Chandrika Dixit: The Vada Pao Queen of Delhi

In the bustling streets of Delhi, amidst the cacophony of horns and the rush of people, Chandrika Dixit stands out as a beacon of resilience and determination. Known for selling some of the best vada pao in the city, her story is one of struggle, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Chandrika, originally hailing from a small town, faced adversity from a young age. Losing both her parents early on, she found herself alone in the world, grappling with fear and uncertainty. Unable to trust anyone, she kept her emotions bottled up inside, silently battling her demons.

Her journey to Delhi was not by choice but by necessity. With little money to her name, she struggled to make ends meet, often relying on langars for her meals. The city, with its fast pace and overwhelming crowds, was a stark contrast to the quiet life she had known. She despised Delhi, longing for the comfort and familiarity of her hometown.

Despite the challenges, Chandrika found solace in her work. For four years, she worked at Haldiram’s as a host, where she honed her skills and learned the art of customer service. However, her life took a turn when her son fell ill with dengue at just one year old.

Doctors advised her to either quit her job to take care of her child or continue working and risk his health. Faced with this dilemma, Chandrika had only one goal in mind – to earn enough money to provide the best possible care for her son. She watched him struggle, his immunity weakening as he stayed in a crutch, but she never lost hope.

Her faith in the divine and the unwavering support of her husband, Yash Gera, kept her going. Yash, known for his culinary skills, often made pasta for their family, adding a touch of love to their meals. Chandrika’s belief in self-reliance and determination to not be dependent on anyone drove her forward.

With her sights set on a brighter future, Chandrika began selling vada pao on the streets of Delhi. Starting with just two pav, she soon realized the importance of quality and customization. She introduced customized bread, ensuring that each customer received a delicious and satisfying meal.

Today, Chandrika’s vada pao stall near Keshav Mahavidyalaya in Pitampura is a testament to her hard work and perseverance. Despite the long waits, customers flock to her stall, eager to taste the flavors of her labor and love.

Chandrika’s journey is far from over. Her dream is to one day open a five-star hotel or a dhaba, where she can continue to serve her customers with the same passion and dedication. Her story is a reminder that no matter how tough life gets, with determination and belief in oneself, anything is possible.

So, the next time you find yourself craving vada pao, make your way to Chandrika’s stall. The wait may be long, but the taste is truly worth it.