Shambhu Pan Bhandar

Shambhu Pan Bhandar has been here at Janpath Tolstoy Marg 515/207 for quite a while now. I start my day early, mostly just setting things up before the big office rush starts. It’s a small corner, and there isn't much room to move around, but it works for me. I spend a lot of time washing the betel leaves and getting the mixtures ready. The noise from the street is always there, but you stop hearing it after a few years. People stop by on their way to work or when they are headed to the metro station nearby. Some are regulars who I know by name, and others are just passing through and want a quick refreshment. It’s not a fancy shop. There are no tables or chairs, just the counter where I stand. Sometimes the weather makes it difficult, like when it’s too hot or when the rain starts blowing in, but we just keep the shutters half-down and carry on. I don't really have a big team. It’s mostly just me handling the jars of spices and the lime paste. I try to make sure the leaves are fresh every morning because that’s the most important part. I don't think about it like a big business. It’s just what I do every day. I’ve seen this street change a lot, but I’m still here at the same spot, making the same things.