Ambika Pan Shop

I've been here on Mutton Street in Vadgaon Budruk for a long time now. Most people know the spot because it’s right there at number 250. It’s not a big place, just a small counter where I spend most of my day. The street gets pretty loud with all the traffic and people coming from the market. I start early, usually setting things up while the sun is still coming up. My hands are always busy with the leaves and the containers. It’s a habit now. Sometimes the fan makes a weird clicking noise but I’ve stopped noticing it. People come by after their lunch or dinner, mostly regulars who live around here. They don’t say much, just ask for their usual and stand there for a minute before heading home. I see the same faces every day, which is nice. There’s a cat that hangs around near the shop too. It’s a simple life. I don't really have a big plan for the shop, I just keep it open and make sure I have enough stock for the next day. The wood on the counter is getting a bit worn out where people lean on it. I thought about painting it last year but never got around to it. It doesn't really matter anyway as long as the work gets done. My kids sometimes tell me I should get a bigger sign, but everyone knows where we are.