Inside India's New Indigenous Spirit Trail

Reviving India's forgotten heritage indigenous spirits as we restore our rich liquid heritage

- — By Ayandrali Dutta —

The rise of indigenous spirits in India marks a spirited reclaiming of identity and craft. Once confined to rural traditions and dismissed as “country liquor,” native brews like mahua, feni, and agave are now finding their place on premium bar shelves and cocktail menus across the country. A new wave of distillers and mixologists is rediscovering these age-old spirits, celebrating their roots while refining their profiles for contemporary palates. What was once taboo is now the toast of the town — a symbol of authenticity, sustainability, and pride in India's diverse terroir. These reimagined spirits aren't just drinks; they're stories of heritage, community, and revival, bridging the past with a more conscious, culturally attuned future of drinking. Consumers today are far more curious, informed, and proud to drink local. What's exciting is that both bartenders and drinkers are embracing these homegrown spirits — from agave and Mahua to cashew-based feni — not just as novelties, but as quality bases that offer genuine flavour and storytelling potential” explains Rakshay Dhariwal, Founder and MD, Maya Pistola Agavepura (Pistola) & Pass Code Hospitality.

Homegrown Spirits Inspire Modern Mixology