Altaf M Shaikh

My name is Altaf and I’ve been running things here in Vadodara for a good stretch of time now. You can find me over on 12th Main, specifically in the 2nd Stage area near Modi Hospital Road. It’s a busy spot, especially around Shankar Mutt, but we’ve gotten used to the noise and the rhythm of the street. Most days start early because there is always something that needs fixing or checking on. People stop by quite a bit just to ask directions or see if I’m around for a quick chat about work. I didn't set this up to be some big fancy operation, it's just me and a few hands making sure things get done right the first time. The building isn't much to look at from the outside, but it’s where I spend most of my life. I remember when we first moved into the 2nd Stage; it felt like a maze back then. Now I know every pothole and corner on this road. Sometimes the power goes out or the traffic gets backed up all the way to the hospital, but we just keep moving along. It’s a practical way to earn a living and I like being part of the neighborhood. If you’re walking past the Mutt, you’ll likely see the door open. I don’t believe in keeping things too formal. It’s just how we do things here, day in and day out, without making a big fuss about it.