Bihar 'Chaiguy' sells tea, poha in Hollywood, earns Rs 30,000 a day: 'Have to send money home'

Prabhakar Prasad aka 'Bihari Chaiguy' sells a cup of tea for Rs 780 and a plate of poha for Rs 1,350. (Image credit: @chaiguy_la/Instagram)

A Bihar-born street vendor is making waves in Hollywood, Los Angeles, by selling Indian breakfast staples at farmers' markets for prices that have stunned social media. Prabhakar Prasad, popularly known as the “Bihari Chaiwala” or “Chaiguy,” offers chai for $8.65 (about Rs 780) and poha for $16.80 (about Rs 1,350)—and still manages to sell out on most days.

Prasad’s Instagram handle, @chaiguy_la, chronicles his journey, showcasing his long hair, signature moustache, and unwavering cultural pride. In his videos, Prasad is often seen sporting his traditional Bihari gamchha while serving customers. He occasionally even speaks to his customers in Hindi and barters vegetables and flowers for tea, and makes about Rs 30,000 per day.

"Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose had said, 'You give me blood, and I will give you freedom.' I gave the vendor some tea and in exchange bagged some fresh coriander and lemons," Prasad says in a video.

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"Everyone back home in Bihar thinks I am living the high life in America, like it's all fun in Hollywood, but instead I am cooking vegetables," he said, adding that it's all about earning his daily bread. "I'll work hard and earn my money," he said. In another video, Prasad is seen preparing khichdi to sell in Los Angeles. "I need money. I have to send money back home so I'm going to sell khichdi," the Chaiguy said.

The business, however, appears to be running smoothly as Prasad happily reported selling out on most days. On social media too, he has been gaining a steady fan following with several users lauding his hard work and determination.

One Instagram user even asked Prasad, "Brother, can you hire me?"