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.