History of Coffee in India

History of Coffee in India

Coffee has a fascinating journey in India, dating back over four centuries. Here’s how it all began and evolved:

1. The Legendary Beginning (1600s)

  • Coffee was first introduced to India by Baba Budan, a 17th-century Sufi saint.
  • He is said to have smuggled seven coffee beans from Yemen’s port of Mocha while returning from a pilgrimage to Mecca.
  • He planted these beans in the Chikkamagaluru hills (now in Karnataka), which became the birthplace of Indian coffee.
  • The hills where he planted the beans are now called Baba Budan Giri in his honor.

2. Colonial Influence & Commercialization (1700s - 1800s)

  • The British saw coffee’s potential and established large plantations in South India, particularly in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala.
  • By the 19th century, coffee cultivation had expanded significantly, making India a key producer.
  • Coffee was primarily exported to Europe, making it a profitable crop during British rule.

3. Post-Independence Growth (1947 - Present)

  • After India's independence in 1947, the Coffee Board of India was set up to regulate and promote coffee production.
  • India became a major exporter, particularly of shade-grown, hand-picked Arabica and Robusta coffee.
  • Indian coffee gained international fame for its unique flavors, thanks to cultivation in biodiverse forest regions.

4. Modern Coffee Culture in India

  • Traditional filter coffee (or "Kaapi") remains popular in South India.
  • The 1990s coffee revolution saw brands like Café Coffee Day (CCD), Barista, and Starbucks making coffee a mainstream urban lifestyle.
  • India is now the 6th largest producer of coffee globally, with Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu being the top producers.

5. Unique Indian Coffee Varieties

  • Monsooned Malabar – A special coffee aged in monsoon winds, giving it a distinct earthy flavor.
  • Coorg Coffee – From Karnataka’s Coorg region, known for its bold taste.
  • Chikmagalur Coffee – The birthplace of Indian coffee, producing high-quality Arabica.
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