Bhubaneswar, Nov 12: Who says a poet needs a grand stage and a large audience to share his verses? For nearly 70-year-old Sitaram Panda, a small shop in the bustling Number 1 Market is his stage, and his customers are his audience. Surrounded by glassware and conch-shell products, Panda has created a unique space where business and poetry go hand in hand.

A shopkeeper by profession but a poet at heart, Panda is no ordinary businessman. The moment he begins speaking, words effortlessly turn into poetry. Customers visiting his shop to purchase household items often find themselves enjoying an impromptu poetry recital. While business continues across the counter, poetry adds a special charm to the everyday interactions. For many, visiting his shop is not just about shopping but also about experiencing the magic of words.

At nearly 70, Panda has written more than 5,000 poems, received around 20 awards and published four books. His love for poetry dates back to childhood, when his mother became his first source of inspiration. Her encouragement, along with his dedication and passion, helped him nurture his literary talent over the years.

However, behind his cheerful personality lies a story of profound personal loss. Panda suffered an unimaginable tragedy when he lost his young son before his eyes. The incident left him emotionally shattered. Yet, carrying his grief deep within, he found the strength to move forward. Perhaps, many of his unspoken emotions and painful memories have found expression through his poetry.

His professional journey has witnessed several changes. He once worked as a teacher before venturing into business by opening a shop selling plastic goods. Eventually, he shifted to selling glassware and conch-shell products. Though his profession has changed over time, his passion for poetry has remained unwavering.

Today, his daily routine is a beautiful blend of business and creativity. He spends his days attending to customers, exchanging smiles and conversations, and reciting poems whenever an opportunity arises. Whenever business allows him a little breathing space, he picks up his pen and gives life to another composition. His customers, too, admire his unique personality and look forward to the poetic moments that make every visit memorable.

For Panda, poetry is much more than words on paper. It is an expression of life's experiences, emotions, happiness and sorrow. His shop may display beautiful glass and conch-shell creations, but it is his poetry that gives the place its distinctive identity.

His journey proves that passion needs neither a grand platform nor recognition to flourish. For Sitaram Panda, the shop counter is his stage, customers are his listeners, and life itself is his greatest source of inspiration. A businessman by profession, he continues to remain a poet at heart, with countless stories waiting to find their way onto paper.