From a tea lover to a coffee entrepreneur, Neleema Rana George, Head of Coffee Works and Technology at Kelachandra Coffee, shares her journey, challenges, and vision for Indian coffee on a global stage
Q; Can you share your journey and what inspired you to enter the coffee industry? What has been your background and experience in this sector?
To be very honest, I was always a tea drinker, like many young Indians. However, that changed after I got married into a coffee-producing family. My husband used to tell me that I was missing out on something special by sticking to tea. For a long time, I resisted, but during the COVID-19 pandemic, we spent a lot of time at our coffee estates, acquiring more plantations, and that’s when he encouraged me to get involved in the business.
Gradually, I started drinking coffee and truly appreciated its taste. I also realised how much effort goes into producing a single coffee bean before it reaches your cup. To deepen my knowledge, I pursued a Master’s in Coffee Economics and Science from Ernesto Illy in Italy. That education, combined with hands-on experience at our plantations, helped me gain a deeper understanding of the industry.
Q: As someone who transitioned from tea to coffee, how was your journey? Indian coffee culture has evolved significantly over the last decade, expanding beyond the South and into tier 2 and tier 3 cities. What are your thoughts on this shift?
Growing up, I did occasionally enjoy filter coffee, which always reminded me of Bangalore’s South Indian culture. However, it was only during COVID that I started experimenting with specialty coffee—espressos, cappuccinos, and more—directly from our estate.
Specialty coffee has evolved tremendously. Global travel has also played a role in shaping Indian coffee preferences. We realised that if we had such high-quality coffee on our farms, we should do justice to it.
India has ideal conditions for coffee cultivation—rich terroir, fertile soil, and an abundance of biodiversity. Unlike some other coffee-growing regions that had to clear forests for plantations, India already has a natural ecosystem in place. However, we have often been hesitant to showcase our coffee on a global scale. Now, after participating in international coffee exhibitions, I see the response shifting—Indian coffee is finally gaining recognition as a premium product.
Q: As both a consumer and a businesswoman in the coffee sector, what are your key observations on its growth and evolution?
The industry has evolved due to advancements in technology, increased awareness, and a shift in consumer preferences. Farmers now have better access to global markets and fair pricing. Trade practices have improved, allowing direct connections between growers and buyers.
Additionally, the availability of advanced and affordable machinery has helped farmers enhance their production quality. Sustainable farming practices have also gained traction, helping maintain soil health and biodiversity.
The coffee industry in India is in a great place right now. Farmers are getting good prices for their produce, and while price volatility exists, this period has been largely favourable for Indian coffee growers.
Q: With Indian coffee gaining global recognition, what is your vision for your brand? How do you plan to expand its presence in India and internationally?
Our primary focus is on quality. We want to ensure that every aspect of our coffee—from processing to the people working behind it—meets premium standards.
Historically, Indian coffee was primarily used in blends. However, the perception is changing, and now Indian coffee is being recognised as a high-quality, single-origin product. My vision is to establish Indian coffee as a premium choice on the global stage.
Beyond our own brand, Kelachandra Coffee, I want to encourage other Indian coffee farmers to step forward confidently and showcase their produce internationally. Many growers are hesitant, but they need to know that Indian coffee has the potential to stand alongside the best in the world.
Q: Every entrepreneur faces challenges. What have been the biggest hurdles in building your brand, and what key lessons have you learned?
Rather than a single major challenge, I face new ones every day. Coffee farming is unpredictable—weather fluctuations, plant diseases, labour issues—there’s always something that needs attention.
However, it’s a continuous learning process. Connecting with other farmers, adopting best practices, and being open to new ideas have helped us navigate these challenges.
One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is adaptability. The younger generation, including myself, is more open to feedback, innovation, and learning from international markets—not to imitate but to match and even surpass global standards.
Q: We’ve seen a rise in women entrepreneurs in the coffee sector. What’s your take on this shift?
Historically, coffee farming was a male-dominated field. Men handled the plantations while women hosted guests at the estates. But that’s changing.
Today, many women are actively managing plantations, some even running farms entirely on their own. I know several women in Chikmagalur who oversee everything, from cultivation to sales, without any male staff.
This transformation is incredible, and I strongly encourage more women to step into leadership roles within the industry.
