In the late 1990s, “Chai Tea” began appearing on American coffee menus—an overly sweetened, syrupy imitation of the real masala chai beloved by South Asian families around the world. Kamini Mamdani, an immigrant with roots in Gujarat, India was stunned. The chai she grew up with—hand-ground spices, slow-brewed to perfection, rich in aroma and heritage—had been reduced to an artificial replica. Kamini was determined to reclaim chai. She began experimenting in her mother’s kitchen, hand-grinding cardamom, ginger, cloves, and other bold spices using her family’s cherished recipe. Soon, she was selling her handcrafted blends to those craving a real, authentic chai experience. What started as a personal mission evolved in 1997 to CHAI.COM—the first South Asian-founded online chai retailer in the United States. Today, CHAI.COM is more than a brand—it’s a way of mindful living. Their chai blends are made with organic, nutrient-dense spices, free of sugar, and sustainably sourced. For Kamini, chai is not just a beverage—it’s a ritual, a symbol of home, and a way to connect. Through CHAI.COM, she ensures that no matter what life offers you, a cup of real chai is always within reach.