This 84-YO Tamil Nadu Grandmother Sells Idlis For Just Rs 2, Wants To 'Work Hard Till Her Last Breath'

As you enter Dhanam Paati's (grandmother's) house in Pudukkottai, Tamil Nadu, you'll see people of all ages seated in anticipation of steaming platefuls of idlis, chutney, and sambhar. You see, while this idli store lacks chairs, tables, and a nice entryway, it does have a plenty of the octogenarian's affection.

Why did his grandma start her business of selling idlis?

Dhanam Paati has been adamant that the meals must be economically priced | Image: The Better India

Starting the business in a difficult financial situation, with two children and an ill spouse, Dhanam Paati has been adamant that the meals must be economically priced.

Also read: This ATM In Bengaluru Dishes Out Idlis 24/7, Serves Them In Just 55 Seconds

She started selling idlis for 3 paisa and gradually increased it to fulfil the requirements of her increasing children. But even four years ago, one idli cost only Re 1.

When did she start her business?

After her husband died three years ago, she raised the price of her idlis. When asked why it should not be increased further, she responds, "People should be able to have a full meal for Rs 10."

The 84-year-old overlooks her own needs | Image: The Better India

Nonetheless, in an effort to assist others, the 84-year-old overlooks her own needs. She survives on numerous cups of tea and generous people who provide her with rice, lentils, and occasionally cash.

Also read: Anand Mahindra Gifts New House To Idli Amma As Promised

All she wants is a pucca or a permanent home because the one she is presently living in is dilapidated and could collapse at any minute.

How does she prepare the idlis for so cheap?

She lives in a kaccha house | Image: The Better India

She prepares the idli batter and sambhar using rationed grains and pulses. While the ration items she receives are insufficient for the quantity she produces, loyal customers and well-wishers assist her with their ration rice. This goodwill and her generous nature are the primary reasons behind her pricing.

One can also question why she is still working well into her 80s. Her son and daughter are also struggling, she explains, so she does not want to bother them.

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