Chaitanya – Assal Malvani Bhojangruh, founded by Surekha and Nitin Walke in 1992 in Malvan, Maharashtra, began as a small eatery driven by necessity and love for cooking. Initially serving three types of thalis, the restaurant gained popularity during a teachers' seminar in 1993 when Surekha, then nine months pregnant, cooked for hundreds of guests. This pivotal moment marked the start of Malvan's tourism boom. In 2010, Surekha expanded to Mumbai, where she faced challenges replicating the authentic taste of her dishes. By sourcing water from Malvan and adjusting her cooking methods, she successfully brought the flavors of her hometown to the city. Significant decisions, such as listing on Zomato in 2014 and hiring an accountant, transformed the business, leading to increased visibility and streamlined operations. Today, Chaitanya serves approximately 1,200 thalis daily across multiple locations, including a new restaurant in Thane. Surekha's commitment to her community is evident in her support for local vendors and her initiatives to empower women in the culinary space. With a focus on employee welfare, Chaitanya stands as a testament to hard work and community spirit.