Exclusive: From London's Streets To Serving PM Modi, The Chai Journey Of Akhil Patel

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In a city where coffee dominates and chai is often misunderstood as a sugary latte, one man decided to change the narrative. Meet Akhil Patel, the face behind Amala Chai-a brand that has not only redefined authentic Indian chai in London but also taken it to the global stage. Earlier this year, Patel went viral when he served his signature masala chai to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK's Keir Starmer at Chequers. But behind that one headline-worthy moment lies a story steeped in heritage, hustle, and heart.

In this exclusive conversation with Boldsky, Patel shares his journey: from brewing chai on London rooftops to building a brand that blends culture, community, and courage-one cup at a time.

Q1: The Viral Moment

Vandana Yadav: First of all, tell us about the moment - the chai that changed it all. How did it happen that you ended up serving tea to Prime Minister Narendra Modi?

Akhil Patel: Honestly, it was surreal. I got an email from Downing Street inviting us to serve chai at Chequers, and I thought it was spam at first! Once we spoke to the organizers, I realized it was part of the UK-India Free Trade Deal celebration. No one mentioned who'd be attending, so when Prime Minister Modi and Keir Starmer walked up to our stall, it was a complete surprise.

I've served thousands of cups of chai, but this was something else. I slipped into autopilot - pouring, brewing, focusing on the aroma - like I would on any busy London morning. The only thing I was nervous about was spilling the tea in front of the cameras!

Q2: The PM's Tea Preference!

Vandana Yadav: So what did PM Modi think of your tea? Was it adrak wali chai, masala, or something custom-prepared?

Akhil Patel: It was our signature masala chai - proper, authentic, and brewed the way it should be. He smiled, took a sip, and even pointed out to Starmer that, "With Indian chai, you have to boil the milk first." That small exchange meant everything. You could tell he appreciated that it was made right - none of that diluted stuff you usually get at events.

Q3: Brewing A Dream In A Coffee Land

Vandana Yadav: Britain is known for its love of coffee and English tea, yet you've built a masala chai brand there. How did Amala Chai begin?

Akhil Patel: For me, masala chai has always meant home. I was born in London, but my parents are from Kenya, and my grandparents were originally from Gujarat. Every morning growing up, my dad brewed chai, and my grandma's first question whenever I arrived was, "Should I put some chai on?"

That warmth, that ritual - it's comfort and care in a cup. I wanted to share that feeling. When I realized how misunderstood chai was in the UK - often reduced to a sugary latte - I knew I had to do something. So, from my sister's kitchen experiments to working directly with small-scale farms in India, Amala Chai was born: real ingredients, real stories, real chai.

Photo Credit: Boldsky

Q4: A Gujarati Heart In London

Vandana Yadav: You've built something iconic in London, but you're deeply rooted in India. How does your Gujarati identity shape your journey?

Akhil Patel: My layered identity is my strength. London raised me, Kenya shaped my parents, and Gujarat gave us our roots. Even though I've settled in London with my family and business, those values - warmth, hospitality, and respect for tradition - are what make Amala Chai what it is.

Every time I brew chai for someone, it's like offering them a small piece of that heritage.

Q5: Bestselling Blend

Vandana Yadav: Which blend rules your menu? What's the must-try for anyone visiting Amala Chai?

Akhil Patel: Our classic masala chai still reigns supreme. People love it because it's not just tea; it's an experience - fresh spices, strong Assam tea, and that deep, cozy flavor. It's the same blend we served to Prime Minister Modi. But our adrak (ginger) chai is catching up fast, especially in winter.

Q6: Your Chai Tribe

Vandana Yadav: Who are your regulars? More British locals or Indian diaspora?

Akhil Patel: Honestly, it's both. Indian diaspora come for nostalgia - it reminds them of home. British locals come curious and stay loyal because they've never tasted chai like this before. They often say, "This isn't just tea, it's... something else." And I think that's exactly what chai is supposed to be: connection in a cup.

Q7: Culture In A Cup

Vandana Yadav: Do you feel like you're offering more than just tea?

Akhil Patel: Absolutely. Every cup we serve carries a story. It's about slowing down, talking, laughing, feeling cared for. In a way, Amala Chai is my way of saying, "Here's a piece of India - hold it, sip it, love it."

A Promise That Keeps Brewing

From a small rooftop experiment in London to representing India on a global platform, Akhil Patel's journey is proof that chai is more than just a beverage - it's identity, emotion, and movement.

As he signs off, he leaves us with a thought as warm as his brew:

"Chai, Culture and Community - none of these should be silenced. They deserve dignity. And dignity starts with conversation. That's what I want Amala Chai to be: a conversation starter, one cup at a time."