Mahal Kaife

If you walk through Sheoganj Main Bazar, you will find Mahal Kaife right in the thick of things. It’s an old spot, and the walls have seen a lot of years go by. We open the shutters early because the bazar starts moving before the sun is even fully up. Most of what we do is just simple tea, coffee, and whatever snacks we’ve made for the day. It’s a place where people sit for a long time, talking about the news or how the local trade is going. The ceiling fans have a bit of a wobble to them, but they keep the air moving during the hot afternoons. We aren't trying to be one of those modern cafes you see in the big cities. We just have basic tables and chairs. Sometimes the tea is a bit stronger than other times, depending on who’s behind the stove, but it’s always hot. The bazar is noisy, with motorcycles and cows and people shouting prices, but inside here, it feels a bit more relaxed. We handle everything ourselves, from washing the glass tumblers to sweeping the front step. Being in the Main Bazar means we see everyone who passes through Sheoganj. We don't use any fancy machines, just the old-fashioned way of doing things. It’s a humble place for a quick break while you're out doing your shopping or running errands.