In conversation with Kamala

Since 1959, Brahmin Style

My name is Kamala. We started Iyer Mess in 1959, and my daughter-in-law and I run it now. The mess has remained largely the same all these years. We provide the same meals but with a few additions: chapati, vada, and different varieties of rice, all prepared without onion or garlic—Brahmin style.

Forty Years of Loyal Faces

We have the same group of loyal customers—people who have been visiting regularly for the past 40 years. Our customers have remained the same. They come here for fresh, good meals, and we provide them with that homely feeling. They have always been respectful. We have received no complaints about our food. We have that loyalty from our customers because the food is just like you would get at home.

Learning from My Father-in-Law

When I came after marriage, I didn't know anything about cooking. My father-in-law was a great cook, and I watched him and picked up the skill. He passed away in 1999. We used to all manage the mess together, but I run it now. This is good work; it is enjoyable. I wouldn't do it if I didn't like the work.

8th Cross Has Changed Dramatically

Malleshwaram isn't like it was before. It used to be a calm place. 8th Cross, especially, has changed dramatically. It has become very commercial now. I came here in 1984 after my marriage, and even then, there weren't many buildings. Only in the last couple of years has it changed so much—everywhere you go, you see a building or a new shop.