In conversation with Madankumar

One of the Oldest Shops in Malleswaram

My name is Madankumar. This shop is one of the oldest in Malleswaram. It has been in business for almost 50 years, and was first run by my father.

COVID and Digitisation

The business has taken a hit after COVID and the digitisation of everything. Still, some customers of mine are loyal and regular. They are much older now, so you would assume their children would come instead, but they continue to visit. Book sales have gone down, and it has almost completely disappeared. Most people use their digital devices to read now. I started selling stationery items as well, which has helped maintain the business.

Turned Into Big Jewellery Shops

Only a few of the older shops can be found in Malleswaram now. Most of them have been turned into big jewellery shops, especially in this area. You will find big stores everywhere, selling branded items.

No Tie-Ups With Online Platforms

We don't want to have tie-ups with any online platforms such as Blinkit or Swiggy. The footfall of the store will decrease significantly, and it will kill our business. There is no scope for growth because we would be connected to the apps, which means they will take a commission for their benefit, not for ours.

Loyalists Still Consider This a "Go-To" Place

Although things have changed drastically, especially for businesses, there are loyalists in Malleswaram who consider this a "go-to" place for any book. This is the case for a couple of other stores as well, which have been around for many years.