Nagpur-based tea seller Sunil Patil, popularly known as Dolly Chaiwala, is all set to turn his tea stall into a national brand. Just two days after announcing his franchise plans, he has already received 1,609 applications. Dolly became an internet sensation for his unique tea-serving style and a viral video with Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates. Now, he is preparing to take his popular tea business across the country.
In a statement, Dolly thanked his supporters for their encouragement and responded to the criticism he faced over his background and lack of formal education. He said, “I didn’t get the chance to go to school like many others,” Dolly shared. “But I spent 20 years behind my tea cart, in the sun and rain, through bad days and good, hoping that one day things might change. I never gave up. Today, I feel lucky — but more than that, I feel proud.”
Dolly said the franchise announcement is more than just a business decision — it’s “a symbol of possibility for the millions who start life with nothing but a dream.”
“People can laugh at me or call me names,” Dolly asserted. “But if even one boy or girl with no money, no degree, and no connections sees my story and believes that they can build something of their own — then every insult is worth it.”
Announcing the franchise on social media, Dolly shared, “It’s India’s first viral street brand, and now… it’s a business opportunity. From carts to flagship cafes, we’re launching nationwide and looking for real people with real passion to carry this dream forward. If you’ve ever wanted to build something big, something desi, something truly legendary — this is your moment. Limited cities. Unlimited chai.
Applications open now.” The announcement also featured a link to an application form shared through Dolly’s Instagram story, outlining three franchise options: a cart stall costing between ₹4.5 lakh and ₹6 lakh, a store model priced at ₹20–22 lakh, and a flagship café ranging from ₹39 lakh to ₹43 lakh. The post quickly went viral and sparked mixed reactions online. While many praised Dolly for his inspiring journey and growth, others raised concerns about the growing trend of turning viral fame into commercial ventures.
One user’s comment, “Education is a scam in India,” gained particular attention, receiving around 8,500 likes. The announcement also featured a link to an application form shared through Dolly’s Instagram story, outlining three franchise options: a cart stall costing between ₹4.5 lakh and ₹6 lakh, a store model priced at ₹20–22 lakh, and a flagship café ranging from ₹39 lakh to ₹43 lakh.
The post quickly went viral and sparked mixed reactions online. While many praised Dolly for his inspiring journey and growth, others raised concerns about the growing trend of turning viral fame into commercial ventures. One user’s comment, “Education is a scam in India,” gained particular attention, receiving around 8,500 likes.
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