Slice of Life: ‘My fruit bowls come with free smile’

Chennai

Fruit sellerI have been selling fruits at the same spot in Vepery for the past 25 years. I come from Aminjikarai and set my shop early in the morning and customers start walking in right away. Most of my customers are pedestrians who spot my cart and halt to eat.  But I have some regular customers too. There are some high-ranking police officers from the Commissioner’s office, which is right opposite to where I stand with my cart. I know their orders  by heart now. Some residents of the area also come to my stall for years. By the time they park their bikes and approach my stall, I have their plates ready. I know their seasonal favourites as well.

Now that it’s summer, its water melons. Incidentally, I love the fruit too and  try to have a slice or two between customers. Apart from ensuring that I use gloves and clean plastic plates to serve, I also include a special ingredient when I serve. It’s a smile! Why would people come back to me if I don’t serve with a happy face? - Dhanapal M