Beer in India

Lore & Background

Traditional beer in India dates back to the Vedic era, where a beer-like drink called sura was mentioned in the Rig Veda, though the god Indra is more closely associated with soma. Rice beer, known as handia, has been prepared by indigenous tribes for centuries, sometimes flavored with Ruellia suffruticosa, and used ceremonially by the Asur people. Millet beer is also made by some tribes. European-style beer was introduced by the British, with pale ale and Burton ale imported from England starting in 1716. To prevent spoilage on the long voyage, high alcohol content and hops were used, leading to the development of India pale ale; the earliest documented use of the term 'India pale ale' is from the 1820s, and Bow Brewery's role as the inventor is disputed. Edward Dyer set up India's first brewery, the Kasauli Brewery, which produced Lion beer continuously since the 1820s. Production later moved to Solan Brewery, and the company evolved into Dyer-Meakin & Company, eventually becoming Mohan Meakin Breweries in 1967.

Reader's Guide

Beer in India represents a blend of ancient indigenous traditions and colonial influence, yet it occupies a modest place in the country's alcohol market. Traditional rice and millet beers have been made for millennia, with references in Vedic texts and records by Megasthenes and Kautilya. The British introduction of European beer in the 18th century led to the creation of India pale ale and the establishment of the first breweries. Despite this long history, beer accounts for only 5% of total alcohol consumed in India, as stronger drinks like whiskey are cheaper and more popular. Strong beers (5-8% alcohol) dominate sales, making up 83% of the market in 2012. The industry has grown in recent decades, with foreign companies entering through acquisitions and joint ventures. Craft beer emerged late, with the first brewpubs opening in 2009, and by 2019 there were over 200 brewpubs nationwide. The largest brewery is United Breweries, maker of Kingfisher, which held a 55% market share in 2013. Beer consumption remains low due to high costs, stringent regulations, and competition from stronger spirits.

Did You Know?

• The Vedas mention a beer-like drink called sura, but the god Indra is more associated with soma.
• Lion beer, produced since the 1820s, is one of India's oldest beer brands, though not Asia's first.
• In 2012, strong beer with 5-8% alcohol content accounted for 83% of total beer sales in India.