Dhobis high and dry

DECEMBER 8TH 1902. The foundation stone for the first dhobikhana in Madras was laid by Sir George Moore in Chetput (after whom the erstwhile Moore Market was named). One of the landmarks for Central Chennai during the days of the British Raj, ``the place helped in making people look clean''.

August 8th 2001. No sea change in the living conditions for the 150 families who live in cramped rooms in one corner of the washing complex. Hardly a couple of dhobis are seen washing clothes. The severe water crisis in the city has forced several residents to work as casual labourers as they can hardly eke out a living by washing clothes.

It is a pity, that the century old dhobikhana which has a history behind it has reached such a sorry state of affairs. The families take pride in claiming that their ancestors were the favourite dhobis for the then rulers. Even the foundation stone is buried and some enterprising youth had to dig it out to reveal its history.

At present there is only one common hand pump besides about six pumps owned privately by some families catering to their daily needs. The residents are able to wash only a small quantity of clothes to manage a living.

With only a couple of dhobis washing clothes, most of the `washing stones' are empty. The washing area wears a deserted look in the century old complex. Even the clothesline which usually have scores of white bedsheets hung out to dry are empty. With not many clothes being washed, there are not many persons pressing clothes.

``Water is the main source for making a living. No water means no work. Several of us are now working as casual labourers for an additional source of income,'' says Mr. V. Subbiah, secretary of the residents' body.

Already the traditional dhobis have suffered a severe setback with stiff competition from factories who specialise in washing using high power automatic machines. Moreover, several hospitals and hotels have their own washing units and only the excess clothes are given to us, he adds.

Another dhobi Mr. Kamaraj says ``we are now only collecting a minimum number of clothes because of the water problem. This is also to ensure there is some continuity in the business. If we stop completely then regaining orders will be difficult because of fierce competition. While on an average we earned between Rs. 100 to Rs. 250 during good business now we hardly earn Rs. 30 everyday''.

Several representations to the authorities has not made things better for these city pinmen, laments a woman resident. ``There is frequent disruption in power supply which is given only for three hours in the evening,'' she says. However, the residents who stay in small rooms built on one corner are hopeful that their problems will find a sympathetic ear before they celebrate the centenary celebrations next year. ``We will be inviting ministers and have big plans for the historic event,'' says Mr. Muthu with a lot of enthusisam.

Whether brighter days lie ahead, only time can tell.

By S. Shivakumar

Send this article to Friends by E-Mail

Section  : Southern States
Previous : Two GH workers suspended
Next     : Stars dance for stars