In the five years since Meenakshi and Shivani opened the doors of Thhikana, the café has grown into much more than just a business. It has become a warm and welcoming sanctuary for people of all ages. True to its name, which means “abode” or “a place to stay,” Thhikana was created with a vision of inclusivity, a space where people from different generations can come together over a shared love for chai and conversation.
From the very beginning, the founders chose not to follow the fast-paced “hustle culture” common in modern cafés. Instead, they designed Thhikana as a community living room. Here, students preparing for exams sit beside retirees reading newspapers, while young children enjoy a special corner created just for them. At the heart of this inviting space is the café’s signature chai, brewed slowly with care and traditional spices, evoking a comforting sense of home for its patrons.
Behind the warmth and charm of the café lies a journey filled with challenges. As married women with young children, Meenakshi and Shivani faced immense pressure during the initial years. The first two years were particularly demanding as they balanced family responsibilities with the intense demands of running a new business. Managing school schedules, childcare, and household duties alongside long working hours tested their physical and emotional endurance.
The struggle was made even harder by a severe shortage of staff in the early days. On many afternoons, the two founders found themselves handling everything from preparing chai and serving customers to cleaning and managing operations. Despite the exhaustion and moments of self-doubt, they remained determined. With unwavering support from their families and a strong belief in their vision, they refused to give up.
Today, as Thhikana approaches its fifth year of operation, the café stands as a testament to perseverance and purpose. With a stable team and a loyal community of patrons, Meenakshi and Shivani have shown that a business can be both professionally successful and deeply personal. In a world that often feels rushed and disconnected, Thhikana continues to offer a simple yet powerful message that there is always a place to belong, and a warm cup of chai waiting for everyone.