BENGALURU: Pramod is a paanwala from Benaras who came to Bengaluru back in 1991. He owns the Pramod Benaras Paan Bhandar in Indiranagar. City Express takes a look at his trade and his life.
When did you first come to Bengaluru?
I cam in 1991 with some of my relatives. I have been working here since.
What did you do when you first came here?
I began by selling pan itself. This has been my business right from the beginning.
Where are you from and where were you before you moved to this city?
I am originally from Benaras and have lived in various cities like Mumbai, Delhi and Kolkata. I prefer Bengaluru, which is the reason why I have settled here with my family. The weather here is really good, be it any season and this probably is the reason why so many people come here and make it their home
Is your entire family in the paan business?
I and my four brothers are all in this business, however we are not in this by tradition. My father was in a different profession.
What are the different types of paan you sell and what is the customer’s favourite?
Kolkata paan sells the most. There are other varieties like Chocolate paan, Ice paan that I sell.
Who are most of your customers?
My customers are from all walks of life like IT professionals, labourers and carpenters. All of them are very good and I have many regulars as well.
How is business going? Facing any difficulties?
My business is going on fine. I have nothing to worry about. Indiranagar is a nice place to set up shop.
How many are you in the family?
There’s my wife and two children. The elder one has passed his class 10 and the smaller one just passed his class five.
Where were you in Bengaluru when you first came here?
I started in Shivajinagar and was there for around eight years. Thereafter I moved around a bit and am presently in Indiranagar and have been here for three years now.
How would you compare the city then to now?
There have been many changes. For example the pollution has greatly increased. There are more people now.
How many times do you go home?
I go home once a year whenever I have time.