Sophiya Laurence Beetal Shop: Dream of Hollywood Star Changes Local Seller's Fortune

Sophiya Laurence Beetal Shop became famous after a local seller dreamed of Hollywood actress Sophia, transforming his fortune. The shop, once unknown, is now a favorite spot, even visited by legends like Indira Gandhi and Amitabh Bachchan.

By Palak Pathak Updated: Oct 9, 2024, 14:07 IST

Om Prakash Chaurasia, a resident of Civil Lines in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, had a dream of famous Hollywood actress Sophia Laurence. Inspired by this dream, he opened a shop named 'Sophiya Laurence Beetal Shop.' What he never expected was that the betel leaves from his shop would become so popular that even in his dream, Sophia herself would love them. Established in 1920, this shop has served notable personalities like Amitabh Bachchan, former Prime Ministers VP Singh and Indira Gandhi, and celebrities such as Ashutosh Rana, Rajpal Yadav, Raj Babbar, Shatrughan Sinha, and Rakhi Sawant.

Over 100 Varieties of Betel Leaves

Om Prakash's shop offers over 100 varieties of betel leaves, with prices ranging from ₹40 to ₹501. Though the shop prominently features 25 regular varieties, they can cater to customers with up to 100 different flavors. The wide variety of betel leaves is a major attraction, drawing in numerous customers who appreciate the diversity.

Seasonal Varieties

The unique feature of the shop is that 25 varieties are adapted seasonally. The most affordable betel leaf costs ₹40, while the most expensive is the ₹501 Golden Night Gilauri, adorned with gold leaf. The shop is particularly popular among newlyweds and couples, with the Golden Night being a top choice for special occasions.

Sophiya Laurence Beetal Shop offers a wide range of unique and flavorful varieties of betel leaves, including Pista Paan, Dry Fruit Paan, Fire Paan, Butterscotch Paan, Crunchy Paan, Strawberry, Chocolate, Banarasi Gilauri, Gundi Paan, Ras Malai, Baba 600 Number, Kesar Paan, Oreo, Orange, Mango, Black Currant, Ice Paan, Chocolate Ball, Navratan Kimam, Ragda, and Zarda Paan.

It is the only betel shop in India to offer franchise options in multiple cities, making it a unique and popular destination for paan lovers across the country.