One Of The Craziest Moments Of My Life”: Akhil Patel Reflects on Serving Chai to PM Modi and UK PM Keir Starmer
In a heartwarming and surreal twist of fate, Akhil Patel, a young entrepreneur of Indian origin based in London, has captured headlines and hearts after sharing his extraordinary experience of serving chai to two of the most powerful leaders in the world—India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Describing it as “one of the craziest moments of my life,” Akhil’s story is a vibrant blend of passion, humility, and destiny.
The Moment That Brewed Magic
The now-viral moment unfolded during PM Modi’s high-profile visit to the UK, as part of a bilateral summit aimed at strengthening trade and cultural ties between India and Britain. As part of a curated cultural experience showcasing Indian entrepreneurship, Akhil Patel was invited to present his authentic Indian tea stall—a modern take on the traditional roadside chai tapri—to the dignitaries.
In what he later called a “dream-like moment,” Akhil found himself pouring steaming cups of masala chai for PM Modi and UK’s PM Keir Starmer, both of whom spent several minutes engaging with him.
“When I saw the security convoy, I was nervous. But when they walked up to my stall, smiled, and actually sipped my chai, I thought—this can’t be real,” Akhil shared on social media. “It’s definitely one of the craziest moments of my life.”
Akhil’s Journey: From Chai Lover to Chai Leader
Akhil Patel, 29, is the founder of “DesiKuppa,” a UK-based chai start-up that blends Indian flavors with a global café experience. Inspired by his grandmother’s recipes from Gujarat and the bustling chai culture of Mumbai, Akhil launched DesiKuppa in 2021 with the dream of making authentic Indian tea a global sensation.
Starting with pop-up stalls at London street markets, the brand quickly gained traction among locals and expats alike for its cardamom-spiced chai, ginger brews, and even innovative chai lattes with turmeric and rose infusions.
“It’s not just about tea; it’s about storytelling,” Akhil often says. “Every cup has a memory. And now, I have a memory I’ll never forget.”
The Leaders’ Reactions
Eyewitnesses noted that PM Modi was visibly impressed by Akhil’s passion and even offered him some words of encouragement in Hindi. PM Starmer reportedly praised the “entrepreneurial spirit” and the potential of Indian-origin businesses in the UK.
“This chai is brilliant—authentic and refreshing,” PM Starmer was quoted as saying during the interaction. “It’s amazing to see young entrepreneurs bridging cultures this way.”
The Viral Photos That Took Over the Internet
Photos of the encounter—Akhil in his apron, serving chai to the two world leaders, with a wide grin and a kettle in hand—have gone viral across platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and LinkedIn. Netizens have dubbed him the “Chai Diplomat” and “London’s Chai Hero.”
Memes, reels, and fan edits followed within hours, turning a simple tea-serving moment into a symbol of unity, entrepreneurship, and cultural pride.
What’s Next for Akhil Patel?
Since the event, Akhil has reportedly received collaboration offers, investment inquiries, and even franchise requests from cities as far as Toronto and Sydney.
He’s now planning to open his first flagship DesiKuppa store in Central London, with a concept café dedicated to chai, community, and cultural storytelling. He’s also been invited to speak at upcoming entrepreneurship summits across the UK and India.
“I never thought a kettle and a cup of chai could take me this far,” he laughs. “But it just goes to show—when you pour love into your craft, the world notices.”
A Story Brewing Beyond Borders
Akhil Patel’s journey from a chai-lover in East London to sharing tea with two global leaders is more than just a viral headline—it’s a testament to the power of dreams, tradition, and timing. In a world divided by politics, this simple act of hospitality served as a beautiful reminder of what brings us together—a warm cup of chai and a genuine smile.
Because sometimes, the craziest moments in life begin with something as simple as a sip.
