From humble thatched or tin-roofed stalls to concrete structures with long wooden benches, tea shops in India boast unique charms and character.
As gathering places, traditional 'kadai' are focal points for information, gossip and butter cookies

A man prepares a drink at a tea kadai. Found across India, these stalls attract people not just for their tea and snacks, but also for their role as informal community hubs. (All photos by Meenakshi J)
From humble thatched or tin-roofed stalls to concrete structures with long wooden benches, tea shops in India boast unique charms and character.