Banwari Bhaiya: The Man Behind the Counter

Interview Of Banwari Ji. Full Video On Youtube.

My Journey as a Juice Vendor at IIT Delhi

I am originally from the holy city of Mathura, UP, and I've been selling juices in Delhi for the last 21 years. When I first considered setting up a shop in Delhi, I found the area unsuitable due to the ruckus and caste-based tensions. I started my career at IIT Delhi in the staff canteen, where I worked for six years. It was there that I met Raj Meena, the Kumaon House Secretary at the time, who became a regular customer and suggested I set up shop at Kumaon Hostel. Despite my initial hesitations about the bureaucratic process, Raj helped me with the necessary paperwork, including food licensing, GST registration, etc.

My Daily Routine

My shop operates from 9 am to 4 am. My day begins with cleaning, washing fruits, and preparing Chai. I spend 14 hours at the shop, while my staff manages the chores for the remaining 6 hours. My family, including my wife and three daughters, lives in Badarpur, and I make round trips on alternate days to buy fresh fruit stock from Okhla. My parents also reside in Badarpur, while I have a temporary residence in Ber Sarai.

Seasonal Sales and Staffing

Sales at my shop fluctuate with the seasons. During summer, mango juice sales soar, necessitating a larger workforce. Typically, I employ two staff members during the off-season, increasing to three during peak times.

The Impact of Covid-19

The onset of the Covid-19 lockdown was particularly challenging for me. I had opened my new shop for just 1 day on March 15, 2020, when the lockdown was announced. However, IIT Delhi provided regular monetary support during these tough times, which was greatly appreciated.

Technological Advancements

The introduction of UPI has significantly changed the way I conduct business. Previously, managing currency notes involved maintaining a registry and giving change, which was cumbersome during peak times. UPI has streamlined transactions, though occasional technical issues do arise.

Expanding Beyond Kumaon Hostel

I've ventured beyond my regular spot by setting up a juice stall during dinner at Kumaon Mess every Friday, where my popular Oreo shake is a hit. I've received positive feedback when selling outside the hostel but have not yet secured a contractual basis for expansion.

Building Relationships

Over the years, I've built strong relationships with my customers, many of whom consider me family. Alumni often visit me when they return to campus, and I maintain connections with former house secretaries, who keep in touch via phone.

Sports and Student Elections

The sports culture at IITD boosts my business, especially after matches when teams visit my shop. Student elections also provide a temporary increase in sales when candidates bring their supporters for parties.

Challenges and Aspirations

One of the significant challenges I face is the pricing, which has remained constant since the Covid-19 period. Adjusting prices could risk losing the shop's tender, but I believe they should be revised. Despite these challenges, I express a deep affection for IITD, citing the safety, cleanliness, and timely payments as reasons why I would not want to leave. However, my future at IITD depends on administrative decisions, and I aim to maintain the quality for which I am known. Interviewed by-Prasoon Raj and Atiksh Agarwal (Journalists) Recorded By-Abhinav (Media Chief Editor) Media Edited By-Sahitya Rankawat (Media Technical Editor)