Sanjay Pan

Being in Bhagat Singh Market in Connaught Place means we see everyone. From office workers in their suits to tourists just wandering around, they all end up at Sanjay Pan eventually. We are at number 46. It’s a busy spot, especially in the evenings when CP really comes alive. We’ve seen the market change quite a bit over the years, new shops coming and going, but we stayed right here. The shop is small but we pack a lot into it. We spend most of the day preparing the ingredients, slicing the betel nuts, and sorting through the fresh leaves that come in. It’s a lot of work that people don’t really see. We don’t have fancy signs or big lights. People find us because they know where we are. It’s a bit noisy with the traffic and the crowds, but that’s just how it is in this part of Delhi. We just focus on getting the mix right every time. Some people want it sweet, some want it plain, and we try to remember what the regulars like. It’s just me and a couple of others working the counter. We don't talk much when it's busy, just keep our heads down and work. It’s a steady life and we’re glad to be part of this old market.