Archit Singhal
President of the India Bartender Guild
This year was a landmark for the India Bartender Guild (IBG). We successfully concluded the Zero Proof Competition 2025 and proudly represented India at the 24th Golden Cup Cocktail Competition in Taiwan, where our team earned a bronze medal, an achievement that underscores the growing global recognition of Indian bartending talent.
The Zero Proof Competition 2025 was conceived to promote responsible drinking and encourage creativity in non-alcoholic mixology and flair bartending. At IBG, we have always believed that innovation, precision, and presentation should define the craft of bartending, even when alcohol is not involved. Conducted in two major cities, New Delhi on August 4, 2025, and Goa on August 11, 2025, the championship attracted a remarkable line-up of talented bartenders from across India. Hospitality professionals and industry leaders witnessed the competition, which showcased the highest standards of technical skill, artistic flair, and professionalism.
After rigorous rounds of evaluation, the national winners were announced: Deepika Shukla and Chetan Choramule won in the Mixology category, while Ravi Varma won in the Flair Bartending category. Their performances were a tribute to the creativity,innovation, and dedication of Indian
bartenders. These individuals have not only
raised the bar for national competitions but
also demonstrated India’s potential on the
international stage.
International Representation at Golden Cup
Following this national success, our champions proudly represented India at the 24th Golden Cup Cocktail Competition in Taiwan, held from December 16 to 20, 2025. The Golden Cup is recognised globally as one of the most prestigious platforms for bartending excellence, bringing together top talent from around the world. Deepika Shukla competed in the Mixology category, while Chetan Choramule and Ravi Varma competed in Flair Bartending. Their exceptional performances earned India a well-deserved bronze medal, highlighting the country’s rising technical expertise, global competitiveness, and professionalism in bartending.
Following this national success, our champions proudly represented India at the 24th Golden Cup Cocktail Competition in Taiwan, held from December 16 to 20, 2025. The Golden Cup is recognised globally as one of the most prestigious platforms for bartending excellence, bringing together top talent from around the world. Deepika Shukla competed in the Mixology category, while Chetan Choramule and Ravi Varma competed in Flair Bartending. Their exceptional performances earned India a well-deserved bronze medal, highlighting the country’s rising technical expertise, global competitiveness, and professionalism in bartending.
Adding to the significance of this international milestone, I had the honour of serving as an official judge at the Golden Cup. Representing India on such a prominent global stage reinforced IBG’s credibility and emphasised our growing influence within the international bartending fraternity.
Membership of International Bartenders Association
In addition to these achievements, IBG officially became a member of the International Bartenders Association (IBA) in 2025, a historic development for Indian bartending. This membership strengthens India’s presence in the global bartending ecosystem and opens doors to further international exposure, competitions, conventions, and the adoption of globally recognised professional standards.
In addition to these achievements, IBG officially became a member of the International Bartenders Association (IBA) in 2025, a historic development for Indian bartending. This membership strengthens India’s presence in the global bartending ecosystem and opens doors to further international exposure, competitions, conventions, and the adoption of globally recognised professional standards.
Through initiatives like the Zero Proof Competition, international representation, and strategic global partnerships, IBG continues to cultivate a professional, innovative, and globally respected bartending community in India. Our commitment remains steadfast: to empower bartenders, celebrate creativity, encourage responsible practices, and ensure that India secures a prominent place on the world bartending map.