India's Coffee Revolution Brews Strong at National Latte Art Championship 2025

An exclusive conversation with Abhinav Mathur, Managing Director of Kaapi Machines, on the art, energy, and evolution behind India's premier barista championship.

- TBG NETWORK NEW DELHI

The aroma of freshly brewed espresso mingled with the excitement of competition at the India International Coffee Festival this year, as over 300 baristas from across India poured their hearts into the National Latte Art Championship 2025 (NLAC). At the center of it all was Abhinav Mathur, Managing Director of Kaapi Machines, whose vision helped turn the championship into a national celebration of coffee craftsmanship. In this interview, Mr. Mathur shares the journey behind the event, the evolution of India's coffee scene, and what lies ahead for its thriving barista community.

1. Mr. Mathur, Kaapi Machines has been instrumental in organizing the National Latte Art Championship 2025. Could you share your personal journey and the motivations behind initiating this prestigious event?

A: "Coffee has always been more than just a beverage for me—it's a craft, a community, a passion," says Mathur. "When we started planning the National Latte Art Championship, the motivation was simple: to celebrate the incredible talent brewing quietly across India's cafés. At Kaapi Machines, we've always believed in giving back to the coffee community. Creating a national platform where baristas could showcase their art, skills, and heart was a dream. Every year, seeing these artists step up with creativity and pride reminds me why this initiative is so close to my heart."