Ironing service provider, 11th cross, Malleswaram

Daily Commute, Different World

My name is Lakshmi, and I iron clothes for a living. I have been working in Malleswaram for around seven years on 11th cross. I live on Jalahalli cross and travel by bus every day to Malleswaram. I come at around 10 am and leave by 6 pm, depending on the amount of work I have for the day. I usually reach home by 8 pm. I work Monday to Saturday.

I prefer Malleswaram to Jalahalli. There are more houses here, more people—it's a different environment. Jalahalli is a slum area. I like being here because the people are welcoming, and they treat me well.

Changes on the Road

I haven't noticed too many changes in Malleswaram, but the traffic has worsened, and buses go through the residential lanes instead of the main roads, making it unsafe for people to walk. These are problems we face now. Back then, there weren't as many vehicles, so the roads were clearer. It hasn't affected me or my work as much, so I can't say whether these changes have been good or bad, but it is different from before.

Respectful Customers

The customers here are very considerate, and they respect my work. There is a variety of people here—a lot of businessmen, doctors, engineers, lawyers, and politicians as well—they are all respectful and kind hearted.

A Business That Survives

My business is going well. You find everything online now, but it hasn't seemed to have affected my line of work much. I haven't had any troubled experiences with that. I enjoy the work, but I also have to do it.

A Famous Favorite

My favorite place in Malleswaram is Amruth Ice Cream! It is a very famous spot here; people from outside of Malleswaram come here to try their ice cream. They make natural ice creams with no preservatives or artificial products. There are many places like this in Malleswaram that are recognized all over Bangalore.