Shabir Ahmad Baba

This is the shop run by Shabir Ahmad Baba, located over in Drangbal, Pampore. It is right in the heart of Pulwama district. We don’t really call it a big company or anything, it’s just a store where I spend most of my time. The daily routine is pretty much the same every day—I get here early, unlock the shutters, and start checking what we are low on. People from around Drangbal come in for their basic groceries and household items. It’s a small operation, and I usually run it by myself or with a bit of help from family. The shelves are filled with the usual stuff like spices, tea leaves, and snacks for the kids. Because it’s a local place, things are a bit informal. If someone is short a few rupees, we usually just settle it the next time they come in. That’s just how it works in a place like this. The weather in Pulwama can be a bit unpredictable, so that sometimes affects when people come out to shop. I keep the place as tidy as I can, but with all the bags of grain and supplies, it always feels a bit packed. It’s hard work and the hours are long, but it keeps me connected to the people living around here. There’s no big mystery to it; it’s just a small shop providing the basics to the local neighborhood every single day.