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Immersive experiences new coffee add-ons at cafes

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Coffee consumption in India has increased to 91,000 tonne in 2023 from 84,000 tonne in 2012, where instant coffee has emerged a top favourite, as per a 2023 study by the Coffee Board of India and CRISIL.

Immersive experiences new coffee add-ons at cafes

For coffee drinkers, it’s not just about enjoying a saffron pistachio latte anymore, but also being part of the journey of the coffee bean from farm to cup.

From organising coffee tours to sampling sessions of ‘make your own brew’ while offering innovation in products, new-age coffee brands like Roastea, Blue Tokai, Barista and others are crafting experiences to make coffee a ‘cool’ drink.

“With increasing affinity for high-quality coffee, consumers are actively seeking out-of-home coffee experiences,” said Shivam Shahi, co-founder & COO, Blue Tokai, an Indian specialty coffee roaster & café chain, which opened its 100th store this year.

Blue Tokai recently collaborated with Royal Enfield for an immersive three-day road trip in the Eastern Ghats with 12 explorers and coffee enthusiasts, picking varieties of coffee plants for brewing sessions.

“Coffee brewing is now an immersive experience,” said DM Purnesh, president of Speciality Coffee Association of India (SCAI), who is spearheading the India International Coffee Festival (IICF) in India, an ongoing event with participation of over 150 brewers, growers, roasters, exporters, traders, cafe chain owners, retailers and coffee connoisseurs from all over India.

“Much like other tea-drinking nations such as China, Japan, and the UK, India is seeing a shift towards coffee, particularly among the youth. The increasing number of cafés, not only in big cities but also in smaller towns reflects this growing trend. While tea-focused chains remain limited to low-price segments, the coffee scene is rapidly evolving with premium and unique experiences,” said Purnesh.

Coffee consumption in India has increased to 91,000 tonne in 2023 from 84,000 tonne in 2012, where instant coffee has emerged a top favourite, as per a 2023 study by the Coffee Board of India and CRISIL.

Also, the India coffee market is expected to reach $1,227.47 million by 2032 at a CAGR of 9.87%, as per Custom Market Insights. This is driven by increasing demand for specialty coffee (over 70% growth) and sustainable practices (60% preference among consumers), Kaapi Machines, an integrated beverage equipment company offering catering support to café chains including McDonald’s, Tata Starbucks, WeWork, ITC Hotels, and Taj Group, offer bean-to-cup tours, and customised roasting sessions for coffee connoisseurs.

“Consumer demand is ever-evolving but we see a new trend around milk-based beverages like Cortado and Macchiato, as well as drinks like infused cold brews and Nitro coffee,” said Abhinav Mathur, CEO & MD, Kaapi Machines.

Retailers are also supportive of selling coffee in unique ways and adapting to changing consumer preferences by offering alternatives such as oat and almond milk, catering to vegan and lactose-intolerant customers, shared Purnesh. “Cafés enhance the coffee experience with artistic presentations, like latte art and premium cutlery, adding an exciting dimension to the  experience. This approach sets coffee apart from traditional tea offerings and aligns with modern consumer trends,” he added.

At the recently launched Tata Starbucks store in Delhi, coffee drinking combines local culture embedded in design and food offerings. From Punjabi floral motifs to connect the global coffee brand with Indian consumers, the store has cinnamon jaggery latte with organic jaggery sourced from Maharashtra; and cocoa birds eye chilli latte inspired from Meghalaya.

The demand for experience more than the product is led by the younger generation. Rajat Agrawal, CEO, Barista Coffee Company, which hosts exclusive tasting events and  workshops on brewing techniques, latte art, and tasting sessions, said: “The millennial and Gen Z segment want innovation in everything. These sessions help consumers to be among the first to experience new blends, single-origin specials, or seasonal beverages like tiramisu iced latte. Our recent launch of dessert-based beverages like coffee bubble tea and affogatos, plant-based lattes and detox drinks, along with desserts cater to the  growing desire for a luxurious experience,” added Agrawal.

Omnichannel beverage company Roastea that started in 2019, today serves nearly 60 million cups of coffee per year. Their focus is on product innovation and expansion strategy, tapping into tier-2 and tier-3 cities, where the brand sees a rising interest in premium coffee. “We have tried to elevate the experience beyond drinking by organising barista competitions, different brewing methods like pour-over or filter method and sampling by consumers. Consumer demand is steadily increasing for specialty coffees, sustainable products, and personalised experiences, so we plan to expand our offerings to national highways, speed corridors, and markets like the Middle East in the future,” said Chaitanya Bhamidipaty, co-founder of Roastea.

