Why is this Indian chai shop SO special? | Exploring Goa

I was told that this chai shop in South Goa had something special that "nowhere else in the world could possibly have". So, I simply had to know why.

In early 2024, while travelling in India, I spent an unexpected month in Patnem, a small town in South Goa. While sipping on one of my numerous chais at the famous Patnem Chai Shop, I met Rahul, an eccentric regular who was extremely passionate about the place.

For Rahul, the Chai Shop is not merely a central point in the town's social fabric, but a unique community hub that simply cannot be replicated anywhere else.

I spent 2 days talking with and interviewing him, as well as capturing the atmosphere at this beloved spot.

Join me as I learn from Rahul what makes the Patnem Chai Shop one of the most special places in the world.

🎞️ Story, camera, and edit by Clare Trelawny-Gower
❤️ With thanks to: Patnem Chai Shop, Rhaul Datura, Kunal Chaturvedi
📍Patnem, South Goa, India
🎥 February 2024, Sony A7iii

ABOUT ME
Clare is a journalist from the UK who is living and working in Germany. She works as a reporter and presenter for state broadcaster Deutsche Welle, as well as independently as a freelance filmmaker. Her passion is telling unique, human-led stories with a dash of signature humour.

✨This film is the first film I shot and edited myself.