Who Is Akhil Patel, The London 'Chaiwala' Who Served Tea To PM Modi?

Last Updated:July 25, 2025, 18:12 IST

PM Modi’s photo with UK PM Keir Starmer at Checkers sparked curiosity—not just for the tea chat, but also for the man in a kurta serving it, who quickly drew public attention

The brand prides itself on the authenticity and ethical sourcing of Indian masala tea. (Instagram/@narendramodi)

Tea diplomacy took centre stage as Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a light-hearted moment over a cup of tea with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer at Checkers, the official country residence of the British PM.

Following the signing of the landmark Free Trade Agreement between India and the UK, a special tea stall was set up on the lawn where the two leaders engaged in casual conversation. PM Modi later shared the moment on Instagram, noting that they even discussed tea during their talks.

In the photo shared by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the world not only saw a candid moment of diplomacy over tea with British PM Keir Starmer at Checkers, but also caught a glimpse of the man serving it, instantly sparking curiosity.

PM Modi captioned the post: “Chai Pe Charcha with PM Keir Starmer at Chequers… brewing stronger India-UK ties". The image shows both leaders enjoying a cup of tea, while a man in a traditional Indian kurta serves them from a stall bearing a banner that reads: “Fresh Masala Chai…sourced from India, brewed in London."

Adding to the buzz, the tea vendor also posted a video on Instagram, capturing the moment PM Modi sips tea with Starmer.

Who Is The London Chaiwala At Checkers

The person who served tea to PM Modi is Akhil Patel, also known as London Chaiwala. Akhil Patel is an entrepreneur and the founder of Amala Tea, a brand based in London renowned for its authentic Indian masala tea. He is a British citizen of Indian origin, with his family having strong ties to India; his grandmother moved to Britain 50 years ago seeking better opportunities.

Akhil Patel grew up in London and studied at University College School in Hampstead before earning a BSc degree in Management from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE).

Early in his career, Patel worked as a data analyst, but in 2019, inspired by his grandmother’s traditional recipe, he founded ‘Amala Chai’. The brand prides itself on the authenticity and ethical sourcing of Indian masala tea.

Akhil Patel travelled across India to procure tea leaves and spices directly from small family farms in Assam and Kerala, ensuring fair trade and quality by eliminating middlemen.

Location :

United Kingdom (UK)

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