often stop by on their way to or from the hospital area in Soura. The shop has a simple wooden counter and some shelves that I built myself many years ago. It’s not the most modern place, but it serves its purpose. I like to sit near the window when it’s sunny. We get a lot of locals who just want to talk about the weather or the news while they buy their groceries. Sometimes the power goes out, and we have to use candles or a torch to find things for the customers. It’s just part of life here. We don't have any big signs or advertisements. People know me, and they know where the shop is. I try to keep the stock fresh, though sometimes the winter makes it hard to get new things in. It’s a humble life, and I’m happy to be here in Noushara.