Kamal Ghorui
As a traveller, you must have come across some weird, unusual or unique attractions while exploring a destination. But did you ever imagine seeing a hair cutting ATM? Well, it is true because we have video proof. In the busy lanes of Danapur on the outskirts of Patna, travellers are stopping to withdraw cash, but for cool haircuts. This is something like ‘you’ll have to see it to believe it”. In the video going viral on social media, we can see what looks like an old State Bank of India ATM kiosk has been transformed into a tiny salon and has become one of Bihar’s most offbeat viral attractions.Let’s find out more about the “Hair Cutting ATM”A former ATM transformedAt first, you’ll think it’s an ATM, but a closer look will reveal it’s a barber shop instead. It is because the SBI signage still hangs above the glass cabin right outside the shop. But when you go inside, you’ll see there’s no currency dispensing machine but a barber, a mirror and a chair. Customers patiently wait for their turn. For travellers, this is a quirky little spot. As per several media reports, there used to be an ATM machine but after the banking service shut down, the space remained vacant. It was rented out and eventually transformed into a barber shop. Unintentionally discovery The video has left the internet laughing. People walk in expecting “cash withdrawal” and instead discover what social media users are jokingly calling “kesh withdrawal” (kesh means hair). In the last two days, the internet has been flooded with funny and creative memes like “State Barbers of India” and “Savings & Beauty Institute.”But beyond the humour, the story shows raw, authentic, unfiltered moments which are far from luxury itineraries.More about DanapurDanapur is one of the most underrated cities in Bihar. Travellers often overlook it and focus on landmarks such as Golghar, Patna Sahib or the ghats along the Ganga. But this viral ATM salon has placed Danapur on the map for a very different reason: internet-age curiosity tourism.Young locals are reportedly visiting the spot just to click photos and shoot Instagram reels. In many ways, the salon reflects the same kind of accidental tourism appeal that draws people toward quirky places, hidden cafes or retro cinema halls.For budget travellers and culture explorers, Bihar has long offered these experiences. Here, conversations matter more than polished aesthetics. Bihar of late has become a tourist destination attracting cultural tourists from all over. Being home to a number of ancient temples, caves, rivers and an important hub for Buddhism.Yet, in an age where travel trends are dominated by ancient temples and luxury resorts, among others, this tiny ATM salon is the best example of the fact that some of the best travel stories come from ordinary streets.
