The chai time chronicles all began at St. Xavier’s College, Dhobi Talao, Mumbai... The ubiquitous chai at the college canteen was one great affair as all the discussions and debates originated over a cuppa. But the zing to chai was added only when the bun maska was served. A slice of the buttered bun dipped a little into a hot steaming cup was shared by at least a dozen of folks surrounding the table. Often the Bun Maska was savoured at nearby Irani restaurants like Kyanis, Sassanian and the Red Rose. The taste of the delicious buns that my mom bought from American Express bakery at Kemps Corner, Mumbai still lingers on. Why Bun Maska and not Maska Bun? I guess that’s the terminology the waiter used at the Irani joints and it stuck on.
Journey to Baroda after passing out of St. Xavier’s did not stop my affair with the Bun Maska... The chai wallahs outside the Polytechnic Hostel Campus served the same Bun Maska with generous dollops of homemade butter – I loved the difference, though the tea was much sweeter in Baroda. As my journey to Ahmedabad continued, la affaire with Bun Maska continued. The two joints I loved to have this much sweeter version were Ruthuraj Tea Stall opposite the Gujarat University (B.K.School) and the famous Times of India at Ashram Road.
Now my liaison with Bun Maska has deteriorated because it has added oodles of fat and of course Trupti takes care that I do not sneak onto any of these scrumptious delights. But once in a blue moon she brings home some freshly baked buns from Imperial bakery (the bakery is right next to her office in Shahpur) and my dream is relived.
Now you all know why my blog is called Bun Maska. It not only brings back cherished memories but is a place for all things sundry. A nice cup of tea, sit down and Bun Maska makes life more liveable.
