Prabhakar Prasad, an engineering graduate from the prestigious IIT Kharagpur, has redefined success after losing his software engineering job during the massive tech layoffs of February 2025. Instead of returning to India or hunting for another corporate desk job, Prasad decided to tap into his roots and introduce authentic Indian flavors to the streets of California. Operating under the brand “Bihari Chaiwala,” he now sells Masala Chai for $8 (approximately ₹670) and Poha for $16 (approximately ₹1,340) at various farmers’ markets in Los Angeles.
Despite the high price point by Indian standards, Americans and the local diaspora are lining up to get a taste of his “Desi” style snacks. Prasad, who spent a decade working for a prominent tech firm before being laid off, says he doesn’t regret the transition. He mentioned that while his corporate career provided financial abundance, it lacked the creative freedom and mental peace he finds in his new venture. His story has struck a chord globally, emphasizing that no work is small when backed by skill and passion.
Prasad’s journey serves as a powerful lesson in adaptability. His success proves that an education from an elite institution like an IIT provides more than just technical knowledge; it builds a mindset of perseverance and systematic execution. By turning a personal crisis into a business opportunity, he has not only secured his livelihood but also became a cultural ambassador for Indian street food in the United States. His stall has now become a popular spot, proving that the demand for authenticity transcends borders and price tags.
