The India Bartender Guild (IBG), India’s leading professional body for bartenders and beverage professionals, concluded 2025 on a high note with two significant achievements - the successful execution of the IBG Zero Proof Competition 2025 and a Bronze Medal win at the 24th Golden Cup Cocktail Competition in Taiwan. Together, these milestones reflect India’s growing stature and credibility on the global bartending stage.

Zero Proof Competition 2025: Championing Responsible Creativity

As part of its ongoing commitment to responsible bartending and inclusive beverage culture, IBG organised the Zero Proof Competition 2025, a premium national championship focused entirely on non-alcoholic mixology and flair bartending. The competition celebrated creativity, technique, presentation and international-standard bartending skills, all without the use of alcohol.

The championship was hosted across two major hospitality hubs:

• New Delhi – 4th August 2025

• Goa – 11th August 2025

Both editions saw strong participation from skilled bartenders across the country, along with enthusiastic engagement from hospitality professionals and industry leaders, making it one of the most impactful bartender competitions of the year.

Winners of IBG Zero Proof Competition 2025

After a rigorous judging process, the following national winners emerged:

Mixology Category

• Deepika Shukla – Winner

• Chetan Choramule – Winner

Flair Bartending Category

• Ravi Varma – Winner

The winners stood out for their innovation, technical excellence and stage presence, showcasing the evolving talent and professionalism within India’s bartending community.

Bronze Medal at the Golden Cup Cocktail Competition, Taiwan

Building on their national success, the IBG champions went on to represent India at the 24th Golden Cup Cocktail Competition, held in Taiwan from 16th to 20th December 2025, one of the most respected bartending competitions globally.

India’s Representation

• Deepika Shukla – Mixology Category

• Chetan Choramule – Flair Category

• Ravi Varma – Flair Category

Competing against top bartenders from across the world, the Indian team delivered a strong performance, securing a Bronze Medal for India, a proud moment that highlights the country’s rising standards, technical skill and international competitiveness in bartending.

Global Recognition for IBG Leadership

Adding further distinction, Mr. Archit Singhal, President of the India Bartender Guild, served as an official Judge at the Golden Cup Cocktail Competition. His presence on the international judging panel reinforced IBG’s credibility and India’s growing influence within the global bartending fraternity.

Historic Step: IBG Joins the International Bartenders Association

In another landmark development, the India Bartender Guild officially became a member of the International Bartenders Association (IBA). This historic affiliation strengthens India’s position within the global bartending ecosystem and opens new opportunities for international exposure, professional development and participation in global competitions.

The Road Ahead

Through initiatives such as the Zero Proof Competition, global competition participation and international affiliations, IBG continues to build a stronger, more professional and globally respected bartending community in India. The Guild remains committed to empowering bartenders, encouraging innovation and firmly placing India on the world bartending map.