August 16 is National Rum Day. It is primarily observed in the US – India, meanwhile, is still waiting for someone to explain why rum needs a special day. (AI photo)
Some countries need National Rum Day. Indians have historically needed only three things: rum, friends and an excuse that can be invented later. (AI photo)
This is your strongest India-specific slide. Old Monk has had a particularly strong cultural association in India, including military canteens and generations of drinkers. (AI photo)
Rum’s Indian story also runs through the armed forces, where rum became more than a drink — it became part of the culture of the canteen. (AI photo)
Cold winter? Rum. Rainy evening? Rum. Friends unexpectedly visiting? You guessed it. India has apparently developed its own weather forecast. (AI photo)
For many Indian drinkers, the cocktail menu begins and ends with two questions: “Rum?” and “Coke?” (AI photo)
The rum shelf isn’t what it used to be. Alongside the old favourites, Indian drinkers are discovering premium and craft rums — proof that the rum story is getting a little more sophisticated. Recent Indian spirits coverage has highlighted premiumisation and newer Indian names such as Short Story, Maka Zai and Amrut Two Indies. (AI photo)
So, National Rum Day, welcome to India. We may not have a celebration planned. But then again… we never really needed one. (AI photo)
