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COFFEE STORY–The Rise of Indian Coffee on the Global Stage, and new Entrepreneur Opportunities

In our concluding photo essay from the World Coffee Conference and Exhibition, we feature more trends and insights for startups.

Coffee Story–the rise of Indian coffee on the global stage, and new entrepreneur opportunities

Launched in 2014, PhotoSparks is a weekly feature from YourStory, with photographs that celebrate the spirit of creativity and innovation. In the earlier 720 posts, we featured an art festival, cartoon gallery. world music festival, telecom expo, millets fair, climate change expo, wildlife conference, startup festival, Diwali rangoli, and jazz festival.

The coffee ecosystem is opening up a wide range of entrepreneurship opportunities for coffee growers, roasters, curers, blenders, packagers, and cafes. The World Coffee Conference and Exhibition (WCC), held recently in Bengaluru, showcased a broad spectrum of players in equipment manufacturing, home brewing, and associated products like alternative milk.

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“Demand for coffee has overtaken production in India. GenZ and millennials in particular are driving the coffee culture in India,” said Kailash Natani, MD, Sucafina. Indian youth are also driving trends such as the use of plant-based milk in coffees. “More than 50% of our global customer base are GenZ and millennials. 70% of the beverage that we sell is cold coffee,” observed Kelly Goodejohn, Vice President, Global Coffee Sustainability and Education, Starbucks.

WCC 2023 was inaugurated by a galaxy of national and international leaders such as Joe Kuli, Minister for Coffee from Papua New Guinea; Vanusia Nogueira, Executive Director, International Coffee Organisation; and KG Jagadeesha, Secretary, Coffee Board of India.

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Tennis champion Rohan Bopanna was designated as Brand Ambassador of WCC 2023. The event also featured traditional folk dances from coffee growing states of Odisha, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and the North-East.

In Part I and Part II of our coverage of WCC 2023, we showcased the diversity and range of exhibits. See also our earlier photo essays on Coffee Santhe 2015, Mango Mela 2018, and Mango Diversity Fair 2019.

Climate and soil diversity around the world lead to a rich tapestry of artisanal coffee flavours. “They can range from fruity and floral to nutty and chocolatey, catering to different cultures,” observed Yannis Apostolopoulos, CEO of US-based Specialty Coffee Association (SCA).

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“Specialty coffee fosters a sense of community. We are trying to build a market in India for specialty coffees and have made good headway. The future of India as a coffee leader looks very promising,” added DM Purnesh, President, Specialty Coffee Association of India.

Sustainability in the coffee chain was one of the key conference themes this year. “The success of the future of the coffee industry is based on the partnerships we forge with the farming community. A wholistic approach is key to reducing our environmental footprint,” said Michelle Burns, Executive Vice President- Global Coffee, Social Impact and Sustainability, Starbucks.

Harald Friedl, CEO, Green Leadership, urged the industry to explore the use of coffee in alternate products, not just as a beverage. Salvador Urrutia Loucel, Latin American Director, World Coffee Research, called for more R&D in breeding climate-resilient variants of the coffee bean.

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“The sector needs to look at alternative coffee species beyond Arabica and Robusta – the two dominant varieties today,” added Dr. Aaron Davis, Kew Gardens (UK).

“India’s growing reputation in the coffee industry, known for its sustainable and high-quality production, is gaining global recognition,” observed Dr. K.G. Jagadeesha, Secretary, Coffee Board of India.

India reportedly has six Geographical Indication (GI) tagged coffees. Many ‘coffeepreneurs’ and ‘cafepreneurs’ are finding opportunity along the entire coffee value chain, and new coffee shops have also transformed into creative hubs.

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One of the highlights of WCC 2023 was the coffee competitions. Awards were bestowed upon the National Barista Champion (Hrishikesh Mohite), Women’s Star Brewer Skills Champion (Priti Pradhan), Latte Art Champion (Mohammad Afsar), and Indian Filter Coffee Champion (Vani Shree N from Brown Bean Artistry). Other awards were given for best natural and washed coffee beans in Robusta and Arabica categories.

