India makes original products the rest of the world doesn’t — rice wines, unique fruit brandies, indigenous spirits — but navigating 22 different state liquor laws as a startup is a civilizational-level obstacle. This panel brings together founders and industry experts to explore the untapped potential of Indian wines and spirits as both an economic and soft power opportunity.
Speakers draw parallels with Scotland’s scotch, France’s champagne, and Thailand’s food diplomacy — arguing that India has consistently failed to leverage its unique beverages for global brand building. The regulatory maze (requiring Chief Minister-level approvals for steel bottles) is dissected candidly, with founders sharing war stories of fighting the same battle in each of India’s 22 alcohol jurisdictions.
Kalidasa wrote about wine; the Vedic tradition had its own sacred ferments. The panel asks: why does a civilisation with such deep and diverse drinking heritage treat alcohol as taboo, and who loses when India refuses to use drink diplomacy?

About the Speaker:
Mendi – Popular Content Creator on Youtube and moderator of the discussion. Known for his engaging presence and ability to connect diverse voices, he bridges traditional narratives with contemporary digital conversations.

Sanjit Padhi – Recently appointed CEO of the International Spirits & Wines Association of India (ISWAI), succeeding Nita Kapoor. An industry veteran with extensive leadership experience, he is expected to drive policy reforms, advocacy, and growth strategies for India’s spirits and wines sector.

Mayukh Hazarika – Founder & CEO of Raincheck Earth Co., the company behind Cherrapunji Craft Gin. An entrepreneur blending sustainability with innovation, he is known for creating premium craft spirits inspired by Meghalaya’s unique terroir.

Hansel Vaz – Founder of Cazulo Premium Feni and Fazenda Cazulo, Goa’s pioneering Feni distillery experience. Through Vaz Enterprises, he champions the revival, global recognition, and cultural pride of Feni, earning respect as the leading voice and “guru” of the Feni industry.