Jitu Bhai Pan Corner

If you are looking for me, I am at Pimpri Hingne Khurd. The shop is just a small corner spot, really. I’ve been sitting in this same spot for a long time. It’s not much to look at, just some shelves with jars of supari, tobacco, and the different ingredients for pan. I start my day by cleaning the betel leaves and getting the pastes ready. Everything has its place, even if it looks like a mess to someone else. I know exactly where the lime is and where I keep the sweet chutney. People stop their cars or bikes right out front and shout their order. I’ve gotten pretty fast at wrapping the leaves and pinning them with a clove. Most of my customers are regulars who live nearby or work in the area. We talk about the weather, the cricket scores, or just whatever is happening in the street. Sometimes the kids come by for some chocolate or gum we keep on the side. The evenings are the busiest because everyone wants a pan after their dinner. I stay open quite late, usually until the last person leaves the street. It’s a quiet kind of life, but I like being my own boss. I sit on my small stool, watch the world go by, and keep my hands busy. It’s a simple business, but it’s mine and it works for me and my family.