Raging Spirits At 80: Who Is India's Liquor Barron Lalit Khaitan?

Legacy and Leadership

Lalit Khaitan, chairman of Radico Khaitan, transformed a Rs 5 crore business into a Rs 5,000 crore empire.

Family Roots

Inherited the distillery from father GN Khaitan, a teetotaller who bought Rampur Distillery & Chemical Company Ltd.

Educational Journey

An alumnus of Mayo College, Ajmer, and St Xavier’s College, Kolkata, Lalit holds an engineering degree from BMS College of Engineering, Bangalore.

Strategic Shift

Radico Khaitan shifted from a struggling bottling plant to a global giant, guided by Lalits decision to create branded beverages.

8 PM Whiskey Launch

Lalits bold move led to the launch of 8 PM whiskey in 1998, a turning point for the company.

Global Presence

Radico Khaitan, a major player in Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL), exports brands to over 85 countries.

Diversified Portfolio

The companys success lies in a diverse portfolio, including Morpheus brandy, After Dark whisky, Rampur single malt, and Jaisalmer luxury craft gin.

Educational Pursuits

Lalit Khaitans commitment to learning includes a managerial finance & accounting course from Harvard, USA.

Honours and Awards

Recognised with a Lifetime Achievement Award by UPDA and an Inspirational Lifetime Achievement Award at Alcobev 2008.

Business Strategy

Lalits business acumen is evident in Radico Khaitans strategy, emphasising premium brand expansion.