story
We humbly introduce The Matka Family. Papa, Mumma, and the Chote Matkas. Matka is their name. And this Easter, Matka is their game. Read on for a chance to win your family’s meal this Easter holiday.
Once upon an Easter holiday weekday, the Matka Family was in a spot of bother.
Papa Matka was hungry. Mumma Matka was tired. Aunty Matka, usually the finest of entertainers, had exhausted her repertoire by Tuesday. The Chote Matkas were… being Chote Matkas.
ABOVE The Matka’s were in a spot of bother.
Into a nearby café they shuffled. Bottomless chai arrived for the weary elders. Platefuls of good things followed. The Chote Matkas were furnished with colouring sheets and smaller portions, nice with a little less spice. A hush fell over the table. Adults exhaled.
Then, as the last plates were cleared, something appeared. A wooden board. A brass pot. A single die.
"Roll a six," their server said, "and your whole family meal is on us." A huddle was called. Whispered negotiations. And then – two pairs of little hands wrapped around the pot – a shake, a rattle, and a roll.
The die skittered across the board and came to rest. A six looked back at them.
For a moment, nobody moved. Then the Chote Matkas erupted – arms flung skyward. Aunty Matka clapped her hands. Papa Matka punched the air excitedly. Mumma Matka laughed delightedly.
ABOVE The Matka’s win their family meal!
No bill came. Just the server, reappearing with little treasures tucked behind her back for the bacche (children). "These," she said, "are for the little rollers. No matter what number falls." The Chote Matkas clutched their prizes and beamed.
It had been a very good Easter outing.
The end. (Or rather: the beginning of a tradition.)
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A Dishoom first – baked into flower-stamped pastry by renowned pie-maker, Calum Franklin. Fleeting fineness: limited pies available daily, 12–5pm. 19th March – 19th April.
