Tibetans in Diaspora EP 108 / interview 200 | Karma | Stories of Tibetans

A Son's Devotion: The Story Behind Kick Cafe I never wanted to know my mother's age. The thought of her growing older scares me. Every time I notice the wrinkles on her face, a wave of unease washes over me. It's hard to accept that time is catching up with her. The sacrifices she has made for me are immeasurable, and no matter what I do, I know I can never truly repay her. Recently, I had the chance to move to Canada, a dream for many. But when I asked my mother where she felt happiest, her answer was simple: "Here in India." That’s when I made a decision—I canceled my visa and stayed back. My new goal was to make her happy, to live up to her dreams instead of chasing my own. That's how Kick Cafe came to life. It’s more than just a business; it’s my way of sustaining myself while also contributing to our household financially. But running a cafe in Majnu-ka-tilla isn’t easy. There’s intense competition with numerous cafes and restaurants, many of which are large, well-established businesses. To stand out, I’ve had to go the extra mile—literally. I work late into the night, often staying until 3 AM, because I deliver orders myself when no other restaurant is open at that hour. It’s exhausting, but it’s what sets us apart. Beyond the challenges, this small business has been an incredible learning experience. I’ve met so many amazing people along the way, and one of them stands out: Chef Lekphel. He’s not just a friend; he’s like someone from another world. His cooking skills and unique mindset are something truly special. He’s cool in every sense of the word, and I’m grateful for his presence in my life. Running Kick Cafe has become more than just a way to make ends meet—it’s a testament to the love I have for my mother and the life we’ve built together here in India. Interview and edit: Kunsang Tenzing . . . . . . . . . . . . #Tibet #Majnukatilla #Exile #Tibetaninexile #Delhi #Food #Startup #Young #Enteprenuer #trend #viral #documentation #story #inspirational #oralstory