E-WAY OR ME WAY?

The trade-offs between human connection and digital efficiency.

- S. Radha Prathi

Of late, there are a number of small enterprises and shops closing down in metro cities and large and even small towns. The neighborhood Kirana (grocery) shops have started singing their swan songs. Some essential businesses like salons, repairing services, bakeries, stationery shops, hosieries, and flourmills are following suit. Bigger businesses and brands have moved into malls. However, these changes do not seem to have perturbed their customers at large. Just about everyone seems to swear by e-shopping and e-services, especially after Covid times.

Well, as in all things modern, the human touch is disappearing from one of the most enjoyable parts of a person's life. Let us step into the time machine and enter a time frame about a couple of decades ago and take into account a few instances.

We did have customised services ever since certain trades started flourishing in civilised society. Here are a few examples to drive home the point to the youngsters who feel privileged when they get exclusive services and designer wear as per their choices at their doorstep. There was a time when barbers would come home to give a haircut or a shave. Tailors would park themselves at homes and stitch clothes for every individual. If one wanted a massage or get jewelry designed after their hearts, it could be done under their nose. Poultry, fish, and meat would be skinned, boned, or minced according to one's needs. Cold pressed oil, stone-ground flour, husked rice, deseeded tamarind, assorted eggs, and other groceries for the kitchen would make their way home in the most organic way.

The Freebie's Surprise