Starting any business is difficult, but imagine the efforts required for first generation Canadians to successfully run a business catered to bring authentic tastes of their motherland? Ruban and Meera, partners in life and business, are doing just this with Mantra Chai.
Based in Markham, ON, Mantra Chai Co. offers packaged loose tea in various flavours ranging from the classic Masala Chai, to unique flavours like Lavendar Earl Grey and Rose Cardamom. These packages can be purchased individually or in bulk. Additionally, the business offers their signature chai cart and chai services for private and corporate events.
The couple’s dream of starting the business emerged from their many trips to India and Sri Lanka.
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“Our love and enjoyment of chai increased with every trip. One thing we realised after coming back to Toronto was that we found it difficult to recreate these experiences,” said Sairuban Senthilrajan.
As a result, they have made it a mission to upholding the cultural significance chai has in South Asian communities.
“What every version of tea/ chai has in common is not the taste but the memories that come with it, the social gatherings sitting around a table, laughing, talking, crying. We want Mantra Chai Co. to be a part of that table,” he said.
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However, despite the clear visions paired with hours of invested hard work, like any business, Meera and Ruban also face their own set of struggles.
One is finding ways to balance their business with their role as new parents. As individuals who have full-time jobs outside of the business, they are still battling with figuring out how to balance parenting with the business. However, according to them, being on the same page with similar visions have helped.
Another challenge is coffee dominating the hot drink market, posing a concern for the chai industry.
Despite these blocks in the road, the couple have big goals. They aim to one day make their products accessible nationwide, in grocery stores, and retail stores.
Ruban and Meera are taking their success mantra “Job’s not finished,” Kobe Bryant seriously.
Their hard work and persistence keeps driving their vision forward.
