In 2016, Arshad Khan, popularly known as the ‘Blue-Eyed Chaiwala‘ after his photograph serving tea at a roadside stall in Islamabad went viral, transformed his life from an internet sensation to a burgeoning entrepreneur.
His striking blue eyes, which caught the world’s attention, paved the way for a modeling career and now, entrepreneurship.
Khan and his business partner Kazim Hasan recently appeared on the first season of “Shark Tank Pakistan” to secure funding for their tea franchise, Chaiwala & Co.
Their goal was to expand what they call their ‘chai empire,’ aiming to make it an emblem of Pakistani street culture.
Arshad has already established a chain of upscale tea outlets, with three shops in Pakistan and one in London, under the name “Cafe Chai Wala.”
On the show, they pitched a tea-selling venture and an immersive cultural experience, capturing the essence of Pakistani street life.
Their business model intrigued the investors, leading to a 1 crore Pakistani Rupee investment offer for a 5% equity stake in Chaiwala & Co.
The pitch highlighted the success of their London cafe, which quickly became popular among the South Asian diaspora and others interested in experiencing Pakistan’s vibrant ‘chai dabha’ culture.
The investment will help Khan to further expand his business, both within Pakistan and internationally, reinforcing his transition from a viral internet star to a celebrated entrepreneur.
“I am grateful for every opportunity that has come my way. My goal has always been to represent Pakistan and its culture through something as simple as chai.” Arshad said after winning the investment while inspiring the youth in the crisis-struck country to try and work upwards.
