the chaiwala

Understanding the meaning of the chaiwala is simple when you break down the word: “chai” means tea, and “wala” refers to someone who works with or sells something specific. So a chaiwala is literally a tea person – someone whose life revolves around making and serving chai. We use “chaiwala” for men and “chaiwalli” for women, and these vendors have become the heartbeat of Indian street culture.

This term originates from India, and you’ll find these vendors all over India, from the streets to the deserts, at train stations, at religious melas (festivals), by the ghats – everywhere!

If you ever have a chance to walk the vibrant streets of India, you’ll hear this wonderful sound – chaiwallahs calling out to you, inviting you to stop and take a break with a cup of their special brew. And here’s something beautiful – every single vendor has their own unique recipe that makes their chai special.

Now here’s the really fascinating part about chaiwallah history – they’re actually the ones who created the masala chai that we all love so much today. During the British colonial period in India, chaiwala’s were selling bitter black tea which was a rare import for the general population. To attract more business, milk and spices began to be added, and the rest is history.