"Out of Business" is a short story by R.K. Narayan, a renowned Indian author known for his works set in the fictional town of Malgudi. The story follows the struggles of a small shop owner named Nataraj, who is struggling to make ends meet in a rapidly changing world.
The story begins with Nataraj reflecting on the state of his shop, which he has run for many years. He is finding it increasingly difficult to attract customers, as the city is undergoing rapid modernization and people are turning to larger, more modern stores. Nataraj's shop is old-fashioned and doesn't have the same amenities as the newer stores, so he is losing business to them.
Despite his struggles, Nataraj is determined to keep his shop running. He tries various tactics to attract customers, including offering discounts and taking out ads in the local paper. However, these efforts prove to be in vain, as the new stores continue to draw people away from Nataraj's shop.
As the story progresses, Nataraj becomes more and more despondent about the future of his business. He begins to doubt whether he will be able to keep the shop running, and wonders what will become of him if he is forced to close it down. Despite his reservations, Nataraj continues to work hard and do everything he can to keep the shop afloat.
In the end, Nataraj's determination pays off, as he receives a surprise visit from a wealthy businessman who is looking for a shop to open a branch in. The businessman is impressed by Nataraj's dedication to his work and decides to rent the shop from him, giving Nataraj the financial boost he needs to keep the shop running.
Overall, "Out of Business" is a poignant story about the struggles of a small business owner trying to stay afloat in a rapidly changing world. It highlights the importance of determination and hard work in the face of adversity, and ultimately serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope for a brighter future.