Kolkata: A small street food stall in Jhargram turned into the centre of attention on Sunday when Prime Minister Narendra Modi made an unexpected visit for a quick bite of jhalmuri.

Vikram Shaw, the shopkeeper who served the popular Bengali snack, said he was stunned by the sudden visit. He described the moment as something he had never imagined.

“It is a huge thing for me that the Prime Minister of the country came to my shop to have jhalmuri,” he said.

The visit came as the Prime Minister took a short break from his Assembly election rallies in West Bengal.

Recalling the encounter, Shaw said the Prime Minister first asked his name and enquired about his well-being before requesting jhalmuri.

“He came here and first asked my name and also about my well-being. Then he asked me to prepare jhalmuri,” Shaw said.

After preparing the snack, Shaw said the Prime Minister asked about its price. Although he initially refused to accept payment, he eventually took it after Modi insisted.

Shaw said the Prime Minister went on to ask about his family background, including the names of his parents and where he was from. He shared that his family hails from Gaya in Bihar.

The conversation also touched on his education and livelihood. Shaw explained that he had to leave school after Class IX due to financial difficulties. He added that he now earns between Rs 1,000 and Rs 1,200, which helps him support his family.

Despite the memorable interaction, Shaw said he regretted not asking for an autograph.

“I should have taken his sign,” he said with a smile.

Locals call it a proud moment

A local resident who witnessed the visit described it as both surprising and heartwarming.

“Despite holding such an esteemed office, the country’s Prime Minister visited a small shop in a small town like Jhargram. This is a moment of great joy and pride for the people here,” he said.

Expressing appreciation for the visit, he added that it sets an example for smaller towns and brings recognition to the region and the wider state of West Bengal.

During his brief stop, the Prime Minister was also seen interacting with residents, exchanging smiles, and sharing jhalmuri with children and women who had gathered at the stall.

Agency inputs