The town of Balod in Chhattisgarh is now home to a culinary destination that has captured the hearts of locals. Devangan Chaat Corner is a success story that began about 25 years ago with a meager investment of just Rs 45. Located near Gandhi Bhavan in the Budhwari market, this outlet has evolved from a small venture into a significant landmark of the city. Especially when the monsoon season sets in, the demand for their steaming hot samosa chaat and dahi kachori multiplies, drawing food enthusiasts from far and wide.
A Journey Built on Resilience
The proprietor of the chaat center recalled that 25 years ago, he faced severe financial hardships. With growing family responsibilities and the pressure of raising his children, he found himself in a tough spot. When he did not receive the expected support from his own brothers during those difficult times, he refused to give up. Instead, he gathered his savings of just Rs 45 and started a business selling gupchup, also known as pani puri.
From Bicycle Routes to a Fixed Stall
In the early days, the owner demonstrated remarkable dedication, pedaling his bicycle to various villages within a radius of nearly 30 kilometers to sell his snacks. Driven by hard work and the growing trust of his customers, he eventually managed to purchase a cart for Rs 800. As his business expanded, he transitioned to operating a modern, fixed cart that now sees a constant stream of customers throughout the day.
Affordability Meets Great Taste
One of the key factors behind the shop's enduring popularity is its pocket-friendly pricing. The owner noted that in the past, breakfast was available for only Rs 2.50, and four pieces of pani puri cost just one rupee. While prices have naturally adjusted over time due to inflation, they remain highly accessible to all sections of society. Currently, four pieces of pani puri are sold for Rs 10, and a plate of breakfast costs just Rs 20, making it an affordable choice for everyone.
Menu and Daily Sales Volume
Devangan Chaat Corner offers a variety of delicacies including three types of chaat, samosas, dahi kachori, khasta, and pani puri. Among these, the samosa chaat is the most popular dish across Balod. Lucky Devangan, the son of the owner, shared that the shop typically sells around 200 plates of samosa, 150 plates of dahi kachori, and approximately 150 plates of chaat daily. During the rainy season, these numbers climb even higher. The shop remains open from 11:30 AM until 10:00 PM, serving customers seven days a week.
