Mamu Pan Shop

This shop is right on Pimpri Paud Road. It’s a busy stretch of road, so there is always noise and dust. I spend most of my day standing here behind the small counter. I have my leaves laid out on a wet cloth to keep them fresh because the heat can dry them out in no time. I don't really have a big sign or anything, people just know Mamu is here. I’ve got all the jars lined up—some with sweet fennel, some with gulkand, and the usual tobacco stuff for those who want it. I’ve done this for so long that I don't even have to think about the proportions anymore. My fingers just move on their own. It’s funny how you get used to the smell of the leaves and the spices after a few years. I get a lot of commuters who just want something quickly while they are stuck in traffic. I have to be fast with the change and the wrapping. Sometimes the rain comes down hard and I have to pull the plastic sheets down, but I stay open. My son comes by sometimes to bring me some tea or help out for an hour if I need to step away. It’s not a fancy life, but I know everyone on this block and they know me. We just keep things moving, one pan at a time, until it’s time to go home and rest my legs.