Mumbai’s dabbawalas raise monthly service fee by ₹200 due to inflation and travel risks. Services will remain closed on July 7 for the Pandharpur Wari pilgrimage. Regular deliveries resume July 8.
Mumbai, June 30, 2025: As the cost of living continues to rise, Mumbai’s iconic dabbawalas—renowned worldwide for their punctual and reliable lunchbox delivery—have been compelled to raise their monthly service charges by ₹200 per tiffin from this month.
Speaking on the development, Ulhas Muke, President of the Mumbai Tiffin Box Suppliers Association, stated that the fee hike was necessary due to rising inflation and increased travel-related risks faced by delivery personnel across the city.
Under the new pricing structure, customers whose workplaces are within 5 kilometers of their homes will now pay ₹1,400 per month, up from the previous ₹1,200. For distances beyond 5 kilometers, the existing additional charges of ₹300–₹400 will still apply, depending on the route and logistics.
The dabbawala service, often seen as a symbol of Mumbai’s work culture, is not just a business but a daily lifeline for thousands of office-goers. While the fee hike may slightly affect household budgets, many believe it is a justified move in light of the dabbawalas’ uninterrupted and trusted service, even during difficult times.
In a separate announcement, the Mumbai Dabbawala Association has declared that services will be suspended on July 7, as workers will be participating in the annual Pandharpur Wari pilgrimage. Association President Subhash Talekar informed that dabbawalas will work full-time on July 5 before departing at night for Pandharpur. As July 6 (Ekadashi) falls on a Sunday, a public holiday, they will seek darshan of Lord Pandurang and observe Dwadashi fast-breaking on July 7, before returning to duty on July 8.
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