In Udaipur, a Mother Let Her Son Run a Chikki Stall To Teach Him About Responsibility

In the bustling streets of Udaipur, a roadside stall has become a centre of fascination. Cheenee Mehta, a mother with an uncommon vision , stands nearby, observing her young son as he undertakes the tasks of selling chikkis with a calm assurance. This is no ordinary childhood lesson. It is a deliberate immersion in the practicalities of life, conducted far from the confines of a classroom. The boy counts coins with care, exchanges words with customers with politeness and charm, and manages the stall with a composure that belies his tender age. Passersby often pause, captivated by the sight of a child conducting himself with such confidence . The mother records these moments, sharing them online, where they swiftly attracted admiration for their originality and the subtle wisdom of her method. View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Better India (@thebetterindia) For Cheenee, this exercise is not just commerce. It is an early education in responsibility , independence, and the consequences of choices. Through handling money, negotiating with strangers, and facing small challenges, her son gains lessons that textbooks and examinations could never convey. Across India, a growing number of parents are embracing similar methods, recognising the value of experiential learning. Children are encouraged to engage in real-world tasks, whether running small stalls or assisting in family enterprises, which cultivates resilience, self-reliance, and an understanding of the connection between effort and reward. While safety concerns are acknowledged, proponents argue that such exposure promotes qualities that are difficult to instil through conventional schooling . Amid coins, chikkis, and fleeting conversations, Cheenee’s son acquires practical skills and a confidence that will serve him throughout life. In the midst of the city’s chaos, a mother’s unconventional approach demonstrates that the most timeless lessons often emerge from experience, patience, and guidance.