“This competition not only celebrated the art of coffee making but also highlighted the dedication and talent of baristas,” explains Anisha Kumari, Assistant Manager, Beverage Innovation, at leading coffee chain Cafe Coffee Day (CCD).

She was earlier part of the quality team at Hatti Kaapi. An expert in beverage development, portfolio management, and product quality, Kumari studied at BITS Mesra and Coffee Board of India, specialising in food technology and processing.

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Anisha Kumari, CCD

She particularly appreciated the session on the quality profile of Indian specialty and fine coffees. “This was a significant highlight as it emphasised India’s growing presence in the global coffee market and the exceptional quality of its coffee offerings,” she tells YourStory.

During the conference, Kumari worked at the CCD bar, crafting and serving coffees to delegates and visitors. “The response was overwhelming, as CCD has become an emotional connection for many. CCD has significantly contributed to introducing café culture in India,” she affirms.

The international event gave her a chance to hold discussions and knowledge-sharing sessions with both Indian and foreign stakeholders over a cup of coffee. “The WCC events serve as a pivotal platform for coffee entrepreneurs, offering invaluable opportunities for networking and collaboration with global coffee professionals,” Kumari says.

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There is a wealth of market insights and trends, particularly within the specialty coffee sector. “Furthermore, the conference provides a conducive environment for staying informed about industry innovations,” she adds.

“Notably, prominent brands presented a range of B2B services, spanning coffee trade and comprehensive machinery solutions encompassing packaging and connectivity,” Kumari says. Networking was facilitated between small and large coffee growers, factory mills, roasters, and distributors of café machinery.

Such forums promote collaboration and foster growth within the coffee industry. Kumari looks forward to more such events such as the Blend Bazaar and World Coffee and Tea Expo.

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“I plan to conduct coffee workshops and training sessions across India, aiming to share knowledge and expertise with aspiring baristas, coffee enthusiasts, and professionals, thereby contributing to the growth and development of the coffee community,” she enthuses.

She also offers tips for aspiring coffee entrepreneurs. “Keep exploring and trying various coffees from different cafes and experiment with innovative coffee beverages from various brands,” she says.

“By doing so, you not only support the industry but also expand your own palate and appreciation for coffee,” she suggests.

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Continuous learning is needed to keep up with new farm-level processing techniques, roasting methods, and brewing approaches. “This knowledge will not only deepen your understanding of coffee but also enhance your enjoyment of this beloved beverage,” she adds.

“So, savour the journey of coffee exploration and continue to appreciate the hard work that goes into every cup,” Kumari signs off.

Now what have you done today to pause in your busy schedule and showcase the breadth of your creative side?

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(All photographs taken by Madanmohan Rao on location at WCC2023.)

See also the YourStory pocketbook ‘Proverbs and Quotes for Entrepreneurs: A World of Inspiration for Startups,’ accessible as apps for Apple and Android devices.

Edited by Megha Reddy

source: http://www.yourstory.com / Your Story / Home> Events / by Madanmohan Rao / edited by Megha Reddy / October 15th, 2023

Kavery Muthanna Represents India As A Golf Official At Asian Games

Mukkatira Kavery Muthanna, a resident of Mysuru, is currently serving as a member of the officiating team in the game of golf at the ongoing 19th Asian Games, which are taking place in Hangzhou, China.

She holds a role in the Technical Rules Official team, which consists of 24 referees from various countries. The official rounds are scheduled to take place from Sept. 28 to Oct. 1 at the West Lake Golf Course in Hangzhou, featuring 121 players.

Kavery Muthanna is well-qualified, having completed the Level 3 Tournament Administrators and Referees Seminar (TARS) under the R&A. (R&A is a leading body within the world of golf and engages and supports activities to ensure it is a thriving sport for all on a global scale.)

She has actively officiated various amateur and women’s professional golf tournaments in India, showcasing her expertise in the field. Her experience also extends to her role as a Rules Official at the 36th National Games in 2022, held in Ahmedabad.

