Have you heard of the silent group operating in Mumbai? Known as the Dabbawalas, they ensure that thousands receive their homemade lunches every single day.
In Mumbai, a ‘dabba’ is the stainless steel tiffin boxes, about 15cm in diameter and 30cm high. The people who collect, organize, and transport these dabbas between homes and offices are known as the Dabbawalas.
Mahadeo Bhavaji Bachche was recognised as the first dabbawala to start the delivery service for a British man upon request, around 130 years ago. This quickly transformed into a network of 5,000 people. Remarkably, the workers are semi-literate, so the system relies heavily on codes and colours.
The journey can be complex, with a single dabba encountering up to eight dabbawalas before reaching its destination. However, the Dabbawalas almost never fail to deliver the right dabba, having an error rate of less than 1 in a million, making them a model for logistics companies all over the world.
In essence, their inspiring story serves as a testament to efficiency, sustainability, and selflessness. An example to showcase how small acts, executed with precision and dedication, can make a monumental impact. Their story not only resonates with the people of Mumbai, but all over the world.