Odisha Lady Teacher, Woman Cricketer Turn Street Food Vendors To Prove A Point

Bhubaneswar: Women in male-dominated professions often face challenges, but they become role models. Such an example of strong determination can be seen in Odisha Capital where two educated women are on the path towards independence and empowerment.

In a kiosk named ‘Belan Roti’ at Madhusudhan Nagar in Bhubaneswar, Rajalaxmi Sahoo and Subhashree Dixit have kick-started their street food venture. Rajalaxmi is an MBA degree holder and a teacher by profession, while Subhashree Dixit is a former national-level cricket player.

Speaking to OTV, Rajalaxmi said "We like cooking and wanted to do something big in this field, but failed to get any loans. So, we decided to start with whatever funds we had. Demand for our food items here is good."

On being asked whether low income from teaching profession forced her to start this business, she said, "There is no problem in my job. Opening a food vending kiosk was my personal interest as I always wanted to do something unique."

People think only men can handle the pressure of a street food vending, but it's wrong. "Women can do whatever they want and with that attitude we have started this food vending," she added.

Speaking about what inspired her to enter the street food business, Subhashree said, "I was the sports teacher at a public school, but wanted to something of my own. We approached banks for loans, but couldn't get any. So, we started this business by using our own savings."

She further said that people in Bhubaneswar love to eat good food and they are sure that their business will be a hit among people.