In addition to her involvement in golf and sports officiating, Kavery Muthanna is part of the Kavery Education Trust in Virajpet and serves as its Chairperson. She is married to Mukkatira Manju Muthanna and is the daughter of Guddanda Kanthy and Nanda Ganapathy.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Sports News / September 28th, 2023

Asian Games 2023 tennis: India’s Rohan Bopanna-Rutuja Bhosale win gold medal in mixed doubles

The Indian tennis players defeated Chinese Taipei’s Tsung-hao Huang and Liang En-shuo 2-6, 6-3, 10-4 in the final in Hangzhou.

India’s Rohan Bopanna and Rutuja Bhosale won the mixed doubles gold medal at the Asian Games 2023 tennis tournament in Hangzhou.
(Hangzhou2022.cn)

Indian tennis players Rohan Bopanna and Rutuja Bhosale won the gold medal in mixed doubles event at the Asian Games 2023 in Hangzhou, the People’s Republic of China on Saturday.

The second-seeded Indian duo defeated ninth seeds Tsung-hao Huang and Liang En-shuo of Chinese Taipei 2-6, 6-3, 10-4 in the final at the Hangzhou Olympic Sports Centre. The match lasted one hour and 14 minutes.

Rohan Bopanna began the match with a terrific service game. However, Tsung-hao Huang and Liang En-shuo won two breaks in a row and held their serve to go 5-1 up, and eventually seal the first set 6-2.

“It’s been a learning experience for both of us,” Bopanna said about his partnership with Rutuja. “We had to understand each other, what our strengths are and what our weaknesses are.

“Today after we lost the first set I said, ‘Let’s change sides to return. We need something to change the match.'” the veteran Indian explained.

The change worked. Rohan Bopanna and Rutuja Bhosale fought back well in the second set and there was nothing separating both teams in the opening seven games. The Indian pair, however, levelled up with a decisive break in the eighth game and took the set 6-3 to induce a match tie break.

In the decider, Bopanna-Bhosale took early advantage and raced to a 6-1 lead in no time. There was some late resurgence from Tsung-hao Huang and Liang En-shuo, but it wasn’t enough. The Indian tennis players maintained the momentum and managed to take the tie break 10-4.

“I clearly had some nerves throughout the match, but not on the last point,” Bhosale said. “I was just thinking, ‘Give me my best serve right here,’ and I think I took my time to serve.”

Rutuja Bhosale won her maiden Asian Games medal while Rohan Bopanna added to his gold medal from Jakarta 2018. This was India’s second medal in tennis at the Asian Games 2023, following a silver in the men’s doubles event.

India have now won seven medals in the mixed doubles category – including three gold – at the Asian Games. Leander Paes-Sania Mirza at Doha 2006 and Saketh Myneni-Sania Mirza at Incheon 2014 are the other mixed doubles champions.

Overall, India have now won 10 gold medals at the continental meet in tennis .

source: http://www.olympics.com / Olympics.com / Home / by Anuraag Peesara / September 30th, 2023

A Tribute: IAF Veteran Sergeant M.N. Subramani Service Before Self

Mandetira Nanayya Subramani (M.N. Subramani) passed away in Mysuru on Sept. 21, 2023, a day when day and night were equal. This coincidence seems significant, given Subramani’s unwavering dedication to the principles of equality and justice, a commitment few could match.

I first had the privilege of meeting Subramani shortly after my retirement in 1996. Our initial encounter was related to the newsletter he published, which provided updates to ex-servicemen on Ministry of Defence policies affecting their welfare and entitlements. It was during this time that I learned about his remarkable personal background and his service in the Armed Forces, which compelled me to write about his life and accomplishments in greater detail.

Born in Madikeri on Feb. 13, 1956, Subramani was the son of Gangavva and Lance Naik Mandetira Nanayya, a Second World War Veteran. He joined the Indian Air Force in 1974 as an Airman and eventually rose to the rank of Sergeant.

While serving, Subramani pursued his education through night college, earning degrees in B.Com, M.Com. and LLB from Delhi, Rajasthan and University of Mysore, respectively.

