Ranjana Rani

Living and working on Balua Road in Chaubey Pur is quite different from being in the heart of Varanasi. It’s a bit further out, so things move a little slower here, which I actually prefer. My name is Ranjana Rani and this is where I’ve set up my small shop. The building is right off the main road, so it’s easy to find, but it still feels private enough to get work done without too many interruptions. The dust from the road is a constant battle, especially when the big trucks go by, but you get used to it after a few months. I have a small desk near the door where I keep all my papers organized. It’s not a fancy office by any means. There’s a wooden chair that creaks every time I sit down, and the walls could probably use a fresh coat of paint. But it’s my space and it works for me. During the monsoon, the rain hits the tin roof so loudly that I can’t even hear myself think, so I usually just take a break and watch the water pour down onto the street. There aren't many other businesses right next to me, just a few local shops selling groceries and basic supplies. I like the independence of working for myself here. It’s a simple life, but it keeps me occupied and I enjoy the routine of coming here every morning.