An IIT graduate who lost his tech job in the United States has found a new sense of purpose by selling chai in Los Angeles.
His venture quickly attracted attention on social media, where he became known as the “Chaiguy” or “Bihari Chaiwala of LA.” The traditional tea, often served with a gamcha-style look and Indian flair, became popular among locals and visitors alike.
Prabhakar Prasad, originally from Barh in Bihar, moved to the US for higher studies and later worked in corporate tech roles. However, after being affected by layoffs in February 2025, he decided to try something different and started selling Indian-style chai for $8 in Los Angeles.
Prasad’s journey has been far from easy. Growing up in a financially struggling family in Bihar, he studied hard, cleared the IIT screening exam, and eventually moved abroad for opportunities. Despite years in corporate jobs, he says he never felt truly happy in the tech world.
Today, even though he earns less than before, he says the freedom and satisfaction of building something on his own make it worthwhile.
“Earlier I had more money but less happiness. Now I have little money, but I feel free and settled,” he said.
