Pattan| Sept, 11: Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan on Friday visited the Hartrath-Singhpora area of north Kashmir’s Pattan and stopped at a roadside corn stall, where he enjoyed freshly roasted corn and interacted briefly with locals.
The actor’s visit drew the attention of residents and travellers in the area, with locals gathering after learning about his presence at the popular roadside food point.
People associated with the stall said Khan appreciated Kashmir’s natural beauty and the warmth and hospitality of its people during his visit.
The corn stall at Hartrath has been a familiar stop for locals and travellers, particularly during the summer and autumn months when fresh corn is readily available. Vendors roast the corn over charcoal and serve it to customers travelling along the busy stretch.
For the sellers, the business is largely seasonal and depends on the availability of fresh local produce and the movement of people through the area.
“People from nearby villages and travellers regularly stop here for roasted corn. It is a simple local food, but people enjoy it,” one of the sellers said.
Another vendor Mustaq Ahmad said Khan’s visit came as a surprise and brought considerable attention to the otherwise modest roadside stall.
Locals said the actor’s decision to stop at a small food point rather than a conventional destination also highlighted the appeal of Kashmir’s everyday food culture.
Roadside food stalls remain a familiar part of travel across the Valley, offering visitors an opportunity to experience locally produced and prepared food. Roasted corn, traditional breads, tea and other seasonal delicacies are commonly found along roads frequented by residents and tourists.
Residents said Khan’s appreciation of Kashmir’s beauty and hospitality was warmly received, with the visit becoming a talking point in the area.
For the corn sellers, the visit has brought their small business unexpected visibility. However, they said their regular customers and seasonal demand remain the mainstay of their livelihood.
The visit also offered a glimpse into the connection between Kashmir’s landscape, local produce and its tradition of hospitality, with a simple roasted corn stall becoming an unexpected stop during the actor’s visit to the Valley.
