An avid reader since childhood, Jilmil always nurtured the dream of establishing a small library
Digital Desk: Khaloigaon is a small village in the Nagaon state highway, which passes through Nagaon town, some 14 kilometres away. In this quiet rural setting stands a unique salon named ‘Sikun Mahal’ which has become a symbol of innovation and social commitment.
Jilmil Bordoloi, a young educated Assamese who started his career in economic self-reliance with just a pair of scissors and razor, is the founder of the salon, which he started six or seven years ago in Khaloigaon, an small village. With a distinctive vision, Jilmil first opened the salon in Morigaon and later shifted it to his native village in Nagaon district. Today, he is widely appreciated not just for his profession, but for his creative initiative of attaching a small library to his salon.
What sets ‘Sikun Mahal’ apart is the mini library Jilmil has thoughtfully created for his customers. His effort has received support from Pranjal Kumar Mahanta, proprietor of the renowned Alibat Prakashan, along with noted poet Keshab Bora, journalist Chandanjyoti Bora, and several other well-wishers who have contributed books and encouragement.
An avid reader since childhood, Jilmil always nurtured the dream of establishing a small library despite his struggles to become financially independent . He noticed that the customers often grew restless while waiting their turn for a haircut. In order to alleviate their boredom, he initially kept a few magazines in the salon. The positive response from customers inspired him to gradually expand the collection into a small library.
Today, customers can be seen reading with interest while they wait, turning idle time into meaningful engagement. Jilmil Bordoloi now aims to further expand this initiative in the future, blending livelihood with literacy and proving that small ideas can create lasting social impact.