The city of Delhi  has changed massively in the last century. Rulers and ministers have come and gone, localities redeveloped, homes made and abandoned, but some things have stayed the same. In the middle of Chandni Chowk road, a little shop with shining red letters on the top that read Pandit Ved Prakash Lemon Wale stands victorious against the ravages of time.

As shikanji comes to the rescue of miserable Delhiwalas in summer, they crowd outside the shop to taste it from the best of the best. Panditji’s drinks – regular banta soda, lemon soda and masala soda are all equally famous and May and June witness crowds of customers and good business. Even though money is slow for the rest of the year, the family proudly owns and perpetuates the work they have been doing since forever.

The last 8 generations of the family have served Delhiwalas icy comfort against the sweltering Delhi heat. Going back to the time when ice was stored underground and drinks served in Kulhars, the delicious taste of their shikanji has not changed, even with changes in machinery and packaging. A simple glass of drink worth Rs.10 has not been rendered redundant by new-age soft drinks and is still irreplaceable. 

Over years, Ved Prakash Lemon Wale have made quite a name for themselves. They are mentioned in tourist guides and brochures, attracting thirsty tourists from all over the world.  Some things are evergreen and for everyone.Their delicious drinks cut across class barriers and one can witness cars stop by with those wanting to reminisce the taste of their childhood as well as rickshwalas cooling themselves on a hot day.