“Does it look cloudy? I hope it doesn’t rain much. I will have to close my stall early if it does. That is a problem we roadside vendors face – the weather; we are dependent on it.

Would you like to have a plate of special bhel mix with a dash of lime and freshly boiled chana in it? This has been my livelihood for the last 20 years. Every afternoon, I start my day by preparing the masala mix at home and ensuring fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, coriander, and onions are sliced and ready. It’s these fresh ingredients that make my masala bhel so popular – a tasty and healthy snack that fills you up for just 20 rupees. My customers, mostly shoppers and regulars who know me by name, stop by for a quick bite as they go about their day.

From 2 p.m. till 10:30 p.m., you’ll find me here on Tilak Road in Abids. It’s a spot that makes sense for me, considering I live in Nampally. My journey here began long ago in Uttar Pradesh, where my father farmed our land. I studied until class 10 and later moved to Delhi after marriage. Life led me to Hyderabad in 1995, where I initially worked for a company. But with earnings barely enough to make ends meet, I took a chance on this stall.

Sales pick up on pleasant days, especially weekends. My focus now is on providing for my family – I have three children. My eldest son, a Political Science graduate, is employed. My daughter, happily married, completed her graduation a few years back. My youngest is awaiting his B. Com results, and I pray he excels. His success means everything to me.

As long as I have the strength, I’ll continue to work. Each plate of bhel sold, every smile from a satisfied customer – it all counts towards the dream of a better life for my family.”