Mumbai’s dabbawalas face decline after over a century of service

A group of dabbawalas in traditional attire carries stacked lunchboxes through a bustling Mumbai street, highlighting the challenges they face as demand for their services declines.

The dabbawala system, which employs around 5,000 workers, has faced numerous challenges, including increased competition from food delivery apps and changing eating habits among the younger population. In 2020, the dabbawalas saw their business drop by over 80%, and while some have adapted by diversifying their services, the overall numbers remain low. This shift highlights … Read more