TV
A tea vendor from the Bolangir district of Odisha captured national attention after Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded his tea during the recent ‘Odisha Parba 2024’ held in New Delhi.
According to sources, the man identified as Somnath who is celebrated for his distinctive tea-making skills, had the privilege of serving his brew to the Prime Minister, who commented favourably on its taste.
Also Read: PM Modi to participate in 'Odisha Parba 2024' in Delhi tomorrow
This accolade has highlighted the tea culture of the small town of Balangir, putting it on the national map. Somnath runs Rabi Tea Stall located at the daily market in Bolangir town.
“This year’s Delhi tour was a memorable occasion. I have no words to express my feelings. It was for the second time that I visited the event,” the tea stall vendor stated.
“When I saw the Prime Minister, I became spellbound and could not say a lot of things that I had planned to tell him. So to say, I was completely mesmerised. He entered my shop like a ‘tiger’ and asked me ‘Bolo Bhaiya, Kya Kya Milta Hai Tumhare Dukaan Mein’,” Somnath shared with OTV when contacted.
“Sir, I am from Odisha’s Bolangir and I have prepared a special tea for you with Ambakasia Adaa (Curcuma Amada, or Mango Ginger) and several other ingredients. This preparation will certainly make you happy,” the youth had said in his reply to the PM.
Must Read: PM Modi to be on 3-day Odisha visit to attend Police DG conference
“I was in fact trembling in fear while facing Modi Ji. However, he praised me and said after taking three consecutive sips of the tea ‘lajawaab’,” Somnath expressed quoting the PM.
Notably, Somnath had the desire to meet the Prime Minister around ten years ago and he was beaten by his father for 'daydreaming.'
Reported By: Manoranjan Joshi
