Gumti, pronounced as “gum-tee” (गुमटी), is a Hindi word that refers to a small roadside stall or shop, typically serving tea or paan – a beloved and iconic chewable delicacy in India. In Uttar Pradesh, gumti is synonymous with the aroma of freshly prepared paan or the bright colours of sweetmeats and the warmth of communal gatherings.

The iconic roadside stall

A place for social discussions in Uttar Pradesh, as you savour your paan or tea, you join a diverse mix of locals who have gathered around the gumti. They engage in lively conversations, discussing everything from politics to the latest cricket match, all while having a relaxing time at the roadside stall. A gumti becomes a hub of social interaction, fostering connections among people from different walks of life.

Camaraderie and community

It takes on different forms according to its location – selling knick-knacks like locks and chains for luggage outside a railway station, or flowers and prasad items outside a temple. Whatever the merchandise being sold, a “gumti” not only represents a small shop but also embodies the communal spirit and camaraderie of Uttar Pradesh. It’s a place where strangers can become friends over even the briefest of stops.