Breaking the fast at Zero Junction

Alappuzha: Shajahan is one of the many who sell tender coconuts on the wayside. He has a shop at the Mullackal Zero Junction. But what makes him special is the fact that this is the fifth year he has set up a small place for people to break the fast during the holy month of Ramadan. In addition to tender coconuts, he serves fruits, fruit juices and snacks like onion vada and batter fried bell peppers (mulakuvada). More than 200 people make use of the facilities that he provides to break the fast, Shajahan says, adding that he expects more people to turn up in the coming days. Catering to the needs of approximately 300 people a day, Shaji's shop opens up right at the time the mosques announce the end of fasting every day. Shajahan is supported by his friend Sudhir Ismael. They say, people who help with breaking the fast are as blessed as those fasting for the whole day. However, this generous man would rather do this for the goodwill, and not for the money.