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India Bartender Week to launch
The co-founders of Sidecar in Delhi are behind a new event designed to spotlight and develop the bartending community in India.
The event was inspired by New York Bartender Week, created by Hanna Lee and Michael Anstendig, which launched earlier this year.
Minakshi Singh and Yangdup Lama, the co-founders of Sidecar, Cocktails & Dreams Speakeasy and The Brook, have partnered with Vikram Achanta, founder of beverage education service Tulleeho and 30 Best Bars India, on the project.
The debut event is expected to take place in Gurgaon on 20-27 February 2025 and will be divided into two parts.
The first section, Beverage Week, will take place from 21 to 25 February and involve 20 of India’s top bars, who will showcase their creativity through bespoke drinks using local ingredients.
This will be followed by the India Bar Summit, on 26-27 February, which will be a two-day gathering of industry leaders, bartenders, hoteliers and influencers. The event will comprise panel discussions, masterclasses, product showcases, bar takeovers and after-parties.
Lama said: “Bartending is a community-driven profession that connects people from all walks of life. India Bartender Week aims to empower bar professionals, turning them into entrepreneurs and change-makers.
“Through mentorship, skill development, and creative expression, we’re not just celebrating cocktails, but also fostering a community that can change the world, one guest at a time.”
The co-founders are expecting around 1,000 participants in the event’s first year.
Supporting the next generation of bartenders
As part of the initiative, the co-founders have created a ‘Top 100’ scholarship, which will fund the expenses of 100 young bartenders to travel to the event.
Achanta added: “India Bartender Week is structured to support the next generation of bartenders by providing them with a platform for learning, networking, and growth. We’re bringing together an array of industry leaders, brands, and experts to share knowledge, inspire creativity, and elevate the customer experience.
“This event will help change perceptions about bartending in India, positioning it as a respected career path with immense potential for global recognition.”
Achanta also expressed a desire for the platform to eventually extend across South Asia, incorporating Sri Lanka and Nepal, with Singh adding that there are hopes to have future events based outside of Delhi, such as in Bangalore or Mumbai.
Singh continued: “Our mission is to foster a space where bar professionals can grow, innovate, and connect with global peers – ultimately setting new standards for bartending in India. We hope that it empowers our bartenders and gives them the support they need to shine both nationally and in international waters.”
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