Patil Pan Shop

If you know Sadashiv Peth, you know how the roads are. Patil Pan Shop is tucked away on Chakala Road 1148. It’s an old building and the shop has a lot of character, mostly because it’s been through a lot. I’ve been working here for years now. I know most of the people who walk past by their first names. We don’t have a lot of space, so everything has to be kept in its proper place. The shelves are a bit crooked and the paint is peeling in some corners, but it doesn't bother anyone. People come here for the familiar taste. I spend a lot of time cleaning the containers and making sure the supari is chopped just right. It’s a quiet life for the most part, except for when the local festivals are happening. Then the whole street is packed and we are working until very late. I usually have a small fan going to keep the air moving. Some days are better than others, depending on how many people are out and about. We keep a small notebook for some regulars who pay at the end of the month. It's a trust thing. I don't see us moving or changing much. We like it here in this part of the city. It feels like home to us and the people who visit. Sometimes we even close up early if it’s too quiet or if there is a family event to attend in the neighborhood.