Hyderabad’s iconic Irani cafes, once bustling with the aroma of creamy chai and fresh samosas, are now on the brink of extinction.
These historic establishments, which have been a cultural staple for over a century, are struggling to survive against the pressures of rising costs, competition from fast-food chains, and shifting consumer preferences.
At their peak, Irani cafes were found on nearly every corner of Hyderabad, offering a unique blend of Persian and Indian culinary traditions. Today, only 125 remain, down from 450 just two decades ago.
Jaleel Farooq Rooz, owner of The Grand Hotel, one of the city’s oldest Irani cafes, recalls the glory days when they sold 8,000-9,000 cups of chai daily. Now, that number has halved. Rooz blames the decline on several factors, including skyrocketing real estate prices and the arrival of global fast-food chains in the 1990s.
Despite the odds, some cafe owners are determined to keep the legacy alive. Syed Mohammed Razak, who manages the Red Rose Restaurant, is using modern marketing techniques to draw in new customers while maintaining the traditional charm that has made these cafes beloved by generations.
For Hyderabad’s loyal patrons, Irani chai is more than just a drink—it’s a cherished ritual. “There’s nothing like it even today,” says Yanni, a regular at the Grand Hotel.
As these cafes fight to survive, they remain a testament to Hyderabad’s rich cultural history, continuing to serve up a taste of the past in every cup.
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