UK partner parts ways with ‘Chaiwala’ over copyright, contract issues

LONDON: A legal dispute has erupted between viral sensation Arshad Khan, known as “Chaiwala,” and London businessman over ownership of the Café Chaiwala brand in Britain.

Arshad Khan, who shot to fame in 2016 after a photo of him making tea went viral, opened his first café in 2020 and granted UK franchise rights to his partner in 2021. Two outlets opened in Ilford Lane and Tooting, both doing well.

Khan claims his UK partners stopped royalty payments 10 months ago but continue using his brand name after sending a termination notice. “This is my name and identity,” he said, adding he has hired lawyers to pursue the matter.

Khan’s partner, however, said the UK team built everything independently, receiving “no support or materials” from Khan’s side. “We paid royalties but got nothing in return. The menu, design, and success are our own,” he said, insisting the brand “remains solely under our franchise rights.”