Chandigarh hawker selling 'chhole bhature' finds a mention in PM Modi's Mann Ki Baat; here's why

Tribune News Service
Chandigarh, July 25

A Chandigarh hawker had created quite a buzz online for offering free ‘chhole bhature’ to anyone who got vaccinated against Covid-19. He also caught Prime Minister Narendra Modi's attention.

PM Modi especially mentioned Sanjay Rana, from Chandigarh's Sector 29, for his thoughtful act. 

The Prime Minister said Sanjay's daughter, Riddhima, and niece, Riya, requested him for this innovative and noble gesture.

"To eat Sanjay Rana ji's chhole bhature for free, you have to show that you have got the vaccine administered on the very day. As soon as you show the vaccination message, he will give you delicious chhole bhature."

"It is said that for the welfare of the society, the spirit of service and duty are required more than money. Our Sanjay Bhai is proving this saying to be right," said the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister zoomed in on Chandigarh during his Mann Ki Baat. He described the UT as a vibrant city, inhabited by a society which throbs rich and exhilarating socio-cultural vein.

"One of our friends hails from Chandigarh city. I, too, have lived in Chandigarh for a few years. It is a very cheerful and beautiful city. The people of Chandigarh are also large hearted and yes, if you are a foodie, you will have more fun here."

As this reached Sanjay's ears, he couldn't control his excitement. 

While speaking to The Tribune, Sanjay revealed how excited and grateful he was for the Prime Minister's kind words. He said that the immense support from his family and neighbours has helped him reach here, and added that this is a "huge achievement".  

Sanjay Rana has been offering free ‘chhole bhature’ to anyone getting vaccinated against Covid-19. He has hung a cardboard, clearly stating the ‘offer’, right next to his bicycle.

The initiative has been lauded by none other than VP Singh Badnore, UT Administrator and Governor of Punjab.

“Hats off to the spirit of #Chandigarh hawker! My heart filled with gratitude to see his bit of duty towards his country and the extent of awareness this man has favouring #vaccination and offering free #CholaeBhatura to all those who get vaccinated,” Badnore had tweeted.