Slice Of Life: The city taught me how to be independent

Chennai

I was born in Erode, but moved to Chennai after my father passed away. I studied till 6th standard and then dropped out of school. I wanted to work and be independent. I joined Murugan Stores in West Mambalam and worked there for eight years. During my years there, I learned how the business works and how to satisfy the clients. I was soon thirsty for more independence and realised I would be happier if I ran my own store. So I planned properly, and opened my store in Ramapuram in 2000. It’s been 19 years! I have so many regular customers who choose to come here over going to bigger shops or supermarkets. I got married a few years ago. Now, my dream is to open a supermarket by 2020. I have already bought a plot of land not too far from here. Once I have a plan and sufficient flow of funds, I will start the construction of the shop. Even if the supermarket I open runs successfully, I will not shut down this shop of mine as it taught me to be a free man.