Kochi: At the Chammani Tea Shop in Palarivattom, a small local tea shop has become the starting point for an extraordinary global adventure. The shop’s main dish, puttu, is simple yet delicious, but it’s the unique blend of humour, charm, and travel mementos that sets it apart.
Located in the Parish Hall at Pallinada in Palarivattom, the tea shop opens its doors to customers from 7:00 am to 11:00 am and again from 3:00 pm to 7:30 pm. The shop's quirky signs add a touch of humour, such as “Forgetful people should not take snacks’’ and “Tea – Rs 12, with change Rs 10.” These playful messages catch the eye of anyone walking by, but it’s the story behind C G Abraham, endearingly known among locals as ‘Josephettan,’ the man behind the counter, that truly piques interest.
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Abraham's passion for travel began in 2017 when he visited Israel with a group of 96 pilgrims from Saint John the Baptist Church in Palarivattom. This trip sparked a deep wanderlust, leading him to explore new corners of the world each year. From the UK to Thailand, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Portugal, and Rome, Abraham has now traveled to 18 countries. His wife, Cecily, is his constant travel companion, and occasionally, their children, Anju and Ambili, join them on their adventures.
One of the most fascinating features of his ‘Chammani’ tea shop is the display of travel souvenirs collected by him. From holy water from Israel to a floating market model from Thailand and even an Eiffel Tower replica, the top shelf of the tea shop cupboard offers a glimpse into the wide world beyond the modest eatery. These items, displayed above the humble puttu pieces, tell the story of Abraham’s journey – one that has been largely funded by his local tea shop business.
“I want to visit Australia or Cambodia in the coming May,” Abraham shares with a regular customer as he serves tea.
Published: 21 Dec 2024, 11:28 am IST
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