Indian Coffee

Coffee: A Global Beverage of Flavor and Culture

Origin and Early History

Coffee is one of the world’s most significant beverage crops, prepared from the roasted seeds (beans) of the coffee plant. The plant grows 3–6 metres tall and is native to the highlands of southern Ethiopia. The name coffee is believed to be derived from Kaffa, the highland district where it was first cultivated.
From Ethiopia, coffee spread to Yemen through Arab traders and was grown in Mocha around 575 A.D.. Arabia later served as the gateway through which coffee plants were introduced to other parts of the world, giving rise to a global coffee culture.

Geographical Conditions Required

Coffee is a tropical crop grown mainly in regions around the equator, including Central America, northern South America, Africa, the Middle East, India, and Indonesia.
Ideal conditions for coffee cultivation include:

• Warm tropical climate
• Moderate rainfall
• Shaded growth conditions

Major Coffee Varieties

1. Arabica

• Grown originally in Yemen; descended from Ethiopian coffee trees.
• Represents about 70% of global coffee production.
• Beans are flatter, elongated, and contain less caffeine than Robusta.
• Offers a mild, aromatic flavour and is considered superior in taste.

2. Robusta

• Mostly used in blends and instant coffee.
• Beans are rounder and smaller with 50% more caffeine than Arabica.
• Known for its strong, bitter taste.

Coffee in India

Coffee is the second most important beverage crop in India after tea. Commercial plantations began in the 18th century, started by British planters.
Due to specific agro-climatic requirements, coffee is cultivated only in select regions, mostly under thick natural shade in the ecologically fragile Western and Eastern Ghats, one of the world’s 25 biodiversity hotspots. Coffee cultivation here helps sustain regional biodiversity and supports socio-economic development of remote hilly communities.

Key Coffee-Growing States

• Karnataka – Largest producer
• Tamil Nadu
• Kerala
• Also grown in Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and northeastern states

India produces 16 diverse varieties of coffee, each enriched by different climates, elevations, and soils, reflecting the cultural diversity of the people who nurture it.

Cultural Significance and Changing Trends

Traditionally, coffee has been the staple beverage of South India, where its preparation is regarded as a culinary art—especially the famous South Indian filter coffee.
With the rise of instant coffee and growing global exposure, coffee consumption has increased across India, gaining popularity even in regions historically dominated by tea. Today, coffee connects millions of enthusiasts in India to the global community of coffee lovers.