Delhi’s India Gate is more than just a monument; it’s a gathering place where history, stories, and people intersect. Amidst the tourists and evening strollers, one figure stands out: Raju Bhai, a chaiwala whose family has served chai near India Gate for generations. On a recent visit, I decided to sit with him, not just for a hot cup of chai but to hear about Delhi’s changing face from someone who has witnessed it all, cup by cup.
Meeting Raju Bhai: The Legacy of a Chaiwala Family
Raju Bhai greets everyone with a warm smile and a spirited “Namaste.” His small cart is lined with stainless steel kettles, glasses, and spices—his chai setup. When I asked him how long his family had been selling chai here, his eyes lit up with pride.
“My father and grandfather sold chai here,” he said, stirring a kettle of boiling tea leaves. “Back then, it was British officers and few others. Now, it’s everyone—from foreigners to young students.”
Raju Bhai’s family has been a part of India Gate’s landscape since the 1930s. His grandfather began the tradition, back when India was under British rule. I could sense his pride as he spoke about continuing the legacy, honoring both his heritage and his family’s hard work.
“This is more than a job,” he reflected, pausing thoughtfully. “It’s about keeping a connection with the past alive. My chai isn’t just tea—it’s tradition.”
A Taste of Delhi’s History in a Cup of Chai
As I sipped on his special masala chai, with hints of ginger and cardamom, Raju Bhai shared stories about Delhi’s transformation. In his memory, he has watched India Gate go from being a colonial monument to a place of national pride, where people celebrate festivals, hold protests, and gather to pay respects to soldiers.
“India Gate has witnessed everything. I have seen young people protest here, students gather with candles, families come with smiles,” he said, his face a mix of nostalgia and pride. “I tell visitors that India Gate is more than just a landmark. It is the soul of Delhi.”
When asked what makes his chai special, he laughed and shared his “secret recipe,” which turned out to be patience and love for his craft. He believes every cup of chai he serves should be a moment of connection, a slice of peace in Delhi’s chaotic rhythm.
“You know, people come and go, but they all remember my chai,” he chuckled. “It’s not fancy, but it’s made with heart, and that’s what matters.”
Raju Bhai’s Wisdom for Visitors
If you want to experience Raju Bhai’s chai without the usual crowds, he recommends coming early in the morning or during dusk.
“In the early morning, it’s just me, my chai, and a few birds,” he smiled. “At that hour, I can tell you stories without the noise of cars and chatter.”
Raju Bhai’s presence at India Gate represents resilience and dedication, echoing Delhi’s spirit. As he poured another cup, he shared one last thought that stayed with me:
“People chase big things, but sometimes all you need is a cup of chai to make you happy,” he mused, handing over the glass. “Life is simpler than we make it.”
Conclusion: More than Just Chai, It’s a Slice of Delhi
A visit to India Gate is incomplete without a cup of Raju Bhai’s chai. His tea is warm, flavorful, and infused with stories as rich as Delhi’s own history. Raju Bhai isn’t just a chaiwala—he’s a storyteller, a keeper of memories, and a symbol of Delhi’s unbreakable connection to its roots. So, the next time you’re near India Gate, pause for a moment, grab a glass of chai, and savor not just the flavors, but the generations of history in every sip.