Employment –  In a period when job opportunities remain uncertain for many young Indians, a small juice stall in Madhya Pradesh’s Shivpuri district has become a quiet example of how determination and skill can shape a meaningful livelihood.

A Skill Learned Far From Home

Hemant Batham did not begin his journey in his hometown. While working in Gurgaon several years ago, he became familiar with the process of preparing fresh and nutritious juices. Over nearly six months, he observed how morning walkers and office-goers preferred starting their day with a glass of natural juice. The steady demand and growing awareness about health left a lasting impression on him.

He began to consider whether a similar concept could work in Shivpuri. The idea was simple: promote healthy habits while also creating a stable source of income.

Returning to Shivpuri With a Plan

After moving back, Hemant set up a modest juice cart near Galaxy Hotel at Gurudwara Chowk in Shivpuri. His workday begins before sunrise. By 5:30 am, he is ready to serve customers, and he continues until around 11:30 am each morning.

The early hours allow him to cater to morning walkers, shopkeepers, office staff, and local residents. From the beginning, his focus has remained on affordability so that even daily wage earners can access healthy options.

Affordable Juices With a Health Focus

A single glass at Hemant’s stall costs just Rs 15. Despite the low price, the menu features a wide selection of nutrient-rich combinations. Customers can choose from bottle gourd and cucumber blends, beetroot with carrot and ginger, amla juice, aloe vera with mint, and other seasonal preparations.

Every drink is prepared by Hemant himself. Clean utensils, fresh ingredients, and hygienic practices are part of his daily routine. He follows one strict principle: any unsold juice at the end of the day is discarded. It is never stored or reused the next morning. Over time, this practice has strengthened customer confidence in his stall.

Nearly a Decade of Steady Commitment

Running the same business consistently for nine years requires patience and resilience. Hemant has maintained his routine without interruption, even during challenging periods. Alongside juices, he also serves sprouted chickpeas, which are often consumed as a nutritious breakfast option.

Regular customers say they value more than just the products. Hemant often explains the potential benefits of each juice, suggesting options based on common concerns such as digestion, fatigue, or seasonal weakness. According to several patrons, incorporating these drinks into their morning routine has contributed to better energy levels and improved overall well-being.

Income and a Broader Mission

On average, Hemant earns around Rs 1,500 per day, though the amount may vary depending on footfall. While the income sustains his household, he maintains that financial gain is not his only objective. He believes natural beverages can reduce dependency on packaged drinks and unnecessary medication when paired with a balanced lifestyle.

His stall has gradually become a familiar presence in the locality. Many residents now associate it with reliability and freshness rather than just a quick refreshment stop.

A Message for Young Entrepreneurs

In an era when many believe success requires relocation to larger cities or significant capital investment, Hemant’s experience tells a different story. Without formal business training or substantial funds, he created an enterprise rooted in practical skill and consistency.

For local youth exploring self-employment opportunities, his journey highlights the importance of discipline, customer trust, and long-term commitment. The modest cart near Gurudwara Chowk stands as a reminder that meaningful work, even at a small scale, can earn both income and respect within the community.

Hemant Batham’s path reflects how entrepreneurship at the grassroots level can contribute to both economic independence and healthier lifestyles, proving that sustainable success often begins with simple, honest effort.