For those who love bold flavors and rich culinary traditions, Grand Mercure Mysore is bringing the authentic taste of Coorg to the city with a special Coorg Food Festival at By the Blue from 21st to 28th February. This week-long gastronomic celebration, led by Chef Pradip Kumar Pani and his team, promises an immersive dining experience that captures the essence of Kodava cuisine. A Journey Through Flavors of Coorg The carefully curated menu pays tribute to the earthy and aromatic flavors of Coorg, offering a mix of traditional and signature dishes. The culinary adventure begins with the Kachampuli Cooler, a tangy and refreshing drink that sets the stage for the bold flavors to follow. Guests can then relish the crispy and flavorful Coorgi Koli Fry, a local favorite, before indulging in the slow-cooked Pork Apndi Curry, a rich, aromatic dish best enjoyed with traditional Kadambuttu (steamed rice dumplings). Every dish is a reflection of Coorg’s rich culinary heritage, ensuring an experience that tantalizes the taste buds while celebrating the vibrant flavors of the region. Event Details What: Coorg Food FestivalWhere: By the Blue, Grand Mercure MysoreWhen: 21st – 28th February, 2025Time: 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM (Dinner) Savor the Spirit of Coorg in Every Bite With a warm and welcoming atmosphere, By the Blue at Grand Mercure Mysore sets the perfect stage for an authentic Coorgi dining experience. Whether you’re a fan of regional delicacies or simply looking to spice up your evenings, this festival promises a flavorful escape into the heart of Coorg. Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind culinary celebration!
India has slashed tariffs on bourbon whisky imports from 150% to 100%, a move that will benefit American liquor brands like Jim Beam. The tariff revision, which was notified on February 13 but gained media attention later, comes amid intensifying criticism from former U.S. President Donald Trump regarding India's trade policies. Trump, who recently met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the White House, has repeatedly called out India’s high import duties as unfair to American businesses. He also announced a reciprocal tariff policy targeting countries imposing heavy levies on U.S. exports. The new structure imposes a basic customs duty of 50% with an additional 50% levy, bringing the total duty to 100% for bourbon whisky. Other imported liquor products remain unchanged at 150% tariffs. Experts believe the decision reflects India's willingness to adjust trade policies for strategic partners. Pratik Jain, partner at PwC India, noted that the move could signal India’s openness to tariff revisions for key allies. India’s $35 billion spirits market is home to major global players like Diageo and Pernod Ricard, who have long criticized the country’s high import tariffs. Vinod Giri, Director General of the Brewers Association of India, stated that while bourbon whisky holds symbolic trade value, the decision is likely aimed at easing tensions with the U.S. and preventing retaliatory trade measures. As India seeks deeper integration into the global economy, the reduction in bourbon whisky tariffs may be the first step in broader trade realignments.