How is the life of a national highway bar and restaurant owner in India

Sagar has three siblings, one of whom works with him while another runs a water distribution business. Sagar himself has only completed the 10th grade. Their father used to own a restaurant, but due to negative influences, he had to sell it off. He then opened a pan shop, but unfortunately, it didn’t do well. Tragically, their father suffered a heart attack and passed away. In the face of these challenging circumstances, Sagar took over the pan business.

 

As sustaining the pan shop became increasingly difficult, Sagar decided to open a food cart where he sold omelettes on the streets from 2013 to 2017. Afterward, he joined a country liquor shop as a bar manager, where he gained valuable experience and knowledge in the business.

 

Sagar mentioned that liquor businesses are typically managed by individuals like Jaiswal in Maharashtra. Since liquor licenses are rarely granted in villages due to low tax collection, people usually set up bars on highways near the villages, where most customers are villagers themselves. Consequently, Sagar had to move 300 km away from his hometown for this venture.

 

Drawing from his experience managing the country liquor shop, Sagar recently opened his own liquor shop just three months ago. This establishment is a bar and restaurant with eight rooms and one hall. He confidently stated that he has been able to run the business successfully, thanks to the accumulated experience he has gained over the years.

 

 

During a casual conversation, I inquired about the room rates. Sagar mentioned that although he charges 700 rupees per day, he is willing to offer a discounted price for those in need. In fact, he even expressed his willingness to provide a room for free if someone truly requires it. This response sparked my curiosity, leading me to ask further questions that revealed other aspects of his character.

 

During my conversation with Sagar, I discovered that he abstains from drinking and discourages others from doing so as well. He shared an interesting perspective, mentioning that the person who sells sweets doesn’t consume them. If a bar owner were to start drinking, it would result in the closure of their establishment.

 

Beyond his involvement in the bar business, Sagar revealed a completely different side of himself. He actively engages in social work, particularly in assisting the poor and needy. He passionately described numerous instances where he dedicated his efforts to improve the lives of those around him.

 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, when few people showed concern for those on the streets, Sagar took it upon himself to distribute food to the impoverished daily. He strongly opposes wasting food and has implemented measures in his small town, Newasa Fata, to ensure that food is not squandered. He proactively encourages people to donate excess food, which he collects and distributes to those in need at bus stands and railway stations. In a heartwarming gesture, when a friend resolved a longstanding issue, Sagar advised him to set aside a small portion of the money to distribute sweets to the underprivileged on the streets instead of treating friends to drinks.