The Jalebi Maker

Jalebis, ochreous, round and tiny, are aswim 

in seething oil. The giant wok (whose rim's like tar) 

waits patiently to soak up all the yellow batter 

spiralling from the lota that's filled to the brim. 

He takes this daily occupation as a matter 

that calls for in-depth know-how. His mind and eyes are  

glued to the art. The ear-splitting and constant chatter 

of crowds outside his shop imply they've come to him 

to have this tantalising sweet. In the bazaar, 

he is a luminary. People from afar, 

however rich or poor, throng at his pastel, slim, 

and antiquated store to revel in a platter 

of chenna Jalebis. Although a megastar, 

(he's been approached by auteurs for a feature film) 

he scoffs at vainglory; if someone tries to flatter 

him, he says 'thank you', mannerly, wears the same dim- 

pink chambray, keeps the middle-parted, hotoil-spattered  

coiffeur each day, and chews on betel leaves while hymn- 

ing to Lord Krishna (this keeps his vigour unmarred). 

I queried once, "Where are you from, Sir?" in that clatter. 

He kept the skimmer, spat the paan, washed up each limb, 

and answered, "Sitamarhi district, Old Bihar."

Word Meanings:

Jalebi: an Indian sweet dish 

Lota: a pot

Bazaar: a marketplace

Chenna: unripened curd cheese

Krishna: a Goddess in Hindu Mythology

Paan: A flavoured betel leaf

Sitamarhi: a district (famous for its Jalebis) in the Indian state, Bihar

Bihar: a state in India.