A fish market on the sidewalk at dusk.

These small markets on the sidewalk are an integral part of our ever-familiar rural and urban life. When the surroundings become colorful in the soft evening light or the bright halogen lights, the struggle for livelihood of the hard-working people begins. These small fish markets on the roadside are not just places for shopping, but behind them are hidden the stories of sweaty work and indomitable survival of countless people.

The picture shows a very simple fish market set up on the side of the road. Fresh fish of various species of local fish are arranged in aluminum plates and pots. A familiar form of rural culture emerges in the presence of a few small fish or small fish. In this busy environment, the sellers have a tired look on their faces and a kind of eager look waiting for the buyer. In the hope of a little prosperity, they sit like this every day, ignoring the dust and various adversities of the road.

The contribution of these small traders on the sidewalks to our country's economy is undeniable. No matter how big shopping malls or modern supermarkets are built, the importance of these open markets in meeting the daily needs of the common man has not diminished. Everyone from low-income people to the middle class rely on these small markets to buy fresh fish at affordable prices. Vendors also collect fish from the wholesale market early in the morning and sell it to the retail market throughout the day or evening to provide their families with two handfuls of food.

Behind these small businesses is a history of hard struggle. Their hardships do not stop in any season, be it winter, summer or monsoon. They are fighting against destiny every day in order to survive a little better. Their honesty and hard work teach us how to move forward in the battle of life without giving up. If we understand this harsh reality of society, we can understand that behind every fish dish, there is a dream of each family and a desire to survive. Let us respect the profession of these hardworking people and applaud their small initiatives.