"Log coffee mein dil banate hain, hum dil se chai banate hain"
Standing true to its Instagram byline, Atmanirbhar Chaiwala in Lucknow has redefined the meaning and scope of LGBTQIA+ allyship. Occupying a strategic location in Sector G of the LDA colony, this chai store is serving different varieties of tea coupled with snacky-munchy grubs against a rainbow backdrop. A simple yet revolutionary step by the founder, the LGBTQIA+ Pride wall setup opposite this tea shop, has turned into a magnetic attraction for the city folks!
Speaking to Knocksense, the Founder, Divyansh Asthana said, "There is hardly any such spot in Lucknow supporting the queer folks. We believe that everyone is equal and thereby, we have painted the wall to encourage people from the LGBT community. All kinds of people are welcomed at our joint, where they can sit back, relax and enjoy flavourful tea. Through this, we attempt to promote a message of social acceptance."
A young graduate from Lucknow University, Divyansh set out on a journey to initiate this startup with his friend, Jatin Kalani, during the pandemic-induced lockdown. Now, the two of them have come a long way forward, finding a unique selling point in the rainbow wall. Interestingly, all servings at this spot are prepared by the duo themselves, who learned all the tricks in their home kitchens.
Divyansh said, "While I do not belong to the community myself, I make sure to inform as many people as possible about it. A large number of visitors question me about the coloured wall. They have no information about the flag or the community and I tell them about these things. This helps me to spread awareness about the LGBTQIA+ community."
While tea lovers can relish Masala Chai, Chocolate Chai and other varieties at this joint, the offerings of sandwiches, different types of Maggi, wraps, burgers and bun-maska, make it a gravitating hub for snackers too. Additionally, the store also encapsulates some seating arrangements and it hosts birthday celebrations and small musical gatherings too.
Aspirational and optimistic, Divyansh and Jatin are attempting to deliver a strong message of inclusion and acceptance, through this business. Needless to say, the duo is definitely an inspiration for everyone who believes and strives for change. Given the ever-evolving nature of society, small steps like the aforementioned wall, can propel significant transformations!
Location: JD Tower, near Balaji Mandir, Sector G, LDA Colony, Lucknow
Timings: 7 AM - 9:30 PM
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