At first glance, this structure in Goa looks like something shaped by the earth itself. Soft curves rise gently against the coastline, forming a pavilion that blends into the landscape rather than standing apart from it. Visitors often slow down when they spot it, drawn by its unusual texture and warm terracotta colour. But what looks like a sculpted form from a distance reveals a surprising story when you move closer.

Walk toward the pavilion and its surface begins to reveal a familiar pattern. The walls are made from thousands of small terracotta cups stacked together. These arekulhads — the humble clay cups used across India to serve chai and buttermilk. For many people, they carry memories of railway platforms, roadside tea stalls, and quick chai breaks during travel.

Kulhads usually have a short life. After a cup of tea is finished, the clay vessel is often discarded. Made from natural earth,........

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