In a country where chai is more than just a beverage—it’s an emotion—Chai Sutta Bar has emerged as a cultural phenomenon. Founded in 2016 by Anubhav Dubey and Anand Nayak, this Indore-based startup has transformed the humble kulhad chai into a nationwide brand with a turnover of over ₹150 crore as of 2025.
☕ From UPSC Dreams to Kulhad Dreams
Anubhav Dubey was preparing for the UPSC exams in Delhi when a call from his childhood friend Anand changed everything. The two decided to start a tea business with just ₹3 lakh in hand. Their idea? Serve chai in eco-friendly kulhads (earthen cups) and create a space that blends the vibe of a bar with the comfort of a tea stall.
The name “Chai Sutta Bar” was deliberately edgy—designed to attract youth while sparking curiosity. Despite initial skepticism, the brand quickly gained traction for its affordable pricing, nostalgic flavors, and Instagrammable ambiance.
🌍 Brewing Across Borders
As of 2025, Chai Sutta Bar boasts:
- 370+ outlets in over 190 Indian cities
- Presence in three international markets including Dubai and Oman
- A franchise network that continues to expand aggressively
Their menu includes a variety of chai flavors—Chocolate, Rose, Masala, Tulsi, Elaichi—alongside snacks like sandwiches, Maggi, and momos. But the real hero remains the kulhad, which not only enhances taste but also supports local potters and reduces plastic waste.
💡 The Secret Sauce: Branding + Purpose
Chai Sutta Bar’s success lies in its ability to blend desi roots with modern branding. The founders understood that chai wasn’t just a drink—it was a ritual. By creating cozy, youth-friendly spaces with Wi-Fi, music, and a sense of community, they turned tea drinking into an experience.
Their social mission is equally powerful: the brand employs underprivileged youth and promotes sustainability through its use of biodegradable kulhads. This blend of profit and purpose has earned them both customer loyalty and media attention.
🔮 What’s Next?
With a goal to reach 1,000 outlets globally by 2027, Chai Sutta Bar is eyeing expansion into the US, UK, and Canada. They’re also exploring ready-to-drink bottled chai and merchandise to deepen brand engagement.
From a ₹3 lakh startup to a ₹150 crore empire, Chai Sutta Bar proves that with the right mix of vision, values, and vada pav, even a cup of tea can change your destiny.
Sources: https://www.chaisuttabarindia.com/