New product offerings are also a value addition to the coffee experience. For instance, Canadian coffee house Tim Hortons introduced Aerocano, an espresso-based beverage infused with microfoam. “This new introduction to our menu aligns with the growing demand for diverse coffee experiences in India,” said Tarun Jain, CEO, Tim Hortons India.

93 Degrees Coffee Roasters offers  products like easy pour-over packs and cold brew bags. The brand also hosts sessions on coffee brewing workshops, latte art and sensory workshops like practice intensities, aroma descriptors, flavour characteristics.

“Earlier, Indians mainly enjoyed instant coffee, and later, South Indian filter coffee became popular. Taking this a step further, we plan to launch ready-to-drink cold coffee cans and cold brew cans to enjoy specialty coffee on the go,” added Mishthi Aggarwal, CEO, 93 Degrees Coffee Roasters.

Roastery Coffee House, established in 2017 as a specialty coffee roaster, with presence in Hyderabad, Kolkata, Noida, Lucknow, Delhi, and Jaipur, recently sold over 100,000 cups of cranberry coffee in six months. The crimson drink is a playful variation of coffee.

source: http://www.financialexpress.com / FE Leisure, Financial Express / Home> Business News> Life> Lifestyle / by Vaishal Dar / November 10th, 2024

Veterans of 1971 Indo-Pak War to visit Mysuru, Kodagu

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Mysuru:

A group of about 80 veterans from the Indian Armed Forces, including personnel from the Army, Navy and Air Force, will be visiting Mysuru from Nov.  12 to 15, accompanied by their spouses.

The Army Officers in this group were commissioned just 20 days before the Indo-Pak War of 1971 and played a crucial role as some of the youngest officers sent into battle during the conflict.

During their visit, the veterans will explore several historic sites in Mysuru and Srirangapatna. A key highlight of the trip will be an interaction with Mysuru-Kodagu MP Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar.

This will offer the veterans a unique opportunity to engage with the region’s cultural and political heritage. After their stay in Mysuru, many veterans will extend their trip with an additional three-day visit to Kodagu.

While in the district, they will tour a coffee estate near Suntikoppa and also meet Air Marshal (Retd.) Nanda Cariappa, among other scheduled programmes.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / November 08th, 2024

Capt. Chowta seeks coffee board’s support for arecanut growers of Dakshina Kannada to grow coffee

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Brijesh Chowta

Mangaluru:

Capt. Brijesh Chowta, Dakshina Kannada MP, has appealed to Union Minister for Commerce and Industries Piyush Goyal to instruct the Coffee Board of India to extend its support and facilities to farmers of Dakshina Kannada to cultivate coffee.

In his October 25 letter, a copy of which was released to the media on Thursday, Capt. Chowta said that arecanut growers in the district are facing challenges owing to declining yield.

“…Arecanut, a vital commercial crop, has been severely impacted by extreme weather conditions, diseases, and pests leading to significant yield loss. To mitigate these risks and diversify their agricultural practices, many farmers in Dakshina Kannada are keen to explore coffee cultivation, given its suitability to the climate of the district…”

He said despite the potential benefits of coffee cultivation, the district lacked the facilities and support provided by the board and the Central Coffee Research Institute, which are readily available to farmers in the neighboring districts (like Chikkamagaluru and Kodagu).

Capt. Chowta said that the board could play a crucial role in promoting coffee cultivation in Dakshina Kannada through training programmes, technical assistance, and market access initiatives. Given the proximity of Dakshina Kannada to traditional coffee growing districts, it is feasible for the board to extend its support and services to the farmers of Dakshina Kannada.

The MP said that while traditional coffee growing regions and neighbouring districts like Chikkamagaluru and Kodagu already benefit from the facilities and support provided by the board, Dakshina Kannada remained underserved, despite being geographically close to the traditional coffee growing districts.

“…I urge you to take steps to ensure that the farmers of Dakshina Kannada have access to the same level of support and resources as their counterparts in neighbouring regions…”

Meanwhile, Capt. Chowta said in his release on Thursday that farmers in Sullia, Puttur, and Belthangady taluks should be encouraged and supported to explore coffee cultivation.

