Dr. Shahzad Ibrahimi’s Maamu Dhaba has captivated patrons with tea and Urdu poetry for about two decades.
Mohammad Alamullah | Clarion India
NEW DELHI — In the bustling corridors of Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) in Delhi, a distinctive aroma of tea mingles with the resonant verses of Urdu poetry. This unique sensory experience is courtesy of Maamu Dhaba, a cherished and venerated institution on the campus, nurtured by the academic prowess and entrepreneurial spirit of its owner, Dr. Shahzad Ibrahimi.
Hailing from Bihar and armed with a PhD in Urdu language, Dr. Shahzad’s journey from academia to entrepreneurship is as fascinating as it is inspiring. Twenty years ago, fresh after completing his doctoral thesis, Dr. Shahzad made a pivotal decision to establish Maamu Dhaba within the precincts of his alma mater. Adjacent to the university library, the dhaba swiftly became a sanctuary for students and professors alike, offering not just tea but also a refuge for scholarly discussions and intellectual pursuits late into the night.
Dr. Shahzad reflected on his unconventional career trajectory: “After obtaining my PhD, I briefly explored opportunities outside academia, including a stint at a TV station. However, I soon realised that my true calling lay elsewhere.” With the unwavering support of his wife, Dr. Shahzad embarked on the journey of dhaba ownership, a decision that would shape the cultural landscape of JNU for years to come.
Maamu Dhaba, christened after their shared vision and dedication, stands out amidst the plethora of dhabas in JNU not only for its aromatic tea but also for its unique blend of academia and culture. Dr. Shahzad’s commitment to his craft surpasses even his dedication to his doctoral thesis, as he divulges, “Running this dhaba demands more time and effort than my PhD ever did.”
Beyond serving tea, Maamu Dhaba serves as a platform for fostering a love for the Urdu language and poetry. Dr. Shahzad, with his profound affection for Urdu literature, regales patrons with verses from renowned poets such as Ghalib, Mir, and Momin. “I consider it my duty to share the beauty of Urdu poetry with all who visit, regardless of their familiarity with the language,” he asserts, underscoring his dedication to preserving and promoting Urdu culture.