‘From one chaiwala to another’: Meet Akhil Patel, the UK entrepreneur who served masala chai to PM Modi

PM Modi UK visit (Image: X)

During his recent visit to the UK, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a warm moment over tea, hosted by Akhil Patel, the Indian-origin founder of UK-based brand Amala Chai.

The interaction took place at Chequers, the official countryside residence of UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, where the two leaders were seen enjoying a traditional cup of chai. A photo of the moment, showing Modi being served by Patel, was widely shared online.

Viral video on social media captures Patel humorously saying, “From one chaiwala to another” as he serves a steaming cup of masala chai to PM Modi.

“‘Chai Pe Charcha’ with PM Keir Starmer at Chequers... brewing stronger India-UK ties!,” PM Modi wrote as he posted two pictures.

‘Chai Pe Charcha’ with PM Keir Starmer at Chequers...brewing stronger India-UK ties! @Keir_Starmerpic.twitter.com/sY1OZFa6gL

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 24, 2025

Who is Akhil Patel? 

Akhil Patel, who grew up in London, attended University College School in Hampstead before earning a BSc in Management from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE). During his student years, he gained experience through internships and later worked as a data analyst.

In 2019, he made a significant career shift by founding Amala Chai, a business inspired by his Indian grandmother’s traditional chai recipes and the cultural significance of tea.

Akhil now operates a chai stall outside King’s Cross Station in London, where he starts brewing tea at 8 am. “400,000 cups later, we’ve officially helped Britain swerve the corporate chai latte across the road,” he wrote in one of his Instagram posts.

His LinkedIn profile confirms his academic background and early work experience. Amala Chai sources its tea and spices directly from “small family farms in Assam and Kerala,” according to the company’s page.

In May, the British Museum highlighted Amala Chai in a video, showcasing the process of sourcing ingredients from India.