I started my shop in 1981. I fix bicycles and two-wheelers. I begin work at 8 a.m. and end by 8 p.m. Back then, this locality had very few buildings. And even fewer cars and automobiles. Bicycles were much more in use than two-wheelers, so I used to, initially, fix only bicycles. Then my expertise expanded to fixing two-wheelers too. A friend of mine, who is a mechanic in Madiwala, taught me the skills of this trade.
I am 50 years old. I never went to school. My father was too poor to educate us. I pay rent for this shop. In 1981, I paid Rs. 130. Today, I pay Rs. 6,000. I am quite fluent in Hindi, which I learnt from my customers. Over the years, I have earned the trust of my customers, so much so that entire generations of families know me, from the grandfather who would get his cycle fixed to his grandchildren, who come with their grandfather, to get their’s fixed.
I get my tools from shops in J.C. Road and Chickpet. I wouldn’t say I earn much profit, but I earn enough to take care of my family and my basic needs. I have two sons and a daughter.
Bengaluru has changed a lot since then. There are many more outsiders from the city. And the weather has changed drastically. (Points at the sun) It is so hot now! As a Bangalorean, born and raised here, it is difficult to come to terms with how much the weather has changed!
Since I love animals and nature, my favourite spots in the city are Lalbagh and Bannerghatta National Park.
