Project Description

Maa er Doa Cha'er Dokan _Tea Stall with a Mother's Blessing

In a world where tea stalls have long belonged to men, "Maa er Doa Cha'er Dokan" rises as a quiet defiance. Nestled along Humayun Road, beside Geneva Camp, near a lively park, it challenges the unspoken rule that "no woman should be here after dark" Here, tradition and inclusion come together, inviting all to gather over a cup of tea, sharing stories and laughter without judgment.

Run by women, this stall reimagines a space once marked by exclusion. Thoughtful design ensures privacy for women without walls, offering comfort and openness for everyone. Details, often overlooked in male-dominated spaces, like restroom, is thoughtfully integrated, ensuring accessibility and dignity for all visitors.

Crafted from woven bamboo, corrugated metal, and wood, the design honors local heritage, bringing the warmth of tradition into the modern world. The motka, a simple clay cup, carries the weight of history, while foldable seating invites gathering, its flexibility bridging the gap between old and new. This seating arrangement fosters communal interaction, a place where conversations flow, stories are shared, and friendships bloom. The outdoor space, with room for board games and communal TV screenings, further strengthens the spirit of togetherness.

More than just a tea stall, it transforms for occasional events- storytelling, poetry, and local fairs, giving voice to the community. Open 24/7, it is a sanctuary, a place of safety. Over tea and Bakorkhani, a rickshaw puller, a student, a Bihari migrant, and a Bangladeshi sit side by side, transforming the space from secluded to welcoming, from excluded to included- simply by existing in the shared warmth of tradition.