Ayoub’s Omelette cart thrives amid polling day rush

Kupwara, Oct 1: Amid the polling day buzz, Muhammad Ayoub, an omelette seller from Kolkata, unknowingly found himself in the right place at the right time. Stationed near the Handwara A polling station, his modest mobile cart became an unexpected hit, drawing in a larger-than-usual crowd eager for a quick meal.

Ayoub, who has been selling omelettes in Kashmir for over a decade, was taken aback by the rush.

“Normally, I sell two or three trays of eggs in a day,” he shared. “But today, I sold 14 trays! It felt like a festival.”

With most local businesses closed for the election, voters and polling officials had few options for food. Ayoub’s cart, offering freshly made omelettes with chapati for Rs 20, became the go-to spot.

“I had to raise the price from Rs 10 because of inflation, but that didn’t stop people from lining up,” Ayoub said, surprised by the surge in demand.

The proximity to the polling station worked in Ayoub’s favor. As voters exited the booths, many were drawn to the aroma of his cooking. “They came to vote but left with an omelette in hand,” he joked.

Throughout the day, the atmosphere around his cart was lively. People exchanged stories, discussed the election, and enjoyed a brief respite from the political tension. Even security personnel and polling staff took a moment to grab a bite, turning Ayoub’s cart into a temporary hub of activity.

As the day wound down and his stock ran out, Ayoub reflected on the unexpected success. “I never thought I would sell this much in one day. It is good to see people enjoying what I make” he added.