Nandini Tea Stall

Being right near the Govt Hospital in Chinnanaur means we see a lot of tired people. They come in at odd hours, looking for something hot to drink while they wait. Our stall is in Ward No- 23. It’s small, just a basic structure really. We’ve been here long enough that everyone in the area knows where to find us. Usually, it’s just one or two of us behind the counter. We start before it’s even light outside. The kettle starts whistling early. Sometimes the rain makes things difficult because the space is tight, but we manage somehow. People stand around under the small overhang or use their umbrellas. We don't have a big menu. It’s mostly tea, some biscuits, and maybe some cigarettes. It’s not a place where you linger for hours. You get your tea, you drink it, and you move on. The hospital across the road stays busy, so we stay busy too. There’s always someone coming or going. Sometimes we hear the sirens, and it reminds us why we’re here. It’s a bit of a rough spot sometimes with all the stress people are under, but a hot cup of tea helps a bit. We don't try to make it look like something it isn't. It’s just a tea stall. We keep the tea strong and put in plenty of sugar. That’s what people around here like anyway. It’s just a normal part of life here.