In conversation with Balakrishna

From a Bachelor's Dream to a Hundred Years

My name is Balakrishna. This shop is around 100 years old—my father started it when he was a bachelor. It began as a small business, initially located on the road where CTR is now situated. Around 25 years ago, we moved to this location, on 3rd Main, where I have been running it ever since.

When We Were the Leading Provision Store

At that time, we were the leading provision store in Malleswaram. There were a few other shops similar to ours, but once things started becoming more digital and online shops gained prominence, our business diminished significantly. We are primarily a butter and ghee store, even though we sell other general items as well. We do not have tie-ups with Blinkit, Swiggy, or any similar apps because it would hinder our business operations. We would have to pay them a commission to keep our business connected to their platforms, and it ends up affecting us more than helping. Even the supermarket complexes that have come up have impacted us. But it is not all that bad—the business is still steady and going well. All that matters is that we are able to survive. Of course, the way we were leading the provision store market at that time does not seem possible in today's environment, but it is still going fine.

Orthodox Iyengars and Fresh Butter

I was born and brought up in Bangalore. My father came here as a bachelor from a village in Nagamangala. He was initially in the cigarette and tobacco business. Later, my grandfather got into the benne (butter) business. There were many orthodox people at the time—Iyengars and Brahmins—and the butter seemed to be popular with them, so he decided to sell it and create a business out of it. We have a shortage of hands and less manpower, which is why we make the butter ourselves in a container and give it to the customers. That makes it easier for us to manage.

A Different Atmosphere Then

Malleswaram back then was wonderful—it was a different atmosphere. People used to interact with each other then, but now no one does. Everyone is busy these days and keeps to themselves, no one wants to talk to each other. We do not know who is coming from where or what they do. Newer people are coming in, and many of my older customers have also migrated, so I do not see familiar faces much anymore.

Pay First, Then Get the Items

The shop has become more famous for benne (butter) and tuppa (ghee) now. Earlier, I would provide items for marriages as well, but payment would only be given after the function was over. Now, times have changed such that you get items only once you pay the money. Things have become more expensive, and people have also changed—there is less trust and connection than before. I used to deliver to places around Bangalore for free, but now, because the catering business has expanded, demand for these items has decreased. The whole business landscape has shifted with these changes.