From Rs 15K to Rs 1.8 Cr: How Dahibara Express is Taking Indian Street Food Global
From Rs 15K to Rs 1.8 Cr: How Dahibara Express is Taking Indian Street Food Global
Started in Odisha, Sourabh Khandelwal’s venture is now a nostalgic, flavour-packed franchise success story
What began as a humble dream with just Rs 15,000 and a love for Dahibara, has blossomed into a Rs 1.8 crore food franchise, taking the soul of Indian street food across the country and soon, around the world. Spearheaded by young entrepreneur Sourabh Khandelwal, Dahibara Express has turned the local charm of Odisha’s beloved dish into a modern culinary movement rooted in tradition, hygiene, and heartfelt storytelling.
A Journey That Began with Nostalgia
Founded in 2023, Dahibara Express wasn’t just about food, it was about memories. Sourabh, driven by the emotional connection Indians share with their local foods, envisioned a brand that could make Dahibara and other regional delicacies accessible, affordable, and authentic. His franchise model allowed the brand to grow rapidly, with 12 outlets already operating across India, and Nepal set to host the first international outlet.
More Than Just Dahibara
While Dahibara is the showstopper, the menu spans 35 traditional dishes, from Kanji Vada and Dal Pakwan to Kozhu Kattai, Sambar Vada, and drinks like filter coffee, kaccha aampaani, and khawa tea. Each recipe is carefully curated to maintain the integrity of its original flavour, using time-tested methods alongside hygienic, modern cooking practices.
Street Food, Reimagined with Hygiene and Heart
Sourabh understood that one of the major concerns with street food is sanitation. From day one, high hygiene standards were made non-negotiable, so customers could enjoy their favorite flavors without compromising on safety. The outlets are also visually inviting, designed in a vibrant orange theme that sparks warmth and nostalgia.
Rapid Growth and Global Aspirations
With an investment of just Rs 3 lakhs, entrepreneurs can become part of the Dahibara Express family through its franchise model. The brand is closing the current month at Rs 1.8 crore in revenue, and the momentum is only growing. Dubai is already on the radar, with several global locations expected to follow.
More Than a Food Outlet: A Space for Stories
For Sourabh, the food business is deeply personal. Every dish on the menu is a story of a place, a people, and a memory. Through Dahibara Express, he’s not just serving food, he’s serving emotion, creating spaces where customers can relive the flavours of home no matter where they are.
As the world warms up to Indian street food, Dahibara Express is positioned to lead the way, not just with delicious offerings, but with a mission to connect hearts through heritage. Sourabh Khandelwal’s story is a powerful reminder: sometimes, all it takes is one dish, one idea, and the will to stay rooted in tradition to create something truly global.
