Ramesh, popularly known as “Indian Chaiwala” on social media, became an overnight sensation after a video showed him serving tea to fellow passengers aboard an IndiGo flight. With over 40,000 followers on Instagram, Ramesh has built a reputation for his unique chai-serving act across various locations, especially in Hyderabad’s Begumbazar, where he’s affectionately called “Chai Chaaiyaa.” His viral moment on the plane only added to his fame, capturing the attention of netizens and chai lovers alike.
In the video, two men are seen walking down the aircraft aisle, handing out tea in disposable cups, much like traditional Indian train vendors. One man serves tea from a bottle to a seated woman while the other helps with the distribution.
The video elicited mixed reactions online. Some users found humour in the situation, with one commenting, “Soon there will be mung phali wala chaat masala,” drawing parallels to typical train vendors. Others expressed concern over in-flight security and professionalism. A user remarked, “This is why foreigners are speaking bad about India… please behave,” while another questioned the cabin crew’s vigilance, asking, “Cabin crew, security wale konsa nasha karke baithe hai (What are the cabin crew and security staff even doing)?”
IndiGo Airlines has not yet commented on the incident, which continues to spark discussions about in-flight conduct. The “Indian Chaiwala,” known for serving tea in unconventional places, has drawn attention with his recent act aboard the aircraft, though it has sparked controversy.