During his military service, Sgt. Subramani observed that many retired Armed Forces personnel struggled with post-retirement issues, including pension matters, medical treatment and other entitlements. Motivated by his own education, he resolved to assist ex-servicemen with these challenges

In 1989, after retiring from the Indian Air Force (IAF), Subramani settled in Mysuru. To supplement his modest pension as a Sergeant and support his young children, Sitara and Sooraj, he took on a job as a commerce lecturer in State Government PU Colleges. His wife, Shakunthala, also took up teaching in schools. After college hours, Subramani dedicated himself to addressing the problems faced by ex-servicemen and widows, often working late into the night. These issues primarily revolved around securing employment in civilian life and rectifying errors in their military records, which could later affect entitlements or inheritance rights.

Many ex-servicemen, especially those retiring as ‘Ex-Jawans,’ face these difficulties at a young age, typically between 32 and 38, when family responsibilities are at their peak. They often lack the knowledge and means to navigate bureaucratic processes, access official authorities, or even stay informed about policy changes that might affect their benefits. This lack of support can lead to severe hardships, especially for their widows. To provide more efficient assistance to ex-servicemen, Sgt. Subramani established the “VeKare Ex-Servicemen Trust” on Aug. 15, 1990, dedicated to his father’s memory. The Trust operated on his pension and personal savings, occasionally supplemented by his devoted wife, Shakunthala.

Collaboration across India

Subramani collaborated closely with Armed Forces Record Offices across the country, tirelessly pursuing officers through various means, including registered letters, phone calls, emails, and, more recently, WhatsApp, to resolve veterans’ and widows’ cases. He even escalated matters to the Armed Forces Headquarters and the Ministry of Defence and the Government of Karnataka when necessary.

These are the real-life challenges that ex-servicemen and their widows face due to limited access to official channels, lack of awareness, and financial constraints. Sgt. Subramani bridged this vital gap.

Over three decades, he brought relief and support to hundreds of veterans and widows, including veteran officers and their widows and next-of-kin. Sgt. Subramani earned a reputation as the “go-to man” within the ex-servicemen community, and people turned to him whenever they encountered difficulties.

On a single call, he would rush to assist injured ex-servicemen, arranging immediate medical treatment and notifying military authorities, essential for financial coverage. In the event of an ex-serviceman’s passing, he facilitated last rites and provided guidance on the documentation required for family pensions.

Moreover, Sgt. M.N. Subramani took on policies affecting the welfare and benefits of ex-servicemen at both the Central and State Government levels, as well as with Armed Forces Headquarters. His efforts resulted in the rectification or amendment of several policies, bringing justice and benefits to ex-servicemen and widows.

Elevating status of veterans

Additionally, Sgt. Subramani initiated efforts to elevate the image and status of Armed Forces Veterans. He played a pivotal role in naming the Mysuru Department of Sainik Welfare & Resettlement Office building as “Squadron Leader A.B. Devaya Bhawan” in memory of Indian Air Force martyr Sqn. Ldr. A.B. Devaya, MVC (Posthumous).

In October 2000, he took the initiative to propose an Armed Forces War Memorial in Mysuru by writing to the District Administration, ultimately securing a designated plot for it.

Today, 23 years later, his vision is becoming a reality, with substantial progress made. When completed, this memorial will honour the sacrifices of Armed Forces personnel who gave their lives in service to our nation, although Subramani will not be present to witness its consecration.

Sgt. Subramani also addressed the exclusion of Mysuru’s Armed Forces Veterans from Republic Day Parade organised by the civil administration. Thanks to his efforts, senior Armed Forces veterans are now officially invited to these events.

Deep concern for nature

In addition to his dedication to ex-servicemen, Sgt. Subramani demonstrated a  deep concern for nature and the environment. In 2018, he funded the planting of approximately 2,000 tree saplings in Vijayanagar 3rd Stage. Even earlier, while teaching at Government PU College for Girls, Mysuru, he founded an Eco-Club that encouraged students to plant saplings in the college premises.

