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From Stall to Star: Hyderabad's Cafe Niloufer Story
17 Aug
Summary
- Babu Rao transformed a small tea stall into a Hyderabad icon.
- Cafe Niloufer is famous for its Irani chai and Osmania biscuits.
- The cafe's name is linked to Ottoman royalty and Princess Niloufer.
Anumula Babu Rao's inspiring journey began in 1975 when he arrived in Hyderabad with a dream and little else. He started by working in various establishments, eventually taking charge of a small tea stall opposite Niloufer Hospital in 1976. By 1978, Rao had founded Cafe Niloufer, which he fully acquired in 1993.
Initially focusing on Irani chai and Osmania biscuits, the cafe's popularity soared. One outlet reportedly sold 20,000 cups of chai daily by 1993. The name 'Niloufer' itself carries historical significance, linked to Princess Niloufer Khanum Sultan of the Ottoman Empire.
Today, Cafe Niloufer is a significant Hyderabad landmark, with its main outlet spanning 40,000 square feet and accommodating over 700 customers. The cafe operates nine outlets across the city, maintaining its reputation for quality tea, biscuits, and Maska Bun.
