Chintamani Pan Shop

This shop has a bit of a strange address, tucked away in Hadapsar 8th Block, 2nd Main, Koramangala Village, but people manage to find us. It’s a quiet enough area compared to the main roads. I spend most of my time here in this small square space. The walls are painted a dull color that I don't even remember choosing. There’s a small radio that plays low in the background, mostly just the news or some old songs. I like having it on while I work. The mornings are slow, mostly just people getting their day started. I spend that time cleaning up and arranging the jars. Everything has its place. My father taught me how to do this, and I haven't changed much of how he did things. The wood of the shelves is old and a bit creaky. In the evenings, more people show up after they finish their work in the village area. They talk about their families or the weather while I prepare their orders. I don’t say much, just nod and listen. It’s a small community vibe here. I know most of the people by name, and I know what they like without them having to ask. It isn't a job where you get rich, but it keeps me busy and pays the bills. Sometimes I sit on the plastic chair outside when there’s a break in the crowd and just watch the cars go by.