He also cultivated a half-acre of coffee plantation in the adjacent vacant land. His commitment to environmental causes was evident to those who knew him.

In recognition of his tireless social service spanning over three decades, Sgt. Subramani’s name was nominated for the Karnataka Rajyotsava Award in 2022.

Throughout his work, his wife Shakunthala provided unwavering and compassionate support. Sgt. Subramani dedicated his time, attention, knowledge, abilities, and personal finances to help veterans and widows with issues related to succession, pension, entitlements and personal matters. He was an extraordinary problem-solver who demonstrated remarkable drive, focus, and tenacity, particularly when advocating for veterans.

It has been an honour to know Mandetira Nanayya Subramani, a proud son of Mysuru and a true benefactor of the ex-servicemen fraternity.

Aum Shanthi!

source:http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Feature Articles / by Maj.Gen. (Retd.) S.G. Vombatkere / September 24th, 2023

Science Expo: Kodagu Model School Distributes Prizes

Mysore/Mysuru:

The two-day science exhibition, organised by Kodagu Model School of Sri Kavery Kodava Association (Mysuru East) at its premises in Vidyashankar Layout concluded yesterday.

Corporator Rajini Annaiah distributed prizes to the winners at the valedictory function held at Smt. Padanda Cheethamma auditorium at the School.

Winners

7th and 8th std. category:

First prize : Vijaya Vitala School (Gyroscopic transport model); Second – Vijaya Vitala School (Ambitious vehicle model).

9th and 10th std:

First prize – Vidya Jyothi School (Vikram Lander model); Second – SNS School (Free electric generator model). Students of Kodagu Model School bagged special prizes in both categories.

Speaking after distributing the prizes, Corporator Rajini Annaiah said that all the models which were displayed at the expo were attractive and added that this type of science expos would help in the development of knowledge among students.

Pointing out that excellent environment and best education is provided for students at this School, the Corporator suggested the School management to start PU education too.

Kodagu Model School Chairperson C.K. Seethamma, who too spoke said that the science exhibition was a success and advised the students to develop scientific attitude and logical thinking.

Sri Kavery Kodava Association (Mysuru East) Vice-President P.K. Bopaiah, Secretary K.M. Belliappa, Treasurer C.M. Chengappa, School Administrator Cauvery, students and parents were present on the occasion.

source: http:/www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / September 25th, 2023

Kodagu Cup Golf Tournament

The Association of Kodagu Golfers of J.W. Golf Club, Mysuru, will be holding the 22nd edition of Kodagu Cup Golf Tournament at JWGC premises in city on Oct. 7 and 8.

For details, contact Association Hon. Treasurer M.B. Nanaiah on Mob: 94486-02959, according to a press release from Association President Dr. P.A. Kushalappa.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> In Briefs / September 23rd, 2023

Hockey Players Selected For School Nationals, Gwalior

Twelve players from Sports Hostel, Ponnampet, Kodagu District, winners of U-17 State Level Hockey Championship, have been selected for School Games Federation of India (SGFI) School Nationals which will be held in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh in October 2023. The students come under the Mysuru Division.

The winning Mysuru Division team bagged laurels at the matches that were held between Sept. 8 and Sept. 10, 2023 at Sports School, Kudige.

While in match no.1, the Mysuru Division scored 8-0 goals against the Bengaluru Division, in match no.2, the Mysuru Division scored 10-0 against the Belagavi Division.

The winning streak continued in match no.3 where the Mysuru Division scored 3-0 against  Sports School, Kudige, and in the last match, the Mysuru Division scored 6-0 against Kalaburagi Division.

The team proceeding to Gwalior includes Thanish Madappa, H.H. Deekshith, M. Nishanth, Pavan Ponnanna, Sohan Cariappa, B.P. Mohan, Vashik Ponnanna, Thanish Thammaiah, A. Mayur, C.M. Devaiah, Binn Bopanna and Krashank Kalappa.

The team coaches are K.M. Subbaiah and M.B. Ganapathy.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Sports / September 22nd, 2023

Capturing customs & traditions of the Kodava

Poster from the film Kodavas.
Poster from the film Kodavas.