The MP said that he will pursue the matter further during the coming winter session and try to meet officials concerned, the Board chairman, and the Union Minister too at the earliest.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> Cities> Mangaluru / by The Hindu Bureau / November 08th, 2024

Of homes housed in a heritage museum

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Mookonda Kushalappa details the rich symbolism of the Kodava house, a replica dedicated to the homes and traditions of Kodagu

A view of the Kodava house; a window at the entrance of the house. Photos by author

On the way to Mahabalipuram from Chennai, lies a dedication to the heritage of south Indian architecture. This includes three traditional houses from Karnataka. 

8th edition of Barefoot Marathon on Sunday-Dec. 8

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Kodagu:

The 8th edition of Barefoot Marathon will be held on Dec. 8 (Sunday).

The event, which is a fund-raiser for The Coorg Wellness Foundation, set up for the wellness of people, wildlife and ecology of Kodagu, will be flagged from Tata Coffee Sports Grounds at Pollibetta, at 6 am.

Bib distribution will be done Dec. 7 between 11 am to 1 pm. 

To volunteer, contact Varun on Mob: 96868-55539 and for accommodation, call Ricky Monappa on Mob: 96323-38111.

For registration, interested may log on to https://youtoocanrun.com/races/the-barefoot-marathon-8th-december-2024/

The Marathon will be held in five categories — Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K Run, 5K Run and 1.5K Run.

The registration fee for all categories is Rs. 1,000 which includes brunch and T-shirt.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News (headline edited) / November 04th, 2024

From Shade-Grown to Sun-Dried: India’s Unique Coffee Practices

Barista Championship (wef. July 28th, 2022), Coffee News

From Shade-Grown to Sun-Dried: India’s Unique Coffee Practices. (Photo: By Arrangement)

With India’s coffee exports on the rise, D.M. Purnesh, a 4th-generation coffee planter and SCAI President, discusses the industry’s transformation, challenges, and opportunities. He also previews the Indian International Coffee Festival (IICF) 2024.

As a 4th-generation coffee planter from Chikmagalur, what do you believe are the key factors contributing to India’s growing significance in the global coffee industry, and how will IICF 2024 showcase this growth?

As a fourth-generation coffee grower from Chikmagalur, I’ve seen India’s coffee sector transform. Early on, the only way to sell coffee was through the Coffee Board, which meant surrendering the entire crop and losing its unique identity. That changed in the 1990s when Indian coffee began gaining global recognition for its quality. Today, our beans are acknowledged for their high standards, commanding premiums over those from other nations. The 2023 World Coffee Conference in Bengaluru, attended by over 20,000 visitors from 80 countries, underscored this recognition. IICF 2024 aims to build on this success by connecting India’s coffee industry with the global community. As President of the Specialty Coffee Association of India (SCAI), we are committed to hosting IICF for the next decade.

With your extensive experience in coffee cultivation and export, what innovations or trends do you see shaping the future of Indian coffee, and how will these be highlighted at IICF 2024?

Major challenges like climate change and rising labor costs are pushing Indian coffee growers to innovate. While mechanisation can help reduce labor needs, India’s terrain presents difficulties in implementing these systems on a large scale. The IICF plays an important role in bridging this gap by enabling producers to connect directly with the market, giving roasters and traders (B2B) a firsthand look at the quality of Indian coffee. IICF also introduces premium Indian coffee to a broader audience, encouraging a coffee culture domestically by hosting events across major cities.

As the founder of the Specialty Coffee Association of India (SCAI), what role do you envision SCAI playing in promoting Indian specialty coffee globally, and how will IICF 2024 support this mission?

The Specialty Coffee Association of India (SCAI) is an inclusive organisation representing India’s coffee value chain—from growers to cafes. Over time, SCAI has helped Indian specialty coffee build a respected global presence, commanding premium prices in both domestic and international markets. Our mission at SCAI is to promote specialty coffee and foster partnerships within the coffee community worldwide. The IICF events support these goals, further establishing India as a key player in the global coffee industry.

How does sustainable coffee production and agroforestry feature in your business philosophy, and what initiatives will be showcased at IICF 2024 to promote environmentally conscious coffee practices?

Indian coffee stands out because it’s shade-grown, spring-washed, and sun-dried, thriving in biodiverse areas without disrupting local ecosystems. Sustainability is central to our philosophy, incorporating rainwater harvesting for irrigation and using organic manure from jungle trees. The IICF gives growers a platform to showcase their sustainable methods, while entrepreneurs can present innovations like biofertilisers and eco-friendly equipment. Educational programs at IICF will also underscore the importance of environmentally conscious agricultural practices.

India has made significant strides in coffee exports, with your company being a leading player. What opportunities and challenges do you see for Indian coffee exporters in the global market, and how will IICF 2024 address these?

