Chacha Masala

Shop No. 6366 in Khari Baoli is where you will find us. We are situated near the Masjed Terer Khan, which is a very old and busy part of the city. If you know Khari Baoli, you know it is one of the biggest spice markets, so it is always crowded, loud, and full of smells. Chacha Masala is just one of many shops in these narrow lanes, but we have our own little corner at 6366. The shop is small and packed from floor to ceiling with jars and sacks. There isn't much room to move around once a few people come inside. We spend a lot of time weighing out portions on the old scales and chatting with the regulars who have been coming to this area for years. The stone floor is worn down from all the feet that have passed over it. Outside, the rickshaws are always shouting and the porters are carrying heavy loads on their heads. It can be overwhelming if you aren't used to the chaos of the market. We take our breaks when things quiet down for a few minutes, usually sitting on a stool near the entrance. The mosque nearby provides a sense of timing for our day with the calls to prayer. We don't use any fancy technology here; it's mostly just pens, paper, and a lot of memory. It's a traditional way of doing things in a very traditional place.