End of an era

Thambi Magazine Store in Holland Village closes down after more than 80 years

- Shintaro Tay

This was it - after more than eight decades, the iconic Thambi Magazine Store in Holland Village slipped into history on a balmy night on May 5.

Its owner, Mr Periathambi Senthil Murugan, 49, paused for a wee bit and, tears flowing, pulled down the shutters for the last time.

One of the most famous shops at Holland Road Shopping Centre thus became a memory.

Mr Periathambi, better known as Sam, said: "I felt very emotional.

When customers came by, I was very touched. A lot of them are motivating me to come back, and they say that this shop must be preserved." While pulling down the metal shutters, he reached for a framed article with a picture of his late father, kissed it as a mark of respect, and placed it back.

"Thank you so much for your support," said Sam, as he addressed a crowd of about 20 people who applauded.

A steady stream of customers thronged the store on the last day, some buying magazines and newspapers, others taking pictures and videos for posterity.

Soon, some magazines and newspapers were sold out.

Customers were eager to know where Sam would set up shop next.

"I am still finding a place", he replied. They wished him luck and said they would "see him soon".

Some even went the extra mile to offer him food and drinks to thank him.

Mr Rukesh Varan, 40, a chief marketing officer, gave Sam a hug after thanking him for serving him since he was a teenager.