In conversation with Vinoda R Bhatt

Forty Years of Fruits and Condiments

My name is Vinoda R Bhatt. This shop has been here for 40 years, but I've been managing it myself for around 25-30 years. We sell a variety of fruits and different types of condiments. I pay attention to what customers want and provide those items accordingly.

Sweet Children Who Call Me Ajji

I get all kinds of customers here. Some sweet children call me ajji and will politely return any extra change I might have given them by mistake. Others just take the money and leave. There's such a variety of people. Many will negotiate hard for lower prices and won't give up until I reduce the rate, while others just agree to pay the normal price without any arguments. Overall, I have a good customer base. They are all respectful and kindhearted.

My Father-in-Law Stood Right Next to Me

My father-in-law opened this shop originally. Back then, I had no business experience at all, so he would stand right next to me and help me with everything. He guided me until I learned how to handle things on my own. When I was younger, my father did most of the work at our house. I used to get rations with my ajji, but I didn't know much about business and had to learn everything from scratch. My father-in-law taught me everything and was very supportive. I've been able to keep this going all these years, and that makes me happy.

My Mama Told Him I Was Doing Well

My grandfather had a big shop in our native place in Tirthahalli where you could get all sorts of items. My mama (uncle) told him I was doing well managing this shop on my own, and hearing that brought me joy. I have come a long way.

There's Nothing Else I Could Ask For

I came to Malleshwaram after I got married. We heard this was a good area to live in, so we found a house here. This is a great neighbourhood, people are nice, and you get everything you need. We've been living peacefully with no major problems. I get plenty of support from my family, and the business keeps moving forward. There's nothing else I could ask for.