London-based business inspired by Mumbai's dabbawalas intrigues Anand Mahindra: 'Reverse colonisation'

DabbaDrop aims to create a zero-waste system and change the way Britain does takeaway. (Image: @anandmahindra/X)

It is safe to say that the dabbawalas are the lifelines of Mumbai. The over 100-year-old dabbawala system is world-renowned and has garnered widespread popularity and praise globally. On Sunday, Anand Mahindra shared proof of that as well. The video shared by the Mahindra Group Chairman on X showed people in London trying to replicate the dabbawala system.

The clip featured DabbaDrop, a London-based business inspired by Mumbai’s age-old dabbawala system. It showed how the entrepreneurs are trying to create a zero-waste system and sell wholesome curries in steel tiffins instead of single-use plastic containers. According to the video, they also deliver all over London and want to change the way Britain does takeaway.

“No better — or more ‘delicious’ — evidence of reverse colonization!” the billionaire captioned the post.

No better—or more ‘delicious’—evidence of reverse colonization! pic.twitter.com/WESge3Rvni

— anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) April 28, 2024

Needless to say, Mahindra’s post went viral with over five lakh views and hundreds of comments from his followers and other X users.

“We need this in Los Angeles,” one user wrote. Another user commented, “India inspiring others.”

“Dabbawalas are one of the most incredible things of India,” a third user remarked.

A fourth user added, “That's the right type of colonization. No extortion, no famine just tasty dishes.”

Meanwhile, a special gift by Mumbai’s dabbawalas was sent to King Charles III ahead of his coronation ceremony that happened last year in May. They sent a traditional ‘Puneri Pagadi’ headgear and ‘Uparne’, a traditional stole.

'Puneri Pagadi' is a headgear introduced in the 19th century and is considered a symbol of pride and honour in Maharashtra's Pune. 'Uparne' is a piece of fabric worn over shoulders by men during traditional ceremonies.