In 2016, Arshad Khan, a charming tea seller, became a viral sensation ‘Arshad Chaiwala’ after a photo by local photographer Jiah Ali captured the attention of social media. Fast forward to the present, Arshad has transitioned from a local sensation to an international entrepreneur, with a thriving global brand, wittily named Café Chaiwala.
Arshad recently participated in a Digital Pakistan interview, shedding light on his journey from a small café in Islamabad to launching international franchises. He expressed his desire to elevate Pakistan’s presence on the global stage, citing a lack of Pakistani brands going international as his motivation. Arshad shared, “I always wanted to launch my own brand.”
“After making a café in Islamabad, my life would have been spent well, I didn’t need anything else. I only launched my brand because I wanted Pakistan to gain recognition in the world,” he emphasised that he aimed to create job opportunities while putting Pakistan on the international map.
The 24-year-old further insisted, “In all of Pakistan’s history, no brand has gone international in only 6 months.” Despite being content with his small café, Arshad’s vision and determination led to the rapid expansion of his brand within six months, driven by the desire to create more jobs and opportunities for people.
Speaking about his Café Chaiwala outlet in London’s Ilford Lane, Arshad affirmed, “We have finalised agreements for ten further outlets [in London].”
The entrepreneur-slash-internet celebrity was also asked about his love life to which he replied that he is yet to marry despite receiving lots of offers. “When the time is right, I will announce myself that I am ready to marry.” Elaborating more, Arshad firmly stated that he’s not currently romantically affiliated with anyone.
After becoming a viral sensation for his striking blue eyes and good looks, the man behind Café Chaiwala was all set for a dream run in showbiz. From landing a modelling contract to bagging a film role, Arshad said no to the high life and chose to return to his Islamabad dhaba.
In 2020, the former tea-seller inaugurated his venture Café Chaiwala, a rooftop café in Islamabad. Talking about the establishment’s name, Arshad told Urdu News, “Many people told me to change the current name and instead name it Arshad Khan, but I refused because Chai Wala is my identity.” He added how he still brews up a storm when his friends want some chai made by him.
Have something to add to the story? Share it in the comments below.