Slice Of Life: ‘I studied till Class 10, but my shop ensured I never have to borrow money’

I  was born and brought up in Kancheepuram and started selling utensils in 1974 after getting married. I studied up to Class 10, but could not continue because of some personal reasons. My father used to own a utensil shop and I got the idea to run one from him. I have been running my shop in Kancheepuram town for more than 40 years. Two years ago I had to vacate the shop since the building owner sold the property. But, after being in the same place for decades, I could not shift to an alternate location as I would lose my customers, so I set up a shop on the roadside near my old shop. 

I have been working hard since childhood and I like hard work hence sitting by the road for long hours does not bother me. I have five children and all of them are married and settled now. Last year, I fulfilled my dream of visiting Mecca with my wife had a good time there. Here, since my shop is situated near the mosque, I don’t keep it open on Fridays. I get a lot of customers because I sell good quality goods at reasonable price. My work also ensures that I have a steady supply of money. My father had instructed me not to borrow money, and his words are etched I into my heart and I have never borrowed a penny from anyone.