Indian specialty coffee has successfully established a niche in international markets, often fetching premium prices. This achievement is the result of hard work by SCAI members who have traveled extensively to build Indian coffee’s reputation globally. However, rising production costs and climate challenges require growers to secure even better prices to stay sustainable. IICF 2024 provides a venue for exporters to connect with potential buyers, strengthening India’s market presence and enhancing demand.

As a pioneer in coffee research and development, what new products or processing methods can attendees expect to learn about at IICF 2024, and how will these contribute to the growth of India’s coffee industry?

Indian coffee processing has made significant strides, embracing techniques such as barrel-aging, using in-house yeasts to bring out unique flavours, and incorporating local ingredients like bananas and oranges in fermentation. At our own estate, we’re among the first to apply these methods to Robusta coffee, shifting perceptions about its flavour. India now offers a range of coffee products, including pod machines, frozen espresso capsules, and ready-to-drink varieties. IICF serves as a hub where coffee enthusiasts can explore these innovations and where estates can forge partnerships with manufacturers, broadening the reach of Indian coffee.

Inspired by the wine and alcohol industries, SCAI has introduced national competitions to elevate Indian coffee, such as:

National Barista Championship

National Latte Art Championship

National Brewers Cup Championship

Coffee In Good Spirits Championship

World Filter Coffee Championship

These competitions attract young talent, including home brewers, providing the next generation with opportunities to showcase their skills and raise awareness of Indian coffee. SCAI is committed to creating learning opportunities across the industry, promoting a deep understanding of specialty coffee production and marketing.

source: http://www.deccanchronicle.com / Deccan Chronicle / Home> Lifestyle> Food and Recipes / by Reshmi AR / November 04th, 2024

Karnataka: Tourists flock to Kodagu during long weekend

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Business & Economy, Travel, Tourism & Homestays (wef. Oct 03rd, 2021)

With a string of holidays including Deepavali and Kannada Rajyotsava weekend, the tourist-favorite district of Kodagu has seen a massive influx of visitors.

With four consecutive holidays, including Naraka Chaturdasi, Kannada Rajyotsava, Balipadyami, and Sunday, lakhs of tourists have flocked to Kodagu. Tourist spots and religious sites are bustling with visitors and devotees, creating a vibrant atmosphere in the region.

Tourists have thronged Raja’s Seat, the popular hilltop spot in Madikeri, where visitors are enjoying the panoramic views. Other attractions like Abbey Falls, Dubare, and Nisargadhama are also seeing a surge in footfall. The recent holy occasion of Cauvery Theerthodbhava has further drawn thousands of pilgrims to Talacauvery and Bhagamandala.

Heavy traffic congestion has been reported at major tourist spots and religious centres, including Raja’s Seat, Abbey Falls, and Talacauvery, posing challenges for the police in ensuring smooth traffic flow.

The month-long Kiru Sankramana period after the Theerthodbhava is seen as an auspicious time for a holy dip in the Cauvery River at Talacauvery. Thousands of devotees, including those from other districts and states, are visiting the sacred spot. The ongoing holidays have further increased the number of visitors, causing some local concern over difficulties in performing rituals peacefully.

source: http://www.newsable.asianetnews.com / Asianet Newsable / Home> English News> Karnataka / by Vinaykumar Patil / November 03rd, 2024

Karanang Kodpo – Homage to ancestors by the Kodavas

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Kodagu is deep- rooted in the culture of the past, the glorious past.

The traditions, the idealsand the institutions of the past are inherited by us as a rich legacy. It is not just the abundant natural beauty that makes Kodagu a distinct place. It’s people- the Kodavas with discrete culture and heritage boost the glory of this land. This is the season of the year, where Kodavas in Kodagu district perform the annual ritual “KARANANG KODPO“ held in memory of their ancestors.

Amidst the misty hills and lush coffee plantations of Kodagu, the indigenous community of Kodavas honour “GURU KARONA” the first ancestor as their protector and guide. With Guru karona as their guardian, they walk the path of their ancestors, connecting to the very soul of their land. 

Our ancestors are as much a part of us as we are part of them. Karanang kodpo is an occasion for kodava usually after the changrandhi, to invoke the ancestors, offer them sweet, meat, liquor, take their blessings and the families rejoice followed by a feast. 

All auspicious ceremonies and works of Kodavas were usually done during this time because Kodavas did not have temple culture and kept Brahmins away as we Kodavas adore ancestral worship and venerate our man of yester year “Guru karona”.

