Dolly Chaiwala, the Nagpur-based tea seller who shot to internet fame after serving tea to Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates in Hyderabad, has quickly become a sought-after figure for social gatherings and events. His quirky antics, unique tea-making style, and charismatic presence have not only made him a popular choice for talk shows and public appearances but have also garnered him a massive following on social media – boasting 4.2 million followers on Instagram.
However, his newfound fame comes with a price tag. A food blogger, AK Food Vlog, recently shared his experience attempting to invite Dolly Chaiwala to Kuwait for an event. The blogger expressed surprise at the demands made by Dolly Chaiwala’s manager, revealing the costs associated with securing his presence.
“I wanted to invite Dolly Chaiwala to Kuwait, but the guy has so many demands, and I started just questioning my whole existence,” the food blogger shared on Instagram. He revealed that the manager quoted a fee of 2,000 Dinars, which equates to approximately 5 lakh rupees (roughly $6,200 USD). The demands didn’t stop there; the manager also requested a 4-5 star hotel booking for Dolly Chaiwala and an accompanying person. The blogger’s video, detailing his experience, has since garnered over 18.7 million views.
The video sparked a lively debate on social media. Some netizens criticized the blogger for his reaction to the demands, while others defended Dolly Chaiwala’s right to ask for what he believes he deserves. Some argued that a 4-5 star hotel stay is standard courtesy when inviting someone from another country, while others defended the fees, comparing them to the charges of other influencers with a similar following.
The incident highlights the complex relationship between social media fame and financial compensation. As Dolly Chaiwala’s star continues to rise, it remains to be seen how he will navigate the balance between his humble origins and his newly acquired celebrity status.