Aadya Amruttulya: Pune’s 101-Year-Old Tea Stall Still Brewing Strong with Tradition and Taste

Reported by Kajal Bhukan
Pune, 2nd July 2025: In the bustling heart of Pune, tucked away in Raviwar Peth, stands Aadya Amruttulya—one of the city’s oldest surviving tea joints. With a legacy spanning more than a century, this humble tea stall recently marked its 101st anniversary on Ashadhi Ekadashi. Run by the Nartekar family for four generations, Aadya remains a symbol of Pune’s cultural continuity and timeless flavours.

From Bhang to Tea: A Historical Turn

The story began in the early 20th century when Vishwanath Pannalal Ojha migrated from Narta, Rajasthan, to Pune. He adopted the surname “Nartekar” to blend into the local Maharashtrian identity and set up a bhaang ka gota—a shop that sold bhang, a cannabis-based intoxicant. Realising the need to offer tea to customers who consumed bhang, he began serving tea alongside it. However, Ojha switched completely to operating a tea stall once the British government cancelled licenses for selling bhang. Thus, Aadya Amruttulya was born on Ashadhi Ekadashi in 1924.

Brewing Conversations in India’s Freedom Movement

In the years leading up to independence, Aadya Amruttulya became more than just a tea stall. It evolved into a meeting ground for freedom fighters who would gather to discuss national affairs over steaming cups of tea. According to the current owners, the shop even served India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, its signature brew.

The Aadya Taste: Tea that Transcends Time

Amruttulya, which roughly translates to “like nectar,” and Aadya, which means “the first,” perfectly capture the essence of the store’s signature tea. The tea is made using the same traditional method for over a century: water, tea powder, and sugar are boiled together; milk is added later, followed by a dash of cardamom to elevate the aroma and flavour. Each batch is freshly brewed in small quantities—no more than 15 to 20 cups at a time—to preserve its flavour and freshness.
Today, the shop sells over 2,000 cups daily and still uses golden tea dust sourced directly from Kerala. “We make several trips to Kerala every year to ensure we get the right quality tea leaves and spices for our secret masala recipe,” says fourth-generation owner, Vijay Nartekar.

Old Menu, Loyal Customers

The original has retained its original menu from 1920s and 1930s which is still available at Aadya. Black tea, special tea, sadha (normal) tea, black coffee, and sadha coffee are all included. “In 1924, our tea was priced at one anna. Today, our sadha tea costs Rs 15, and the special masala tea is priced at Rs 25,” Vijay adds.
While the shop once offered popular snacks like misal pav, wada pav, poha, and even sweets like rasgulla and pedhe, these items have since been discontinued. “My great-grandfather introduced food after the tea shop became popular. But now, we focus solely on tea and coffee,” he explains.

A Modern Twist with Deep Roots

While Aadya still maintains its old-world charm, the Nartekar family has embraced modernity. In the pre-COVID era, Aadya became one of the first tea stalls in Pune to offer online delivery through apps like Zomato, Food Panda, and Swiggy. Orders would mainly come from nearby areas such as Bhandarkar Road, Shivaji Nagar, East Street, and Kasba Peth. “Our packaging kept tea warm for about 20 minutes, so we delivered within a 3–5 km radius,” says Vijay Nartekar.
However, the online service was suspended post-COVID. Currently, Aadya only serves customers at the shop. The family now plans to launch a packaged masala tea under the Aadya Amruttulya brand.

Loved by Locals and Newcomers Alike

The shop’s popularity cuts across generations. “It’s my first time here,” said a first-time visitor. “I noticed the board mentioning it was established in 1924 and got curious. The tea didn’t disappoint—it truly tastes special.”
An older patron echoed this sentiment. “I come here every day. The unique taste of the tea has stayed consistent over the years. It still tastes exactly like it did when I first started coming here.”

Address and Hours

Aadya Amruttulya 523, Raviwar Peth Rd, Kapad Ganj, Bodke Wada, Ganesh Peth, Pune, Maharashtra 411002 Open Tuesday to Sunday: 8 AM to 10 PM

As Aadya Amruttulya enters its 102nd year, it stands as a proud example of how tradition, taste, and a strong family legacy can stand the test of time in a fast-changing world. With its rich history and time-tested recipes, Aadya remains a place where Pune’s past and present converge—over a perfect cup of tea.