In conversation with Sheshappa

From Kukke Subrahmanya to Bangalore

My name is Sheshappa, and my native place is Kukke Subrahmanya. I came to Bangalore in 1980 and opened this shop. We initially started with fruits and vegetables, but over time, we began segregating the products among the shops located on either side of this area (8th main)—one sells fruits and the other sells vegetables. My shop now specializes in condiments and food items.

After Covid, All Businesses Have Effectively Shut Down

Customers have been coming here for the past 45 years, but their numbers have dwindled as people have been migrating from Malleswaram to different parts of Bangalore and the country. My older customer base has diminished significantly, especially now that commerce has moved online. After the Covid pandemic, all businesses have effectively shut down. Everyone stays at home and orders online, particularly items such as bread, milk, and eggs. However, I sell ready-to-eat items like khandvi and dhokla, which are not readily available online, so people still come to the store to purchase these specialty items. We simply cannot afford to match the rates offered online—wholesalers provide significant discounts that work only in the digital marketplace.

A Deep Trust Between Me and My Customers

The customers who have visited this shop since it opened have been wonderful throughout these 45 years. There have been no complaints or problems because there exists a deep trust between me and my customers.

Beyond My Shop and Home, I Rarely Venture Out

Most people consider 8th Cross their favorite place in Malleswaram. I have heard countless people say this because you can find everything there, whatever you are looking for. As for my personal favorite, I am not entirely sure. I appreciate the entire neighborhood, but beyond my shop and home, I rarely venture out. When I take some days off, I return to my native place, so I don't find the time to explore the local temples or eateries. This is perhaps why I do not have a deep personal connection to the place, since the business has been at the forefront of my life since I was young. The shop opens at 7:45 in the morning and closes only around 10:00 in the evening—there is simply no time, and I cannot leave the shop unattended to go out.

Malleswaram has traditionally been home to many Iyengars, who are the original residents here, along with Konkanis. Now, North Indians are moving into the area, but the population remains predominantly Brahmin.