Shanu Beauty Parlour

Shanu Beauty Parlour is located near the petrol pump at the Main Chowk in Qamarwari, Srinagar. It’s a very central spot, so I see a lot of things happening at the crossroads all day. When the weather in Srinagar gets cold, I keep a small electric heater near my feet while I work. The ladies from the Qamarwari area come here for all sorts of things, like getting their hair done for a party or just a regular facial. I have a few comfortable chairs and some cupboards where I keep my towels and creams. The view from my front door is mostly just the cars lining up for petrol and the people crossing the chowk. It can be quite a hectic place outside, but inside I try to keep things steady. We drink a lot of Noon Chai during the day, especially when it’s freezing. I have a regular set of customers who tell me all about their lives while I am working on their skin or hair. We don't have any big fancy equipment, just the normal tools that every parlour has. During the winter months, I usually close up a bit earlier because it gets dark so fast and the market gets quiet. In the summer, I stay open longer. I make sure everything is clean before I leave, checking the heater twice to make sure it is off, then I walk home in the cool evening air.