Slice of Life: ‘I am content with whatever I make, never had to borrow money'

I came here from Kancheepuram and have been in this business from 1990. I studied up to Class 6, but could not continue beyond that. I then started to help my father work in a shop. In 1997, after my father died, my brother stepped in to help me run the shop which is located in Gandhi Road in Kancheepuram.

I used to supply petromax lights for functions but since a lot of new lights have flooded the market with time, nobody wanted to opt for petromax lights so then I shifted to gas lights.

I used to repair gas stoves and other burners used for cooking. Since there are many temples in Kancheepuram that use petromax lights and gas lights, I get work and that keeps me happy. I love this work and cannot think of doing anything else instead.

I have two children who go to school and I can happily provide for the family with whatever little I make. I never had to think of borrowing money even though I have a lot of friendly benefactors. I am content and can spend the rest of my days like this.