Sadhan Chetri from Kokrajhar becomes famous as 'graduate chaiwala' in Guwahati; here's his story

KOKRAJHAR: In a country where an erstwhile 'chai wallah' (tea seller) holds the top job, it is only but natural that well-qualified youths will turn to the age-old craft of selling the popular beverage to eke out a living in these economically uncertain times!

 

If you ever happen to come to Assam's Guwahati city, do not be surprised to come across a 'graduate' tea seller fluent in English who sells you piping hot tea in earthen 'kullad' pots.

 

Sadhan Chetri graduate from Kokrajhar district of Assam, runs a tea counter which has recently emerged as one of the most popular haunts in Guwahati city.

 

The roadside stall, located near the flyover in Gnaeshguri, Sadhan Chetri became the rage around Valentine's Day time (February 14) after a number of social media platforms highlighted the story of this enterprising youth.

 

 

Inside Northeast recently caught up with the youngster known in these parts as 'Graduate Chaiwala'. Here are some excerpts from the interview:

 

Inside NE: What is special about your tea? Why do people keep coming back to grab a sip?

 

Sadhan Chetri: I have my own masala, which I use to make my special tea. I make that using my own ingredients. Within 6 months, I have plans to launch it all over India and plans are underway in that regard.

 

IN: Have you never thought about getting a regular job?

 

SC: Nowadays, it is very difficult to get a job. However, I have never tried to get a job. Even in the future, I do not have any plans to get a job. I do not really believe in the concept of jobs, actually.

 

IN: What kind of plans do you have for the future?

 

SC: I have a lot of plans, but I need some time for that. Firstly, I want to help as many people as I can. Secondly, I want to take my 'graduate chaiwala' concept to all corners of India. First of all, I have to expand my enterprise to different parts of Assam.

 

IN: So why do you serve tea in kullads (earthern pots) instead of the typical plastic cups?

 

SC: I use kullads because plastic creates a lot of junk. However, the kullads are made of earth and will one day become one with the soil. Moreover, these cups look really fancy and people seem to be really loving them.