The film, which begins with a narration, might come across more like a movie than a documentary, and Karumbaiah says it was a deliberate effort.

Bengaluru : 

Thashwini Karumbaiah’s documentary film Kodavas – The Highlanders is a deep insight into the rich culture and heritage of Kodavas, renowned as a warrior clan. Hailing from the same community, the filmmaker wanted to document it in some way. 

As a passion project, the film took more than two years to be made. “When the British came, they changed the name to Coorg, it is actually Kodagu,” says Karumbaiah adding, “As a Kodavati, I wanted to preserve our culture and attire and thought the best way to document all of it was in the form of a film.” 

The film, which begins with a narration, might come across more like a movie than a documentary, and Karumbaiah says it was a deliberate effort. “I wanted to experiment with the documentary. Usually, documentaries are shot in a very different way but I come from a background where we do films and serials, so I wanted to make it cinematic. At one glance, people might feel there is a story behind every chapter. But it is a documentary,” says Karumbaiah about the film that was co-produced by Vaishno Studios. 

Hailing from Kodagu, Karumbaiah has heard many stories in the family about the community.

However, the research for the film helped her discover many things that she had not known. “For example, when we started talking about battles that happened in Kodagu, we realised that a lot of them have gone unnoticed. It’s only orally been passed down from the older generations. We came across some of these stories which were interesting,” she adds.

Although the film started as a passion project with no commercial idea in mind, Karumbaiah is hoping to screen it at an international film festival next year.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Cities> Bengaluru / by Monika Monalisa, Express News Service / September 20th, 2023

‘Kail Muhurtha’ At Kodagu Gowda Samaja On Sept. 17

The Mysuru Kodagu Gowda Samaja will be celebrating ‘Kail Muhurtha’ get-together at the Samaja premises in Vijayanagar II Stage at 9.30 am on Sept.17.

Traditional Ayudha Puja will be held and it will be followed by cultural programmes.  

On the occasion, meritorious children of the Samaja members who have scored high marks in SSLC and PUC (2022-23) and achievers from various fields will be felicitated. Also prizes will be given to the winners of various sports events.

Kodagu Gowda Samaja President Thotambylaya E. Manohar will be preside.

Kodagu Gowda Vidya Sangha – Madikeri President Ambekallu Naveen Kushalappa, Mysuru-Kodagu MP Pratap Simha, MLA K. Harishgowda, former MLAs Vasu and L. Nagendra, Corporator K.V. Sridhar will be present on the occasion, according to press release from the Samaja Hon. Secretary.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> In Briefs / September 15th, 2023

Get Kaveri Teertha now through India Post

By paying the amount through e-payment at any post office, devotees can receive e-prasada at their doorsteps.

Post offices in Karnataka. (Photo | Special Arrangement)
Post offices in Karnataka. (Photo | Special Arrangement)

DAVANGERE: People need not rush to Talakaveri on the “Tula Sankramana” day to get the Kaveri Theerthodbhava, the gushing of Cauvery water from ‘Brahma Kundike’ at Talacauvery. India Post in association with the Hindu Religious Institutions and Charitable Endowments Department will be delivering the ‘Sri Talakaveri Temple Prasada,’ at your doorsteps through the post at just Rs 300.

By paying the amount through e-payment at any post office, devotees can receive e-prasada at their doorsteps. The prasadam is handed over to any of the remotest houses through the branch post office network of India Post.

Speaking to TNIE Superintendent of the Post offices Davanagere division, Chandrashekhar said, “Under the diversified business undertaken by the India Post, we are supplying the prasad to the devotees’ doorsteps. Understanding the importance of the auspicious ‘Tula Sankramana’, India Post has taken the initiative of supplying Kaveri Teertha to the devotees,” he added.

Further, he said that the devotees need to come to the nearest sub-post offices or Davanagere head post office for booking for the E-prasada after which our postmen will deliver the Prasad to their homes.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> States> Karnataka / by G. Subhash Chandra / Express News Service / September 15th, 2023