Sometimes the most powerful food stories come from the humblest kitchens, and a recent Instagram video has reminded people of that once again. A small rice hotel tucked away in a worn-out corner has captured the internet's heart after viewers discovered the seventy-year-old woman who runs it entirely on her own. Her determination, her dignity and the quiet strength with which she keeps the place alive have moved thousands. What began as a simple video has turned into a wave of compassion, with people eager to help her rebuild the life and space she has protected for decades.
The video was shared by Instagram user Aradhana Chatterjee, who documents inspiring human stories and local food spaces. In her latest post, she introduces viewers to Deepali Ghosh, who is struggling to keep her small rice hotel running. Aradhana explains that Deepali has been running this humble eatery for nearly three decades after the passing of her husband, yet now she barely receives five customers a day.
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She goes on to describe how Deepali manages everything entirely on her own. She buys the ingredients, cooks the meals, washes the utensils, cleans the shop and handles the business without any help. Aradhana shows how Deepali also lives inside the same cramped space, sleeping in a tiny corner on a broken piece of plywood. The shop is visibly worn down, with old utensils, soot-stained walls, a leaking roof and cluttered corners that show how much the place needs attention.
According to Aradhana, Deepali's situation worsened after the lockdown. Her hearing has weakened and she must continue working to afford food and medicines. She does not want to go to an old age home, as she wishes to earn a living with dignity and keep her shop running. There is no family support available to her.
In the caption, she appealed to her followers: "We will be giving this little shop a makeover since this is where she stays and runs her business from. Let us all come together and make this happen. So that she can have the minimum number of customers to sustain herself and the shop."
Check out the full video below:
Internet users were quick to respond, calling her story inspiring and urgently asking how they could help, donate or visit her in person. Many praised her resilience, while others expressed heartbreak and gratitude after watching the clip. Check out some of the comments below:
"Please let me know how I can donate."
"And absolutely, let's rebuild her shop. I am in. Please let me know whatever is needed."
"Hey, please send me the location. I would love to personally meet her and donate as well."
"She is a fighter."
"Please let me know how I can contribute to her betterment!"
"How can I help this kind lady?"
"I want to send some money. Please let me know where to send it."
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"At the age of 70, this elderly woman continues to support herself with dignity and hard work. She has never depended on anyone and has chosen to earn her living independently till her last breath. Truly inspiring."
"Absolutely heartbreaking!"
"We need more people like you. Proud of you."
"Every day I wake up and thank God for everything. We aren't grateful enough for what we have."
What are your thoughts on this heartfelt moment, and does it inspire you to think about how each of us can make a difference?
