In a remarkable turn of events, a young Pakistani boy, Arshad Khan, famously known as the “chaiwala,” has achieved great success and now owns an iconic café in London. This achievement comes after his picture serving tea went viral and catapulted him to global fame.Arshad Khan’s café, aptly named “Café Chaiwala Arshad Khan,” has opened its doors on East London’s bustling 229 Ilford Lane, a vibrant area with a significant population of Pakistanis, Indians, and Bangladeshis.
To avoid any confusion, a billboard outside the café proudly displays the brand name, emphasizing its association with the chaiwala who gained international recognition from the streets of Islamabad.
The vision of bringing the Chaiwala brand to London has been realized by three investor brothers: Bahadar Durrani, Nadir Durrani, and Akbar Durrani. Their ambition extends beyond London, as they plan to establish franchises across the United Kingdom, Europe, North America, Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.
Arshad Khan’s journey from a poverty-stricken tea seller at a roadside stall in Islamabad to a global celebrity, fashion icon, brand owner, and franchise holder in London is truly awe-inspiring. His viral fame began in 2016 when a casual picture of him serving tea caught the attention of photographer Javeria Ali, who posted it on Instagram with the caption “Hot Tea.” His striking looks, intense blue eyes, and serious demeanor instantly captured the world’s imagination.
The popularity surge led to hordes of people seeking to meet him at his chai stall, and soon he became a sensation on social media, magazine covers, and TV shows. As a result, he was nicknamed “Chaiwala,” inspiring the name of the brand.
Café Chaiwala in London embodies traditional Pakistani elements with vibrant truck art, hand-decorated Vespa, and desi paintings on the walls, creating a modern yet authentic dhabba ambiance.
While the Durrani brothers are actively working on expanding the Chaiwala franchise, Arshad Khan himself plans to visit London soon to meet his devoted fans and serve them his signature karak chai.
The success story of the chaiwala turned entrepreneur underscores the transformative power of social media. Arshad Khan’s journey from a humble tea vendor to a fashion model and now a business owner demonstrates the positive impact that social media can have on people’s lives and opportunities for success.
The rise of Café Chaiwala Arshad Khan in London is just the beginning, with plans to open multiple cafes across the city and beyond. As Arshad’s story continues to inspire, the café serves as a symbol of hard work, determination, and dreams fulfilled in a truly remarkable fashion.
