It all began with a conversation between college roommates – both hailing from India – who shared a nostalgia for the aromatic, spicy cuisine of their homeland. Bojangles captured their hearts with its mouthwatering fried chicken infused with a touch of heat and signature Dirty Rice. The dream of owning a place like Bojangles seemed far-fetched, but Ash was undeterred. In 2004, Ash Dinakaran opened his first Bojangles restaurant, setting in motion a trajectory that would lead to where we are today. Based in Elon, N.C., Ash now leads all of our locations and has an unwavering desire to expand his culinary realm even further.

But for Ash, business is more than profit; it’s about creating a family. His children, Rajiv and Lela, share his passion and are integral parts of his journey. Together, they oversee operations in Georgia, ensuring that the legacy of dedication and care continues.

Ash’s commitment to fostering a nurturing work environment shines through his remarkable employee retention rates. With some team members standing by his side for over 18 years, he understands that true success isn’t just about the four walls of a restaurant, but the people who bring it to life. His wisdom echoes through his words: “Customers can tell when you have a seasoned employee. The people piece is a big part of the success we’ve had.” With years of experience under his belt, Ash Dinakaran turned his dreams into achievements. He revels in the journey, relishing each new day as an opportunity to learn and grow.

Ash’s story is a celebration of passion, family, and flavor – a testament that, with dedication and heart, dreams can indeed be transformed into reality.