NEW DELHI: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi walked into a Keventers outlet and became a barista for a day, creating cold brew coffee with his bare hands. What began as a casual visit quickly morphed into an exploration of business, entrepreneurship and legacy.
The tour began with the store staff offering to demonstrate how cold brew coffee is made. However, Rahul Gandhi had other plans. “No, I will,” she replied confidently, assuming the role of coffee maker.
In a video shared later, he is seen adding milk and ice cream, operating the mixer and pouring the drink into Keventers’ signature bottle.
The Congress leader did not just limit himself to making coffee. He networked with the young founders of Keventers and spoke about their journey to revitalize a legacy brand for a modern audience. Sharing the experience on social media, he praised companies like Keventers for their contribution to India’s economic growth.
“Fair play companies like Keventers have fueled our economic growth for generations. We must do more to support them,” wrote Rahul Gandhi.
Addressing the challenges faced by entrepreneurs, Rahul said, “I walked from Kanyakumari to Kashmir, asking little boys what they wanted to do. Most of them aspired to be engineers, doctors, lawyers or soldiers. But none said they wanted to be an entrepreneur.” , attributed this to systemic barriers, highlighting the lack of encouragement for entrepreneurship. “For someone like you, who wants to do something of your own, it is very difficult to get financing. Many talented people simply do not have money,” he said, addressing one of the founders of the Keventers.
When asked if he was considering investing, Rahul said: “No, I am looking at Keventers, trying to make an investment decision.”
Rahul Gandhi’s visit to Keventers not only showcased his approachable personality but also underlined his interest in fostering entrepreneurship. The episode served as a poignant reminder of the importance of nurturing small businesses and creating an ecosystem that supports aspiring entrepreneurs.
The visit also had its happiest moments. Rahul interacted with people living near the shop and even had a brief exchange with an elderly woman who lived in the same building. She invited him to visit her house and although he assured her he would “come for two minutes”, a comical twist occurred when she realized he didn’t have her key.
“How will this open then?” she is heard asking in the video, with Rahul by her side. “No problem, I will come next time,” Rahul said.