21-07-2025
Old Monk: India's Best Rum Came From A Man Who Didn't Drink And Never Ran An Ad
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Old Monk, India's iconic rum, has built a loyal fanbase, thanks to its taste, mystery, and legacy. However, its maker never drank a single sip, choosing a teetotal life instead
No bar in India feels complete without a bottle of Old Monk, the country's most iconic rum. Convincing a dedicated Old Monk fan to switch to another brand is no easy task. Its loyal following is largely due to the fact that Old Monk has remained virtually unchanged since it was first introduced over seven decades ago. This consistency in taste and presentation has helped it become a staple in Indian households and beyond.
A Taste That Stands The Test Of Time
Old Monk is celebrated for its distinctive, rich flavour. Around a decade ago, rumours spread on social media suggesting that Mohan Meakin Limited, the company behind Old Monk, would cease production. The speculation sparked concern among its devoted fans, prompting the company to publicly assure consumers that Old Monk was not being discontinued. In fact, it remains India's most beloved rum and continues to enjoy widespread popularity.
Interestingly, some believed the rumour to be a clever marketing tactic. However, the truth lies in a shift in promotional strategy. In 2012, Kapil Mohan, the then-chairman of Mohan Meakin, decided to stop actively marketing Old Monk. In an interview, he explained that he preferred the product to speak for itself and be shared through word of mouth.
Another popular belief is that the rum's deep, complex taste resembles the wisdom of an old man. The brand's name, much like its recipe, remains shrouded in mystery, adding to its enduring charm.
A Teetotaler's Gift To The Rum World
A surprising fact about Old Monk is that Kapil Mohan, the man who popularised the brand, never drank alcohol himself. A staunch teetotaller with a fondness for tea, he took over the family business after retiring from the army, following the death of his elder brother Ved Ratan Mohan, who originally created Old Monk.
Though the brand was launched in the 1960s, it gained a distinct identity under Kapil Mohan's leadership from 1973 onwards. Under his guidance, Old Monk grew in both national and international popularity, becoming the world's best-selling dark rum by the year 2000.
From Colonial Roots To Global Recognition
Mohan Meakin Limited was formed shortly after Indian independence when MN Mohan, Kapil Mohan's father, acquired a British-owned distillery. The company had originally been established in 1885 in Chamoli, Himachal Pradesh, by the father of infamous British officer General Dyer. Over the decades, Old Monk's production soared, with sales at one point reaching 8 million bottles per day.
However, the brand experienced a dip when Rakesh Mohan, Kapil Mohan's nephew, sold the company's Lucknow facility to businessman Ponty Chadha, which reportedly affected distribution and sales.
A Classic That Never Changed
Old Monk's enduring appeal lies in its consistency. Since 1954, its signature XXX rum has remained a best-seller. The brand also offers Supreme and Gold Reserve variants aged up to 12 years, yet the original seven-year-old chocolate-brown blend continues to be its most loved product.
The shape of the bottle and its label design have also remained consistent, creating a sense of nostalgia and brand identity. Remarkably, Old Monk has never relied on advertising, instead building its enormous fanbase through reputation alone.
Loved Across The Globe
Old Monk isn't just cherished in India. The rum has a devoted following in over 50 countries, including the UK, USA, Russia, Germany, Japan, Canada, Kenya, New Zealand, and the UAE.
Many fans describe it as the smoothest rum they've ever tasted, with the added bonus of rarely causing a hangover, making it a favourite for repeat enjoyment.
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