The Chai Room: A Journey through Culture, Connection, and Spice
My name is Fatema Khanbhai, and I am the creator and owner of The Chai Room, founded here in Sydney over ten years ago.
But my story began long before The Chai Room came to life, shaped by the rich tapestry of my heritage, experiences, and the deep love I hold for chai.
A heritage steeped in spice and tradition
I was born in London to East African parents with Indian heritage.
My roots trace back to Zanzibar, a place known for its vibrant spice trade and cultural fusion. Growing up in London, food was the heartbeat of our household, keeping our traditions alive in a foreign land. Among those traditions, chai was more than just a drink; it was a symbol of hospitality, togetherness, and warmth.
In Indian culture, offering chai is a gesture of welcome. In our home, we had what we lovingly called ‘The Chai Room’—a space that was always full of family, friends, and laughter.
More people than the room could hold would gather, perching on armrests, squeezing onto sofas, and even settling on the floor. The air would be filled with the comforting aroma of hot spiced chai, mingling with the scent of Indian savouries and sweets.
Our 'Chai Room' was a place of belonging, where stories were shared, and connections were deepened over steaming cups of masala chai.
Sunday mornings and chai rituals
One of my fondest memories is our Sunday morning chai ritual.
Every week, my family would sit together on the floor, watching the only Indian program aired on television at the time. We would quietly enjoy our breakfast, eating with our hands, and sipping on the masala chai my mother lovingly prepared. It was a moment of stillness, of unity, a time that grounded us and kept us connected to our culture.
As we grew older, chai time remained a staple of our Sundays, bringing us back together despite our busy lives. No matter how much the world changed around us, that tradition remained, proof of how something as simple as a cup of chai could hold so much meaning.
A love story that led me to Australia
Life took an unexpected but beautiful turn when love brought me to Australia. My husband and I first settled in Lismore, where I was introduced to the breathtaking hinterland.
The lush landscapes reminded me of the spice farms of Zanzibar, intertwining yet another cultural thread into my story. While Australia became home, I found myself yearning for a deep connection to my roots, my family, and my culture. I was a mother of two young children, far from everything familiar, and that longing for home became stronger with each passing day.
During tearful phone calls with my mother, she would always ask, “Chai pidi?” which means “Have you had your chai?” It was her way of nurturing me from afar, knowing that a cup of chai would bring me comfort and reconnect me with my sense of self.
And she was right.
From comfort to calling
In those moments of longing, I found solace in making chai.
I started with my family’s traditional recipe, roasting, grinding, and blending the spices with care. Each sip transported me back home, reminding me of who I was and where I came from. What began as a personal ritual soon evolved into something greater. I realised that chai wasn’t just about the drink; it was about the stories, the traditions, and the connections it fostered.
I wanted to share it with others. And so The Chai Room was born.
The Chai Room: A celebration of culture through spice
The Chai Room is more than just a brand — it’s a bridge between cultures, a space where people can learn about tolerance and diversity through the language of spice.
Each blend I create tells a story, tracing a journey that spans from India to Zanzibar, to London, and now to Australia.
Chai teaches us that every element—each spice, each tea leaf—has a role to play. Just like in life, balance is key. The harmony of flavours mirrors the beauty of diversity, reminding us that our differences are what make us stronger together.
Every time I enjoy a cup of chai, I feel like a child of the world—connected, enriched, and deeply rooted in my heritage.
Bringing chai into your life
Whether you’re sipping chai alone in a moment of quiet reflection or sharing it with loved ones in laughter-filled conversations, know that you are part of a tradition that spans generations and continents.
The Chai Room exists to bring those moments to life, to create meaningful connections, and to remind you that home is never too far away—it’s in the warmth of every cup.
So, I ask you, chai pidi? Have you had your chai today? Because with every sip, you are embracing a culture, a history, and a story waiting to be shared.
Love
Fatema xx