Delhi High Court welcomes neurodivergent run cafe

Starting next week, the Delhi High Court will see the opening of Sagar Express, a cafe run entirely by neurodivergent individuals. 

Aimed at creating meaningful employment opportunities centred around a strengths-based approach to neurodivergence, the cafe is set to break down societal barriers and stigma that persist in society about the capabilities of neurodivergent individuals. 

The initiative is spearheaded by Senior Advocate Ravi Gupta, chairman of the Shaurya Foundation Trust (SFT), who has a deeply personal connection to the cause.

“The main motive of opening this cafe is to empower such persons financially,” Gupta shared in this Indian Express article, emphasising the importance of financial independence for neurodivergent individuals. 

Upon its opening, Sagar Express will be staffed by six neurodivergent individuals including those who are autistic. 

From managing the counter and handling sales to serving South Indian cuisine, these employees will be at the heart of the cafe's operations. 

The cafe, a collaborative effort with the well-known restaurant chain Sagar Ratna, is the culmination of two years of intensive staff training.

“The majority of persons that will run the cafe will be those with neurodiversity… they’ll be given managerial positions,” Gupta said. 

The decision to have neurodivergent individuals in leadership roles ensures that the staff not only gain employment but also take on significant responsibilities in the organisation, showcasing their skills and competencies in a real-world setting. 

It goes to show that neurodivergent individuals are competent leaders.

Gupta's journey into supporting neurodivergent adults began in 2002 when he and his wife Rani adopted a boy named Shaurya. 

Diagnosed autistic before his second birthday, Shaurya became the inspiration for the couple's dedication to this cause. Since 2011, SFT has been actively working to support and train neurodivergent adults.

The opening of Sagar Express is another decisive step towards inclusive employment. Not only will it demonstrate that neurodivergent individuals can excel in diverse roles, it'll also serve as a model for other organisations to follow.

Some other restaurants & cafes run by disabled and neurodivergent people in India include:

• Cafe Arpan by Yash Charitable Trust

  
  

• Soho House Mumbai

• The Chocolate Room

• Mitti Cafe

• Aditi's Corner

• KFC India

• Mirchi & Mime

• Madeira & Mime