Karanangkodpo is an important annual observance where offerings are made to a clan’s ancestors. The food and drink habits of deceased members of the family are remembered. Accordingly, offerings are made to the dead.  The Karona, or the dead patriarch, is prayed to. Offerings of food and drink made to Gods and ancestors are called “Meedhi”. Kodava cultural traditions and practices were transmitted orally from generation to generation.

In olden days, all the members if an “okka” lived together in their ” Ainmane” or ancestral home. While many of these Ainmanes have been rebuilt, the traditional ones that are still standing are 150 to 200 years old. Today even if they do not live in the Ainmane, members of an okka gather to celebrate festivals and traditional ceremonies. The Karona, the first Ancestor or founder of the okka is revered as a God. Kodavas consider their Ancestors as their guiding spirit and their elders as their living guides. As a mark of respect, younger people touch the feet of their elders when they meet during auspicious occasions.  Elders invoke their ancestors when they bless those who touch their feet.

The cultural heritage of the Kodavas is a priceless legacy passed down from generation to generation. Every legacy followed strengthens our collective voice, fostering unity and resilience.

Together we strive for an empowered kodava community that stands proud, preserving our roots and shaping a future rooted in our unique traditions.

Sadly, with the passage of time our culture has been ambushed by modernization.

Currently conserving our rich heritage to let our future generations know who truly are, is of surmount importance. Every nook and corner of our Ainmane act as a silent reminder into our colourful past.

An architectural aspect which as stood the tests of time are our Ainmanes. Homes to the native communities of Kodagu, these Ainmanes stand as a silent testimony of our story. 

Let’s join hands, in conserving the little that remains of ancestors and their impressions left on the phase of earth.

Because Ainmanes are a matter of pride and the soul of kodava rituals and their revival provides a surety to Kodavas customs and legacy. As traditions passes on from generation to the next it is a duty of every Kodavas to maintain the sanctity of their places of worship.

source: http://www.clnnews.in / Coffee Land News / Home> Articles / by Kodandera Mamatha Subbaiah / October 25th, 2024

Diya Bhemaiah of Kodagu wins one silver and one bronze medal in National Badminton

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In the recently held 36th Sub-Junior Yonex Sunrise National Badminton Tournament at Chennai, Boppanda Diya Bhimaiah of Kodagu has won silver medal in doubles.

Diya, the state’s top ranked player, represented Karnataka in under-17 singles, doubles and mixed doubles.  Diya Bhemaiah was defeated in the quarter finals by the unbeaten Tanvi Patri who emerged as the champion. 

Diya is a student of Vidyashram College, Mysore.  Diya has achieved commendable results in the three categories which she participated in.

She is training under Medura Arun Pemmaiah and Boppanda Bhimaiah at Sports Park, Mysore.

source: http://www.clnnews.in / Coffee Land News / Home> Sports / by CLN Staff / November 01st, 2024

Outstanding performance by Madikeri Centre in the National Level Brainobrain Abacus Competition

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In the recently held National Level Brainobrain Abacus Competition, held at the Chennai Trade Centre, Chennai over 8200 children, from all over India participated.

Madikeri centre headed by Mapangada Kavitha Karumbaiah participated with 23 children and eventually won 14 Champion Trophies, 8 Gold Topper Medals and 1 Silver Topper Medal, getting a 100% result.

Kavitha Karumbaiah attributed the entire credit to the children, who performed in those 3 minutes and the parents, who took the initiative to take the children to Chennai in spite of heavy rains and flood alerts.

The occasion was graced by Anand Subramanian (MD Brainobrain International); Arul Subramanian (Director Technical); all the Master Franchisees of various States, Franchisees and Faculties

The Champion Tropies were won by Kanisha Sunith Kumar; Nilah J. Tharakan; Pariksha A.L.; Pavani K. Kunder ; Aradhya K.C.; Ayden J. Tharakan;  Charvi Dechamma S.A.; Drupad P. Manikoth; Livya Sunith Kumar; Yaanvi Bojamma M.P.; Aluf A.R.; George Matthew ; Naman M.Gowda; Mia Arun;

The Gold Topper Medals were won by Kushan Devappa Y.D.; Joanna Madtha; Tiya Kishor; Ronith Ganapathi A.S.; Aaron Albert; Raivath Patel N.R.; Gaanavi Gangamma C.V.; and Adith Gautham K.

The Silver Topper Medal was won by Alfa A.R.

source: http://www.clnnews.in / Coffee Land News / Home> Events / by CLN Staff / November 01st, 2024