Ironing service provider, 9th cross, Malleswaram

A Place Dear to Me

My name is Manjunath H. I live in Gayathrinagar and travel to Malleswaram every day. I have been ironing clothes for a living for around 12 years now, so I am familiar with this area. It is dear to me.

The Realities of Competition

I start working at around 9 am, but I don't end my day at a fixed time—it depends on the day. Many do the same job as I do, so there is a bit of competition. Some earn more because they have increased their rates. On some days, I earn a very small amount, but that is how the business is. I stay until my work for the day is done, and I do what I can manage.

Adapting to Digital Payments

Online apps have not affected my business much, except in the case of payments. No one carries cash with them anymore, so businesses have to create an account on PhonePe or Google Pay to receive money. Before this, I used to work in a company, but that closed down. I opened this cart after that. I don't have a proper shop—if it is provided to me, I will take it, but I can manage fine with the cart. If it rains or it gets too sunny, I use a shed to cover it.

Satisfaction and Respect

I like this job. If I could do something else, I would, but I am satisfied with this work as well. Malleswaram is a very good place. The people are wonderful and immensely respectful. I have had a good experience for the 12 years I have been here. There have been no tensions or complaints. I enjoy visiting the Kadu Malleswara temple—the railway station and the market are famous spots.

Development and Rising Costs

I think one of the biggest changes has been the increase in rates, not just in my business but everywhere. There has been a lot of development in Malleswaram, but it is kept clean. The BBMP pourakarmikas do a great job keeping the area clean. People are cooperative and supportive that way.