From a 30 sq ft shop below a staircase to ₹180 crore valuation: This Bengaluru native's 'Hatti Kaapi' business is famous even abroad

The small coffee shop, which started in a mere 30 sq ft space below the stairs in Bengaluru's Gandhi Bazaar, has grown into a brand recognized nationally and internationally. The business, which began by selling South Indian filter coffee for just ₹5 per cup, is attributed to entrepreneur U.S. Mahendar. The company has since expanded its presence from a small neighborhood shop to corporate offices and even airport locations.