| Date: |
22-10-2014 |
| Subject: |
Poozhikkunnu opts to import crackers this Diwali |
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THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Two days ahead of Diwali, the premises of a small house at Poozhikkunnu near Pappanamcode has turned a mini market. A group of staff line themselves behind the temporary stall, picking up orders from a noisy mess and putting their hands into assorting the items as per the order. The owner of the shop, Jinju, is slightly surprised at the turnout. Until a year ago, he used to make and sell crackers but not this time.
This Diwali, he has chosen to import the goods from Sivakasi. The manufacturing unit that once functioned close to his house was shut down last year. "We are not finding the right labour which could produce the crackers. Over the years we have been dealing with a severe shortage of skilled labour," said Jinju who has been in this business for more than 20 years. He took over the firecracker business started by his grandfather last year after his father Sasi Ashaan died in an accident on his way to Sivakasi.
"The business is actually the part of the tradition. I have a brother and all the members of the family are a part of this business," said Jinju.
Although the place is over crowded with customers, Jinju has his share of regrets. "I used to make these crackers right here and sellers would come to us for business. The reversal of role is slightly upsetting," he said.
"It is very difficult to get experienced labour in this business and I don't prefer people from other states to help in the manufacture," he added.
The family also runs two other shops at Poozhikkunnu junction which are run by his brother and relatives. The store also had to face competitions from other markets, especially Chinese crackers, but the ban on Chinese crackers has relieved Jinju.
Customers are also happy with the service at the shop. "I have been buying crackers from here for more than two years. I stay in Shasthamangalam but I prefer the shop because of the discounts and the quality," said Vijayakumar, an irrigation department employee.
Source : timesofindia.indiatimes.com
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