ALSphere Foundation
My classmate got a fresh haircut, and I couldn’t hold back my excitement.
“Wow! This looks amazing. Where did you get your haircut?”
“UMT,” he replied with a twinkle in his eye.
“UMT? Is that a new salon in the city?” I could hardly believe a new salon had popped up without me knowing.
“Under the Mango Tree, silly,” he quipped.
That was my introduction to this charming euphemism for barbers who set up shop with a table and chair under a roadside tree.
Over the years, I’ve watched these makeshift salons from a distance, admiring the master craftsmen as they worked diligently to please their nomadic clients. With limited resources and a budget-friendly approach, they deliver impressive results.
A plastic or wooden table, dressed in a floral plastic cover, is placed right beneath the tree’s shade. A medium-sized mirror hangs strategically on the trunk. In front of this setup, a chair or low stool serves as the makeshift throne for the walk-in customer.
The services range depending on the price, the customer’s needs, and sometimes the barber’s whim. I’ve seen men treated to haircuts, shaves, hair colouring (both scalp and facial), eyebrow and face threading, head and shoulder massages, and even the occasional facial. And why not? After all, dil to bacha hai ji…
Not to be outdone by their posh counterparts, these Under the Mango Tree barbershops also provide entertainment. A radio set constantly plays farmaaishi gaane and fresh news. With changing times and technology, these savvy entrepreneurs have upgraded to smartphone playlists, delighting patrons with their favourite tunes.
Who can forget the iconic character of Johnny Walker crooning, “Sar jo tera chakraye”? The timeless song, immortalized in the classic Bollywood film “Pyaasa,” epitomizes the quintessential charm of the roadside barbers. Just like Johnny Walker’s character, these barbers know the perfect remedy for a weary head– a rejuvenating champi that can ease your worries and make the world seem right again.
Another charming feature of these Under the Mango Tree barbershops is the free dose of advice every client receives. As they snip and trim, these barbers double up as counsellors, offering wisdom on everything from personal dilemmas to life hacks. But the true bonus lies in the juicy gossip they dispense. Clients are treated to the latest scoop not only on film stars but also on the town’s crème de la crème. From scandalous affairs to political maneuvers, no tidbit is too trivial or too grand. This lively chatter makes each visit more than just a haircut; it’s a window into the vibrant, often secretive world of local and celebrity life.
Not only are these masters geniuses at their craft, but they are also magnanimous. A visit to these roadside barbers often comes with delightful surprises. Opt for a haircut, and you might find yourself receiving a complimentary champi (head massage) that leaves you refreshed and relaxed. Choose a hair colour service, and they’ll throw in a free shave to complete your look. Their generosity and attention to detail ensure that every client feels valued. These added perks make the experience not only affordable but also indulgent.
So, the next time you pass by an Under the Mango Tree salon, give a nod to these roadside maestros who combine tradition, charm, and a touch of humour in every snip.
Dr. Sonika Sethi
