Nagpur, 15 July (HS):

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 issued

here, 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. 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.

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 Rs 4.5 lakh and Rs 6 lakh, a store model priced at Rs 20–22

lakh, and a flagship café ranging from Rs 39 lakh to Rs 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.

Hindusthan Samachar / Ajay Vasant Mardikar