THE pani puri, a popular Indian street snack, symbolises creativity and resilience for differently-abled S. Nagarajan who operated a stall at the Little India Deepavali Bazaar in Johor Baru.
The proprietor of NSS Gana Pani Puri & Kunafa reinvented it with new fillings such as chocolate, pistachio, yoghurt and even ice-cream.
“Everyone loves pani puri, not just Indians, but the Malays and Chinese too.
“That’s why I decided to experiment so that everyone could enjoy it,” Nagarajan, 47, told Bernama.
Prior to a stroke two years ago that affected the left side of his body, a motorcycle accident caused his right hand to be paralysed when he was in his 30s.
His wife, K. Tamil Selvi, 48, has been his biggest cheerleader, helping to make the pani (diluted chutney/flavoured water) and potato filling that makes their puri (stuffed crispy, puffy shells) stand out.
Their stall was one of the busiest at the bazaar, not just for the snack but also the story behind their business.
“I get the puri from Kuala Lumpur, but the real secret lies in the flavoured water (for dipping the puri) and filling which my wife makes.
“My children help out too, and I’m proud they are following in my footsteps,” said the father of four.
At the bazaar, a set of eight pani puri with cheesy wedges, chicken floss, chocolate cheese or blueberry cost between RM12 and RM23.
Besides the pani puri, Nagarajan also sold kunafa, sambal belacan, sambal petai, murukku and prayer items.
He believes that success is sweeter when it is shared and that the real reward is not big sales, but being an inspiration to others.
