Sanitation Worker, 6th Cross, Malleswaram

Five Years Collecting Waste on 3rd Main

My name is Ashok, and I have been working as a pourakarmika in Malleswaram for five years. I ride the autos that collect waste, and I am allocated to 3rd main. I'm from Bangalore and live in Seshadripuram, traveling to Malleswaram for work every day.

The People Here Are Respectful and Cooperative

I like Malleswaram—it is my place of work. I admire the temples and also like Sankey Tank. The most important thing is that the people here are respectful and cooperative, and they maintain the neighborhood well. This area is cleaner than most parts of Bangalore.

I Came Here After My Father's Death

I was in Yeshwantpur with my father a while ago, but I didn't like it there. I used to work there because I had to. My father was unwell and I had to take care of him. I came to Malleswaram after his death in search of a job, and I'm glad I came here. This is a place of contentment and peace for me.

Some Even Treat Me Like Their Own Son

My work is given respect, yes. There will be a few people who mistreat you, but such attitudes are out of our control. When I first started the job, there were people I did not get along with, but they have become friendly over the years. Some even treat me like their own son. There is respect and value given to my job.

Being Exhausted Gives Me a Sense of Accomplishment

It is tiring work, definitely. But when I don't work, I feel like there is something missing. I feel fulfilled when I work, even if it is a taxing job. Being exhausted gives me a sense of accomplishment—that I'm working and fending for myself.

I Tend to Miss Them When I'm Not Around

I have a good circle of friends. The people I work with are good individuals who cooperate well with me. I haven't faced any issues with them. In fact, I tend to miss them when I am not around them—having that community brings me joy. We enjoy each other's company.

I'm Content Every Day Here

Nothing specific brings me joy here; it is just the environment. Festival celebrations, interacting with the people, my work—these are all things that make me content to be here. I do wish that it stays the same way. There have been plenty of changes, with people from different areas coming into Malleswaram, and there is no way of knowing how it will be in the near future. Despite these changes, I am grateful to be working here. I want my work to continue as is and bring me the same level of peace and satisfaction. I'm content every day here.